Exploring the Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Full-Day Sailing Cruise with Meal
Imagine spending a day on a well-equipped sailing yacht, drifting between islands famous for their ancient ruins and untouched beaches. For about $146 per person, this 6 to 6.5-hour cruise offers a blend of history, relaxation, and authentic Greek hospitality. The journey begins in Mykonos New Port, heading toward the legendary Delos Island, home to archaeological treasures, then moving on to the pristine beaches of Rhenia, an uninhabited island with coves and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
What makes this experience particularly appealing are the small group setting, which fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the opportunity to help navigate the boat if you’re feeling adventurous—something many reviews highlight as a fun, hands-on aspect. The delicious Greek buffet and complimentary drinks add a relaxed, festive touch, making it an excellent day for couples, families, or friends seeking a balance of culture, adventure, and leisure.
A potential consideration is the timing of the departure and return—the cruise departs around 09:00 am, with the afternoon sailing passing Delos at sunset. This means you’ll want to plan accordingly, especially if you prefer early mornings or have other commitments. Also, since there’s an added cost for visiting the archaeological site of Delos, some travelers might want to budget for the entry fee.
This cruise suits those who love small-group outings with a mix of history, sunbathing, and good food. If you’re keen on exploring Delos with fewer crowds than on land tours or prefer snorkeling in calm, clear waters, this trip can tick those boxes.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Small Group Atmosphere: Enjoy a more intimate experience with personalized attention.
- Historical and Natural Highlights: Visit Delos’ archaeological site and swim in Rhenia’s untouched beaches.
- All-Inclusive Refreshments: Complimentary wine, beer, soft drinks, and a Greek buffet lunch onboard.
- Hands-on Experience: Option to help steer the boat or relax on deck soaking up views.
- Flexible Itinerary: Multiple stops and activities, from snorkeling to exploring ancient ruins.
- Excellent Reviews: Consistent praise for friendly crew, good value, and memorable scenery.
A detailed look at your day on the water
The Starting Point and Schedule
The adventure begins at Mykonos New Port with options for different meeting points, depending on your booking. The cruise typically departs around 09:00 am, setting sail for about an hour toward Delos Island. Travelers report that the timing is well-paced, allowing plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. The return to Mykonos is usually around 3:00 pm, giving you a full day of sun, history, and relaxation.
The Delos Island Stop
Once you arrive at Delos, you’ll have about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore. The island is famous for its archaeological site, which includes ruins and a museum. Many reviews note that visiting Delos early is a real advantage, as it allows avoiding crowds and enjoying the site in peaceful surroundings. Visitors can choose to join a guided tour or explore independently, which provides flexibility for different interests.
A reviewer highlights that “the whole island for yourself” was a highlight, emphasizing how the cruise allows you to see Delos without the usual crowds. Admission fees are not included, so budget around 8 euros if you wish to visit the museum or archaeological site.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Rhenia Experience
The second major stop is the uninhabited island of Rhenia, with its idyllic bays and crystal waters. Here, you’ll typically spend around three hours swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the pristine beaches. The reviews mention that the water is incredibly clear, making it ideal for snorkeling. Gear is provided, and some guests bring their own paddleboards for extra fun.
Many guests rave about the lunch onboard, describing it as a “delicious Greek feast” with fresh salads, bread, cheeses, pasta, and bruschetta. One reviewer quoted that it was “more than we could eat,” which speaks to the generous offerings. The meal is paired with local chilled Greek wine, adding a festive touch to the day.
The Sailing and Scenic Views
Back on deck, the sailing experience itself is often praised. Crew members like Dimitri and George are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, often making the trip feel more personal. Several reviews mention how interactive the experience can be—helping to steer the boat or simply soaking up the panoramic views of the Cyclades.
As the boat passes back through the strait toward Mykonos, passengers often enjoy the gentle breeze, the vivid colors of the sea, and the scenery of the coast—a relaxing end to an already memorable day.
The overall value
At $146 per person, this cruise offers excellent value considering the included activities, food, drinks, and the chance to visit two different islands. Many reviews highlight the quality of the crew and the delicious food, making it clear that the experience exceeds typical boat tours. The small group setting ensures attentiveness and a more personal feel, often missing from larger tour boats.
The flexibility of the itinerary and the hands-on sailing experience attract travelers looking for more than just sightseeing—they want a taste of Greek maritime life. Plus, the timing allows you to see Delos early, avoiding the crowds that can dominate land-based visits.
Who should consider this cruise?
This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy small-group adventures, are interested in ancient sites, and love swimming in crystal-clear waters. It’s especially suited for those who want an authentic, relaxed day with good food and friendly guides. It also works well for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a balanced mix of culture and leisure.
If you prefer large tour buses or guided land visits, or are on a strict budget, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving a personalized day on the sea with excellent reviews supporting the crew’s friendliness and organization, this cruise delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an option for a private group?
Yes, a private group option is available, allowing you to tailor the experience for your party.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the sailing yacht, a professional English-speaking skipper and assistant, onboard lunch with Greek delicacies, soft drinks, beer, house wine, water, fuel, port fees, and taxes.
Are there additional costs?
Yes, if you wish to visit the archaeological site of Delos, there’s an entry fee (about 8 euros). The tour guide at the site is not included.
What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a jacket (for the evening breeze), and your passport or ID.
Can I help steer the boat?
Yes, the crew encourages guests to hold the ropes and help with navigation if they’re interested, adding an engaging element to the trip.
How long do stops last?
Delos is about 1 to 1.5 hours, while Rhenia offers around three hours for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
Is food suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
The buffet includes Greek delicacies, and while specific dietary options aren’t detailed, many reviews mention the meal being plentiful and delicious. It’s best to confirm at booking if you have special requirements.
The bottom line
This full-day sailing cruise from Mykonos to Delos and Rhenia offers a satisfying mix of ancient history, stunning scenery, and relaxed beach time. The small-group vibe, friendly crew, and quality onboard meal make it stand out as a memorable way to experience the Cyclades without the crowds. If you’re seeking an authentic, well-organized day filled with sailing, swimming, and Greek culture, this tour will likely be one of your highlights.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value personal attention, enjoy interactive experiences, and want to combine history with leisure. The consistent praise from past guests about the great crew, delicious food, and beautiful scenery suggests this is a reliable choice for anyone wanting to make the most of their time on the water around Mykonos.
Final thoughts
Choosing a boat tour around Mykonos means opting for a day of unique perspectives and peaceful escapes. This cruise’s blend of sailing, archaeological discovery, and beach relaxation makes it a balanced, enjoyable outing. The small-group environment ensures a comfortable, engaging atmosphere, and the well-designed itinerary maximizes your time on both land and sea.
For those who crave authentic Greek maritime life, want to avoid big tourist crowds, and love the idea of a delicious onboard meal, this trip offers more than just a typical boat ride. It’s a chance to see the islands from a different angle, enjoy stunning views, and return home with stories of a truly special day on the Cyclades.
Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your sunhat!
You can check availability for your dates here: