Mykonos: Delos & Rhenia Boat Cruise with Lunch & Transfer — A Detailed Review
Setting sail from the lively harbor of Tourlos Marina, this 6-hour boat cruise offers a chance to see two of Greece’s most captivating islands: Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and Rhenia, a pristine island with secluded beaches and turquoise waters. At just $158 per person, it promises a combination of history, nature, and leisure — all in one day.
What we really like about this experience is the thoughtful mix of cultural exploration and relaxing beach time. First, exploring Delos’s archaeological site allows us to walk among ruins that have stood for millennia, connecting us to ancient Greece’s sacred traditions. Then, on Rhenia, the untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters offer a perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun without crowds. Plus, the onboard Greek lunch, paired with local wine and soft drinks, makes for a satisfying midday break.
One consideration to keep in mind is the weather—since the trip is dependent on good conditions, strong winds or rain could affect the route or that coveted visit to the archaeological site. Also, it’s worth noting that Delos archaeological site tickets are not included in the price and must be purchased separately.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate a blend of history and nature, enjoy water activities like snorkeling, and want a flexible, relaxed day on the water. It’s especially appealing to those who value authentic Greek hospitality and are comfortable with a moderate pace of sightseeing.
Key Points
- Visit the archaeological site of Delos, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, with about an hour to explore ancient ruins.
- Relax on Rhenia’s beaches, with time for swimming, snorkeling, or just unwinding on untouched sands.
- Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine onboard, including wine and soft drinks, paired with scenic views.
- Ideal for those seeking a mix of culture and leisure, with opportunities to see stunning island waters and ancient history.
- Accessible from Mykonos, with convenient transfer points and a friendly crew.
- Weather-dependent route, so flexibility is key in case conditions change.
A Closer Look at the Experience
Departure and Arrival
Your adventure begins at 9:00 am at Tourlos Marina, where you’ll meet your crew inside Matthew Tavern. The relaxed meeting point offers a casual start, and the crew’s friendly, English-speaking hosts set a welcoming tone. The boat itself is a sailing yacht, which means you’ll experience a traditional, open-air vessel—perfect for feeling the breeze and taking in the sights.
The Journey to Delos
After a brief safety briefing and some time to settle aboard, your boat sets sail for Delos, roughly an hour away. As you cruise across the Aegean Sea, you’ll appreciate the calm waters and scenic views. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable crew, who seem eager to share local insights and ensure everyone’s comfortable and engaged.
Exploring Delos
Once you arrive at Delos, you’ll have approximately an hour to wander the archaeological site. This is the highlight for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its well-preserved ruins, including temples, statues, and ancient marketplaces. You might find the guides or on-site signs helpful to understand the significance of each monument, though a guide isn’t included in this tour.
One reviewer, Jorge, mentioned, “Even though the day was a bit rainy and cloudy, the trip was as expected. This is my second time in 1 year doing this tour and it’s great.” This indicates that even less-than-perfect weather doesn’t spoil the experience, thanks to the captivating ruins and the boat’s cozy atmosphere.
More Great Tours NearbyRhenia: Beaches and Snorkeling
After exploring Delos, the boat heads to Rhenia, a larger, uninhabited sister island. Here, the secluded beaches beckon—Glyfada, Stena, Lia, and Ambelia—each with its own charm. The waters are described as spectacular, with shades of emerald green and turquoise. Many guests, like Patty, loved the opportunity to swim and snorkel in these clear waters, often commenting on the ease of snorkeling without prior experience.
The anchor is dropped in a private bay, away from crowds, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful beach. If you’re adventurous, you can explore on foot or simply lie back and take in the raw natural beauty. The snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy for novices to see underwater life up close.
Lunch and Relaxation
Back on the boat, a traditional Greek meal is served. The quality of the onboard lunch is frequently praised; it’s hearty, flavorful, and coupled with local wine, beer, or soft drinks. The review from Guillermo Morales describes it as “really nice,” which sums up the general consensus.
Return and Drop-Off
The tour concludes with a gentle sail back toward Mikonos, with drop-offs at Matthew Tavern or other designated points. The entire experience wraps up around 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm, leaving you with the rest of the day for exploring more of Mykonos or relaxing.
The Value of This Tour
At $158, this cruise offers good value, especially considering it includes Sailing yacht charter, snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and fuel charges. The only extras are the Delos archaeological site tickets (~20 euros per person), which are a worthwhile expense given the rich history you’ll encounter.
Compared to other boat tours, this one is praised for its intimate feel—small groups, friendly crew, and personalized service. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides, which enhances the experience beyond just sunbathing and swimming.
Suitability for Different Travelers
This trip suits history enthusiasts eager to see Delos’s ruins, nature lovers looking for pristine beaches, and water sports fans who want to snorkel in clear waters. It’s also great for couples or small groups who prefer a relaxed pace and authentic Greek hospitality. However, travelers with mobility issues or who require special assistance might find the walk around Delos challenging, and pregnant women or those with health issues should consult with their doctor beforehand.
The Sum Up
This boat cruise from Mykonos to Delos and Rhenia offers a well-rounded day of history, natural beauty, and relaxation. You’ll love the chance to walk among ancient ruins, swim in some of the clearest waters you’ve ever seen, and enjoy a delicious Greek lunch—all aboard a traditional sailing yacht. The friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and authentic atmosphere make it a memorable way to experience Greece’s iconic islands.
It’s especially suited for those who want a small-group experience with personal touches, or travelers eager to combine cultural sights with leisure. If you’re looking for a value-packed day that balances exploration and downtime, this cruise hits the mark.
FAQ
What is included in the price?
The price includes the sailing yacht, skipper’s assistance, onboard lunch, wine, beer, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, and fuel charges.
Are the archaeological site tickets included?
No, the Delos archaeological site tickets are not included and cost about 20 euros per person.
How long do we stay at each location?
You get approximately an hour to explore Delos and about two hours on Rhenia for swimming, relaxing, or exploring.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing. Beach towels are not included.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with boat trips and walking around ruins. It may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Can I snorkel without prior experience?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and most people find it easy to see underwater life without special training.
What if the weather is bad?
The route and schedule are weather-dependent. If conditions are unfavorable, the route may change, or the visit to Delos might be skipped.
Where does the tour end?
The tour ends back at Matthew Tavern or your designated drop-off point, around mid-afternoon.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for changing plans.
Embarking on this cruise promises a blend of history, nature, and hospitality that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re gazing at ancient ruins, snorkeling in azure waters, or enjoying local wines, it’s a day that captures the essence of the Greek Islands and leaves you with lasting memories.
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