Full-Day Delos and Rhenia Island Cruise from Mykonos

A Full-Day Cruise to Delos and Rhenia from Mykonos: What You Need to Know

If you’re looking for an authentic yet relaxed way to explore some of the Cyclades’ most iconic islands, this full-day cruise from Mykonos is worth considering. For around $116 per person, you’ll spend roughly seven hours sailing among the islands with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore ruins, and enjoy a hearty lunch. The trip departs from Olia Hotel in Mykonos at 10:30 am, a convenient start for those wanting to maximize their day.

Two things we particularly like are the flexibility to explore Delos at your own pace — whether you choose to wander its ancient ruins or take a dip in the sea — and the value offered compared to private charters. The cruise also offers a lunch included in the price, which means you won’t need to worry about finding a meal on the go. However, keep in mind that transfers from your hotel to the port are optional and cost extra, which could be an important consideration if you prefer seamless logistics.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration, especially those who like small group experiences (maximum 15 people). If you prefer a more guided tour with a guide at Delos, this might not be the best fit, as the archaeological site is explored independently. It’s also ideal for those comfortable with a bit of wind and choppy seas, as weather conditions can influence the experience.

Key Points

• Affordable Alternative: Less expensive than private boat charters, offering a full day of island hopping.
• Flexible Exploration: Options to swim or explore at Delos, and relax at Rhenia.
• Inclusive Meal: Lunch and beverages included, reducing the need to plan meals.
• Transport Options: Optional hotel transfers for added convenience.
• Limited Group Size: Max 15 travelers, making it a more intimate experience.
• Weather Dependence: Sailings can change or be affected by wind, impacting the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Full-Day Mykonos Island Cruise

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise starts at Olia Hotel in Mykonos, with departure scheduled for 10:30 am. It’s designed as a relaxed day that combines sailing, snorkeling, and historical exploration.

First Stop: Delos Island
You sail to Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once served as a major trading hub. The free archaeological site offers a fascinating walk among ruins that date back thousands of years — temples, statues, and ancient streets. The tour’s format gives you about 2 hours here, a good amount of time to explore on your own or hike to the top for views, as recommended by some travelers. Keep in mind that no professional guide is included, so if you’re craving detailed historical insights, you might want to do some prep beforehand.

As one reviewer mentioned, “Make sure you hike to the top at Delos for the views,” which is a definite highlight. Others appreciated the freedom to choose between exploring ruins or swimming — a flexibility that’s not always available with larger group tours.

Second Stop: Rhenia Island
After Delos, the boat cruises to Rhenia, a quieter, less visited island. Here, you can swim from the boat, relax on the beach, or simply soak up the sun. Many travelers, like Sharon, say, “Swimming in the ocean off of Rhinia was really fun,” and note that the water can be cold but refreshing. The boat often waits here long enough for a good swim, and the calm surroundings offer a welcome respite from busier sites.

Lunch and Beverages
A light lunch, including drinks and local taxes, is served on board. While not gourmet, many reviews describe the meal as delicious, making this a practical plus for a full-day outing.

The Pros and Cons

What We Love:
– The cost-efficiency compared to private charters makes this a great way to see the islands without breaking the bank.
– The relaxed pace allows you to enjoy each stop — whether hiking at Delos, swimming at Rhenia, or just lounging on the boat — without feeling rushed.

Possible Drawback:
– The weather can impact the experience significantly; if the winds pick up, the boat ride back can get choppy, as some travelers experienced. The operator states that if winds exceed 6 on the Beaufort scale, the tour may be canceled or rerouted.
– No guided tour at Delos means you might miss detailed historical insights unless you bring your own guide or do extra research.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of historical sites, swimming, and scenic sailing, all without the expense of private charters. It also suits those who prefer a small group experience, where you can enjoy more personalized attention and avoid large crowds. If you’re comfortable with some wind and are looking for a day of casual exploration and beach time, this tour fits well.

Why It Matters for Your Trip

Choosing this cruise means embracing a less hectic, more authentic way to experience the islands of Delos and Rhenia. Instead of rushing from one monument to the next or fighting crowds, you get to enjoy free time in beautiful surroundings, combined with the unique opportunity to explore a World Heritage archaeological site at your own pace. The lunch included is a simple but welcome touch, removing one more logistical concern.

The small group size (up to 15 travelers) often results in a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere, ideal if you prefer a more intimate setting. Plus, the option to upgrade for hotel transfers makes the logistics smoother, especially if you’re staying outside town or in remote areas.

However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can influence the day’s activities. Some reviews mention rough seas or windy conditions, which could lead to a less comfortable return trip or even tour cancellation. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring appropriate remedies just in case.

Final Thoughts

This full-day cruise to Delos and Rhenia from Mykonos offers a practical and enjoyable way to see some of the most storied islands of Greece. It balances independent exploration with the convenience of a boat tour, making it suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, small-group experience that covers both history and leisure.

The value for the price is notable, especially with lunch and beverages included, and the flexibility at each stop can make for a memorable day. It’s best suited for those comfortable with weather variability and keen on self-guided visits rather than guided tours. If you love a bit of adventure, some swimming, and historical discovery, this cruise can be a highlight of your Mykonos trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with kids?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that the tour involves some time on a boat and walking at Delos, so consider your children’s comfort and sea-sickness susceptibility.

What is included in the package?
The tour includes light lunch, beverages, all local taxes, and the boat trip itself. Transfers from your hotel are optional and cost extra.

How long do we stay at each island?
You’ll have about 2 hours at Delos for exploring ruins or hiking, and plenty of time to swim and relax at Rhenia afterward.

Can I explore Delos with a guide?
No professional guide is included, so you’ll explore independently. If you want detailed insights, consider doing some pre-trip research or bringing an audio guide.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather exceeds 6 on the Beaufort scale (windy), the tour might be canceled or rerouted. In such cases, you’ll typically receive an 80% refund or options to reschedule.

Are hotel transfers included?
Not automatically. You may choose to upgrade to include return transfers for extra convenience.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book this cruise about 29 days ahead, so early planning is advisable, especially in peak season.

In the end, this cruise provides a reasonable, flexible way to combine history, scenery, and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded day on the water without the high price of private charters.