From Mykonos: Delos & Rhenia Islands Half-Day Trip by Boat

Experience the Best of the Cyclades on a Half-Day Boat Trip from Mykonos to Delos & Rhenia

Starting from the bustling Old Port of Mykonos, this half-day boat trip offers a balanced blend of history, natural beauty, and fun. For around $97, you’ll spend roughly 6.5 hours cruising between islands, exploring ancient ruins, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying a delicious BBQ lunch. The trip is operated by Golden Yachting & Sailing, a well-reviewed company with an average rating of 4.6 based on 681 reviews.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, we love that it offers a chance to visit Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its impressive archaeological remains. Second, the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the pristine waters of Rhenia, an uninhabited island, promises a relaxing escape from the crowds.

A potential consideration is the cost of entrance to Delos (about 20 euros), which isn’t included in the tour price — so be prepared for that extra expense if you want to explore the ruins.

This trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and lively atmosphere, especially if you’re interested in a flexible schedule that combines guided exploration with free time for swimming and relaxing.

Key Points

• Historical Exploration: Visit the Delos archaeological site, a highlight for history buffs.
• Natural Beauty: Swim and snorkel in Rhenia’s crystal-clear waters.
• Flexible Itinerary: Choose to explore ruins or relax on uninhabited beaches.
• Good Value: For around $97, you get transportation, food, and plenty of time on the water.
• Enjoyable Atmosphere: Crew-led with music, dancing, and a friendly vibe.
• Extra Costs: Be aware of the entrance fee to Delos and optional snorkel gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting Sail from Mykonos

The adventure begins at the Old Port of Mykonos, where you meet the crew at the designated bus station. The meeting point is straightforward, but some reviews mention initial difficulty finding the exact location, so arriving early is advisable. Once aboard, you’ll notice the boat’s size and cleanliness, which contributes to a comfortable journey.

The boat itself is described as solid and spacious enough to comfortably accommodate all guests. Expect a friendly crew that actively engages with passengers, making the atmosphere lively and enjoyable. The trip departs at a time that varies, so check availability for your preferred day.

First Stop: Rhenia Island’s Beaches and Waters

After leaving Mykonos, your first major stop is Rhenia, an island uninhabited but famous for its uncrowded beaches and crystal-clear waters. We loved the way the crew offered around three hours here, giving guests plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the sandy coves.

The reviews are filled with praise for the quality of the swimming spots — many mention the spectacular water clarity and the peaceful environment. One guest described the private beach as “amazing,” while others appreciated the chance to have uninterrupted time for relaxation.

You’ll want to bring your own snorkel gear if you wish to explore underwater, as snorkeling equipment is available for purchase on board. The waters can be chilly, especially early in the season, but most find it well worth the dip.

Lunch and Drinks

The BBQ lunch is a highlight, often praised for its generous portions and tasty offerings. The crew serves a variety of grilled meats, salads, and fresh fruit, with drinks included in the package — and plenty of soft drinks and wine. Several reviews rave about the quality of the food, describing it as “delicious” and perfect for refueling after swimming.

Many guests appreciate the relaxed, convivial atmosphere onboard, enhanced by good music and a lively crew. A few reviewers mention that the free wine is okay, but mixing it with juice makes it more enjoyable — a small tip for future travelers.

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Exploring Delos

The second part of the trip takes you to Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient Greek ruins and mythological significance. The tour provides about two hours to explore, with some choosing to stay on the boat, while others disembark for a guided or self-guided walk.

While the tour does not include a guide fee (entrance is approximately 20 euros), reviews suggest that the site is well marked and informative, with enough plaques and historical markers to get a good sense of the island’s importance. One traveler expressed that the ruins were “larger than expected,” and several reviews mention Delos as “really impressive” and “a must-see.”

We loved the way the ruins evoke a sense of stepping back in time, with the iconic temple ruins and panoramic views from the hilltop. Be prepared for the heat — there’s little shade, so hats, sunscreen, and water are essentials.

Return Journey and Party Atmosphere

On the way back to Mykonos, the boat turns into a lively scene. Many reviews highlight the music and dancing, describing it as “fun” and “infectious.” Some mention a “dance party,” which adds a memorable, energetic finish to the day.

The crew’s friendly attitude and engaging entertainment are frequently praised. Guests also note that the boat’s size and stability held up well in choppier waters, making the journey comfortable even for those prone to seasickness.

Practical Details and Tips

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the price are the boat trip, BBQ lunch, fruit, fuel, and crew. The entrance fee to Delos is not included, so plan for an additional 20 euros if you want to explore the ruins. Snorkeling equipment is available for purchase on board, but bringing your own can save time and money.

The tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at the bus station. The activity ends back at the same spot, making it easy to plan the rest of your day.

When to Book

Since availability varies and the tour is popular, booking in advance is recommended. Check the schedule for your preferred date; the tour lasts about 6.5 hours, so plan accordingly for your day in Mykonos.

What to Bring

Bring your passport or ID, especially if you plan to purchase entry to Delos. Also, pack sun protection, swimwear, towel, and water — the Greek sun can be intense, and you’ll want to stay hydrated.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history lovers eager to step onto an ancient Greek archaeological site, as well as beach lovers looking for a peaceful swim. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find it a good fit; the lively crew and music add a fun, social element.

Those who prefer a relaxed pace will appreciate the free time on Rhenia and the optional exploration of Delos. However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth archaeological tour or a luxurious cruise, this may not be the right fit.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The thoughtful balance between cultural exploration and leisure makes this trip stand out. For just under a hundred dollars, you get a well-organized cruise with excellent reviews about the crew, food, and scenery.

People consistently mention how much they enjoyed the friendly atmosphere, with many citing the music and dancing as highlights. The opportunity to swim in Rhenia’s clear waters and explore Delos’ ruins makes for a well-rounded day.

The value for money is also a strong point, considering the included transport, food, and the experience of visiting two islands in one day. It’s a tour that offers authentic moments and a lively, memorable atmosphere — especially if you’re keen on combining history, nature, and social fun.

FAQ

How long is the trip? The entire experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with specific times depending on availability.

Is there an extra cost for visiting Delos? Yes, the entrance fee to Delos is around 20 euros and is not included in the tour price.

Can I swim and snorkel in Rhenia? Yes, the water is very clear, and you’ll have about three hours there to swim or snorkel. Snorkel gear can be bought on board if you don’t have your own.

Does the tour include a guide for Delos? No, the tour provides free time to explore on your own or with a self-guided map, but no guided tour is included for the site.

What should I bring? Pack your passport or ID, sun protection, swimwear, towel, water, and any personal snorkeling gear if you have it.

Is the boat accessible for all travelers? The reviews don’t specify accessibility details, so if you have mobility concerns, it’s worth checking directly with the operator.

To sum it up, this boat trip from Mykonos to Delos and Rhenia offers a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, and lively camaraderie. It’s well-suited for those who want to experience iconic archaeological sites without a long, formal tour, combined with the chance to relax on quiet beaches and enjoy some Greek sunshine. The friendly crew, good food, and energetic atmosphere make it a memorable way to spend half a day in the Cyclades, especially if you’re looking for value and authentic fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: