Mykonos Catamaran Delos Rhenia semi private cruise

Mykonos Catamaran Delos Rhenia Semi-Private Cruise: A Detailed Review

A day on the water exploring Delos and Rhenia islands offers a refreshing break from the busy streets of Mykonos. For around $192 per person, you can join a 6-hour semi-private cruise, which sets sail from Tourlos Marina around 9 a.m. and takes you through some of Greece’s most beautiful waters. The highlights include visiting the famous archaeological site of Delos, a UNESCO-listed spot, and swimming in the clear, inviting waters of Rhenia, an uninhabited island with pristine beaches.

What we love about this cruise is how it balances history, nature, and leisure. The chance to explore the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis on Delos provides a tangible link to ancient Greece, while the snorkeling and beach time on Rhenia give ample opportunity to relax and enjoy the environment. Plus, the onboard lunch, featuring traditional Greek fare with local wine, adds a special touch.

However, there are a few considerations. The lunch portions have been critiqued for being a bit limited (one reviewer mentioned only one slice of bread), and weather conditions can impact the experience—windy days may make the ride less relaxing, especially during the return trip. This tour best suits those who are looking for a mix of sightseeing and leisure and who appreciate authentic, smaller-scale experiences over large, commercialized excursions.

If you enjoy sailing, historical sites, snorkeling, and scenic beaches, this cruise offers a well-rounded taste of the Greek islands. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer semi-private, intimate groups rather than large crowds, and if you’re comfortable with some flexibility in the itinerary depending on weather and other factors.

Key Points

• Historical Exploration: Visit the archaeological site of Delos, the mythic birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
• Natural Beauty: Rhenia’s unspoiled beaches and crystal waters are ideal for swimming and relaxing.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and even paddleboards are included, adding value and convenience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Route adjustments may occur due to weather, making it good to have flexible expectations.
• Small Group Experience: Semi-private cruise typically means fewer crowds and more personalized attention.
• Potential Downsides: Limited lunch portions and weather-dependent conditions could impact the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Complete Experience: An In-Depth Look

Departure & Setting Sail

The tour begins at Tourlos Marina around 9 a.m., a convenient starting point if you’re staying in Mykonos town. The boat, a sailing yacht, offers a relaxed and intimate setting, with a friendly crew to guide you through the day. The sailing from Mykonos to Delos takes about an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and anticipate the day ahead.

Exploring Delos: The Mythic Birthplace

Your first stop is Delos, known as one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. For approximately 75 minutes, you’ll wander among ruins that tell stories from ancient Greece—temples, statues, and storied foundations. One of the highlights is standing where history was made—this island was a major religious and trading center.

According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable, and the site’s significance makes it a rewarding visit. One traveler, GetYourGuide, noted, “Great day exploring the beauty of Greece! Excellent service! Staff attended to everyone’s needs.” This suggests that the crew is attentive and eager to enhance your experience.

Transition to Rhenia: Sailing and Scenic Views

After delving into history, you’ll cruise for about 30 minutes to Rhenia, a much larger island that remains uninhabited. The crossing itself offers splendid vistas of Greece’s famed blue waters and rugged coastlines. Once there, you’ll anchor in a secluded bay, ideal for escaping the crowds and enjoying nature.

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Island Relaxation and Water Activities

In Rhenia’s protected coves, you’ll find four sandy beaches—Glyfada, Stena, Lia, and Ambelia—each offering a peaceful place to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge. One reviewer, Olga, pointed out a minor disappointment: “for lunch we were only allowed one slice of bread per person. Supposedly unlimited drinks!!! Only a small bottle of water per person.” This hints that the onboard amenities, while included, might be somewhat limited in food quantity.

Snorkeling is emphasized as a highlight—no special gear is needed, just goggles. Many travelers enjoy the crystal clarity of the waters, and the chance to see underwater life up close. If you’re feeling adventurous, exploring Rhenia on foot is another option, with the raw nature of the island providing a genuine escape.

Lunch & Drinks

Back on the boat, a traditional Mykonian lunch awaits, paired with wine, beers, or soft drinks. The reviews suggest the food is pleasant but perhaps not abundant. Still, the inclusion of local wine adds to the experience, and most seem to appreciate the relaxed, scenic setting for their meal.

Return & Drop-Off

The cruise concludes with two drop-off options—either back at Mikonos or a nearby Matheios Tavern. The return trip, depending on weather, might be lively if the wind picks up, as one reviewer experienced. The boat’s small size and the open sea can make the ride bumpy on windy days, so if you’re prone to seasickness, packing medication might be wise.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those seeking a combination of history, nature, and leisure with a smaller, more personal touch. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy snorkeling, scenic sailing, and exploring archaeological sites without the large crowds often found on cruise ships. It also suits those who value local food and drinks onboard and don’t mind some weather variability.

However, if you’re expecting a gourmet lunch or a very relaxed, wind-free day, it’s worth considering the reviews mentioning limited food portions and weather-dependent conditions. Also, the tour isn’t suited for people over 95 years old or those with mobility issues, given the outdoor nature and boat layout.

Final Thoughts

This Mykonos semi-private catamaran cruise offers a genuine slice of Greek island life, blending history, stunning scenery, and recreational water activities. It strikes a good balance between guided exploration and free time, allowing you to enjoy the islands’ natural beauty and archaeological treasures at a comfortable pace.

The small group setting and inclusive amenities deliver a more personalized experience, making it a solid choice for couples, small groups, or independent travelers. The itinerary’s flexibility means you might encounter some surprises—good or bad—so packing light, sun protection, and a sense of adventure will serve you well.

If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching day on the water, this cruise could be a highlight of your Mykonos visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the tour include?
The tour includes a sailing yacht charter, a skipper’s assistant, fuel charges, onboard lunch, wine, beers, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, and optional paddleboards depending on the weather.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, with specific times depending on availability. The main stops are roughly 75 minutes at Delos and two hours on Rhenia for swimming and relaxing.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available upon request, making logistics easier—just be sure to specify your location the day before.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and beachwear. Towels are not included, so pack your own if you plan to swim or sunbathe.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pets, bikes, or electric wheelchairs. Also, travelers over 95 years old may not be accommodated.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather can influence the route or even the decision to go, especially wind. The company states that in case of Delos archaeological site closure (which can happen), the trip will include passage but no land visit.

How many people are typically on the cruise?
Being semi-private, the group size is smaller than large tours, providing a more intimate experience, though specific numbers are not detailed.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included to help you enjoy the underwater scenery without extra cost.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this Mykonos catamaran cruise promises a well-rounded day of island exploration, sea adventure, and cultural insight. It’s best suited for those who value a smaller, more personal experience and are eager to combine history with leisure in Greece’s stunning marine environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: