Mykonos Sail Cruise to Rhenia, Guided Tour of Delos, Lunch&Drinks

When it comes to exploring the Greek islands from Mykonos, a cruise to Rhenia and Delos offers a perfect blend of history, relaxation, and stunning scenery. Priced at around $139 per person, this 7-hour adventure is quite popular—bookings are often made about four weeks in advance—and provides everything you need for a memorable day: guided tours, swimming breaks, delicious food, and even Wi-Fi onboard. The setting of the sailing yacht, coupled with knowledgeable guides and serene anchor spots, makes this a standout experience for those who want more than just lounging on the beach.

What I really appreciate about this cruise is how well it balances history lessons with time in the water. The guided tour of Delos, with its ruins and sacred sites, is led by an English-speaking guide who manages to make archaeology accessible and engaging, even for those not deeply versed in Greek mythology. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and floating noodles** means you’ll get plenty of chances to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Rhenia, often skipped by larger tourist boats. Onboard, the Greek-style lunch—with options like pasta, salads, and fresh fruit—complemented by free house wines, hits the spot after a swim.

One aspect to consider before booking is the group size and weather dependency. While the maximum of 35 travelers keeps things intimate, weather conditions can affect the start or flow of the trip. Some reviews mention windier days making the sail a little bumpy—something to keep in mind if you’re prone to seasickness or seeking a very smooth ride. Also, if you’re interested in exploring Delos’ archaeological site, remember that entrance fees are not included, so bring cash if you plan to visit the museum or hike Mt. Kythnos.

Key Points

• Well-balanced itinerary combining ancient ruins, swimming, and sea views
• Knowledgeable guides provide meaningful context to the Delos site
• All-inclusive meals and drinks offer excellent value for a full-day tour
• The small group size enhances the personal experience
• Snorkeling gear and floating noodles make water activities accessible
• Weather can impact the experience, so flexibility is wise

Detailed Review of the Mykonos Sail Cruise to Rhenia and Delos

If you’re visiting Mykonos and craving a bit of an escape from the busy streets and crowded beaches, this cruise offers a wonderful alternative. The day begins bright and early at 9 a.m., with a warm welcome from the crew aboard the yacht, which is described as comfortable and well-equipped. The optionally available pickup from your hotel or a meeting point is a nice touch, easing the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the trip.

The Sailing Experience and Water Activities

Once on board, the sense of freedom and adventure kicks in immediately. The captain provides an overview of the day, and if you’re keen, you can even help raise the sails or get a quick lesson in steering—a fun way to connect with the boat’s operation. As you leave the coast behind, the crew’s professionalism shines; reviews rave about how confident and attentive they are, especially in windy conditions.

The first major highlight is the anchor in Rhenia, which is a true gem. Many reviews mention how secluded and uncrowded the coves are—perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are described as turquoise and inviting, and the snorkeling gear makes it easy to explore the underwater world. The floating noodles are a small but appreciated bonus, making relaxing in the water more fun. The lunch served on the boat is consistently praised as tasty and plentiful, with options like Greek salads, pasta, and a Mediterranean buffet. Beverages, including house wine, soft drinks, and bottled water, are complimentary and help make the experience feel festive.

The Archaeological Tour of Delos

After a couple of hours on Rhenia, you’ll head to Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a legendary birthplace of Apollo. The guided tour led by a licensed expert is described as brilliant—from temples to marketplaces, it’s a walk through history that many reviewers found engaging and educational. The use of audio headsets allows everyone to hear clearly, even in windy parts, which was appreciated by family travelers and solo visitors alike.

Some travelers mention that the guide’s English wasn’t perfectly fluent, leading to missed details, but overall, the explanations remain lively and informative. For those interested in panoramic views, a hike up Mt. Kythnos is included—an opportunity to see the ruins from above and snap some impressive photos. Entrance fees are not included, so budget extra cash if you want to visit the museum or buy souvenirs.

The Return and Reflection

The sail back to Mykonos caps the day perfectly—many reviews highlight how the crew’s professionalism keeps the ride smooth and enjoyable. Some mention windier conditions, but everyone feels confident in their crew’s handling of the boat. The farewell shot and the overall relaxed atmosphere wrap up the journey on a high note—truly a highlight of many travelers’ trips to Greece.

Considering the Value

At $139, this tour offers a comprehensive day filled with history, water fun, and excellent food. Several reviews point out that the value for money is excellent, especially considering the inclusion of lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi, and guided tours. The small group size makes it more intimate than larger boat tours, and personal touches like the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew truly stand out.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to history enthusiasts who enjoy learning about Greek mythology and archaeology without a heavy lecture. Families and couples will love the relaxed pace, the opportunity to swim in crystal waters, and the delicious lunch. Active travelers will appreciate the chance to help with sailing or hike Mt. Kythnos, while those seeking a low-stress day will find the onboard amenities and guided commentary very convenient. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a small-group feel combined with a professionally run operation.

However, travelers prone to seasickness or seeking a very smooth, calm ride might need to prepare accordingly, especially on windy days. Also, if you’re eager to visit the archaeological site in detail, be prepared for extra costs and the need to bring cash.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the price?
Pickup is optional and can be arranged upon request for an additional fee. The starting point is at Olia Hotel Mykonosparalia if you choose to meet there.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, from 9 a.m. to around 4 p.m., including sailing, swimming, touring Delos, and lunch.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, a freshly prepared Greek-style lunch, house wine, soft drinks, and bottled water are included. Snacks like fresh fruits are also served.

Do I need to pay for the archaeological site?
Yes, the entrance fee to Delos is not included and must be paid in cash on site.

What about snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling masks, fins, and noodles are supplied free of charge, making it easy to enjoy the water even if you don’t bring your own equipment.

Can I assist with sailing or steering?
Yes, there are opportunities for those interested to help raise the sails or get a short lesson in steering while at sea.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnancy and health considerations should be discussed beforehand; participants should have moderate physical fitness. Families with teens loved the experience, especially the water and ruins.

What’s the weather policy?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this cruise from Mykonos makes for a balanced day of culture, relaxation, and fun in the water. You’ll leave with a better appreciation for Greek history, a tan, and plenty of stories to tell. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to experience the islands from a different angle—on a yacht, with good company, and a sense of adventure.