6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht

A Practical Look at the 6-Hour Sailing Tour to Delos and Rhenia from Mykonos

This six-hour sailing adventure offers a unique way to explore nearby islands without the crowds. Departing from Tourlos Bay in Mykonos aboard the S/Y Aeolus, you’ll visit UNESCO-listed Delos for a self-guided tour of its ancient ruins, then head to Rhenia for swimming in crystal waters. The trip includes a delicious Mediterranean lunch served on deck, complemented by unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks. Most travelers book this experience about 52 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity among those seeking a memorable and authentic Greek island day trip.

What I really appreciate about this tour is its blend of leisurely sailing and flexible exploring. The absence of a guided tour at Delos allows for personal discovery—taking in the monuments and signs at your own pace. Plus, the chance to swim and snorkel on Rhenia adds a refreshing break. The crew, praised for their professionalism and friendliness (with Captain Bob and Ernests getting special mentions), make the experience feel safe and relaxed. The onboard lunch, featuring shrimp pasta and Greek salad with unlimited drinks, is a highlight, providing both comfort and genuine flavor.

One thing to consider is that entrance to Delos costs an additional 20 euros, and you’re responsible for your own entrance fee; entrance to Rhenia is free. Also, while the tour is well-run and intimate (limiting group size to 12), it relies on good weather—cancellation due to weather is always a possibility. Travelers who enjoy independent exploration, good food, and sailing will find this trip well worth it. If you’re a history enthusiast or just want a day away from the busy streets of Mykonos, this offers a comfortable, engaging, and scenic alternative.

Key Points

• Flexible Exploration: Self-guided visit to Delos allows you to discover at your own pace.
• Relaxing Swim and Snorkel: Rhenia offers crystalline waters with equipment provided.
• Excellent Food and Drinks: A freshly cooked Mediterranean lunch with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Professional Crew: Guides like Captain Bob and Ernests are praised for their attention to detail.
• Ideal for Small Groups: With a maximum of 12 people, the tour feels intimate and personalized.
• Good Weather Dependency: The trip’s success hinges on favorable weather, so some cancellations might occur.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Departure

Your day begins bright and early at 9:00 am in Tourlos Bay, a convenient starting point close to Mykonos town. From here, the boat sets sail on the 1-hour trip to Delos, giving you time to loosen up, enjoy the breeze, and admire the views across the Aegean. The crew of the S/Y Aeolus sets the tone for a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, which many reviews rave about.

Stop 1: Delos – The Ancient Greek Ruins

Once you arrive at Delos, you’ll have around one hour to explore the archaeological site. Keep in mind, entrance tickets cost around 20 euros and are not included in the tour price. Instead of a guided tour, you’ll read the signs and have the freedom to wander, taking in the ruins and imagining the bustling ancient city. Reviewers highlight that arriving early means you beat some of the crowds, giving a more peaceful experience. Many mention that the visit is “not to be missed,” especially if you’re interested in Greek history or archaeology.

Stop 2: Rhenia – Swimming and Snorkeling

After an hour at Delos, the boat cruises for about 30 minutes to Rhenia, a less-visited but equally stunning island. Here, you can swim in the clear blue waters, with snorkeling gear provided by the crew. This part of the tour is often described as “the highlight,” with travelers raving about the quality of the water and the tranquility compared to the busier surroundings. You’ll have about two and a half hours in Rhenia, enough time to relax, swim, or snorkel, and soak in the scenery.

Lunch on Board

The onboard lunch is served during the Rhenia stop, providing a genuine Mediterranean meal—shrimp pasta and Greek salad are among the highlights. Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks complement the meal, making it a delightful part of the day. Several travelers comment that the food is “delicious,” and the staff make it enjoyable with friendly service and good music. Reviews mention that the crew, including Captain Bob and Ernests, pay close attention to detail, which elevates the overall experience.

Return Journey

After lunch and swimming, you’ll head back to Tourlos Bay—another hour sailing—and arrive around early afternoon. The trip provides a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, especially for those who prefer a smaller, more personal tour with attentive crew.

What to Expect and Tips for the Trip

Transportation and Group Size

The small group size—limited to 12 travelers—keeps the trip cozy and intimate, allowing for better interaction with the crew and fellow travelers. Pickup is often offered, making logistics easier, though you’ll need to provide your full details, including passport info and contact info, to comply with port authorities.

Weather Considerations

Since the trip depends on weather conditions, check forecasts before booking, especially in the shoulder seasons. The operators are transparent that poor weather may lead to cancellations, offering the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Most travelers seem flexible and understand this, valuing the overall experience more than the specific day.

Booking and Cost

Costing approximately $160 per person, this tour offers good value when you consider the included amenities—snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks. The cost for entrance to Delos is extra, but the experience of avoiding the crowds and enjoying a day on a sailing yacht gives it a significant edge over land-based tours.

Who Will Love It?

This trip is ideal for those who enjoy sailing, leisurely exploration, and authentic experiences. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families wanting a personalized, scenic day away from the bustling streets of Mykonos. History buffs will appreciate arriving early at Delos, and water lovers will delight in Rhenia’s clean waters.

The Sum Up

This six-hour sailing journey to Delos and Rhenia marries history, nature, and good food—all aboard a comfortable, well-managed boat. The lack of a guided tour at Delos gives a sense of freedom, while the swimming and snorkeling in Rhenia make the experience active and refreshing. The crew’s professionalism and warm friendliness leave many travelers feeling well cared for, and the onboard lunch hits just the right note of satisfying and authentic Greek cuisine.

The experience is particularly suited for travelers who value smaller groups, personalized service, and a chance to see beyond the usual tourist spots. Though weather can influence plans, most visitors walk away with beautiful memories, stunning photos, and a deeper appreciation of the Aegean’s islands.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a water lover, or simply seeking a relaxing escape, this sailing trip offers a balanced, enjoyable, and authentic taste of Greek island life. It’s a smart choice for those who want to avoid the crowds while embracing the sea, the sun, and some of Greece’s most iconic ruins.

FAQ

Is transportation included to the meeting point?
You might need to arrange your own transport to Tourlos Bay, though pickup is offered in some cases. Make sure your contact details are accurate for smooth coordination.

What should I bring on the trip?
Towels are not included, so bring your own if you plan to swim. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are helpful for sun protection. The boat provides snorkeling equipment.

Is there an age limit or suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, especially since the experience is relaxed and includes swimming and sightseeing.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance to Delos costs about 20 euros, payable on site. The tour price does not include this fee.

What’s the typical group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers, which makes for personalized service and a friendly atmosphere.

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer to enjoy Rhenia?
Not necessarily. If you’re comfortable in water, you’ll enjoy the snorkeling and swimming; life jackets are usually available.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

What is the meal like?
A freshly cooked Mediterranean lunch featuring shrimp pasta, Greek salad, and unlimited drinks. It’s well-liked for its quality and the relaxed setting.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size and friendly crew make solo travelers feel welcome and included.

How do I know if I should book in advance?
Due to its popularity, most bookings are made around 52 days in advance, especially during peak season.

In all, this sailing trip offers a wonderful blend of history, scenery, relaxation, and genuine Greek hospitality—perfect for those seeking a memorable day on the water.