Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Cruise with Swim and Greek Meal

Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Cruise with Swim and Greek Meal — A Practical Guide to a Memorable Day at Sea

This sailing trip offers a fantastic way to see some of the most iconic sights near Mykonos, all from the deck of a comfortable sailboat. For six hours, you’ll glide past the legendary island of Delos, visit the tranquil Rhenia Island for swimming and lunch, and enjoy a scenic view of Little Venice on your way back. What makes this experience stand out is the combination of a relaxed pace, knowledgeable crew, and the chance to sample authentic Greek food while surrounded by spectacular waters.

Two features I particularly appreciate are the free time to swim in crystal-clear waters at Rhenia Island and the onboard Greek lunch, freshly prepared and full of Mediterranean flavors. These touches elevate what might otherwise be a simple sightseeing cruise into a genuine, immersive experience. A possible consideration: the tour’s price of $168 per person seems reasonable, but it does exclude entry fees to Delos’ archaeological site, which adds $8. If you’re curious about the ancient ruins, planning for that extra expense is wise.

This trip appeals most to travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, light adventure, and cultural snippets — especially those who appreciate good food and stunning views. It’s ideal for small groups or couples looking for intimacy and personalized service, as many reviews highlight the attentive and friendly crew.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small Group Feel: Many reviews mention the intimate atmosphere, with only a few guests on board, ensuring personalized service.
• Knowledgeable Crew: Guides share interesting details about Delos’ history and Greek mythology, making the scenic pass-by more meaningful.
• Excellent Value: The $168 price covers a lot — a Greek meal, wine, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and scenic sailing, which adds up to impressive value.
• Authentic Experience: The on-board meal and friendly staff make this more than just a cruise; it’s a taste of Greek hospitality at sea.
• Flexible and Convenient: Hotel pickups and drop-offs are included, making logistics hassle-free.
• Good for Relaxation and Exploration: Whether you want to swim, take photos, or learn a bit about Greek history, there’s plenty of room to do so.

The Overall Experience: A Seamless Blend of Sightseeing and Relaxation

This cruise strikes a balance that many travelers seek: a laid-back day with enough activity to keep things interesting without feeling rushed. Starting with a pickup from your hotel (just ensure you notify the provider in advance), you’ll be whisked to the port where your sailboat awaits. The boat, operated by Doukas Sailing, is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with experienced crew members who are praised for their navigation skills and friendly demeanor.

Once afloat, the scenic sailing begins with a 50-minute cruise across the Aegean, giving you time to settle in, enjoy a glass of local wine, and admire the views. The first stop is Delos, the tiny yet historically significant island famous for its mythological roots as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Here, you get around 15 minutes to pass by the archaeological site and snap photos while hearing snippets of its storied past from your guide. Keep in mind that entry to Delos’ archaeological site costs an extra $8, so budget accordingly if you wish to explore the ruins.

Next, the boat sails for about 20 minutes to Rhenia Island, a haven of pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. This is the highlight for many: hours of free time for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the beach. The crew provides snorkeling gear, pool noodles, and paddleboards, making it easy and fun to enjoy the water. Multiple reviews mention that the crew is very attentive, with Linda noting they are “skilled, knowledgeable, funny, and friendly,” which helps even nervous beginners feel confident.

The Culinary Highlight: Greek Lunch at Sea

A major plus of this tour is the freshly prepared Greek meal served onboard. The menu includes Mediterranean flavors and is often described as “sumptuous” and “delicious,” with some reviewers emphasizing the quality and freshness of the food. The crew also offers local wine, soft drinks, and water, enhancing the relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Anita praises the tasty lunch and notes that the meals are filling and flavorful.

Scenic Return and Photo Opportunities

As the cruise nears the end, the boat heads back past Mykonos’ famous Little Venice, with about 20 minutes to take photos and enjoy the views of the charming waterfront. Many guests mention that this part of the trip offers perfect photo opportunities, especially for capturing the iconic colorful waterfront houses against the sunset or late afternoon light.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Reviews frequently mention the friendly, knowledgeable crew, with specific praise for Captain Billy and his team. Maria Lusyl remarks on the crew’s ability to keep everyone safe and entertained, even in windy conditions, which underscores the crew’s professionalism. The small group size (often just a handful of guests) contributes to a cozy, personalized experience, making the day feel more like a trip with friends rather than a large tour.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour’s duration of about 6 hours makes it a manageable full-day activity without overwhelming your itinerary. Pickup is included, but travelers should wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes early. The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, which is something to consider if mobility is an issue.

The cost of $168 per person covers almost everything — the boat, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and even hotel pickup — making it a very competitive price for the value received. The only added expense is the $8 entrance fee for Delos, which is worth considering if you’re keen on exploring the archaeological site itself.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is especially suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation and light adventure. If you’re a fan of authentic Greek food, scenic sailing, and small-group intimacy, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a more personal touch compared to large cruise ships, as many reviews highlight the crew’s attentiveness.

Who Might Not Find It Ideal?

If your primary interest is exploring Delos’ ruins in depth, keep in mind that the short stop and extra fee may not satisfy dedicated archaeologists. Also, if you have mobility issues, the tour might not be suitable due to the lack of wheelchair access.

For $168, you get a well-organized, enjoyable day that combines history, relaxation, great food, and stunning scenery. The small group setting and friendly crew make it feel more like a day out with friends than a commercial tour. The emphasis on authentic Greek flavors and water activities gives this experience added value that many other tours don’t match.

If you’re looking for a flexible, scenic, and friendly way to see some of the best sights near Mykonos, this cruise offers good bang for your buck. It’s perfect for those who want to combine a bit of history, the chance to swim in gorgeous waters, and enjoy delicious local food — all from a comfortable sailboat.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup, but you should inform the provider of your hotel in advance and wait in the lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

How long is the cruise? The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with multiple sailing segments and plenty of time at each stop.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Are meals and drinks included? Yes, a Greek lunch with Mediterranean flavors is included, along with wine, soft drinks, and water.

Is there a fee for Delos? Yes, the archaeological site admission costs $8, which you’ll need to budget if you want to explore the ruins.

Can I snorkel or paddleboard? Absolutely. The crew provides snorkeling gear, pool noodles, and paddleboards for your enjoyment.

Is the tour suitable for all ages? The experience is best suited for adults or older children comfortable in water activities; it’s not wheelchair accessible.

What is the group size? Many reviews mention small groups, often only a handful of guests, which enhances the personal experience.

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

In summary, this sailing trip from Mykonos to Delos and Rhenia is a solid choice for travelers wanting a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed fun. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value good food, attentive guides, and small-group intimacy. With the right expectations, it can be a day to remember on your Greek island adventure.