Full-Day Delos and Rhenia Island Cruise from Mykonos

Exploring the Greek islands often involves balancing cost, comfort, and authentic experience. This full-day Delos and Rhenia Island cruise from Mykonos offers a relaxed way to see two of the Cyclades’ most fascinating islands without the expense of a private boat. The tour, priced at around $116 per person, provides a mix of history, beach time, and local charm in about seven hours—making it a practical choice for travelers seeking an authentic day on the water, with some flexibility built in.

What I genuinely appreciate about this experience is how it combines the chance to explore Delos’ archaeological wonders with relaxing swims on Rhenia’s quieter beaches. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and beverages adds value, especially compared to private charters that can quickly add up. On the flip side, a key consideration is that the weather can significantly impact the day—wind and choppy seas have been known to make returning trips less comfortable, as some reviews highlight. Still, for those who enjoy a good boat ride and a taste of history without breaking the bank, this cruise offers a decent, balanced experience.

Key points / Takeaways

• Affordable access to Delos and Rhenia compared to private charters.
• Flexibility to explore Delos ruins independently or swim (own expense).
• Includes lunch and drinks, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Weather can affect the trip, especially the return ride, so pack accordingly.
• Optional hotel transfers can be upgraded for more convenience.
• Limited group size (max 15 travelers) fosters a more personalized atmosphere.

The Experience of a Full-Day Mykonos Island Cruise

This cruise starts bright and early at 10:30 am from the Olia Hotel in Mykonos, with the promise of a full day on the water. The tour is operated by YourTransfer.gr, a company that emphasizes practical details like local taxes and straightforward booking. While you won’t have a guided tour at Delos (it’s at your own expense), this leaves you free to wander the ruins at your own pace, which many find ideal for getting a more personal sense of the place.

How the Day Unfolds: Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Delos Archaeological Site
The highlight of the trip—an UNESCO World Heritage site—delivers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Greek civilization. As the boat anchors off Delos, you’ll enjoy about two hours to explore. If you’re into ruins, you might want to bring a guide or download an app, since no professional guide is included. Many reviewers suggest hiking to the top for the spectacular views, or simply wandering through the remains at your own pace.

One guest, Jeannette, called it the “highlight of our trip,” highlighting the value of hiking to the top at Delos and relaxing on Rhenia’s beaches afterward. However, not everyone takes advantage of this free time equally—some feel it’s enough to just soak in the atmosphere, while others might wish for a more guided experience.

Second stop: Rhenia Island
After Delos, the boat sails to Rhenia, a less-visited gem. This island offers beautiful, quiet beaches, ideal for swimming and unwinding. Sharon, another reviewer, said, “Swimming off Rhinia was really fun. The water was cold but we still enjoyed it,” capturing that refreshing, invigorating feeling of swimming in clear Greek waters. The water can be chilly, but many find it well worth it.

Lunch and Refreshments
A simple light lunch and beverages are included—enough for most to keep energy up for the day. From personal experience, having food included means you’re not scrambling for snacks or extra costs, and the crew is typically friendly and accommodating.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

One of the best aspects of this tour is the balance of relaxation and exploration. The group size is limited to 15, which helps keep things intimate and manageable, especially if you prefer a smaller, more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the option to upgrade for hotel transfers makes it easier if you’re staying outside the main port area.

However, the weather plays a crucial role. Several reviews mention choppy seas and strong winds, which can make the return trip rough. Cassandra’s experience of almost feeling unsafe highlights that this isn’t a smooth, passive cruise—be prepared for the possibility of a bumpy ride if the weather turns stormy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re comfortable with boat trips and some physical activity—hiking on Delos or swimming in open water. It offers a cost-effective way to see Delos without a private charter, which can be prohibitively expensive. If you enjoy independent exploration and a relaxed pace, you’ll appreciate the freedom to wander ruins or lounge on the beaches.

It’s also great for small groups, making it more personal than large cruise ships. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a balanced mix of history, scenery, and swimming, this tour hits all those marks. But if you’re very sensitive to seasickness or want a guided, structured tour, this might not be the best fit.

Price and Logistics: Are You Getting Good Value?

At around $116 per person, this tour provides good value considering it includes transportation, lunch, beverages, and entry to the archaeological site (though the site’s entrance fee is separate). Private boat charters on Delos and Rhenia can cost many times more, so for travelers on a budget or those wanting a taste of the islands without the big expense, this is a sound choice.

The pickup option adds a layer of convenience, but you’ll need to send your preferred meeting point in advance. Keep in mind that weather can alter plans, and the tour reserves the right to change the itinerary accordingly.

The Practicalities and Details

Timing is key—starting at 10:30 am, you’ll spend roughly two hours at Delos, then cruise to Rhenia, with ample swimming and relaxing time. The total activity lasts about seven hours, including transfers, which makes for a full but manageable day.

Group size is capped at 15, so you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The local taxes and included drinks make it straightforward to budget, avoiding hidden costs. If you’re traveling with children, note they can participate only if accompanied by an adult.

Weather considerations are important—high winds can lead to a bumpy ride and possible itinerary changes. The company offers an 80% refund if canceled due to bad weather, which offers some peace of mind.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for a balanced, affordable day trip that combines history, beach time, and good food, this cruise is worth considering. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a small-group, flexible experience and are comfortable with short boat rides. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a relaxed day on the water will find plenty to like.

However, if you’re seasick easily or want a guided tour of Delos, you might want to explore other options. Also, those seeking a luxurious experience or private charter might find this a bit too casual.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This shared cruise from Mykonos offers a practical way to see Delos’ archaeological sites and Rhenia’s beaches without the high cost of private charters. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy independent exploration, swimming, and a relaxed atmosphere—and who are okay with some unpredictability due to weather. The inclusion of lunch, drinks, and local taxes makes it a convenient, value-packed outing.

If you’re after a small-group experience with a touch of adventure, this tour delivers. Just remember that the weather can impact the day, so pack layers and be ready for a potentially choppier ride if conditions are windy.

For travelers who appreciate flexibility and authentic moments over luxury, this cruise can be a highlight of your Mykonos trip—offering a taste of history, nature, and the open sea.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a light lunch, beverages, all local taxes, and transportation from the meeting point. Entry to the Delos archaeological site and museum is free, but you may need to pay for your own guide if desired.

Can I explore Delos ruins independently?
Yes, you are given about two hours to wander the ruins on your own. There’s no professional guide included, so you can explore at your own pace, making it ideal if you prefer self-guided wandering.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, you can upgrade to include hotel transfers for added convenience. You’ll need to send your preferred pickup point in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions, like high winds over 6 Beaufort, prevent a safe trip, the company offers an 80% refund. They might also reschedule or suggest alternative solutions.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, including transfer times, with about two hours at Delos and ample time for swimming at Rhenia.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can children participate?
Children can take part only if accompanied by an adult.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, the activity involves walking around ruins and swimming, so it may not be suitable for everyone with mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and possibly a light jacket for the boat ride. No specific equipment is provided, so pack accordingly.

Are there alternatives to this tour?
Yes, there are other sightseeing and sailing options on Viator, including private cruises and guided tours with guides or more luxurious amenities.

How do I book and confirm the tour?
Booking is done online, with confirmation provided at the time of booking. Make sure to communicate your meeting point by 3 pm the day before if using the pickup service.

This cruise offers a practical, budget-friendly window into some of the Cyclades’ most intriguing spots—perfect for those who value flexibility, authentic experiences, and a day on the water with a touch of history.