Mykonos Half-Day Escape to Delos & Rhenia Starts at 13:30

Mykonos Half-Day Escape to Delos & Rhenia Starts at 13:30

If you’re spending time in Mykonos and craving a mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxation, this half-day sea adventure might just be the perfect choice. The cruise offers a chance to glide across the Aegean, passing by the legendary island of Delos, and then unwind on the peaceful beaches of Rhenia. It’s a well-balanced experience that combines scenic sailing, swimming, and a taste of authentic Greek hospitality—all wrapped up in about five hours of fun.

What really draws me to this trip is the chance to see Delos from the water, which offers a whole new perspective on its ancient ruins, and the peaceful, almost untouched beaches of Rhenia, perfect for escaping the crowds. Plus, I appreciate the inclusions: snorkeling gear, towels, sunscreen, and a Greek pita wrap that makes the cruise feel like a small, personal feast.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the cruise’s success depends heavily on weather conditions, and if the sea turns rough or the skies are cloudy, the itinerary might change. It’s not a full-day adventure, so it’s designed for a taste of the islands rather than a deep dive into their history or scenery. But for many travelers, this quick escape hits the sweet spot of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning Views from the Water: Seeing Delos’ ancient ruins from the sea offers a unique perspective that photos from land can’t match.
• Relaxing Beach Time on Rhenia: Unspoiled beaches with crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for swimming and soaking up the sun.
• Authentic Greek Flavors: A pita wrap meal and refreshing beverages onboard add a delicious local touch to your trip.
• Snorkeling Included: Use provided gear to explore underwater life, rocky seabeds, and colorful fish beneath the surface.
• Comfortable Yacht Experience: Spacious sun deck and a friendly crew create a relaxed environment for all ages.
• Optional Pickup & Drop-off: For an extra 20 euros per person, convenient transportation to and from your hotel might be available, making logistics easier.

Entering the Sails: What to Expect on the Cruise

Taking this cruise from Mykonos offers an excellent way to see the Aegean’s best without spending all day in transit. You’ll meet at the Ag Ioannis Diakoftis pier—look for the yacht waiting or a small boat ready to ferry you aboard. The boat itself, either the Atlantis 72FT or Andreas 89FT, provides a stable, spacious platform where you can unwind and watch the Greek coast slip by.

Once underway, your first stop is Delos, a small island packed with ruins and stories. The cruise takes about 35 minutes to reach this sacred site, and the view of the ancient landscape from the water is compelling—imagine the stories that these ruins could tell if they could talk. Many reviews mention capturing great photos from the boat, which makes for a fantastic memory of your trip.

After a brief safety briefing, you’ll anchor near Delos for about an hour, giving you a chance to dip into the calm waters, snorkel, or just relax on deck. The water’s clarity and light blue hue make it tempting to jump right in. Expect to see rocky seabeds, vibrant marine life, and possibly some fish darting around.

Next, you’ll head to Rhenia for a longer swim session—around two hours. You’ll find Rhenia’s beaches unspoiled and quiet, perfect for escaping the busy tourist spots. Many travelers comment on how peaceful and pristine the beaches feel, with some describing Rhenia as a “tranquil paradise.” When hunger strikes, a quick 30-minute onboard lunch with a Greek pita wrap rounds out the experience.

Finally, the return cruise back to Mykonos lasts around 45 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy panoramic views, sip on local drinks, and relax on the wide sun deck. You might find the crew, led by a friendly skipper and attentive staff, helpful and eager to share tips about the islands.

The Breakdown: Itinerary and Highlights

Starting and Meeting Point: Your day begins at the Ag Ioannis Diakoftis pier, where you’ll find the yacht waiting. Arriving a few minutes early helps you settle in and get ready for the adventure ahead.

Safety and Briefing: Expect a quick 10-minute safety briefing—nothing overly formal but important to listen to, especially if you plan to swim.

Cruise to Delos: The 35-minute boat ride is scenic, with plenty of opportunities for photos of the coast and the iconic ruins. Many reviewers comment on the “breathtaking views” and how the water “sparkles in the sunlight.”

Delos Exploration and Swimming: You’ll spend about an hour on Delos, but most of that is free time for swimming or wandering around the ruins. Snorkeling gear is provided, and the water is crystal-clear. Because of the limited time, it’s best to prioritize what you want to see—such as the famous terrace of the lions or the ancient marketplace.

Rhenia’s Beaches and Lunch: The longer stop on Rhenia is often the highlight. The beaches are unspoiled, and the water inviting. Many reviews praise the “peaceful, untouched beaches,” perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The onboard lunch, a Greek pita wrap, feels authentic and satisfying—ideal for a light, flavorful meal that keeps you energized for the rest of the cruise.

Return Journey: The final 45-minute cruise offers views of Mykonos’ coastline, ideal for relaxing and taking photos. You’ll be back at the original pier with plenty of time left in your day to explore more of the island or relax at your hotel.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise caters well to travelers who want a taste of the Cyclades without committing a full day. It’s ideal for those interested in scenic sailing, swimming in clear waters, and seeing Delos without the hassle of organized land tours. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike can enjoy the relaxed pace, especially since it’s capped at a maximum of around 25-40 people, keeping things intimate.

If you’re looking for an active, scenic adventure that includes some leisure time and authentic Greek flavors, this cruise hits the right notes. Keep in mind it’s not suitable if you want a deep dive into history or long beach days—this is a quick, scenic escape designed for light adventure and relaxation.

Price and Logistics: What to Know

At around 5 hours, the experience offers good value for the price, especially considering inclusions like snorkeling gear, towels, and a meal. The optional transfer for 20 euros simplifies logistics, but you’ll need to reserve and pay on the spot. The cruise operates with a capacity of 25 to 40 people, ensuring a cozy atmosphere without feeling crowded.

The tour is flexible—cancellation is free if you notify 24 hours in advance, making it less risky if weather looks uncertain. The crew and skipper generally speak English and Greek, ensuring clear communication.

Remember to bring a sun hat, beachwear, and comfortable clothes—shoes are not allowed on board for safety and hygiene reasons.

Final Thoughts

This half-day cruise offers a well-rounded snapshot of Mykonos’ surrounding islands—stunning views, calm waters, and authentic Greek flavors. It’s a good pick if you want a taste of both adventure and relaxation, with the convenience of a shorter, manageable trip.

If your goal is to see Delos from a different perspective, enjoy time on quiet beaches, and sip drinks on a comfortable yacht, this cruise delivers. The optional pickup makes it easy to incorporate into your day, and the friendly crew often earns praise for their helpfulness.

In essence, it’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the magic of the Aegean in just a few hours—perfect for those who want to make the most of their time in Mykonos without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Not automatically, but you can reserve an optional pickup and drop-off service for 20 euros per person, payable on the spot.

What should I bring onboard? Pack a sun hat, beachwear, comfortable clothing, and sunscreen. Shoes are not allowed on the yacht for safety reasons.

How long is the cruise? The total experience lasts about 5 hours, with specific stops for swimming and sightseeing.

Can I snorkel during the trip? Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and the waters around Rhenia are ideal for exploring underwater life.

Is this suitable for children? Yes, families often find it a fun, relaxed way to introduce kids to sailing and swimming in the Greek seas.

What happens if the weather is bad? The operator will inform you the evening before if conditions are unsuitable, and changes or cancellations may occur for safety.

Is the experience worth the price? Given the inclusions—meals, snorkeling gear, and scenic views—and the convenience, many travelers find it offers good value for a half-day escape.