Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Islands Cruise with BBQ Meal

Exploring the Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Islands Cruise with BBQ Meal

If you’re planning a trip to Mykonos and want to experience a mix of history, natural beauty, and laid-back fun, this Delos and Rhenia Islands cruise might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on what travelers rave about and the details provided, it’s a pretty appealing way to spend a day in Greece’s Aegean Sea.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to visit Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ruins from 3500 BC, sounds fascinating—imagine walking through ancient Greek history. Second, the opportunity to swim and snorkel in Rhenia’s clear waters with free gear provided makes for a relaxing, playful experience. The onboard BBQ meal also seems to be a highlight, with many reviews noting the delicious food and drinks flowing freely.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the guided tour of Delos might not be included unless you pay extra, and some reviews mention the potential for a slightly rushed visit if you opt for the group tour. The cruise is generally well-reviewed, but it’s worth considering if you’re someone who likes a more flexible schedule or a private, customizable experience.

All in all, this cruise appears best suited for those who want a combination of history, scenic sailing, and leisurely swimming—ideal for travelers who enjoy a good mix of exploration and relaxation without overextending their day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful sailing experience through the Aegean with scenic views of Mykonos and its neighboring islands.
• Great value for money considering the included BBQ meal, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, and all taxes.
• Flexible options for pickup and tours, accommodating different preferences and schedules.
• Rich history at Delos, with the option for a guided tour to enhance your understanding.
• Excellent reviews highlight friendly staff, tasty food, and fun swimming spots.
• Potential for a slightly rushed visit if you opt for the group guided tour of Delos, so plan accordingly.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Departure from Mykonos and Scenic Sailing

The cruise begins either from a designated meeting point or with a convenient hotel pickup for just €20 per person. From there, you’ll set sail across the glittering waters of the Aegean, passing by iconic sights of Mykonos. Expect about 45 minutes of scenic cruising, with plenty of opportunity to snap photos of the coastline, enjoy a drink, and relax on the deck. The crew’s friendly attitude and the vibrant views make this a pleasant start, especially if you’re into picture-perfect moments.

First Stop: Delos—Ancient Marvel

After roughly 15 minutes of sailing, you’ll arrive at the island of Delos. This UNESCO site is packed with remnants of ancient Greek civilization, including ruins believed to be from the birthplaces of Apollo and Artemis. You can opt for a guided tour (extra cost) to deepen your understanding of the sites or explore on your own. The reviews indicate that having a guide can make a big difference—”the guide at Delos ruins didn’t keep track of people in her group,” one reviewer notes, which can add to the feeling of rushing if you’re not part of an organized tour.

If you choose to go solo, you’ll have about 2 hours of free time to wander the ruins, take photos, or just soak in the atmosphere. It’s a quiet place with plenty of wildflowers and ancient stones, perfect for history buffs or anyone curious about Greece’s past. Many reviews praise the self-guided experience for being “amazing” and recommend a guided tour for a more immersive visit.

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Cruising to Rhenia Island – The Swimming Paradise

Next, the boat heads to Rhenia Island, a highlight for many. This small island boasts crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll have roughly two hours here to jump into the water, use the provided snorkeling gear to explore underwater life, or just lounge with a drink on deck. The reviews emphasize how stunning the environment is—”swimming in the sea was a wonderful experience,” one traveler shares.

The crew supplies snorkeling noodles and towels, making your time in the water comfortable and fun, even if you’re not a strong swimmer. The environment is tranquil, and many mention it’s the perfect spot to relax and escape the crowds. The water’s calm and inviting, making it suitable for most skill levels.

Lunch and Relaxation on the Return

After swimming and exploring, it’s time for a well-deserved BBQ lunch onboard. The meal is described as delicious and healthy, with a good variety of meats and vegetables. Many reviews highlight that it’s probably “the best meal you will have in Mykonos,” served with plenty of drinks—beer, wine, water, coffee, and tea.

The cruise then heads back towards Mykonos, passing by scenic views and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. You’ll have about 1.5 hours of free time back in Mykonos for shopping, strolling, or just soaking in the sunset if your schedule allows. The crew makes sure you’re comfortable and well-hydrated throughout, which makes the experience feel effortless.

The Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Group Size and Comfort

Depending on weather and group size, the cruise is operated either on a Gulet 89ft (up to 40 people) or a Gulet 72ft (up to 30 people). While these are not tiny boats, they’re smaller than typical large tour ships, which means a more intimate experience. Many reviews mention enjoying the small group vibe, which allows for more personalized attention from the crew.

Booking Options and Extras

You can choose to include hotel pickup and drop-off for €20 per person, or meet the boat directly at Ioannis Diakoftis pier. If you want a guided tour of Delos, you’ll need to pre-book for an additional €45 per adult and €40 per child, which enhances your experience with expert narration. The tour also includes entrance fees.

Duration and Flexibility

The entire excursion lasts around 6 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. You can cancel for a full refund if you give 24 hours’ notice, and there’s an option to reserve now and pay later—handy if your plans aren’t set in stone.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes for walking on Delos, sun protection, beachwear, a hat, and a water bottle are recommended. Since passengers are barefoot on board for hygiene, leave your shoes at home or in your bag.

What Travelers Say: Honest Insights from Reviews

The glowing reviews consistently praise the friendly crew, good food, and stunning scenery. “The crew were incredibly attentive, thoughtful, helpful, and friendly,” one review notes, emphasizing how well they look after guests. Many describe the BBQ lunch as “delicious” and the drinks as “flowing,” adding to the relaxed vibe.

Some mention that the snorkeling gear enhances the experience, and others highlight the beautiful swimming spots—”swimming in the sea was a wonderful experience.” A few reviews point out that the guided tour of Delos can be a bit rushed or crowded unless you pre-arrange a private guide, so if you’re keen on history, planning ahead pays off.

The staff’s friendliness and helpfulness stand out as a common theme, making the day both comfortable and memorable.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This cruise offers a balanced mix of history, relaxation, and good food, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers. It’s especially great for those who enjoy sailing and scenic views but aren’t looking for an overly strenuous day. If you love swimming, snorkeling, and a leisurely pace, this trip hits the sweet spot.

It’s also a smart choice if you want an easy, all-in-one experience—no need to plan multiple excursions or worry about logistics. The options for guided tours or self-exploration make it adaptable, whether you’re into history or just want to sunbathe with a drink in hand.

However, if you’re after a private, flexible, or ultra-luxurious experience, this might be a little more structured than you prefer. Also, those sensitive to crowds or rushing should consider whether a guided tour with fixed timings suits them.

FAQs About the Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Islands Cruise

Is transportation to and from my hotel included?
Yes, you can add a transfer service for €20 per person, which requires pre-booking. Alternatively, you can meet the boat directly at Ioannis Diakoftis pier.

Can I do the guided tour of Delos?
Yes, you can pre-book a guided tour for €45 per adult and €40 per child. This enhances your visit with professional insights but requires advance reservation and payment.

What is the duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts around 6 hours, including sailing, visiting Delos, swimming at Rhenia, and relaxing back in Mykonos.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited drinks—including beer, wine, water, coffee, and tea—are part of the package. Spirits and cocktails are not included unless purchased separately onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, complimentary snorkeling gear is supplied, along with swimming noodles for added fun.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most travelers interested in a relaxed day on the water; however, children should be comfortable with boat trips, swimming, and walking around ruins. No specific mention of age restrictions exists.

Final Thoughts

This Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Islands Cruise with BBQ Meal offers a well-rounded day in the Greek islands, combining ancient history, natural beauty, and tasty food in a relaxed setting. Many travelers have praised the attentive staff, quality cuisine, and stunning scenery, making it a popular choice.

If you’re after a day of gentle exploration, scenic sailing, and refreshing swims, this trip likely ticks all the boxes. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a good mix of culture and leisure without the pressure of overly packed schedules or large crowds. Just remember to consider whether you want a guided tour or prefer to explore independently, and plan accordingly.

Enjoy your trip, and hopefully, this gives you a clearer picture of what to expect—and whether it’s the right fit for your Greek adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: