Delos and Mykonos One Day Cruise from Naxos

If you’re considering taking a day trip from Naxos to visit Delos and Mykonos, chances are you’re after a convenient and straightforward way to tick off two iconic Greek spots in one go. This cruise, operated by MTM TOURISM GREECE OE, promises a no-frills, boat-only experience that gets you there with less hassle than traditional ferries. While it isn’t designed to be a guided tour, it offers a practical solution for travelers wanting to explore on their own terms.

What we love about this trip is how it saves hours of travel time—you’re not stuck on multiple ferries or waiting in long lines, and the schedule is reliable. Plus, the opportunity to spend a good few hours independently exploring Delos’ UNESCO-listed ruins and soaking in the lively atmosphere of Mykonos’ Little Venice is pretty appealing. On the flip side, it’s essential to be aware that this isn’t a guided experience, and the lack of amenities can be a downside if you’re not prepared.

This tour is best suited for independent travelers who want flexibility, are comfortable navigating on their own, and don’t mind bringing their own water, snacks, or shade. If you’re in Naxos and craving an easy way to visit Delos’ archaeological wonders and vibrant Mykonos without the fuss of organizing separate transport, this could be a good fit. But if you prefer guided insights or a more luxurious experience, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Fast and Reliable Transportation: The cruise offers a quick way to reach Delos and Mykonos, saving hours compared to public ferries.
• Self-Guided Exploration: You’ll visit without a guide, so it’s ideal if you prefer wandering independently.
• Limited Amenities: No snacks or water provided onboard; bring your own essentials.
• Weather Dependent: Some reviews mention cancellations due to wind or rough seas, so check the forecast.
• Flexible Timing: You get around 3 hours on each island, which is enough for a walk, some shopping, or a quick visit to archaeological sites.
• Cost-Effective: At roughly $86.82 per person, it’s a straightforward, no-extra-fee way to see both destinations.

The Experience in Detail

Booking and Price

At around $86.82 per person, this cruise isn’t the cheapest option, but it’s in line with other similar offerings. You’re primarily paying for the transportation—a simple, direct route that spares you the stress of planning multiple ferries. Most travelers book at least 56 days in advance, reflecting its popularity, especially in the busy season.

Departure and Schedule

The tour starts bright and early at 9:00 am from Naxos, with a mobile ticket making check-in straightforward. The meeting point is at a specific location in Naxos, and the boat, called the Alexander, departs a few minutes early, so arriving early is a good idea to grab a comfortable spot.

The Itinerary

• First Stop: Delos—the highlight for many, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to be the birthplace of Apollo. The boat ride takes less than an hour, much faster than public ferries, and you get about 3 hours to explore the ruins, temples, and old houses. Since the Delos Museum is closed for renovations in 2024, you’ll want to plan your sightseeing accordingly, perhaps focusing on the open-air ruins.

• Second Stop: Mykonos—just a half-hour away, this is Greece’s famous party island. You’ll have roughly 3 hours on your own before the boat departs back to Naxos. The highlight here is the Little Venice area, with its charming waterfront cafes and narrow streets. It’s enough time to stroll, shop, grab a bite, or relax at a beach.

What the Reviews Say

Several travelers appreciate how easy and reliable the boat ride is. One review states, “The ferry ride was fun and fast,” and another highlights, “Exactly as described and exactly what I wanted.” The general consensus is that for independent travelers, this is a no-hassle way to visit Delos and Mykonos.

However, there are caveats. Some guests mention that weather can be unpredictable—winds and rough seas sometimes cause cancellations or delays. As one reviewer pointed out, “We arrived at the port to see the boat about to depart half an hour early,” and others noted cancellations due to high winds. It’s worth checking the forecast before booking, especially if you’re traveling in late spring or late fall.

The Downsides

While the price includes the cruise, there are notable things not included—namely entrance fees to Delos (around €12), and no guide onboard or at either site. Travelers have commented that the lack of guided commentary means you’re exploring solo, which can be hit or miss depending on your interest in archaeological sites and local lore.

On top of that, reviews mention that there are no amenities onboard—no water, snacks, or shaded areas—so come prepared. Some found the three-hour stops a bit long, especially if it’s hot and there is no shade or water available. One guest said, “It was very hot with no shade and no where to replenish water,” so bringing your own supplies is essential.

Cancellations and Weather Concerns

A few travelers experienced last-minute cancellations, often due to rough seas or high winds. The tour provider states they will reschedule or refund if cancellation occurs, but this unpredictability can be frustrating if you’re tightly scheduled or keen on specific dates.

Group Size and Overall Atmosphere

This is a group experience with a maximum of 100 travelers, but it’s not a guided tour—more of a transportation service. Many reviews mention the large, comfortable boats and the efficient check-in process. It’s ideal if you prefer to do your own thing rather than participate in guided excursions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for independent travelers who want a cost-effective, straightforward way to visit Delos and Mykonos without the fuss of multiple tickets or navigating public ferries. It’s especially suited for those who are comfortable exploring archaeological sites and bustling towns on their own, without needing guided commentary.

If you’re traveling light, bring your own water, sunscreen, and hat, as the open-air stops can get quite hot. It’s a good choice if you’re staying in Naxos and want a quick, hassle-free day trip with enough free time to enjoy both islands at your own pace.

However, if you prefer guided insights, or if you’re worried about weather cancellations, or need amenities onboard, you might want to consider other options or ensure you have backup plans.

FAQs

Is this cruise guided?
No, it isn’t. This is a transportation-only service, so you explore Delos and Mykonos on your own. There are no guided tours or commentary included.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes the boat cruise from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos, and the return trip. Entrance fees to Delos are not included, and there are no amenities or food onboard.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour provider states that if weather conditions prevent the trip from operating, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Some cancellations are due to high winds or rough seas.

How much time do I get on each island?
You’ll have roughly 3 hours on Delos and 3 hours in Mykonos. Some reviews note that the actual time on Delos can sometimes be a bit less, especially if there are delays or lines at the entrance.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, including children aged 4-16 who only need a self-test or vaccination proof. There’s no mention of specific age limits, but keep in mind the weather conditions and the amount of walking involved.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. Since there are no amenities onboard, packing a snack or water bottle is recommended, especially for the hot outdoor stops.

Final Thoughts

This cruise from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos offers a simple, no-fuss option for travelers eager to see these storied islands without the complications of guided tours or multiple ferry changes. It’s a cost-effective way to get around, especially if you’re comfortable exploring independently and don’t mind bringing your own supplies.

While it’s not the most luxurious or guided experience out there, it hits the right notes for adventurous, self-sufficient travelers who value speed and convenience over guided commentary. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, come prepared, and you’ll likely enjoy a memorable day soaking in two of Greece’s most famous spots.

If you’re looking for more personalized insights or guided experiences, you might want to explore other options, but for a straightforward and efficient day trip, this route ticks all the boxes.

Happy travels, and enjoy your Greek island adventures!