Full Day Cruise to Delos and Mykonos Islands from Paros

If you’re dreaming of visiting Delos and Mykonos on a single day, this cruise offers a straightforward way to see both—without the hassle of planning multiple trips. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture. It’s a popular choice, especially if you’re staying in Paros and want to carve out a slice of classic Greek island life and history.

What we really like about this experience is how convenient it is—round-trip transfers are included from select Paros hotels, so you can relax before the boat even departs. Plus, the scenic boat ride itself sounds largely enjoyable, offering you a chance to soak up the Aegean views. Another plus is the flexibility at each stop: you’re encouraged to explore each island at your own pace, rather than sticking to a guided tour. That said, one thing to consider is that entry fees to Delos aren’t included** and cost around €20 in 2025, so budget that in.

This cruise tends to appeal most to history buffs and those eager to see iconic island sights without multiple bookings. Travelers looking for a guided tour with detailed commentary might find this trip a little light, since there’s no guide on board, but if you’re happy to explore independently, it’s a good fit. Families or solo travelers who enjoy sailing and are comfortable with some independent discovery will appreciate the balance of comfort and freedom here.

Key Points

• Ideal for travelers who prefer independent exploration on each island rather than guided tours.
• Includes transport and boat tickets, making logistics easier for visitors.
• Time on each island is flexible, but be prepared for some free time to wander.
• Entry fees are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Punctual boat service with positive reviews on boat cleanliness and timing.
• Not guided, so knowledge of the islands or prior research can enhance your experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off from Naoussa port at 9:30 am. This early start is typical for day trips, allowing enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The meeting point is straightforward, with clear instructions, making it easy to join the cruise. Pickup from your hotel is available if you’re staying nearby, which is a real perk, especially if you’re not keen on navigating to the port yourself.

The Journey to Delos

Arriving in Delos around 10:30 am, you’ll have approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to explore this UNESCO-listed site. Delos is famous as the mythological birthplace of Apollo, and its archaeological remains tell stories of a city that was once bustling with trade and culture. Visitors can roam freely, visiting highlights like the sanctuary of Apollo, the Lion Processional Gallery, the theater, and the House of the Naxians.

One reviewer mentioned that the time to explore in Delos felt a bit limited, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re a history buff eager for a deep dive. However, the lack of a guide on board means you can prioritize what interests you most—whether it’s the ruins, a quick museum visit, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

Transition to Mykonos

Leaving Delos around 1:15 pm, the boat heads to Mykonos, arriving at 1:30 pm. This gives you about 3.5 hours to enjoy the island. Mykonos is well-known for its iconic windmills, narrow alleys, and the picturesque Little Venice area. The reviews highlight that self-guided wandering allows visitors to soak in the lively scenery at their own pace.

Discovering Mykonos

You’ll arrive at the Old Port, the perfect jumping-off point to explore the town’s charming streets, vibrant cafes, and beaches if you wish. The time slot allows plenty of room to snap photos, shop, or just lounge around. The departure at 5:00 pm ensures you aren’t rushed, but be mindful of the overall timing to catch the boat back.

Return Trip

The boat departs from Mykonos at 5:00 pm and arrives back in Naoussa around 6:10 pm. From there, a transfer will take you back to your accommodation or nearby stop. The reviews praise the punctuality and cleanliness of the boat, making it a comfortable journey.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

What’s Included

• Round-trip transfers from select hotels in Paros, which takes away the stress of reaching the port.
• Boat tickets for the Paros-Delos-Mykonos route, ensuring smooth logistics.
• The entire day is about independent exploration, giving you the freedom to choose what to see and do.

What’s Not Included

• Entry fees for Delos are extra (about 20 euros in 2025), so plan for that.
• No guided commentary is provided, so if you prefer detailed historical explanations, you might need to prepare in advance.
• Transfers from Naoussa hotels aren’t included, so if your accommodation isn’t nearby, you’ll need to arrange transportation.

What Do Travelers Say?

Most reviews are positive, emphasizing the ease of transportation and the punctuality of the service. One traveler called it a “perfect day trip”, highlighting how well it matched the tour description. Many appreciated the flexibility—being able to explore each island at their own pace—and the boat’s cleanliness.

However, not all feedback is glowing. One reviewer pointed out that the time allocated for exploring Delos felt a bit tight, which is understandable given the limited window. Another mentioned lack of detailed info about the archaeological sites, which could be frustrating if you’re expecting a guided experience.

A less favorable review described issues with customer service and communication, especially regarding refunds, which underscores the importance of understanding the cancellation policy and booking through reliable providers.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When evaluating the value, the price of around $91.71 per person seems reasonable, considering it includes transport and boat tickets. Yet, keep in mind that entry fees are separate, and you’ll need extra funds if you plan to visit the museums or specific sites in Delos.

If you’re someone who appreciates independent exploration and values scenic boat rides, this tour is a practical choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a stress-free way to see both islands in a single day without multiple bookings or complicated planning.

While it’s not designed for travelers craving a guided, narrated experience, it offers a good balance of convenience and freedom. Just be comfortable with some self-guided wandering and managing your own timing at each stop.

Final Thoughts

This cruise from Paros to Delos and Mykonos ticks many boxes for efficient island-hopping. It’s well-suited to those who want to experience two of Greece’s most iconic islands without the hassle of separate arrangements. The included transfers and boat tickets make logistics a breeze, and the flexible schedule allows you to tailor your day to your interests.

If you’re looking for a scenic boat ride with the freedom to explore at your own pace, this tour delivers. It’s not a guided tour with comprehensive commentary, so if you’re after deep historical insights, consider supplementing with a guide or self-study before you go.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers who enjoy independent exploration, scenic sailing, and exploring islands at their own pace. Just be sure to budget for entry fees and be prepared for some limited time on each site—especially Delos, which is packed with history but can be explored thoroughly only if you’re quick.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It’s generally suitable for travelers comfortable with independent exploration. Kids who enjoy wandering through towns and are OK with boat trips will likely be fine, but keep in mind there’s no guide or structured activities.

Does this tour include a guided commentary?
No, there’s no guide on board. You’ll explore Delos and Mykonos independently, so bringing a guidebook or doing some research beforehand might enrich your experience.

What’s the transportation included?
Round-trip transfers are provided from select hotels in Paros. Transfers from Naoussa hotels are not included, so plan accordingly.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The boat ride and exploration time add up to around 9 hours, with the boat departing at 9:30 am and returning around 6:10 pm.

How much time is spent on each island?
Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes at Delos and about 3 hours 30 minutes in Mykonos, giving you decent chunks of time to explore or relax.

Are the entry fees to Delos included?
No, entry fees (~€20 in 2025) are paid separately at the site.

Is the boat comfortable and punctual?
Yes, reviews mention the boat is clean and punctual, making for a smooth journey.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for exploring, sun protection, water, and some cash for entry fees or souvenirs.

Can I customize my experience?
Since there’s no guide, your experience depends on how you choose to spend your time at each stop.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This cruise is a practical, flexible way to tick two major Greek islands off your list. If you’re okay with some independent wandering and want a straightforward logistical setup, it’s worth considering for your Paros trip.