Full-Day Delos and Rhenia Island Cruise from Mykonos

If you’re considering a boat trip from Mykonos that combines history, beach fun, and a touch of adventure, this full-day cruise to Delos and Rhenia might catch your eye. From the outside, it seems like a good way to see some of the Cyclades without breaking the bank on a private charter. We’ve gathered the details, reviews, and insights to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What really draws us to this trip is how it offers a relaxed pace—you’re not rushing from one spot to another, and it includes a lunch that most reviews seem to enjoy. Plus, the option for swimming and exploring ruins makes it versatile for different kinds of travelers. However, it’s worth mentioning that some folks have found the sea conditions challenging, especially in windy weather, which can impact the overall experience. If you’re a fan of calmer waters or prefer private tours, this might not be your best fit. But if you like social, scenic, and historical outings, this cruise could be quite appealing.

This tour tends to suit adventurous cruisers, history buffs who enjoy a bit of outdoor activity, and those looking for a straightforward way to visit two interesting islands without the hassle of organizing their own boat. Keep in mind, it’s a shared experience limited to 15 travelers, so it’s more intimate than some large group tours but less personalized than private charters.

Key Points

• Cost-effective alternative to private boat charters, offering a good balance of price and experience.
• Includes lunch and beverages, making it a convenient all-in-one outing.
• Flexible options for swimming and exploring ruins at Delos—own expense—giving you control over your day.
• Weather-dependent: rough seas can make the ride uncomfortable, especially in windy conditions.
• Limited group size (max 15) ensures a more personal feel, but can still be crowded during peak season.
• Upgrade option for hotel transfers adds convenience, though not included in the basic price.

An honest look at the itinerary

Starting point and timing

You’ll meet at the Olia Hotel in Mykonos at 10:30am. The tour lasts about 7 hours including transfers, so you’ll be back around early evening. The pickup and drop-off are optional if you select the upgrade, but otherwise, you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point. The tour concludes back at the start location, which is pretty handy if you’re staying nearby.

Cruise to Delos

The first major stop is Delos, an island that’s essentially an open-air museum and UNESCO World Heritage site. The cruise itself is generally described as enjoyable, especially if the weather is good. The boat ride offers scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere, but it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the ride can get choppy—particularly in the afternoon when the wind picks up.

Once at Delos, you have about 2 hours to explore. The tour doesn’t include a guide, so if you want to learn about the archaeological sites, you’ll have to do some self-guided wandering or pay for a guide separately. Some guests, like Jeannette, highly recommend hiking to the top for killer views and making the most of the ruins. But beware—if you’re not into walking or historical sites without guidance, this stop might feel a bit hurried or less engaging.

Swimming and relaxation at Rhenia

After Delos, the boat cruises to Rhenia, a quieter, less developed island known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Here, the main attraction is swimming and relaxing. The water is described as cold but enjoyable—perfect for a refreshing dip after a morning of sightseeing.

Guests often mention how nice it is to hang out on Rhenia’s beaches, soaking in the sun and cooling off in the sea. This is a great spot for a laid-back break, especially if you’re traveling with a group or just want some downtime. The reviews highlight that the crew is accommodating and waits for swimmers to return, which adds a reassuring touch.

Lunch and beverages

The tour includes light lunch and drinks, which is praised by many reviews as tasty and satisfying. You’ll get a break from packing snacks or spending extra to eat onshore. The included lunch tends to be a simple but delicious meal, perfect for refueling after swimming or walking around.

Optional hotel transfer upgrade

If convenience is your priority, you can opt for the upgraded transfer service, which will pick you up from your hotel and drop you back at the end of the day. This is a good addition if you’re staying outside the meeting point or want to skip the hassle of arranging transport.

The realities of the experience

While the overall vibe is positive, some reviews hint at the possible downsides. For example, sea conditions can be rough—one traveler mentioned the return trip was extremely choppy due to wind, which made for an uncomfortable ride. If you’re prone to seasickness or just prefer smooth sailing, it’s worth considering this.

Crowding can also be an issue during peak season. Even though it’s limited to 15 travelers, some folks felt the boat was a bit crowded and the swimming spots were busy. If you’re expecting a private, secluded experience, this may fall short.

Price-wise, at around $116 per person, this cruise offers a decent value for a full day of activity, especially with lunch included. Private charters can cost significantly more, so this is a good alternative if you’re on a budget but still want to see Delos and Rhenia.

What’s in it for you?

• History and scenery: You get to visit Delos, a site packed with archaeological significance, and enjoy Rhenia’s beaches.
• Relaxed pacing: The itinerary allows you to swim, walk, or just chill as you prefer.
• All-in-one package: Lunch, beverages, taxes—all taken care of, saving you time and hassle.
• Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, making it more intimate than larger tours.
• Weather flexibility: The tour can adapt if weather conditions are poor, with options to change dates or get refunds.

Who should consider this tour?

This cruise is an appealing choice if you want a straightforward, reasonably priced way to see two beautiful islands without the commitment of a private boat. It suits travelers who enjoy mixing history with beach time and don’t mind the possibility of choppier seas if the weather turns windy.

It’s not ideal if you’re a seasick prone or looking for exclusive privacy. Also, if you prefer a guided tour at Delos, you’ll need to arrange that separately, as the cruise doesn’t include a guide at the archaeological site.

Final thoughts

This Full-Day Delos and Rhenia Island Cruise offers a good balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and convenience. You’ll love the ease of having lunch included and the chance to swim at Rhenia. The experience provides a nice overview of some of the Cyclades’ most interesting spots, especially if you’re not keen on organizing your own boat trip.

However, be prepared for potentially rough seas and busy spots, especially during high season. It’s a suitable choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, sociable day on the water—especially if they want to avoid private charter costs. For those who prioritize comfort and a quieter environment, a private tour or a more sheltered cruise might be better.

All in all, if you’re okay with the slight risk of choppiness and enjoy a friendly atmosphere, this cruise can be a memorable part of your Mykonos adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, transfer from your hotel is only included if you upgrade to the transfer option. Otherwise, you’ll need to meet at the Olia Hotel in Mykonos.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour starts at 10:30am, and weather can affect the experience. It’s best in calm conditions but be aware that wind can cause choppiness and alter the itinerary.

Are there guided tours at Delos?
No, the tour doesn’t include a professional guide at Delos, so you’ll explore on your own or arrange a guide separately if desired.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join but only if accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families with older kids comfortable on a boat.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all local taxes, a light lunch, beverages, and the cruise itself. Transfers from and to the hotel are optional.

What should I bring for swimming?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sun protection, and possibly a change of clothes, especially if you plan to swim off the boat at Rhenia.

How long do we stay at each island?
You’ll have about 2 hours at Delos and additional time at Rhenia for swimming and relaxing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If winds exceed 6 degrees on the Beaufort scale, the tour might be canceled or rerouted. You’ll be offered an alternative date or a refund.

Are there any extra charges I should know about?
Additional charges may apply for transfers from remote accommodations outside the standard pickup points. Also, entrance fees for the archaeological site aren’t included.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Many find it enjoyable, but some reviews mention choppiness in windy conditions. If you’re sensitive to seasickness, consider taking precautions.

Whether you’re after a scenic day of swimming and sightseeing or just want a hassle-free way to visit Delos and Rhenia, this cruise offers a practical option. Just be mindful of the weather and your comfort preferences, and you’re likely to find it a worthwhile addition to your Mykonos trip.