From Mykonos: Delos & Rhenia Islands Half-Day Trip by Boat

If you’re looking for a way to combine history, stunning scenery, and relaxation during your Mykonos holiday, this Delos & Rhenia Islands boat tour offers a pretty compelling package. It’s a 6.5-hour adventure that whisks you away from the lively streets of Mykonos to two of the Cyclades’ most picturesque and significant islands. You’ll get a taste of ancient Greece with a visit to the UNESCO-listed ruins of Delos and then unwind on Rhenia’s pristine beaches, all while enjoying good food and lively company.

One of the things we love about this trip is how it balances history and leisure. The option to explore the archaeological site or simply stay on board to relax means it caters to both culture buffs and sun-seekers. The BBQ lunch and drinks onboard also make it a fantastic value, considering the overall experience. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that Delos entrance fee (~20 EUR) isn’t included, which adds an extra expense if you choose to explore the ruins.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and chill time. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, it’s a flexible way to see some of Greece’s most iconic islands without the hassle of planning multiple logistics.

Key Points

• Historical & Natural Split: Combines a UNESCO archaeological site with unspoiled beaches.
• Inclusive & Flexible: BBQ lunch, fruit, drinks, and optional ruins visit, all at a reasonable price.
• Expert Crew: Friendly staff with positive reviews for their helpfulness and fun vibe.
• Authentic Experience: Opportunity to snorkel, swim, or simply relax on Rhenia’s uncrowded beaches.
• Good Value: For around $97, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, food, and entertainment.
• Travel Ease: Starts at the busy Mykonos Old Port, with straightforward meeting arrangements.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point & Practicalities

The trip begins at the Bus station at the Old Port of Mykonos, making it easy to reach for most travelers staying in or near the town center. To avoid the stress some reviewers mentioned, plan to arrive early — that way, you’ll beat any confusion about where to meet, especially since some found the signage lacking initially.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Rhenia Island — First Stop for Swim & BBQ

The first major stop is Rhenia Island, an uninhabited paradise with stunning beaches and clear waters. Here, you’ll get about 3 hours to swim, snorkel, or lounge on the sand. The uncrowded beaches are a major highlight — many reviews mention how peaceful and pristine the beaches feel compared to more tourist-heavy spots.

You’ll also enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch served onboard, which travelers like Mariella and Jodie describe as “delicious” with good portions and refreshing drinks. The crew, including friendly staff like Poala, ensures everyone is well taken care of, making the experience effortless.

One reviewer mentioned that the water was cold, but they still found it “so worth it,” emphasizing that even a brisk swim in Rhenia’s waters is rewarding and energizing.

Delos — The Archaeological Marvel

Next, the boat anchors off Delos, a must-visit for history lovers. You have the choice to stay on board or disembark for the 2-hour guided or self-guided tour of the ruins. The large size of the island and the impressive ruins often catch guests off guard — many mention how much bigger and more fascinating it is than they expected.

One guest raved that “Delos was very impressive, larger than I thought,” which shows that the site exceeds expectations. While the entrance fee (~20 EUR) isn’t included, the ruins are a visual and educational feast, with plenty of plaques and signs to give context. A few mentioned that it might get hot, so bringing water and sun protection is wise.

The Cruise Atmosphere & Entertainment

The positive reviews frequently highlight the friendly and lively crew. From “helpful and fun” staff to the dancing and music on the return journey, the atmosphere onboard is one of the trip’s biggest draws. Multiple reviews mention the dance party as the perfect way to end the day, with good music and a lively vibe that makes everyone feel part of the celebration.

The boat itself is described as big and clean, providing enough space for everyone, even if it gets a bit choppy at times. The free wine and soft drinks are appreciated, with some guests mixing their drinks to improve the taste, as one reviewer did.

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What the Tour Includes & What It Doesn’t

For the $97 price tag, the trip is excellent value. Included are the boat ride, BBQ lunch, fuel, and crew. The snorkeling equipment can be purchased onboard if you want to explore underwater, and drinks are available throughout the trip.

Not included is the entry fee to Delos (~20 EUR), and hotel pickup/drop-off isn’t provided — you’ll need to meet at the Old Port. Some reviewees noted that the vouchers can be tricky to exchange, so arriving early and confirming details helps avoid stress.

What to Bring & Tips

Bring your passport or ID for the Delos entrance. Sun protection, water, and swimwear are essentials, especially since it can get hot visiting the ruins. Comfortable shoes are recommended if you plan to explore the archaeological site, but the tour allows flexibility based on your preference.

Authentic Experiences & Review Highlights

What truly makes this tour stand out are the authentic moments. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, who make the experience memorable. Many mention the delicious BBQ and drinks onboard, which adds to the relaxed, festive vibe.

Reviews like Martin’s highlight how big and impressive Delos is, describing it as “larger than I thought,” and Delphine appreciated the beautiful sights and welcoming team. Others loved the opportunity to swim in the crystal waters of Rhenia or dance and socialize during the return journey.

Many travelers also mention how the value for money is excellent, with a full day packed with activities, good food, and fun. The positive energy onboard and the well-organized itinerary ensure that most participants leave with a smile.

The Experience’s Strengths

• The mix of culture and leisure makes it versatile.
• The friendly crew and lively atmosphere create a welcoming vibe.
• The free-flowing drinks and BBQ give it a festive feel.
• The stunning scenery makes every moment picture-worthy.
• The flexibility of optional ruins visit caters to different interests.

Potential Drawbacks

• The entrance fee to Delos is an extra expense.
• Some found the signage to meet the boat confusing initially.
• The water can be cold, depending on the season, and beaches may be rocky.
• The boat can be choppy in rough weather, which might cause discomfort for some.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for history buffs who want a relaxed atmosphere, groups looking for a fun, social day at sea, or families seeking a mix of adventure and culture. If you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and exploring ruins in equal measure, you’ll find this trip ticks all the boxes.

It’s less suited for travelers who want longer or more in-depth archaeological tours or those seeking exclusive, private experiences, as the group size can be larger and the schedule fairly fixed.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the From Mykonos: Delos & Rhenia Islands Half-Day Trip offers a well-rounded experience that combines stunning landscape, fascinating history, and lively fun. The value for money is clear, especially with included BBQ and drinks, and the friendly crew makes everything feel effortless.

The tour’s flexible nature — whether you want to explore ruins or just relax on the beach — makes it a great choice for many types of travelers. It’s a chance to tick two must-see islands off your list without the hassle of organizing transport or activities yourself.

If you’re after a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and socializing, this boat trip from Mykonos is likely to deliver more than a few memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children will enjoy the swimming, beaches, and the lively onboard atmosphere. Just ensure they’re comfortable with boat rides and sun exposure.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, sun protection, swimwear, water, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for comfort. Snorkeling gear can be bought onboard if desired.

How long is the stop at Rhenia?
You’ll have about 3 hours to swim, relax, and enjoy the beaches. It’s ample time to unwind or get in some snorkeling.

Can I explore Delos on my own?
Yes, you can choose to walk around independently or join a guided tour. The ruins are spread out, and there are informative plaques to help you understand the site.

Is the boat large and comfortable?
Guests describe it as a big, clean vessel with plenty of space for everyone, though it can be choppy depending on weather conditions.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, soft drinks and some wine are complimentary, with additional beverages available for purchase onboard.

In summary, this boat trip from Mykonos to Delos and Rhenia offers a fantastic way to enjoy a blend of Greek history, stunning scenery, and fun with a crew that clearly loves what they do. Whether you want to walk among ancient ruins, swim in crystal waters, or just soak up the sun with good company, this tour makes it easy and enjoyable.

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