From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Trip

Naxos to Delos and Mykonos: An Authentic Full-Day Aegean Adventure

Travelers craving a blend of archaeology, scenic island views, and local culture often find this full-day cruise from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos appealing. For around $83, you get a long day of exploring some of Greece’s most iconic sites, with a comfortable catamaran transfer and plenty of time to wander at your own pace.

One feature we particularly appreciate is the balance between structured sightseeing and free time—it’s perfect if you want the highlights without feeling rushed. The chance to visit Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into ancient Greece’s religious and cultural history. Meanwhile, wandering the streets of Mykonos Town, with its windmills and vibrant cafes, keeps things lively and authentic.

However, a potential hurdle to consider is weather variability—seas can be rough, and some reviews mention boat movement and seasickness. If you’re prone to motion sickness, pack accordingly. This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, scenic island towns, and are comfortable with a full day of boat travel and exploration. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive day trip that shows off some of Greece’s best-loved islands.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Delos archaeological site and Mykonos Town
• Full-day itinerary with approximately 10 hours of activity
• Comfortable, modern catamaran with onboard bar
• Flexible free time to explore at your own pace
• Potential for rough seas; seasickness can be an issue
• Cost-effective way to see two iconic islands in one day

Exploring the Full Itinerary

Starting Point and Departure

Most travelers will meet the catamaran at the designated meeting point, marked by the large Cycladic Cruises vessel. The trip begins early in the morning, offering a full 10-hour experience packed with sights and stories.

The Cruise to Delos

The first leg of the journey involves a 1.5-hour ferry ride across the Aegean Sea. We found the boat to be modern and air-conditioned, which is a bonus, especially during the warmer months. However, some reviews highlight that rough seas can make this part of the trip quite challenging. One traveler described a day with strong wind and high waves, making the boat very uncomfortable and even causing some passengers to become seasick. If you’re sensitive, consider bringing motion sickness remedies.

Delos: The Ancient Heart of Greece

Once at Delos, you’ll have around 3 hours to explore this UNESCO-listed site. Delos was once considered the religious epicenter of Greece, and today, it’s a treasure trove of ruins—temples, mansions, and ancient artifacts. You can pay the entry fee on-site, and there’s an option to join a guided tour if you want a detailed history lesson, which we recommend if you’re keen to understand the significance of what you’re seeing.

Reviewers mention that the delicate ruins and the lack of shade make bringing sun protection essential. One traveler advised, “take water, hat, and sun cream,” as there’s little shelter available. The archaeological site is sizable, and wandering through it gives you a feeling of stepping back in time, with plenty of photo opportunities of the remaining structures and panoramic views.

Transition to Mykonos

After Delos, the boat makes a quick 15-minute crossing to Mykonos. Here, the free 3.25 hours are perfect for strolling through the charming streets, browsing art galleries, or enjoying a leisurely coffee in a cafe.

Exploring Mykonos Town

Your time in Mykonos is flexible—many guests head towards the iconic windmills, just a short walk from the port, and then wander into the narrow alleys of Little Venice. The area is bustling, especially with several cruise ships docked, so expect some crowding. Still, the lively atmosphere is part of the charm.

Reviewers loved the local vibe of Mykonos; one noted that the streets are narrow and crowded but that the views from the windmill area are “worth the climb.” You can also browse shops selling everything from high-end jewelry to local crafts, or enjoy a meal at a traditional tavern.

Return Journey

The return includes another 1.5-hour boat ride back to Naxos. Most travelers appreciate the chance to relax and reflect on the day, especially if they’ve soaked up a lot of history and scenery.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour is straightforward in what it offers: a boat trip, entry to Delos, and time to explore Mykonos. The onboard bar makes it easy to buy drinks, and the modern vessel ensures comfort.

Not included are Delos entrance fees (which you pay on-site), food and drinks outside what’s available onboard, and hotel transfers—so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From reviews, we learn that waiting in line for the Delos entry can be part of the experience, so arriving early or prepared helps. If you’re planning to visit the museum on Delos, it’s recommended to do so first—it’s the only shaded area—and pick up a map to make the most of your visit.

In Mykonos, the crowded streets and narrow alleys are part of the charm, but you’ll want to stay mindful of your belongings and be prepared for busy conditions. For those with some flexibility, taking a picnic onboard and enjoying it between Delos and Mykonos was a popular choice.

The Seasickness Factor

This is a notable consideration. Several reviews detail rough seas causing discomfort and nausea, especially when the boat stayed at high speed in choppy waters. Some travelers found the crew unprepared for rough conditions, with limited English and minimal assistance during these times.

If seasickness is a concern, bring medication and consider the timing of your trip—calmer days tend to have a smoother ride. Otherwise, brace yourself for a potentially bumpy journey that might dampen the overall experience.

Overall Value and Suitability

At $83 per person, the price offers reasonable value considering the included sites and length of the tour. The combination of archaeological exploration and island wandering is hard to beat for a day trip.

For travelers who love history, scenic towns, and a bit of adventure on the water, this tour hits many marks. It’s especially appealing if you want to see Delos without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself.

However, it’s not ideal for those sensitive to seasickness or looking for a more relaxed, less crowded experience. The high season on Mykonos can bring significant crowds, so early or late in the day visits might be preferable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history buffs eager to see ancient Greece’s most famous archaeological site, as well as those wanting a taste of Mykonos’ lively charm. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of boat travel, exploring ruins, and navigating busy, narrow streets.

If you’re seeking a budget-friendly, all-in-one day that combines culture, scenic vistas, and a bit of island life, this tour offers a good snapshot of what the Cyclades have to offer.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer more leisurely pace without boat travel, this trip might be less enjoyable. Plus, if you’re seeking a more personalized or relaxed experience, consider fewer crowds and more private options.

Similarly, those looking for a gastronomic tour or specific activities like swimming or snorkeling might find this trip somewhat limited, as food and drinks aren’t included, and there’s no dedicated swimming stop.

Final Thoughts

This full-day trip from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos offers a balance of historic discovery and island ambiance, suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of the Cyclades in one day. The modern catamaran and the opportunity to explore two iconic islands make it attractive, but be prepared for possible seasickness and crowds.

For the price, it’s a practical way to visit sites that would otherwise require much more planning and expense. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of culture, scenic strolling, and boat rides, and who are comfortable with a busy schedule.

The tour’s highlight—visiting the ancient ruins of Delos—will resonate with history lovers, while the lively streets of Mykonos add a splash of modern island life. Just remember to bring sun protection, water, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with seasickness?
Seasickness can be a concern, especially on rough days. If you’re prone to nausea, consider taking medication and checking the weather forecast beforehand.

How long do we stay on Delos?
You’ll have about 3 hours to explore the archaeological site, enough to walk around, see the ruins, and visit the museum.

Can I join a guided tour on Delos?
Yes, there’s an option to join a guided tour at Delos, which can enhance your understanding of the ancient site.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), water, comfortable shoes, and maybe a hat or scarf, as shade is limited.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price, but the boat has a bar for purchases.

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
No, transfers are not included, so you need to get to the meeting point yourself.

What about the crowds in Mykonos?
Mykonos Town can be busy, especially with cruise ships docked. Early or late in the day might be quieter.

How long is the boat ride?
Each crossing to Delos and Mykonos lasts about 1.5 hours, with a quick 15-minute ferry between the islands.

Is this tour good value for money?
Considering the sites visited, the comfort of the boat, and the length of the day, most travelers find it offers reasonable value.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates rain or shine, but rough seas can impact the experience. In bad weather, the trip may be less enjoyable and possibly delayed or canceled.

This tour from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos provides a well-rounded day of sightseeing, blending ancient history and lively island life, with the practicality of a comfortable boat trip. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply want to experience two of Greece’s most famous islands in one day, it’s worth considering—just be prepared for potential seasickness and crowds.