Full Day Cruise to Delos and Mykonos Islands from Paros

This full-day cruise offers a convenient way to visit two of Greece’s most iconic islands—Delos and Mykonos—without the hassle of multiple bookings or complicated logistics. Starting from the charming port of Naoussa in Paros, the trip promises a mix of ancient ruins, lively town streets, and stunning ocean views. It’s a fantastic option for travelers eager to explore Greece’s cultural treasures and scenic landscapes in just one day.

What truly makes this experience stand out is the easy round-trip transportation from select Paros accommodations, combined with the freedom to explore each destination at your own pace. While there’s no guided tour within Delos or Mykonos, the flexibility allows you to soak in the atmosphere without being rushed. That said, a possible drawback is the limited time on each island, which might leave history buffs wanting more—especially at Delos, where you could easily spend hours wandering the archaeological sites.

If you’re looking for a practical, well-organized day trip that balances cultural exploration with leisure, this cruise suits those who want to see iconic Greek sights without a complicated schedule. It’s ideal for curious travelers who enjoy a bit of history, vibrant town scenes, and stunning vistas, all wrapped into a manageable day.

Key Points

• Comfortable round-trip transfers make travel hassle-free from your Paros accommodation.
• Flexible exploration allows you to wander independently on Delos and Mykonos.
• Cost-effective at $91.71 per person, especially considering the inclusion of transport.
• No guided tour means you get to set your own pace but might miss out on detailed historical insights.
• Timing is key: The schedule is tight but well-organized, with enough time to enjoy each island.
• Authentic experience with scenic views of the Aegean Sea and a glimpse into Greece’s ancient and modern charm.

This cruise from Paros is designed for those who want a straightforward way to tick off two major Greek destinations in a single day. It’s not a guided tour packed with commentary, but rather a transport-and-explore experience that maximizes your time on each island.

Why Choose This Tour?

The main appeal? Ease and convenience. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel (or a nearby location), everything is arranged for you—round-trip transfers to Naoussa, boat tickets, and a clear itinerary. It’s a stress-free way to visit Delos and Mykonos, especially if you’d rather focus on wandering and discovering rather than managing logistics.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Morning Departure from Naoussa

The boat departs from Naoussa at 09:30, giving travelers plenty of time to get there and settle onboard. Many reviews appreciate the punctuality and cleanliness of the vessel, with Helen_M noting that “whatever time they say, make sure you are there 10 minutes before” to ensure smooth boarding. The early start also allows for a full day of sightseeing.

Arriving at Delos

At approximately 10:30, the boat docks at Delos, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site. Here, you have about two hours and forty-five minutes to explore independently. Reviewers like A_H praised the opportunity to walk at their own pace and absorb the site’s grandeur, describing Delos as “one of the most important islands and cities in Greece.” The site features notable monuments such as the sanctuary of Apollo, the Lions’ processional gallery, the theater, and the House of the Naxians.

However, some travelers found the allocated time a little tight. MARTIN_S mentioned feeling that “there was too much time to explore Delos,” but that the instructions from the third-party tour operator were lacking in details, making navigation a bit tricky without a guide.

As you wander around, expect to see impressive ruins and artifacts, with a chance to visit the small archaeological museum. Keep in mind that entry to Delos costs extra, with the 2025 rate set at €20 per person, so budget accordingly.

Transferring to Mykonos

At about 13:15, the boat departs for Mykonos. The journey takes roughly an hour, arriving at Mykonos Old Port around 13:30. Reviewers like Kerry_P appreciated the seamless transfer from Delos to Mykonos, noting that “the instructions were clear on where to meet,” making the whole process straightforward.

Exploring Mykonos

You’re given approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to explore Mykonos at your own pace. The iconic town is famous for its whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, scenic windmills, and the Little Venice area with charming cafes and bars lining the waterfront. Many travelers find this period perfect for wandering through the shops, snapping photos of the iconic windmills, or relaxing on a local café terrace.

Reviewers like Olivia_L mention that “this tour was a great way to visit Delos and Mykonos for a few hours each,” emphasizing how the flexibility to individually explore made the experience enjoyable. Be aware that since there’s no guide, self-navigation is key—so having a map or guidebook helps.

Return to Paros

The boat departs from Mykonos at 17:00, arriving back at Naoussa around 18:10. From there, a transfer brings you back to your hotel or a nearby point, making the entire day well-organized without any stressful last-minute planning.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers round-trip transfers from your accommodation (except from Naoussa hotels, which are not included) and boat tickets to and from the islands. This setup delivers excellent value, particularly because it removes the need for separate bookings.

However, entrance fees to Delos are extra, and no guided commentary is offered during the visit. This means you’ll need to do your own homework or simply enjoy exploring at your own pace. Several reviewers appreciated the independent exploration, though some wished for more detailed guidance or info at the site.

Real Traveler Insights and Tips

Helen_M highlighted that their boat was “extremely punctual” and “very clean,” which set a positive tone for the day. She also emphasized arriving early, which seems to be a common tip for smooth boarding.

Kerry_P and others appreciated the clear instructions for meeting points and the timely departures, making the day flow smoothly.

On the flip side, MARTIN_S felt that more guidance or information about the archaeological site would have improved the experience. If you’re a history buff, consider researching Delos beforehand to maximize your visit.

Some travelers, like Andrea_S, found that everything from pickup to drop-off “worked super,” and both Delos and Mykonos were “really worth seeing,” especially for those who want a quick cultural fix.

A notable point from reviews is that the timing is tight but manageable. If you want to spend more time on either island, you might need to plan a longer stay or another dedicated tour.

Practical Considerations

• Price-to-value: At around $92 per person, including transfers and boat tickets, this cruise offers a cost-effective way to see two major islands. The extra cost for Delos entry should be factored in.
• Timing: The schedule is tight but realistic, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider extending your stay on either island.
• Transport quality: The vessel is praised for cleanliness and punctuality, making the day pleasant.
• Group size: The tour can host up to 380 travelers, but reviews suggest that the experience feels manageable and not overly crowded.
• No guided tour: If you prefer detailed historical commentary, this may not be ideal unless you supplement with your own research.

This cruise is perfect for travelers who value simplicity and flexibility. If you enjoy wandering freely, exploring ancient sites and lively towns at your own pace, you’ll find this experience quite satisfying. It’s excellent for those who want a convenient day trip without the burden of guided commentary, especially if you’re comfortable navigating on your own.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Delos’ archaeological treasures, but they should be prepared to do some of their own research beforehand. For anyone short on time but eager to see two key Greek islands, this tour offers a balanced mix of cultural discovery and relaxed sightseeing.

This full-day cruise from Paros delivers true value for travelers wanting to check off Delos and Mykonos without the hassle of multiple bookings or complicated planning. The well-organized transfers, scenic boat ride, and free exploration time make it an appealing choice for independent-minded travelers.

While it lacks guided commentary, those who enjoy discovering on their own will appreciate the freedom and flexibility. It’s a practical, affordable way to experience some of Greece’s most famous sights, especially if you’re interested in a hassle-free day with beautiful views and memorable ruins.

For travelers seeking an authentic and straightforward Greek island experience—this cruise hits the mark, with just enough structure to keep things smooth and plenty of room for spontaneous exploration.

FAQ

Does the tour include a guide?
No, this experience does not come with a guide. It’s designed for transportation and self-exploration.

What is the price of this tour?
It costs $91.71 per person, which covers transfers and boat tickets.

Are transfers from Paros hotels included?
Yes, round-trip transfers are included from select locations on Paros, but not from Naoussa hotels.

How long is the ferry ride between islands?
The journey from Delos to Mykonos takes approximately 1 hour.

Can I explore Delos and Mykonos on my own?
Yes, you are free to wander independently on each island during the allotted time.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, entry to Delos archaeological site costs extra (2025 rate: €20). The tour itself doesn’t include guided commentary.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a guidebook or map for self-guided exploration.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check accessibility options, as the site exploration is self-guided.

How punctual is the boat?
Based on reviews, the boat is praised for being very punctual and clean.

What is the group size?
The tour can host up to 380 travelers, but reviews suggest the experience remains manageable and not overly crowded.

This cruise offers a practical, authentic way to see some of Greece’s most famed islands. Whether you’re a history lover or just want a taste of the Aegean’s vibrant town life, it’s a day packed with scenic views and memorable sights.