Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Islands Cruise with BBQ Meal

Planning a day on the water around Mykonos? This cruise to Delos and Rhenia offers a mix of history, swimming, and good food—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Greek Isles. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a laid-back yet immersive experience, with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and indulge.

What really makes this tour shine is the combination of scenic sailing, cultural discovery, and a hearty Greek BBQ served on board. Plus, the impressive reviews highlight the knowledgeable crew, especially the guides on Delos, and the unforgettable swimming spots, making it a solid value for a half-day adventure.

One thing to consider, however, is that the itinerary can be subject to weather conditions or group size, which might slightly alter the experience. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic tour with some historical interest and a good dose of swimming, this cruise is likely to tick all your boxes—especially if you love good food, friendly crew, and a splash of culture.

Key Points

• Scenic Sailing: Enjoy gorgeous views as you cruise between islands with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Cultural Highlights: Walk through ancient ruins in Delos, a UNESCO site, or explore independently.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Crystal-clear waters on Rhenia Island make for excellent swimming; complimentary snorkeling gear adds fun for all ages.
• Onboard Dining: Savor a traditional Greek BBQ meal with unlimited drinks—beer, wine, refreshments, coffee, and tea—served right on the boat.
• Flexible Options: Add hotel pickup for added convenience or choose a guided tour of Delos for a richer experience.
• Family & Solo Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with plenty of space and safety gear provided.

Overview of the Experience

This cruise promises a balanced mix of relaxation, exploration, and culinary delight. Departing from Agios Ioannis, the boat takes you through the sparkling waters of Mykonos’ coast, offering stunning views of the island’s iconic windmills and rocky landscapes. The journey lasts about six hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Why Travelers Love It

Reviewers frequently mention the friendly, helpful crew—notably Dimitris and Giannis—who go above and beyond to ensure a good time. The delicious BBQ and generous drinks keep spirits high, and the snorkeling gear and swimming noodles are perfect for those looking to cool off in the clear waters. Many appreciate the knowledgeable guides at Delos, who provide enriching commentary (if you opt for the guided tour), and the overall value for money, especially considering the included meal and drinks.

Potential Drawbacks

A common consideration is that weather conditions can impact the day’s plans—winds or overcast skies might lead to changes or cancellations, so flexibility is key. Also, while the tour offers the option to explore Delos independently, the guided tour of the ruins is an additional expense, pre-booked for about 45 euros per adult. Some reviewers found the guided experience a bit rushed or crowded, especially when combined with the general tour group.

Who Should Book This?

This cruise suits families, couples, and solo travelers who want a relaxed day with plenty of swimming, scenic sailing, and cultural highlights. If you love good food, friendly service, and a mix of history and leisure, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer an organized, all-inclusive experience that handles logistics and offers onboard comfort.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start Point & Transfer Options

Depending on your booking choice, you can opt for a hotel pickup and drop-off for just 20 euros per person, which adds a layer of convenience especially if you’re staying outside the port area. Alternatively, you can meet the boat directly at Ioannis Diakoftis pier—no fuss, no stress.

Departure & Scenic Sail

The cruise kicks off with a 45-minute sail from Mykonos, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the coastline—think whitewashed buildings, windmills, and the endless blue sea. This part of the trip sets the perfect tone, with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of space to chat or snap photos.

Visit to Delos

The highlight for many is the visit to Delos, the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll have about 15 minutes for a quick photo stop or to start exploring the ruins. If you select the guided tour (which costs extra), you’ll be led through key points, learning about the ancient temples, mosaics, and statues, adding depth to your visit.

Some reviewers, like Shane, noted that the guided tour can be crowded because it’s shared with a larger ferry group, which might limit your time and personal space. Others, like Rachel, appreciated the self-guided option, which gave her flexibility to explore at her own pace.

Rhenia Island & Swimming Time

After Delos, the boat moves towards Rhenia Island—a tranquil spot where you can swim, snorkel, or relax. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a quick dip, and the provided snorkeling gear makes underwater discovery accessible for all ages. Many reviewers, including Hunter, mention the remarkable swimming spots and the fun of floating around with noodles.

The ** BBQ lunch** is served onboard on Rhenia, featuring meat and vegetable skewers, paired with plenty of drinks. The food is often described as delicious, healthy, and plentiful—some say it’s among the best meals they had in Mykonos. The unlimited wine, beer, and refreshments keep hydration high, especially in the warm Greek sun.

Return & Free Time in Mykonos

After a relaxing two hours at Rhenia, the boat heads back towards Mykonos, with a scenic 1.5-hour cruise. During this time, you can unwind on deck, enjoy the views, or sip your drinks as the coastline slides by. Many guests mentioned how peaceful and enjoyable this part of the trip was, with some describing it as the perfect way to end a memorable day.

Final Drop-offs & Optional Extras

The tour concludes with drop-offs at various locations around Mykonos. If you booked the transfer, your friendly driver will take you back to your accommodation. Otherwise, you can choose to meet at the port for a smooth end to your day.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour offers good value considering what’s included:
– A fresly prepared BBQ lunch with meat and vegetables
– Unlimited drinks including beer, wine, refreshments, coffee, and tea
– Snorkeling gear and swimming noodles for fun in the water
– Towels and sunscreen to keep you comfortable and protected
– WiFi onboard to share your experiences instantly
– Safety gear, life vests, and safety instructions for peace of mind
– All taxes and port fees

Extras like spirits and cocktails are not included, but the wine and beer selection are generally well-liked. If you want a guided tour of Delos, it’s available for an additional 45 euros per adult, which many reviewers say enhances the experience significantly.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bring your passport or ID as it’s required for the ruins visit and insurance purposes.
• Wear comfortable clothes, a hat, and sunscreen—the Greek sun can be strong, especially during summer.
• Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, particularly if you plan to explore Delos or swim in Rhenia.
• Avoid wearing shoes on the boat for hygiene and safety, as instructed.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking seasick gum or medication, especially since weather conditions can sometimes be windy.
• Pre-book the hotel pickup if you prefer door-to-door service, as it’s an affordable 20 euros per person.
• The guided tour of Delos should be booked in advance if you’re interested, to ensure availability and avoid rushing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Right for You?

This 6-hour cruise strikes a great balance between cultural highlights, scenic sailing, and leisure. It’s an ideal way to break from the buzz of Mykonos town, especially if you’re craving a mix of history, swimming, and good food in a relaxed setting. The crew’s friendliness and the quality of the BBQ meal make the experience stand out, according to numerous reviews.

For travelers who love a casual, well-organized trip with the option to explore independently or with guided insights, this cruise offers solid value. It’s perfect for those seeking a small-group feel with ample opportunities for swimming, photos, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Greek islands. Plus, the flexible booking options and the emphasis on safety and comfort make it accessible for most travelers.

However, if you’re looking for a very structured or in-depth historical tour, the optional guided visit might feel a bit rushed or crowded. Also, weather can impact the day, so a flexible attitude and a sense of adventure are helpful.

This cruise is a well-loved choice that combines scenic sailing, cultural discovery, and delicious food, making it a memorable highlight of any Mykonos trip.

FAQ

Can I add hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, transfer services are available for 20 euros per person. You need to pre-reserve and pay on the spot, and it covers pickups from all Mykonos accommodations.

What is included in the meal?
A traditional Greek BBQ with meat and vegetables is served onboard. It’s freshly prepared and accompanied by unlimited drinks, including beer, wine, refreshments, coffee, and tea.

Is there a guided tour of Delos?
Yes, you can choose to include a professional guided tour of the ruins for an additional 45 euros per adult (40 euros per child). This enhances your understanding of the historical site but should be booked in advance.

How long do we stay on each island?
You’ll have about 15 minutes to walk through Delos or take photos, and approximately 2 hours on Rhenia for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a water bottle, and swimwear. Shoes are not allowed on board for safety reasons.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The cruise can be affected by weather conditions, and the operator may modify or cancel the trip. You’ll be informed the evening before if changes are necessary.

This cruise offers a genuine taste of the Greek islands, combining scenic sailing, historical intrigue, and mouth-watering food—all delivered by a team dedicated to making your day special. Whether you’re after a relaxed day at sea or a bit of cultural exploration, it’s a solid choice for a memorable Mykonos adventure.