Mykonos: Private Rhenia Sailing Cruise with Lunch & Drinks

Planning a day on the water in Greece often means balancing breathtaking scenery, authentic experiences, and comfort — and this private sailing tour checks all those boxes. Set Sails Mykonos offers a tailored 6-hour adventure that whisks you away from the busy crowds and into the tranquil, unspoiled beauty of Rhenia Island. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving some quality time afloat, this journey promises an intimate, relaxed experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up the Greek sunshine.

One thing we particularly love about this experience is its flexibility — it’s private, so the crew caters to your pace and preferences, and the route can shift with weather conditions. The inclusion of a traditional Mykonian lunch paired with drinks makes it feel like a true taste of the islands, not just a sightseeing trip. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is designed for groups of up to 10, so it’s best suited for small gatherings, families, or couples seeking exclusivity.

A possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include beach towels, so you’ll want to bring your own if you plan to lounge on the sands. Also, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, which is common for boat excursions. This cruise is perfect for those who want a personalized, relaxed day on the water with the chance to explore an untouched island and enjoy the luxury of a private yacht.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience perfect for small groups or couples
• Includes lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and optional SUP for a well-rounded day
• Flexible itinerary based on weather, with a focus on tranquility and authentic scenery
• Skilled, friendly guides who enhance the experience with local knowledge
• Ideal for relaxation, swimming, and soaking in scenic views, with some light activity
• Limited physical accessibility — not suitable for wheelchair users

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at Tourlos Marina at 9:00 am, where you’ll meet your crew and start preparing for a day on the water. The boat departs promptly, cruising towards Rhenia, which is approximately an hour away by yacht. The early start means you’ll be on the water before the day heats up too much, giving you ample time to enjoy the island’s secluded beaches and clear waters.

The Sailing Journey

As the yacht sets sail, you’ll feel the gentle sea breeze in your hair—an instant reminder that you’re in one of the most beautiful sailing destinations in Greece. The crew is known for being friendly and attentive, and they’ll likely invite you to get involved in the sailing process — trimming sails and keeping the boat on course. This is a great chance to learn some basics about yacht handling, or just enjoy the novelty of actively participating in the journey.

Rhenia Island: An Unspoiled Haven

Upon arrival, the boat anchors in a quiet bay on Rhenia, far from the buzz of tourist hotspots. The island is only about 8 km long, which makes it perfect for exploring on foot if you’re feeling energetic. The beach is a stretch of white sand, with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

One of the biggest draws here is the privacy — no crowds, just your group and the natural beauty of the Aegean. Reviewers note that the crew is excellent at helping guests get comfortable in the water, including assisting children and less confident swimmers. Snorkel gear is provided, so you can see underwater life up close without needing any special training — just put on your fins and go.

Beach Relaxation and Exploration

You can spend your time simply sunbathing on the boat or beach, enjoying the warm Greek sun, or exploring the island on foot. Since Rhenia is relatively untouched, it offers a raw, natural experience that’s increasingly rare in popular tourist destinations. If you’re into walking, the island’s small size makes it manageable to stretch your legs without a long trek.

Lunch and Drinks

Back onboard, lunch is served — a traditional Mykonian meal that’s hearty yet authentic, paired with wine and beer. The crew is known to create a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, making the meal feel like a gathering of friends rather than a formal service. This aspect adds real value, transforming the cruise from a simple boat trip into a true taste of island hospitality.

Return Journey and Timing

After a few hours on Rhenia, the yacht begins its journey back toward Mykonos in the early afternoon. The return leg offers more stunning views and the chance to unwind, perhaps with a drink in hand and the sea breeze still in your hair. The entire trip lasts around 6 hours, a well-paced schedule that balances activity with relaxation.

What’s Included & What to Bring

The tour includes your fully licensed skipper, host/assistant, fuel charges, and all the essentials for a fun day on the water — snorkeling gear, sup, lunch, wine, and beer. Optional hotel pick-up and drop-off make logistics easier, although it’s best to specify your location in advance.

However, you’ll want to bring your own beach towel — it’s not included but is a simple way to stay comfortable on the sands or on deck.

Weather and Route Flexibility

Weather conditions can influence the exact route and stopping points, which is typical for sailing trips. The crew is experienced at adjusting plans to ensure safety and comfort, but keep in mind that some activities like SUP are weather-dependent.

The Authenticity and Value of the Tour

Compared to larger, group-oriented cruises, this private experience offers intimate service and the freedom to tailor your day. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a calm, authentic environment over a bustling, crowded excursion. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make a difference, with Jim mentioning that the crew “accommodated our children and helped them in the water,” which speaks to the personalized care.

At $1,581 for up to 10 guests, this experience might seem high at first glance. However, considering the inclusions — private yacht, lunch, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and personalized service — it’s a solid value for a special day with friends or family. It’s particularly appealing for celebrating milestones or just indulging in a luxurious, stress-free experience.

The Sum Up

This private Rhenia sailing cruise from Mykonos offers more than just a scenic ride — it’s a chance to connect with the island’s natural beauty in a relaxed, personalized setting. The combination of sailing, snorkeling, beach time, and a delicious Mediterranean meal makes it ideal for travelers looking for an authentic and tranquil escape.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the level of exclusivity and the quality of service make it worth considering. If you’re after a flexible, intimate experience on the water that balances activity with downtime, this cruise could be just what you need.

Perfect for small groups, families, or couples seeking privacy and a taste of local hospitality, this tour promises a memorable day that balances adventure with relaxation.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention that the crew is very helpful in assisting children and less confident swimmers, making it suitable for families with kids.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel for sunbathing or beach lounging. The tour provides snorkeling gear and SUP if weather permits, but you’ll need your own towel.

Can I participate in sailing the yacht?
Absolutely. The crew encourages guests to get involved in sailing, such as trimming sails and helping with navigation — a fun way to learn about yacht handling.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available upon request. Make sure to specify your location when booking.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts about 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am, with a mix of sailing, beach time, and onboard dining.

Is the route flexible?
Yes, the route and stops may change depending on weather conditions, to ensure safety and comfort.

What is included in the price?
Your private yacht, licensed skipper, host, fuel, lunch, wine, beer, snorkeling equipment, and optional SUP are included.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to boat accessibility limitations.

This private sailing trip offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and local flavor. Whether you want to explore Rhenia’s untouched beaches, enjoy a leisurely sail, or simply unwind with good food and drinks, it’s a thoughtful way to experience the Greek islands in style.