The Authentic Rhenia-Delos Cruise

A beach day with ruins on the side. This Mykonos boat trip delivers Rhenia swim time plus a Greek BBQ lunch with wine, with a chance to explore Delos at your own pace. The main thing to consider is that access to the water at Rhenia can be via ladder steps, and Delos time is limited.

What I like most is the mix: real swimming in clear water, then a UNESCO site that feels like you are walking through the ancient Greek world. There is also a lively return sail, and some departures may feature guides like Paula, known for high energy and a hands-on, friendly vibe. If you want a smooth, no-stress day, you still need to be on time, because the schedule is strict in a shared group.

Key points to know before you go

• Rhenia’s calm swim stop gives you a long stretch of beach time after you anchor by the shoreline.
• Greek BBQ lunch and wine are included, so you are not hunting for food mid-day.
• Delos is optional, self-guided, and extra ticketed if you want the archaeological site entrance.
• A shared boat with up to 120 people keeps it energetic, not private.
• Return sail photo pass at Little Venice makes for an easy camera moment without extra effort.
• Extra gear can cost more on board if you want snorkeling equipment or towels.

A half-day Mykonos escape that feels like two trips

This cruise is built for the way most people actually want to experience Mykonos: one part water time, one part ancient sight-seeing, with very little planning on your end.

You start in Mykonos Old Port around 10:30 am, and you are back at the same meeting point. In between, you get a long anchored swim break at Rhenia, then you sail to Delos. The best part is that neither stop is a frantic sprint. You are given time to choose what you care about that day, swim or explore.

Also, the boat setup matters. It has safety equipment and a restroom on board, which you really appreciate when you are doing a day that includes time in and out of the water.

Getting there and staying on schedule at Mykonos Old Port

Your meeting point is Aegean Ventures – Daily Tours at Mykonos Old Port. Plan to arrive by 10:15 am for embarkation, because departure is at 10:30 am and this is a shared cruise.

One practical heads-up, especially if you are arriving by cruise ship or walking from somewhere else: there can be a distance between ports in the area. If you are late, the boat is not waiting. You have to treat it like a timed departure, not a casual stroll-and-join situation.

What I recommend you pack based on the reality of the stops:

• Light clothing plus swimwear, since you will go from boat to water quickly at Rhenia.
• Sun protection, because you will be in open daylight.
• Comfortable sandals or shoes that can handle deck surfaces and steps.
• If you have them, bring your own goggles or snorkel setup, because gear is sold on board for an extra cost.

If you plan to drink included wine, remember the legal serving age is 18. You should bring an ID or passport in case your age needs to be verified.

Stop 1, Rhenia Island: the anchor-by-the-beach swim break

Rhenia is the kind of place you come to for water, not shopping. After leaving Mykonos Old Port, you sail for about 45 minutes and anchor near a deserted beach. From there, you get roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes of free time.

This is the heart of the day. You can swim in clear, turquoise water, soak up the sun on sandy shoreline, or take a short stroll. The captain prepares a Greek-style BBQ right around the time you start settling in.

One detail that matters: getting into the water may involve climbing down a ladder and swimming to the closest rocky edge or small beach. That can feel like a workout for people who are not confident on ladders. Some boats may also provide flotation aids such as noodles for added comfort. If ladders stress you out, consider going in slowly, holding the rail, and wearing a swimsuit you feel secure in.

Why this stop is such good value

You are paying for actual beach time, not just a quick dip. Many days in Mykonos feel like constant movement. Here, your schedule is built around the water, and you have enough time to actually relax.

Lunch onboard: Greek BBQ with wine and a real meal rhythm

Lunch is served onboard after you anchor, and it includes more than a token sandwich. You get Greek souvlaki (pork and chicken), Greek salad, rice, tzatziki sauce, bread, seasonal fruits, plus complimentary wine, refreshments, and water.

That combination matters because it reduces the usual Mykonos problem. If you do a lot of shore time, meal plans fall apart quickly, and you end up paying tourist prices. Here, you are fed and hydrated without having to think about it.

A couple of small notes that make a difference:

• The BBQ lunch sets the rhythm for the afternoon, so you are not stuck waiting to eat.
• Included wine may not be your main concern, but it is part of the onboard vibe. If you do not drink alcohol, you still get water and refreshments.

One more practical angle from real-world experiences: it is smart to pace yourself with the wine if you are sensitive to choppy water later. Some return sails can feel rougher than expected, and the boat crew usually keeps things feeling safe and positive, but your comfort still depends on your own limits.

Stop 2, Delos: UNESCO ruins with a self-guided feel

After lunch, you sail to Delos. You have about 1 hour and 45 minutes there.

Delos is famous for its archaeological site, and that is the core decision you face: buy the entrance ticket and explore the ruins yourself, or skip the site and spend time swimming and relaxing on a nearby, quieter beach suggested by the captain.

Important cost detail

The Delos archaeological site entrance fee is not included. You will pay 20 euros per person if you want to enter. That means your cruise price is still good value for the boat, the swim break, and your included meal, but your total day cost will depend on whether you visit the site.

How to make your Delos time work

With less than two hours, I suggest you treat Delos like a highlights route, not a full museum crawl. Pick a couple of areas you most want to see and focus there. You will enjoy it more than trying to cover everything.

Also, Delos can feel very expansive once you start walking. Wear shoes that support you on uneven ground. Bring water, and give yourself permission to move at your pace rather than trying to keep up with a mental checklist.

If you choose not to go inside the archaeological site

You still get a break outdoors. You can swim and relax on a secluded beach option near Delos. This is a great fit if you want the water day to stay the main event.

Return to Mykonos: Little Venice photos and onboard energy

On the way back, you will pass by Little Venice. It is a quick photo opportunity, and you do not need to plan or coordinate anything off the boat.

What makes the return sail fun for many people is the mood shift. The music and dancing on the boat can turn the final hour into something you remember more than the logistics. It is not silent sightseeing. You are finishing the day with a social vibe.

Also note: while the boat can handle rougher conditions better than you might expect on a smaller vessel, the sea can still feel bumpy. If you are prone to motion sickness, take precautions before you go.

Price and value: where the money actually goes

The listed price is $106.42 per person, for a day that runs about 6 hours 30 minutes. That is the part you can evaluate quickly: you get a lot of time on the water, an onboard meal, and complimentary drinks.

Here is how I judge the value:

• You are getting the boat ride plus two distinct experiences, Rhenia swim time and a Delos stop.
• Your lunch is included, with food you actually sit down to eat, not just light snacks.
• Delos entrance is extra. If you plan to visit, the 20 euros ticket becomes part of your true budget.
• Snorkeling equipment and towels are available at extra cost, so if you want those, expect add-ons.

Then there are the small value hits to be aware of:

• If you do not bring your own snorkel or goggles, you may pay more than you expect once you are on the boat.
• Non-included drinks beyond the complimentary options may be sold separately, and it has been described as cash-only with prices that feel high.

Still, for most people, the overall deal works because you are not paying extra for the core parts: boat, lunch, and wine. The two main “pay extra” decisions are Delos entry and comfort items like towels or snorkeling gear.

Small frictions to consider, before you decide

This is where I help you avoid the common disappointment traps.

First: water access at Rhenia

Some people find the ladder entry awkward or physically demanding, especially if they are not used to stepping down into open water. You can still enjoy the stop, but you should go in with that knowledge.

Second: Delos timing

You only have about 1 hour and 45 minutes. It is long enough to see meaningful parts, but short enough that it can feel rushed if you love details. If you want a slow, guided deep history walk, this format may not match your style.

Third: the meeting point is not negotiable

Because the cruise is shared and time slots at the port are limited, you need to show up early. Walking in from a different port area can take time. Build in buffer.

Fourth: onboard add-ons can add up

Snorkeling equipment and towels cost extra. If you want a calmer budget, bring your own mask and towel if you can.

Who this cruise is best for

This trip fits best if you want:

• A mix of swimming and sightseeing in one compact day
• A relaxed, self-guided feel at Delos rather than a strict guided march
• A social boat atmosphere, especially on the return sail

It is also a good choice for families, because the structure is straightforward: swim, eat, then pick Delos ruins or beach time. The boat has a restroom and safety equipment, which helps everyone stay comfortable.

Should you book the Rhenia-Delos cruise?

Book it if you want a classic Aegean day with real beach time. The combination of Rhenia swimming plus a full Greek BBQ lunch and the option to visit Delos for a separate entrance fee makes this a strong value for a first or second visit to Mykonos.

Skip it, or choose a different style of tour, if:

• You cannot handle ladder-style water entry
• You want a long, slow guided experience at Delos
• You hate add-on costs and would rather pay one price for everything

If you do book, do the simple prep that makes the day smoother: arrive early to the meeting point, bring sun protection, and consider bringing your own goggles and towel to avoid onboard markups.

FAQ

What time do I need to arrive?

Embarkation starts at 10:15 am, and the cruise departs at 10:30 am. The tour runs about 6 hours 30 minutes and ends back at the meeting point.

Where does the tour start and end?

The meeting point is Aegean Ventures – Daily Tours in Mykonos Old Port, Greece. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

How long is the stop at Rhenia?

You get about 3 hours and 30 minutes at Rhenia, including time for swimming, sunbathing, or strolling while lunch is prepared.

Is Delos entrance included?

No. The Delos archaeological site entrance fee is not included. The fee is 20 euros per person, paid separately.

What is included in lunch and drinks?

Lunch is a Greek BBQ including Greek souvlaki (pork and chicken), Greek salad, rice, tzatziki sauce, bread, and seasonal fruits. Complimentary wine, refreshments, and water are included.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Snorkeling equipment is not included. It is available at a small extra cost.

Do I need to bring towels?

Towels are not included. They are available at a small extra cost.

What are the rules for alcohol?

The legal serving age for alcohol is 18. You may need to present an ID or passport to verify age.

What happens if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.