From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Trip

From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Trip

If you’re dreaming of a day sailing through the Aegean, exploring ancient ruins and charming streets, this full-day trip from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact cruise, the reviews and itinerary details paint a pretty compelling picture of a memorable, if not occasionally bumpy, adventure.

What we love about this experience are its combination of history, picturesque scenery, and the laid-back vibe of the Greek islands. The opportunity to walk through Delos’s archaeological ruins, with their ancient Greek and Roman mansions, is a definite highlight. Plus, the stroll around Mykonos Town, with its iconic windmills and the lively Little Venice, promises plenty of photo-worthy moments. The inclusion of a boat trip through the Cyclades adds the kind of scenic sailing that travelers cherish.

However, a key consideration is the potential for rough seas and seasickness. Several reviews mention that windy days can turn the trip into a challenging ride, with some passengers feeling quite ill. This is something to keep in mind if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer calmer waters.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenic cruising, and exploring charming towns at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with boat trips and want a taste of both ancient Greece and lively island life—all in one day.

Key Points

• Historic sites: Visit the UNESCO-listed archaeological ruins of Delos with plenty of time to explore.
• Scenic sailing: Cruise through the Cyclades on a modern, air-conditioned catamaran with onboard bar options.
• Flexible exploration: Enjoy free time in Mykonos, with options to walk to Little Venice, see the windmills, and browse shops.
• Cost considerations: The trip costs $82 per person, but remember, entry to Delos and food are not included, so budget accordingly.
• Weather impact: Windy days can significantly affect the comfort of the trip; some reviews mention rough seas and nausea.
• Authentic experience: The tour balances historical sightseeing with the joy of island hopping, ideal for those wanting to see more than just beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off early, as you’ll meet at the big Cycladic Cruises catamaran, ready for a day on the water. The boat is described as modern and air-conditioned, making the journey more comfortable, especially during warmer months. The first major stop is Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its archaeological significance.

Visiting Delos: An Ancient Wonder

Once on Delos, you’ll have roughly three hours to wander through the remnants of what was once one of Greece’s most important religious centers. The site is brimming with ruins of grand Greek and Roman mansions, temples, and the famous Terrace of the Lions. You’ll need to buy a separate ticket (€20) to enter, and many travelers find this extra cost worthwhile given the site’s importance.

A guided tour isn’t included in the standard package, but many travelers opt to purchase one for richer context. If you choose to explore on your own, be sure to pick up a map and information sheet at the museum before heading out. Keep in mind that there’s little shade, so packing water, sunscreen, and a hat is a smart move.

Transition to Mykonos: A Bustling Island

After Delos, the boat heads toward Mykonos, a place famous for its lively atmosphere and iconic windmills. In about three hours, you’ll have enough time to roam the labyrinth of alleyways, enjoy a coffee or a meal along the waterfront, and take in the views from the windmills. Many visitors love wandering towards Little Venice, where colorful houses sit right at the water’s edge, creating a postcard-perfect scene.

Some reviews highlight that Mykonos can be crowded, especially when multiple cruise ships are docked, but that’s part of the lively charm. There’s also the option to visit art galleries or simply soak in the vibrant street life.

The Return Voyage

In the evening, the boat sets sail back to Naxos, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. The trip duration, including travel and stops, makes for a long but rewarding day out on the water.

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The Experience: What Stands Out

Comfort and Transportation: The trip features a modern, air-conditioned catamaran, which is a plus for comfort. Onboard amenities include a bar, perfect for cooling down with a drink after exploring, or just relaxing on deck. However, keep in mind that some travelers have noted that the boat isn’t a true catamaran on the day of their trip, which may influence stability and comfort.

Timing and Group Size: With roughly three hours at each site and a full-day schedule, you’ll need to be comfortable with a somewhat packed itinerary. Group sizes are typical for such tours, and the experience is flexible enough for individual exploration during free time.

Cost and Value: At $82 per person, this tour offers a decent balance of cost to experience ratio, especially considering the visits to two major islands and the cruise itself. Additional expenses such as the Delos entrance fee (~€20) and meals or drinks are extra. Some travelers feel the tour offers good value, especially because of the scenic boat ride and the chance to see both ancient ruins and lively town scenes in one day.

Seasonal Considerations: Several reviews mention that the trip’s quality hinges on weather conditions. Wind and rough seas can turn the ride into a tough experience, with some passengers feeling quite seasick and others commenting on the crew’s limited English and slow response in emergencies. Being aware of this, packing seasickness remedies and choosing calmer days can make a big difference.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Tips

Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to explore without a tour guide on-site, allowing for spontaneous discovery of the narrow streets, shops, and cafes. If you’re keen on historical context, buying a guide or a tour upgrade might enrich your visit to Delos, but even on your own, the ruins are fascinating.

The trip’s value often hinges on the weather. A calm day will make the sailing much more enjoyable; rough days, however, can make the experience unpleasant and even traumatic for some. As one reviewer recounted, the boat continued at high speed during a stormy crossing, leading to a distressing experience with vomiting, screaming, and a sense of danger.

On a clear day, you’ll love the stunning views of the Aegean, the scenic sailing through the Cyclades, and the lively charm of Mykonos. The trip allows for enough free time to absorb the ambiance, take photos, and enjoy local flavors at the cafes.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits those who want a mix of history, island scenery, and a day on the water. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy sailing, don’t mind some physical activity, and can tolerate occasional windy days. It’s also perfect for visitors wanting to tick off two major Greek islands in one go, without the hassle of organizing separate transport or tours.

However, if you’re particularly prone to seasickness or prefer more relaxed, stable boat trips, you might want to consider weather forecasts carefully or look for calmer alternatives.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos offers a well-rounded Greek island experience, combining ancient ruins, charming streets, and scenic sailing. The price provides reasonable value, especially given the inclusion of Delos, one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites, and the colorful allure of Mykonos.

The trip’s success largely depends on weather conditions; calm days promise a smooth, enjoyable voyage with plenty of memorable moments. Travelers who love history, vibrant town life, and stunning views will find this tour rewarding. It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable with boat journeys and seeking a full day of exploring with minimal hassle.

Just remember to prepare for potential seasickness, bring water and sun protection, and manage expectations about weather—especially in windier seasons. When conditions are right, it’s a fantastic way to see some of the best sights the Cyclades have to offer in one memorable day.

FAQs

Is the boat trip comfortable? The boat is described as modern and air-conditioned, which helps, but some travelers have noted that it’s not always a true catamaran, and rough seas can impact comfort.

How much time do I get at each stop? You’ll have about three hours to explore Delos and three hours in Mykonos, enough for sightseeing, shopping, and taking photos.

Are meals included in the tour? No, food and drinks are not included, so you should plan to bring snacks, or buy at cafes in Mykonos and on the boat.

What is the cost for entering Delos? The entry fee for Delos is paid on site and costs around €20 per person.

Is this tour suitable for families? Yes, especially if your family enjoys sailing and exploring historic sites, but be prepared for a long day and potential seasickness.

Can I buy a guided tour at Delos? Yes, you can opt for a guided tour on site, which many travelers find enhances the experience by providing context and history.

You can check availability for your dates here: