Mykonos: Delos and Rhenia Islands Cruise with BBQ Meal

Travelers often seek a mix of culture, stunning scenery, and relaxation when visiting Greece’s famous islands. This Mykonos cruise to Delos and Rhenia offers all three, with the added bonus of excellent food and plenty of swimming opportunities. We’ve reviewed this experience based on detailed info, authentic guest feedback, and what makes it a worthwhile choice for many.

What we love about this tour is how smoothly it balances history, leisure, and good value. The professional crew keeps everything running efficiently, ensuring you get the most out of your day. The delicious BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks elevate the experience, making it feel indulgent without breaking the bank. Plus, the snorkeling gear and stunning island scenery promise memorable moments in the water and on land. A possible drawback? The timing of the guided tour at Delos might feel a bit rushed since it’s shared with larger ferry groups, so if you’re a history buff, you might prefer a private or guided experience. This tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back day with a mix of culture, swimming, and great food—perfect for couples, friends, or families wanting a stress-free escape from the bustling streets of Mykonos.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with visits to Delos’ archaeological ruins and Rhenia’s beaches
• All-inclusive food and drinks, with unlimited wine, beer, and refreshments
• Excellent snorkeling gear and swimming noodles included for underwater fun
• Professional crew and skipper, ensuring safety and personal assistance
• Flexible options for transfer and guided tours—booked separately or on-site
• Authentic experiences with guest-reviewed stories highlighting attentive staff and superb food

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Islands: What to Expect

This cruise is a fantastic way to see some of the most iconic parts of the Cyclades without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. From the moment you step aboard a comfortable yacht, you’ll be surrounded by spectacular views of the Aegean, with the crew offering friendly service and a lively atmosphere. The total experience lasts around 6 hours, which is enough to soak up the sun, swim, and explore without feeling exhausted.

Starting Point and Transfers

Your journey begins either with a convenient pickup from your hotel (for just 20 euros per person, pre-reserved and paid on the spot) or by meeting directly at the Agios Ioannis Diakoftis pier. The pickup service is especially helpful if you want to avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or taxis early in the morning.

The Scenic Sail and Overview

Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a scenic 45-minute cruise along the coast of Mykonos, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the iconic windmills and coastal scenery. The crew sets a relaxed tone with music, drinks, and engaging commentary. As you sail towards Delos, you’ll get a stunning perspective of the islands, perfect for photo enthusiasts or those simply wanting a peaceful cruise.

Visiting Delos, the Ancient Treasure

The highlight for many is Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back thousands of years. You might choose to explore the ruins on your own or opt for a guided tour (available at an extra cost of 45 euros per adult), which many reviews mention as a real value-add, thanks to knowledgeable guides who bring the site’s history alive. One reviewer noted that the guide at Delos was from a different tour company, but still, the insights into the ruins and mythology are compelling.

Guests typically spend about 1 hour on Delos, which is enough to see key archaeological sights like the Temple of Apollo, the Terrace of the Lions, and ancient mosaics. However, some reviews suggest that the group’s size and shared tour setup can make it feel a little rushed, especially if you’re keen to linger longer or get detailed explanations.

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Rhenia Island: The Water’s Paradise

After Delos, the boat heads to Rhenia Island, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and quiet beaches. Here, you’ll have about 2 hours for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck with a cold drink. The complimentary snorkeling gear and swimming noodles are a thoughtful touch, making underwater exploration easy and fun for all ages.

Guests frequently rave about the quality of the water—it’s so clear you’ll want to take dozens of photos. Many mention how the beach spots are perfect for unwinding, with the added comfort of fresh towels and sun protection provided by the crew.

The BBQ Meal and Onboard Relaxation

One of the most appreciated features of this cruise is the BBQ lunch, which includes a variety of meat and vegetables cooked fresh on board. Guests often comment that it’s probably the best meal they’ve had in Mykonos, with flavorful, healthy options served with Greek bread and accompanied by plenty of refreshing drinks—wine, beer, soft drinks, and water.

Guests note that the staff are attentive, filling glasses regularly and making sure everyone is comfortable, whether sitting on deck or enjoying a quick snack. The WiFi on board and towels make it easy to relax and stay connected.

Returning to Mykonos

The boat departs Rhenia with ample time to enjoy the scenery and take a few more dips before heading back to Mykonos, arriving roughly 1.5 hours before the tour ends. Many guests comment on how peaceful and scenic the return sail is, with some opting to stay on deck and soak in the last views.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Consider

Included in the price are the BBQ lunch, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, sunscreen, WiFi, life vests, and a professional skipper. The comprehensive nature of the package makes it a great value, especially considering the quality of food and the scenic beauty.

Extras include a guided tour of Delos (which many find worthwhile for the historical insights) and hotel transfers. The optional transfer service ensures comfort, but if you’re staying close to the pier, you might prefer to meet directly.

The group size varies depending on the yacht used for the cruise—up to 40 people on the Gulet 89ft, accommodating larger groups, or 30 on the Gulet 72ft for a slightly more intimate feel. Guests mention that safety and hygiene are taken seriously, with foot-borne restrictions on board for safety reasons.

Timing is flexible, with departure times available throughout the day—just be sure to check availability. The cruise is designed to be relaxing, not hurried, but guests should be aware that Delos guided tours are shared with large ferry groups, which can make the experience feel a bit rushed.

Authentic Guest Experiences and Insights

Guest reviews consistently highlight friendly crew members like Dimitris, Giannis, and other staff, who go out of their way to ensure everyone’s needs are met. Many reviewers like Elizabeth praise the delicious food and attentive service, saying the lunch is one of the best meals they had in Greece.

Several guests mention the value of the guided tour at Delos, with one reviewer noting it “really brought the site alive” thanks to a knowledgeable guide, even if the tour was shared with many others. The snorkeling gear is another hit, with travelers saying the waters are so clear they felt like they were in a different world.

The overall sentiment is that the balance of relaxation, exploration, and good food makes this cruise an excellent way to break from the busy streets of Mykonos, especially if you love swimming, history, and Greek cuisine.

The Bottom Line: Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise offers a beautiful mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers who want a laid-back day on the water without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic Greek food, stunning island scenery, and friendly service.

If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, consider whether the shared tour setup at Delos might feel hurried. For families or groups wanting more flexibility, the option to meet directly at the pier or book a private group could be a better fit.

This cruise is great value for money, with well-organized logistics, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to swim and explore. It’s a fantastic way to see some of the Cyclades’ best-loved islands in comfort and style.

FAQs

Can I join the cruise without a transfer? Yes, you can meet directly at Ioannis Diakoftis pier in the morning without booking the transfer, saving on costs.

Is there a guided tour available for Delos? Yes, you can add a professional guided tour for 45 euros per adult or 40 euros per child, which enhances your understanding of the ruins.

What should I bring? Bring passport or ID, comfortable clothes and shoes (no shoes on board), beachwear, sunscreen, and a water bottle.

How long is the cruise? The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, with planned stops for sightseeing, swimming, and lunch.

Is the lunch suitable for different diets? The BBQ includes meat and vegetables, and crew members are attentive to dietary needs—just mention any specific preferences when booking.

Are drinks included? Yes, unlimited drinks including wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water are on offer throughout the trip.

Can I snorkel during the cruise? Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many guests enjoy exploring the underwater world in the clear waters of Rhenia.

What happens if the weather is bad? The cruise may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are not suitable, with prior notice given the evening before.

Is this cruise family-friendly? Yes, kids often enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and the relaxed atmosphere. Just keep an eye on them during water activities.

To sum it up, the Mykonos cruise to Delos and Rhenia is a top choice for those wanting to combine a bit of history, plenty of swimming, and Greek hospitality in a relaxed, well-organized package. With friendly staff, good food, and stunning scenery, it provides a memorable day in the Cyclades—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: