Mykonos swaps crowds for turquoise water. I like the Rhenia swim-first plan and the way you get time at UNESCO Delos without feeling chained to a guide’s pace. Lunch is served on board with Greek BBQ, plus complimentary wine and refreshing drinks that keep the day moving.

The one thing to consider is the practical stuff: Delos entrance costs extra, and reaching the water at Rhenia can involve climbing down ladders onto a beach area picked by the captain.

Key things to know before you go

• Rhenia anchor stop is long (about 3.5 hours) for swimming, sun time, and a stroll on a quiet island
• Greek BBQ lunch is built into the day with souvlaki, Greek salad, tzatziki, rice, bread, and seasonal fruit
• UNESCO Delos is self-guided for about 1 hour 45 minutes, with the archaeology ticket not included
• Little Venice photo moments on the way back plus a lively music and dance vibe onboard
• Big-boat comfort and safety with safety equipment and a restroom on board, even when conditions get windy
• Snorkel gear and towels cost extra and the onboard bar is cash-only if you want more than the included drinks

Rhenia’s deserted-beach swim stop: the real heart of the cruise

This cruise is designed around water time. You leave Mykonos Old Port and reach Rhenia in about 45 minutes, then the boat anchors near a quiet shoreline for free time.

What you’ll do there is simple: swim in clear, turquoise water, find a spot on the sand, and soak up sun at your own rhythm. I like that the schedule gives you enough time to actually settle in. A lot of Mykonos outings feel rushed. This one doesn’t.

Water access isn’t the same at every stop

Rhenia is a deserted cycladic island, and the captain chooses the best beach for the day’s conditions. That can mean different access setups, including climbing down a ladder into the sea. Some people find that easy; others find it strenuous, especially if you’re dealing with anxiety around ladders or rougher swells.

If you’re not confident with stairs and ladder steps, you’ll still have options. You can stay closer to the boat and enjoy the sun and views, but you should be realistic about what “beach time” means here.

Lunch on the water: Greek BBQ plus included drinks

Around the early afternoon, the captain starts cooking Greek BBQ right on board. You’ll get a proper meal, not a snack: souvlaki (pork and chicken), Greek salad, rice, tzatziki, bread, and seasonal fruits.

I like that lunch is part of the flow instead of forcing you off the boat. It also matters because it keeps energy steady for the next stop at Delos, where you’ll likely walk at your own pace over uneven ground.

Complimentary wine and refreshments (and the 18+ rule)

Alcoholic drinks are complimentary, including wine and refreshments plus water. There’s a clear rule: you must be 18+ to be served alcohol.

One practical note from the onboard vibe: included drinks can be generous, but taste opinions vary. Some people love the wine; others think it’s basic. If you’re picky about wine quality, treat the included glass as a nice bonus, not a cellar-worthy experience.

Delos, UNESCO-style: what you can do in 1 hour 45 minutes

After lunch, you sail to Delos (spelled Dillos on some schedules) for about 1 hour 45 minutes. Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the cruise gives you the freedom to explore on your own.

This is a big win if you like independence. You don’t need to follow a group or translate the same facts through multiple languages. You just have a limited chunk of time and can focus on what interests you most: temples, ruins, and the feeling of walking through an ancient city layout.

Admission fee: budget for it

The Delos archaeology entrance fee is not included. The cost is set by the Ministry of Culture at 20€ per person.

If you’re comparing this cruise to other Mykonos day trips, don’t judge the price without adding this. Still, paying once for a major UNESCO site can be a good value if you want both water time and history.

If you want more ruins time

Time at Delos is enough to see highlights, but it’s not enough for a deep, slow walk. Some people wish there were more hours for the ruins. If you’re the type who likes to linger, consider using your time efficiently: pick a route, decide what matters most to you, and don’t get stuck overthinking every doorway.

Return to Mykonos: Little Venice photos and a boat-party mood

On the way back, you pass Little Venice. That gives you a quick photo moment that helps tie the trip back to what Mykonos looks like from the water.

Then comes the part that many people talk about: the cruise has an upbeat, fun energy on the return. Music starts building, and you’ll see passengers dancing right on the moving boat. It’s not quiet sightseeing. It’s a “let’s have fun on the sea” end to the day.

I like this balance: you get swim time and history time, then the ride home feels like a reward instead of a commute.

Price value in plain numbers: what $106.42 covers

At $106.42 per person, this cruise is priced like a real experience, not just a ferry with a meal. You’re paying for:

• A guided sea day with two distinct island stops
• A long swim window at Rhenia (around 3.5 hours)
• A sit-down style lunch onboard with multiple components
• Complimentary wine, refreshments, and water
• Safety equipment and a restroom onboard

What isn’t included (the stuff that can surprise you)

To keep the value clear, here are the common add-ons:

• Delos entry fee: 20€ per person
• Snorkeling equipment: available for a small extra cost (onboard pricing is higher than you might expect)
• Towels: available for a small extra cost
• Gratuities: at your discretion
• Cash-only bar if you want extra drinks beyond what’s included

Also, if you want to snorkel, bring your own if you can. A few people found the equipment prices and snack-bar costs a bit sharp. You don’t have to pay them, but knowing that helps you keep control of your budget.

Logistics that matter: meeting point, timing, and ID

The meeting point is Aegean Ventures – Daily Tours in Mykonos Old Port. Boarding is scheduled with embarkation time at 10:15 a.m., and the cruise start time is 10:30 a.m.

This is the area where most headaches happen on day trips in Mykonos. If you’re arriving by ship, the Old Port area can require some walking or planning. The safest move is to give yourself buffer time, so you’re not sprinting to a boat at the last second.

Bring your passport or ID, since it’s used to verify age for alcohol rules.

Also, you’ll get a mobile ticket. Service animals are allowed, and the meeting point is near public transportation, which helps if you’re not staying right in the Old Port zone.

The onboard experience: comfort, safety, and group size

The cruise max is listed at 120 travelers. That’s enough people for a social vibe, but many of the most positive comments point out that it can still feel organized and manageable rather than chaotic.

The boat includes safety equipment and a restroom, which you’ll appreciate once you’re out on the water. Another reassuring detail: the boat is large enough to operate even with strong winds, which matters in the Aegean where conditions can shift.

Packing list: how to make this day easier

You’ll have a full sea day, so pack like you’re doing two things: swimming and walking ruins.

Bring:

• Light clothing and/or swimwear
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Comfortable footwear for Delos (ruins surfaces can be uneven)
• Swim goggles if you like snorkeling, since you might not love paying onboard rates
• If you can: your own snorkeling gear and towel to avoid last-minute add-on costs

If you forget something, you can sometimes buy it onboard, but it won’t be the budget-friendly option.

Who this cruise fits best (and who might want a different plan)

This works especially well if you want:

• A strong swimming day with long Rhenia time
• A guided-by-you style at Delos (no guide needed to explore)
• A food and drinks setup that keeps you comfortable without hunting for lunch

It may feel less ideal if:

• You strongly dislike ladder-style water access
• You want a longer, more detailed guide-led museum feel at Delos
• You’re price-sensitive about add-ons like snorkeling gear and towels
• You expect the experience to be quiet and strictly “culture first”

Should you book the Rhenia-Delos cruise?

If you want a Mykonos day that mixes water fun and a UNESCO stop without complicated planning, I think this is a solid choice. The Rhenia swim time, the onboard Greek BBQ lunch, and the Delos freedom to explore are the core strengths.

Book it if you’re comfortable with sea conditions and you don’t mind that Delos costs extra. Skip or consider a different tour if ladder access at the water is a deal-breaker or if you need more than 1 hour 45 minutes to truly enjoy ruins.

One last tip: plan your timing for the Old Port seriously. When you show up early and sorted, the day feels smooth. When you’re late, the schedule leaves little room to renegotiate.

FAQ

What time does the cruise depart from Mykonos Old Port?

Boarding starts at 10:15 a.m., and the cruise departs at 10:30 a.m.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is Aegean Ventures – Daily Tours, located in Mykonos Old Port.

How long is the stop at Rhenia?

You’ll spend about 3 hours 30 minutes at Rhenia.

What’s included in lunch?

Lunch includes Greek BBQ items like souvlaki (pork & chicken), Greek salad, rice, tzatziki, bread, and seasonal fruits.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Wine, refreshments, and water are complimentary. You must be 18 to be served alcohol.

Is the Delos archaeological site entrance fee included?

No. The Delos entrance fee is 20€ per person and must be paid extra.

Do I get snorkeling equipment and towels for free?

No. Snorkeling equipment and towels are available at an extra cost.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom on board.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?

If the experience is canceled because of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed.