Mykonos looks different from the water. This afternoon sailing links the whitewashed views you know with two big “wow” stops: Delos and Rhenia—plus food and drinks on board. You also get hotel/port pickup for an easier start.

Two things I like a lot. First, the Greek buffet lunch on the boat: freshly prepared Greek flavors, served alongside beer, wine, and soft drinks. Second, the small boat feel (max 25 passengers), which makes the day feel less like a cattle call and more like a real sea day.

One consideration: the return can be windy and wet. If you get seasick, you’ll want a plan before you step aboard.

Key things to know before you go

• Small-group cap (25 passengers): enough space to breathe, not enough space to sprawl.
• Afternoon timing (about 16:00/16:30 to sunset): Delos happens in a calmer window than big mid-day rushes.
• Snorkeling gear included: bring your own rash guard if you hate skin-on-rope friction.
• Rhenia is uninhabited and swim-focused: expect swimming and snorkeling more than sightseeing.
• Extra cost to plan for: Delos entrance fee isn’t included, and beach towels aren’t provided.
• Rough-sea reality check: plan for choppy water, especially on the way back.

A small-boat sailing day around Mykonos, Delos, and Rhenia

This is built for people who want a Mykonos day that feels like you’re on the Aegean, not just hopping from stop to stop. You’ll sail out from Mykonos, see a couple of iconic shoreline sights, then spend real time at Delos, followed by a swim on Rhenia.

It’s also an interesting mix: history on one side, water time on the other. That combo is exactly why this cruise works. You get the ruins, then you get to cool off in clear water with snorkeling gear that’s already waiting for you.

And yes, the “up to sunset” timing matters. On a smaller craft, light and sea conditions can change the mood fast. You’ll want to keep your expectations flexible and your plans for photos simple.

Getting there: pickup and the right expectations

Pickup is offered, and the day includes transportation to and from hotels and ports. If you’re not staying in the pickup zone, there can be an additional charge for other drop-off points (like nightlife areas and similar spots).

The meeting point is listed at Mykonos Cruise / Zephyros Sailing in Tourlos. If you’re on a cruise ship, you should notify the provider about your docking or tendering situation and remain at your terminal.

Practical tip: even with pickup, I’d treat the start time like an appointment. Show up a little early, and keep your mobile ticket ready. Harbor logistics can be confusing, and you don’t want to lose your place while you’re hunting.

What you see from the water: Little Venice and Paraportiani

The cruise itinerary includes stops tied to Mykonos’s most photographed coastline moments.

Little Venice is the first highlight on the list. You’ll get the classic view of waterside buildings that look like they’re hanging over the sea. From the boat, it’s usually easier to appreciate the layout than when you’re squeezed on the street below.

Next is the Church of Paraportiani, the white-box icon with layers of smaller chapels around it. Again, it’s a “see it, feel it” moment more than a long guided walk. If you’re the type who likes quick, well-framed photo stops, you’ll be happy here.

Downside? If you’re hoping for long, on-foot exploration time in either location, this cruise is not built for that. It’s a sailing day, so you’re spending most of your time afloat.

Delos Archaeological Site: how to use your time

This is the anchor stop. Delos is where you go from Mykonos postcard to real ancient scale. The ruins are the reason many people book this itinerary at all.

A key detail: the Delos entrance fee is not included. That means you’ll want to budget extra cash or card for entry when you’re at the site. It’s small enough to handle, but it’s still an easy one to forget until you’re standing there.

Also plan for pacing. One hour can feel short when you’re surrounded by stone storytelling at every step. You’ll likely get enough time to see the major highlights, but if you’re a slow walker or you love museums, you may wish you had more.

Practical advice: bring a photo ID if you’re traveling with anyone under 18. Entry for younger visitors can be free, but proof of age may be required. If you don’t bring it, you could lose time sorting it out on the spot.

Rhenia beach break: swimming and snorkeling in a quiet bay

After history, you’ll get the part that makes the Aegean feel like a reset button: Rhenia.

Rhenia is uninhabited and the focus is clear water time. You’ll have a swim break, and snorkeling equipment is included. That’s a big value add. It saves you the hassle (and extra rental cost) of tracking gear down.

What to expect in the water: calm moments mixed with real sea movement. The water can be gorgeous, but you’re still on the Aegean, and winds can stir things up. If you only want fully calm, you might find it stressful.

Also note: snorkeling here may not feel like a reef safari. It’s more about swimming, getting out in the clear water, and looking around at what’s close to the surface.

If your goal is relaxation, the best strategy is simple: keep your expectations water-first. Bring your towel (since beach towels aren’t included), and consider a rash guard if you don’t like rough sun-and-skin contact.

The onboard food and drinks: a Greek buffet at sea

The cruise includes lunch on board: a buffet of Greek delicacies prepared on the boat. You’ll also get bottled water, complimentary soft drinks, and adult beverages including beer and house wine (and the description also lists white wine and beer).

This is one of the strongest parts of the experience. When a boat day includes food that’s actually Greek and served hot and fresh, it changes how you feel the rest of the afternoon. You’re not snacking on chips and wishing you’d brought something better.

One more useful detail: light dinner is included as part of the overall plan since the cruise runs to sunset and passes by Delos. So you’re covered for the evening appetite even if you finish later than you expected.

What’s not included: beach towel, and crew tips aren’t included. The food is a solid reason to book even if you’re already planning to buy snacks elsewhere in Mykonos.

Comfort on a windy Aegean: seating, wet decks, and seasickness

Here’s the honest part. Several accounts point to choppy conditions—especially on the return trip. Mykonos winds are real, and the boat motion can be more noticeable than you’d get on a big ferry.

If you’re sensitive to motion, consider seasickness prevention before you board. There’s no shame in using something like Dramamine if you know you get queasy. One of the best “quality of life” decisions you can make is taking the medication earlier, not after you’re already bracing yourself.

Also consider where you sit. Return rides can be extremely wet and windy, and front-of-boat seating can get rougher. If you don’t love getting splashed, pick a safer-feeling spot when you board and don’t wait until you’re already halfway through the waves.

Safety mindset: In one unhappy experience, life jackets were reportedly missing or not available. I can’t confirm that as a general rule from the tour data alone, but I can tell you what I’d do: during boarding, take 30 seconds to locate life jackets and ask where safety gear is kept. Then you can enjoy the trip with your brain at rest.

Price and value: is $138.78 per person a fair deal?

At $138.78 per person for about six hours, the big question is what you’re actually buying.

You’re paying for three bundled things:

1. Boat time (including sailing and the sea views).
2. Delos access time (but note: entry fee is extra).
3. On-board food and drinks (a Greek buffet plus beer/wine/soft drinks).

Many tours that feel similar cost more once you add snorkeling gear rentals, a packed lunch, or separate tickets. Here, snorkeling equipment is included, and meals are built in. That makes the math more favorable if you’d otherwise be doing all those things separately.

The extra costs you should plan for are clear:

• Delos entrance fee
• Crew tips (not included)
• Beach towel (not included)

Also watch the transport fine print. Pickup to/from hotels and ports is included, but for cruise ship days, confirm how the transfer works with tendering/docking. One account claimed the transport wasn’t free as advertised, so it’s worth getting clarity in writing before departure.

If you want a boat day with food included and you’re okay with possible wind and spray, the pricing can feel reasonable. If you’re looking for a calm, easy sightseeing afternoon with minimal motion, you may feel the cost more sharply.

Who this cruise fits best (and who should skip it)

This cruise is a strong match if you want:

• a small-group sailing day (up to 25 passengers)
• a mix of ruins + swimming
• snorkeling gear included
• Greek food and drinks without hunting for lunch on land

It may be a weaker match if you:

• hate boats or get motion sick easily
• want lots of long walking time at each stop
• need ultra-calm water conditions

For families, it can go either way. Rough conditions can be hard on kids when they’re confined to seating and watching the sea move. If you’re traveling with children, I’d be extra careful about weather expectations and ask how they assess sea conditions before departure.

For solo travelers and couples, the small boat size is a real plus. You’ll meet people without feeling like you’re stuck in a big tour machine.

One more small logistical note: service animals are allowed, and the meeting point is near public transportation, which can help if you’re not using pickup.

Should you book the Mykonos–Delos–Rhenia sailing?

If you’re choosing between another Mykonos cruise and this one, I’d book it if your ideal day sounds like this: sailing views, an ancient stop that actually feels close up, then swimming in a quiet Aegean pocket with snorkeling gear provided.

I’d skip it or pick a different option if you know you’re sensitive to choppy water and you don’t want any chance of getting wet and rocked. This is not a floating spa.

Also, do yourself a favor and pack smart: bring a towel, consider a cover-up for Rhenia, and be ready for wind. If you want maximum comfort, sit based on the sea conditions and don’t force yourself into front-row excitement.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

It runs for about 6 hours, from the scheduled start time until sunset.

What time does the cruise start?

The cruise is scheduled to start at 16:00 or 16:30.

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup is offered, and transportation is included to and from hotels and ports. There may be an extra charge for other pick-up or drop-off locations.

Where do we meet if we aren’t using pickup?

The meeting point is Mykonos Cruise / Zephyros Sailing in Tourlos (846 00), Greece. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch on board is included and is a buffet of Greek delicacies prepared on the boat.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Soft drinks are complimentary, and beer and house wine are included. Water is also provided.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Do I need to pay an entrance fee for Delos?

Yes. The Delos entrance fee is not included.

Is a beach towel provided?

No. Beach towel is not included.

What happens if weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a limit on how many people can be on the boat?

Yes. The maximum capacity is 25 passengers per boat.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.