Salt air and great Greek food on the water. This half-day catamaran cruise from Ornos pairs a calm stop at Rhenia with scenic views of Delos, plus wine and lunch on board. I really like the warm, attentive crew (Demitris and Emil come up in the feedback) and the delicious Greek meal served while you’re already in vacation mode.

One thing to weigh: the itinerary gives you views of Delos from the boat, but a Delos visit or tour isn’t included, so plan for photos over a full archaeological walk.

Key things I’d circle on your map

Rhenia’s long swim time: you get a proper break at anchor in clear water, not just a quick dip.

Snorkeling + SUP included: beach time, sea time, and activity time all in one stop.

Greek lunch with drinks onboard: food and wine are part of the flow, served while you’re sailing.

Small group size (10 max): easier to hear the crew and find a comfy spot on deck.

Pass-by Delos, not a full tour: you trade museum time for time on the water.

Ornos to Rhenia: a half-day that keeps you in the sea

This is the kind of Mykonos day that makes sense if you want more water time than walking time. You start out from Ornos, head across the Aegean, and focus on two experiences: the scenic “wow” moments (Delos + Mykonos views) and the practical fun stuff (swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding).

The boat is a catamaran with space on deck, so you’re not packed like sardines. That matters here, because the sailing portions are part of the appeal. You’ll spend time relaxing in the sun, watching the coastline slide by, then switch gears to the water when you reach Rhenia.

And yes, the onboard hospitality is a core part of the value. If you’re expecting a strict, timed “tour bus at sea” schedule, this feels more like a well-run day out with Greek food and a relaxed pace.

Getting aboard: crew-led, small-group energy

The ride is run by Catamaran Group NEPA, and the setup is intentionally small: up to 10 participants. That’s not just a comfort detail. Smaller groups help you get quicker answers, find your preferred spot on deck, and keep the day from turning chaotic when people are choosing between swimming, snorkeling, and paddle board time.

You’ll meet the skipper and crew, then get settled on the modern catamaran. There’s also a Bluetooth speaker available so you can keep your own music going while you relax (just keep it civilized, because the point is the Aegean soundtrack too: wind, waves, and distant seabirds).

If you’re the type who likes feeling safe and looked after, pay attention to this part. The feedback highlights professional, friendly care—the kind that makes you comfortable joining snorkeling and swim moments without second-guessing the setup.

Delos from the water: photos, not a museum day

Delos is famous, and this tour gives it the right kind of time for a half-day cruise. Instead of a full visit and guided walkthrough, you get a boat cruise and scenic viewing time, with a photo opportunity from the deck.

Why that works for many people: Delos can eat up time if you’re also trying to fit in beach moments and food. Here, Delos becomes a moving landmark—something you notice, photograph, and appreciate—while the day stays focused on sea time.

The drawback is obvious: you won’t have a Delos guided tour included. If you’re the type who wants to walk the site and learn every detail, you’ll need a different plan for Delos. If you’re happy with views and photos, you’ll probably find this approach fits the time and the vibe.

Rhenia Island: the real star for swimming and snorkeling

Rhenia Island is where the cruise turns into a proper day at sea. You’ll make a stop there for leisure time, and that’s the core of why people pick this itinerary.

Expect:

• A photo stop on approach
• Snorkeling with provided equipment
• Time to swim in clear water after dropping anchor
• The chance to use the paddle board (SUP)

The boat anchors in a secluded cove, and the water quality is the kind that makes snorkeling worth it. Even if you don’t snorkel, the stop is still useful because you can float, swim casually, and work on that “vacation tan” without needing to change locations.

If you want to make the most of this part:

• Go snorkeling early or late in the swim window to avoid the busiest moments.
• Keep an eye on your time in the water, since the day is half-day and the crew keeps things moving.

Food and wine onboard: the comfort upgrade you’ll notice

This is one of the most praised parts of the experience. The tour includes a fresh seasonal fruit starter, then a fresh meal prepared onboard. On top of that, you get water, wine, and soft drinks, and the experience description notes unlimited pours of traditional Mykonos wine.

What makes this more than a generic “lunch included” detail is timing and setting. You don’t eat after a stressful transfer. You eat while the boat is operating on a relaxed rhythm—so the meal feels like part of the day, not a checkbox.

From the names that come up in the feedback, Emil’s cooking is a highlight. People describe it as fresh, flavorful, and among the best Greek food they had in Greece. That doesn’t mean every dish will match your tastes, but it does point to real effort in the menu and presentation—not just basic catering.

Practical note: if you’re picky about wine style, choose what you like first, then sip freely after. The tour makes it easy to enjoy without thinking too hard.

Sailing back to Mykonos: windmills, town sights, and a calmer finish

After Rhenia, the day shifts to a return sail. You’ll enjoy scenic views on the way, then you’ll see Mykonos from the water again—plus the windmills of Mykonos on the approach back.

This is a good ending for two reasons:

1. You’ve already done the active stuff (swimming, snorkeling, SUP), so the return feels easy.
2. You get those iconic Mykonos visuals without having to fight for a spot in town.

If you choose a sunset-style option, the timing can be even more rewarding, since you’re sailing during the golden-hour window. Either way, this cruise is designed to feel like a clean break from the crowds—more open sky, fewer lines.

What’s included (and why it changes the value)

At around $165 per person for a 5-hour outing, the value depends on how much you’ll actually use the included items. The great news is the cruise includes a bundle that saves you time and money on the island:

Included:

• Cruise to Rhenia
• Experienced crew
• Paddle board (SUP)
• Beach towels
• Snorkeling equipment
• Fresh seasonal fruit
• Water, wine, and soft drinks
• Fresh meal onboard
• Hotel pickup and drop-off only if you select that option
• Tax and fuel
• Bluetooth speaker

Not included:

• A Delos visit/tour
• Hotel transfer unless the pickup option is selected

So here’s the real question: are you going to swim, snorkel, and relax on a boat deck? If yes, the price starts to look fair fast, because you’re paying for the ride plus gear plus food plus drinks. If you mostly want a quick photo stop and a snack, you may find it less worth it.

Who this cruise suits best

This cruise is a strong match for people who want:

• A half-day with minimal planning
• Activities on the water (snorkeling and SUP)
• A straightforward plan with food and drinks included
• A more personal group size (10 max)

It’s also a good pick if you’re staying around Ornos and don’t want a long day of transit. And if you care about comfort, a catamaran’s deck space tends to feel more relaxed than smaller boats.

It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and it’s also listed as not suitable for people over 95 years. If that’s relevant for your group, look for a different boat style or a more accessible option.

Tips to pack (so you enjoy Rhenia without friction)

The essentials are simple, but don’t skip them:

• Swimwear
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Camera

Also think ahead: bring what you need to handle sun exposure because deck time and anchored swim time both happen under Greek skies. If you’re using sunscreen, apply before you’re out sailing to avoid awkward reapplication later.

Should you book the Ornos Delos and Rhenia catamaran?

If you want one clear decision rule, use this:

Book it if you want a relaxed sea day with swimming and snorkeling, plus an onboard meal that actually seems to impress people. The standout value here is the combo: Rhenia water time + included gear + Greek lunch + wine on a small-group catamaran.

Skip it or pair it with another plan if Delos is your top priority and you want a full, on-foot archaeological tour. This one is for people who prefer seeing Delos from the water and then spending their time where they can swim and enjoy the sea.

Overall, this is a solid, good-value choice for Mykonos when you want your day to feel like a holiday: open water, clear coves, and a crew that keeps the pace easy.

FAQ

How long is the Mykonos Delos Catamaran Cruise from Ornos?

The duration is about 5 hours.

What islands are included?

The itinerary includes a cruise by Delos and a stop at Rhenia Island for swimming and snorkeling.

Is a Delos visit or guided tour included?

No. The visit and tour on Delos is not included.

What activities are included at Rhenia Island?

You can enjoy snorkeling, swimming time, and paddle board (SUP), with snorkeling equipment and beach towels provided.

Is lunch and wine included onboard?

Yes. A fresh meal onboard is included, along with water, wine, and soft drinks.

Where does the tour depart from?

The meeting point is at the ORNOS NTOKOS dock, where the base manager waits for you.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

It depends on the option you select. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included only if you choose that option.

Is the tour suitable for everyone in terms of mobility?

No. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and it is also listed as not suitable for people over 95 years.