Rhenia and Delos in one smooth day plan. The best parts for me are the Rhenia beach swim time plus the on-board Greek BBQ with complimentary wine, all wrapped into a half-day outing that keeps moving. The main thing to consider is the water entry at Rhenia, which can involve ladders and feels more strenuous than a simple beach walk-off.

This cruise is also big on fun energy once you’re out there. When the crew is led well, you get that upbeat, family-run vibe, and on this one I especially liked the way guides like Paula keep the mood light while the schedule stays on track. If you hate crowds or want lots of guided archaeology time, you’ll need to manage your expectations since Delos is more self-paced.

Key things to know before you go

• Rhenia anchoring + swim time: you get a long stretch to swim, sunbathe, and wander near the beach area.
• Greek BBQ on the boat: souvlaki style lunch, Greek salad, tzatziki, bread, fruits, plus complimentary wine.
• Delos is self-guided: UNESCO site time is on your own, with the entrance fee paid separately.
• Money planning for Delos: expect 20€ per person for the archaeological site entrance.
• Return sail includes a photo pass: you go by Little Venice on the way back.
• Boat fun can include dancing: music and a party vibe show up on the return trip.

Why this Rhenia-and-Delos cruise works for most Mykonos trips

This is a smart option if you want two different moods in one day. You’ll get a relaxed swim break at Rhenia, then swap over to Delos for the famous ruins, without needing a car or a full-day commitment.

The value comes from the mix. You’re not just paying for a boat ride, you’re getting a full on-board lunch, drinks, safety gear, and a real change of scenery. With a max of 120 travelers, it tends to feel like an organized day outing rather than a chaotic tour bus shuffle.

Meeting at Mykonos Old Port: the logistics detail that matters

You meet at Aegean Ventures – Daily Tours, Mykonos Old Port. Plan to be there by 10:15 a.m. for embarkation, since the cruise departs at 10:30 a.m.

There is no shuttle included, so you need to get yourself to the Old Port. One important reality check is distance: if you’re arriving from a cruise ship area, it can be roughly 1.5 km to the Old Port, and walking that can be slower with luggage or heat.

If you want a low-stress start, I’d build in extra buffer time. This is not the kind of tour that pauses for late arrivals, and it is shared with other people.

Rhenia stop: long swim time with Greek BBQ onboard

Rhenia is the calm break in the middle of the day. After leaving Mykonos Old Port, you reach Rhenia in about 45 minutes, then anchor off a deserted beach for about 3.5 hours.

This is where you’ll spend your time swimming and sunbathing, and it’s also the part where the cruise shines for people who want sea time. The water is described as crystal-clear and the beach area is sandy enough for lounging, plus you can take a stroll around the place while the crew sets up lunch.

A key practical detail: water entry may involve a ladder into the sea. Some people find that fine, others find it tiring or anxiety-inducing, especially if you’re not used to climbing. There are safety supports like noodles, and safety equipment is onboard, but it still helps to pack your mindset for a small physical effort.

Lunch is a big part of this stop. Around mid-afternoon, the boat serves a Greek BBQ style meal that includes souvlaki (pork and chicken), Greek salad, rice, tzatziki sauce, bread, and seasonal fruits.

Drinks are also part of the experience. You get complimentary wine, plus refreshments and water. Alcohol service follows an 18+ age rule, so bring ID if you’ll be drinking.

Delos time: UNESCO ruins with a separate entrance fee

After lunch, you sail to Delos for about 1 hour 45 minutes. Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and this stop is self-guided, meaning you explore at your own pace.

Here’s the big budget line: the Delos archaeological site entrance fee is not included, and it’s 20€ per person. If you don’t pay, you can still enjoy being on the island area, but you won’t get full access to the archaeological viewing experience that makes Delos special.

In terms of how the time feels, this stop is intense if you want to read every detail. The ruins are spread out, and you’ll be balancing walking, orientation, and heat. For many people, 1 hour 45 minutes is enough to get the highlights, but if you prefer slow, museum-style touring, you may wish you had longer.

One more thing to know: Delos has had closures on certain holiday dates in the past. If you’re traveling around major Greek holidays, you might find that parts of the site are limited, even though the day still has plenty to see from what is open.

Little Venice photo pass on the return sail

On the way back, you’ll re-collect Delos visitors and head for Mykonos. The return sail includes a photo opportunity as you pass by Little Venice, which is one of those Mykonos visual moments you don’t want to miss.

The vibe often shifts here. Many people remember the return as more upbeat, with music and dancing on board. If you love a social atmosphere, this is the moment that can turn a routine trip into a fun memory.

If you prefer a calmer mood, you can still enjoy the scenery and grab a seat. Just know the energy is meant to be light and party-adjacent on the way back.

Price and what you actually get for your money

At about $106.42 per person, this cruise is priced like a midrange Mykonos experience, not a budget ferry day. The reason it can feel fair is that the cruise includes the big day elements: lunch, drinks, safety gear, and restroom access on board.

Your main extra costs are predictable. Delos entrance is 20€ per person if you want full ruin access. Snorkeling equipment and towels are available for an extra charge.

One review detail that can save you confusion: snorkeling gear is not an all-in included add-on. It has been sold at a small fee, and the stated cost has been corrected to 15€ rather than a higher number. So if you’re thinking about renting, plan around 15€.

If you want to lower your costs and carry less, consider bringing your own basic swim gear. People recommend having your own goggles and snorkel setup if you care about snorkeling. Towels can be rented, but you might find it easier to bring one if you already have space in your day bag.

What’s included, what’s not, and how to pack

Here’s the clean checklist based on what you’re told at booking time and what the day provides.

Included

• Greek BBQ lunch (souvlaki style pork and chicken, Greek salad, rice, tzatziki, bread, seasonal fruits)
• Complimentary wine, plus refreshments and water
• Safety equipment and a restroom onboard

Not included

• Delos archaeological entrance fee (20€ per person)
• Snorkeling equipment (extra cost)
• Towels (extra cost)
• Shuttle transportation to the meeting point
• Gratuities at your discretion

Pack smart

Bring light clothing or swimwear and sun protection. If you might snorkel, bring your own goggles. And if you want to avoid ladder-climb discomfort, wear swimwear you feel secure in and use calm, steady movement when entering and exiting the water.

If you plan to buy additional drinks beyond what’s complimentary, be aware that there can be extra beverage sales and pricing that feels steep. If that matters to you, set a simple limit before you board.

Who this cruise is best for, and who should reconsider

This itinerary fits people who want a clear day rhythm: swim, eat, ruins, sail back. It also works well for families because the structure is straightforward and the crew is focused on keeping things smooth.

It tends to suit all ages if you’re comfortable with boat steps and water access. The boat is described as solid even when winds are up, and safety equipment is present. Still, the Rhenia entry method is the reason some people rate the day lower, because ladder access can feel like a workout.

If you have mobility issues or you strongly prefer a straight sandy beach entry, you might find this less comfortable than other swim tours. If that sounds like you, it’s worth comparing with options that dock closer to shore, even if it means giving up Delos ruins time.

Short practical timing notes that help your day

This is a 6.5 hour style outing, starting at 10:30 a.m. and returning to the Old Port area. The day is built around two anchors: 3.5 hours at Rhenia and 1 hour 45 minutes at Delos.

That pacing is intentional. It keeps you from feeling trapped at ruins all day, but it also means Delos is not a slow wander with a guide. If you like to read everything, take a small photo of the map or your preferred highlights so you don’t lose time when you’re off exploring.

Should you book the Rhenia-Delos cruise?

If you want the classic Mykonos combo, swim time plus archaeology, I think this is an easy yes. The value is strongest for people who like water time and don’t mind self-guided Delos, and who are happy with a lunch-and-drinks included day.

I’d book it if you:

• want a one-stop plan for Rhenia swimming and Delos ruins
• enjoy a fun crew vibe and don’t mind a return-ride music moment
• can handle ladder-style water entry without stress

I’d think twice if you:

• need easy, step-on beach access for swimming
• want a long, guided, slow-paced Delos experience
• dislike spending extra money once you arrive, since Delos entry is 20€ per person

If the weather turns, this is the kind of tour that can be rescheduled or refunded, so keep an eye on conditions and choose the date that fits your plans best.

FAQ

What time does the cruise start?

The tour starts at 10:30 a.m., with embarkation at 10:15 a.m. The meeting point is in Mykonos Old Port.

How long do you spend at Rhenia and Delos?

You have about 3 hours 30 minutes at Rhenia for swimming and time on the beach area. Delos time is about 1 hour 45 minutes.

Is the Delos archaeological site fee included?

No. The Delos archaeological site entrance fee is not included and is listed as 20€ per person.

What is included in the lunch and drinks?

Lunch includes a Greek BBQ-style meal with souvlaki (pork and chicken), Greek salad, rice, tzatziki sauce, bread, and seasonal fruits. Wine and other refreshments, plus water, are complimentary.

Do you need to bring snorkeling equipment or towels?

Snorkeling equipment and towels are not included. They are available for an extra cost. If you already own them, bringing your own can make the day easier.

Where do I meet the tour and what ticket do I get?

You meet at Aegean Ventures – Daily Tours in Mykonos Old Port. The tour uses a mobile ticket, and you should be prepared to present ID or a passport to verify age where needed.