This cruise is a smart way to split your Mykonos day between Rhenia’s swimming stop and Delos’ UNESCO ruins without overplanning. I like the clear schedule and the way the crew keeps things moving: anchor, swim, lunch, then Delos. I also love the onboard Greek BBQ with complimentary wine and refreshments, which makes the trip feel like more than just transportation. One thing to consider: Delos entrance is extra, and the Delos time can feel short if you want to linger over every ruin.

The crew’s energy matters more than the brochure

If you care about a fun group atmosphere, you’ll notice it fast. On one run, the guide Paula stood out for being kind and full of energy, and the return sail can turn into a music-and-dancing moment on the boat. If you’re prone to seasickness or you want a beach you can step onto easily, read the packing tips below and plan for some ladder work at Rhenia.

Key things to know before you go

• Rhenia first, then Delos: you get a long swimming block before the archaeology stop.
• Lunch is included, drinks are included: Greek BBQ lunch plus complimentary wine, refreshments, and water.
• Delos entrance fee is separate: you’ll pay on your own for the archaeological site.
• You choose how much time to spend in Delos: explore the UNESCO site at your own pace.
• Expect a lively return: music and dancing show up on the way back for many departures.
• The day runs on a schedule: make it to the Old Port check-in on time, no delays.

Why This Mykonos Cruise Works: Swim First, Ruins Second

The best thing about this tour is the order of operations. You start with the water and the sun, then shift your brain to ancient marble once you’re fed and warmed up. It’s a good rhythm for a Greek island day, especially if you’re traveling with kids, friends, or anyone who wants both relaxation and a real site.

You’ll also like how the cruise feels built for independent time. At Rhenia, you’re given room to swim, soak up sun, and walk around while the captain handles the barbecue. At Delos, you’re dropped at the famous archaeological zone and you explore on your own rather than being rushed through a guided script.

The tradeoff is that this isn’t a slow, guided tour with lots of stops and extra interpretation. If you want someone to narrate every temple and statue, you might wish you had more time or context. Still, Delos does reward self-paced wandering.

Rhenia Stop: Quiet Beaches, BBQ Under the Captain’s Plan

Rhenia (spelled Rhenia on the boat info) is where the cruise turns into a beach day. Your boat leaves Mykonos Old Port and reaches the island in about 45 minutes, then anchors off a deserted beach. From there, you get about 3 hours 30 minutes.

What makes this stop special is the water and the freedom. You can swim in clear turquoise water, sunbathe on fine sand, or stroll around and enjoy the calm. It’s not a crowded “look, take a photo, move on” spot.

Now, here’s the practical part: access can be physical. The sea-to-beach setup can involve a ladder into the water, and that is a dealbreaker for some people. One review called the ladder work strenuous and anxiety-provoking, so if you have limited mobility, a fear of heights, or you’re not steady in the water, plan carefully and consider bringing a buddy.

While you’re at Rhenia, the captain prepares the Greek-style barbecue. The lunch setup is part of the appeal because it’s simple and timed around the swim window, so you’re not waiting hungry while the boat drives around.

What you should pack for Rhenia

• Swimwear and a cover-up for the lunch period
• Sun protection, plus comfortable light clothing
• If you’re bringing your own gear, bring goggles since snorkel equipment is sold separately on the boat

Delos Without a Guide: UNESCO Site Time Management

After lunch, the cruise sails to Delos (Dillos). Lunch happens around 14:30, then you head to the UNESCO site. Your Delos stop is about 1 hour 45 minutes, and admission to the archaeological site is not included.

Delos is one of those places where you either want time to drift between ruins or you want to get your bearings fast and move. Since this tour doesn’t include a site guide, you’ll get the best experience if you come ready to explore at your own pace. Even without a guide, you can still appreciate the way the ruins are preserved and laid out.

The downside is timing. Some people found Delos felt rushed, especially if you like to read details, find viewpoints, and slow-walk between monuments. If you know you’ll want more than 1.5 hours, think of Delos here as a strong sampler rather than a full deep visit.

Also, note the entrance fee. The Delos archaeological site fee is listed as 20€ per person and is something you must pay separately. That extra cost is worth budgeting for, even though the cruise already includes a lot of value on the food and boat side.

How to make your Delos hour and change feel longer

Use your time in “chunks.” Pick a section to focus on first (main paths and big ruin groups), then decide on one or two additional spots before you wrap up. The goal is to avoid spending your best energy just figuring out what you’re looking at.

Food, Wine, and the On-Board Vibe

This cruise is very clear about the onboard payoff: the lunch. You get a Greek BBQ lunch with items including Greek salad, rice, tzatziki sauce, bread, and seasonal fruits. The BBQ menu includes souvlaki options such as pork and chicken.

On top of the food, drinks are included. You’ll have complimentary wine, plus refreshments and water. That’s a meaningful value piece, because boat tours add up fast once you start paying for drinks.

The alcohol experience can be inconsistent across people, though. One review said the wine quality wasn’t great, while others said the wine was flowing and plentiful. My practical take: treat it as included boat wine, not a tasting lineup, and you’ll be happier.

The onboard mood

A theme in the reviews is energy. The crew keeps the atmosphere playful, and the return trip can include music and dancing on the boat. If you like friendly chaos on the water, it’s a big part of why people recommend the trip so strongly.

If you’re looking for quiet luxury, you may still enjoy the day, but you should expect a social vibe. One review even mentioned the cruise felt good for families, not a rowdy party for them. So think more upbeat than chaotic.

Boat, Comfort, and Sea Conditions: What to Pack

This is a boat day, so comfort depends on weather and water conditions. Several reviews praised the boat as solid and capable even with wind, and they mentioned the crew making people feel safe during rougher moments.

Still, you should plan like the Aegean can be bumpy. Some riders mentioned the ride back had rougher water, but the crew stayed positive and kept things orderly. If you’re sensitive to motion, bring motion sickness support like ginger or medication that works for you.

The boat includes useful basics:

• Safety equipment
• A restroom onboard

And there are some “extras if you need them”:

• Snorkeling equipment is available for a small extra cost
• Towels are also available for a small extra cost

One review clarified snorkeling gear pricing, correcting earlier confusion. If you want to snorkel, budget that add-on.

Don’t rely on a perfect beach setup

Rhenia’s beaches can be sandy, but the access method may be via ladders and the shore might be rocky depending on the day’s conditions. The captain picks the best option based on weather, so your best move is to come with flexibility and comfort in the water.

Price and Value: What You Get for About $106

At around $106.42 per person, this tour is competitive when you look at what’s included. You’re paying for:

• Boat transport to both islands
• A long Rhenia swim block
• A full Greek BBQ lunch
• Complimentary wine, refreshments, and water
• Safety equipment and an onboard restroom

That’s why many people feel it’s worth it even after considering Delos.

The two main “extras” you should budget

1. Delos entrance fee: 20€ per person
2. Optional items like snorkeling gear and towels

So the real cost isn’t just the ticket price. It’s the ticket plus the Delos fee plus any extras you choose on the day.

Also watch the fact that some onboard purchases may run cash-only. If you want to buy drinks beyond the complimentary setup or pick up equipment, plan to have cash ready. One review called out cash-only bar pricing as steep, so this is not a place to assume everything is included.

Who Should Book This Cruise (and Who Should Skip It)

This is a good fit if you want an all-in-one Mykonos day that covers swimming and a major archaeological site without complicated logistics.

You’ll likely love it if:

• You want long swim time at Rhenia
• You appreciate included food and drinks
• You like a crew with personality (Paula is one standout example)
• You’re okay exploring Delos on your own without a guiding headset

You should think twice if:

• You have mobility limits or worry about ladder access to the water
• You want a deep guided tour of Delos with lots of explanation
• You strongly care about high-quality wine (it’s included, but it’s still boat wine)

If you’re traveling with kids, multiple reviews mentioned it works well for families, mainly because the day has clear activities, swim time, and an upbeat return.

The Logistics That Actually Matter in Mykonos Old Port

This tour runs on time, and the meeting point is Mykonos Old Port at the provider’s location: Aegean Ventures – Daily Tours. The stated start time is 10:30 a.m., and embarkation is 10:15 a.m.

Important: you’re responsible for getting to the meeting point. One unhappy situation in the feedback came from a passenger who walked from a cruise ship area and arrived late, missing the departure. If you’re connecting from a cruise ship, don’t assume you have extra time. The Old Port meeting area is also described as about 1.5 km from the cruise port area in that case, so plan transport rather than treating it like a casual stroll.

Come in light: comfortable clothing, swimwear, sun protection. This reduces stress because you won’t be scrambling once the boat is in motion.

Should You Book the Authentic Rhenia-Delos Cruise?

Book it if you want a practical, high-value day that balances water time and a world-famous site. The included BBQ lunch with complimentary wine is the kind of value that boat tours often miss, and the Rhenia stop is exactly the kind of Mykonos experience people remember.

Skip it or choose a different style tour if you need:

• step-free beach access at Rhenia
• a guided Delos experience with more time on ruins
• a quiet, low-energy vibe on the boat

If you’re flexible, comfortable with ladder access, and you’re excited to swim plus see Delos in one shot, this one makes a lot of sense.

FAQ

What is included in the lunch and drinks?

The cruise includes a Greek BBQ lunch with souvlaki (pork and chicken), Greek salad, rice, tzatziki sauce, bread, and seasonal fruits. Alcoholic beverages include complimentary wine, along with refreshments and water.

Is the Delos archaeological site entrance fee included?

No. The Delos archaeological site entrance fee is listed as 20€ per person and is paid separately.

How long do we spend at Rhenia and Delos?

You have about 3 hours 30 minutes at Rhenia, and about 1 hour 45 minutes at Delos.

Where do we meet, and what time does the cruise start?

You meet at Aegean Ventures – Daily Tours in Mykonos Old Port. Embarkation time is 10:15 a.m., and the cruise starts at 10:30 a.m.

Do I need to bring ID?

Yes. You must present an ID or passport to verify age.

Are snorkeling equipment and towels included?

Snorkeling equipment and towels are available for an extra cost. One clarification provided in the feedback states snorkeling gear costs 15€.

Is alcohol served on the cruise?

Yes, complimentary wine is included, but serving alcohol follows the legal age requirement of 18 years.