Delos & Rhenia Islands: Private Sailing Tour with Lunch

Summary

Ancient Delos ruins and quiet Rhenia beaches by sailboat

You’ll board a sailing boat from Mykonos with hotel pickup included, visit ancient Delos with its marble ruins and mythical history, then swim or snorkel off peaceful Rhenia Island before sharing lunch on deck. Expect sun on your face, stories from your guide, and moments that linger long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

“No one was ever born or died here,” our captain said as we drifted up to Delos — he had this way of making the island sound even more mysterious. I’d seen photos before, but stepping off the Nadia K with the sun already warming my shoulders, I got that odd shiver you get when you realize you’re actually somewhere you’ve only read about. The marble underfoot was still cool and a bit gritty, and the wind carried this faint smell of wild thyme. Our guide pointed out where Apollo was meant to have been born — I tried to imagine gods growing up on an island where mortals weren’t allowed to be born or die. It’s strange, but standing there, it felt like time just sort of paused for a bit.

After wandering around Delos (I lost track of time — there’s so much old stone and silence), we sailed over to Rhenia. The water changed color completely; it went from deep blue to this clear turquoise that made me want to just jump in before anyone else. Lunch was simple but hit the spot — salty feta, bread that tasted fresh-baked, olives that actually tasted different than back home. Someone started laughing because I tried snorkeling for the first time and managed to get water up my nose (not as graceful as I’d hoped). The crew didn’t mind at all — they just handed me another mask and told me not to worry about it.

I kept thinking how close all these islands are to Mykonos but how different they feel — like you’re let in on a quieter side of Greece for a day. We sailed back in the late afternoon light, everyone a little sun-warmed and quiet. There’s something about salt on your skin and old stories in your head that sticks with you after a trip like this.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing and island exploration

• Shuttle to sailing boat Nadia K
• Board sailing boat and start tour
• Sail from Tourlos to Delos (1 hour)
• Disembark and explore Delos archaeological site
• Sail to Rhenia island
• Swim and snorkel at Rhenia island
• Sail from Rhenia to Tourlos (1 hour)
• Shuttle to hotel or chosen location

Top questions

How long is the sailing tour from Mykonos to Delos & Rhenia?

The full tour lasts about 7 hours including sailing time between islands and stops at both Delos and Rhenia.

Is hotel pickup included for the Delos & Rhenia Islands tour?

Yes, complimentary shuttle transportation is provided from your hotel or cruise ship in Mykonos.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?

Yes, there’s time for swimming and snorkeling at Rhenia Island. Snorkeling gear is provided free onboard.

Is lunch included on this sailing trip?

Yes, lunch is served onboard during the tour.

Are children or people with limited mobility able to join?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; infants can ride in strollers and wheelchairs are accommodated.

How do I get from my hotel to the boat?

A complimentary shuttle will pick you up at your hotel or specified location and take you directly to the boat at Tourlos bay.

What should I bring for the day trip?

You should bring sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, and any personal items; snorkeling equipment is provided onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes complimentary hotel pickup and return transfer from Mykonos, all sailing aboard Nadia K with WiFi access, entry to Delos archaeological site guided by local experts, use of snorkeling equipment at Rhenia Island, onboard restroom facilities throughout the journey, plus a relaxed lunch served while anchored in calm Aegean waters before heading back in the afternoon.