Sailing the Sacred Cyclades: Delos and Rhenia by Day from Mykonos
Ancient ruins, quiet coves, and a sun-splashed sail—your perfect Mykonos day, distilled.
By the time the bow clears the breakwater of Mykonos New Port, the Aegean has already made its introductions. The water blinks like broken glass, the morning breeze tests your balance, and the boat nudges forward as if impatient to get on with it. Whitewashed Mykonos slides behind you; the granite bones of the Cyclades rise ahead. Between them sits a pair of islands that shaped this sea’s story: sacred Delos and its quiet neighbor, Rhenia.
Trail Wisdom
Beat the meltemi
Opt for the 09:00 departure for calmer seas and a longer window to explore Delos before the afternoon winds pick up.
Smart sun strategy
Apply reef-safe sunscreen 20–30 minutes before boarding and reapply after each swim to avoid slick decks and to protect marine life.
Bring your own mask (if picky)
Many boats provide basic snorkel sets, but frequent swimmers may prefer their own well-fitting mask and a compact microfiber towel.
Cash for Delos entry
If you plan to visit the Delos archaeological site and museum, bring euros for the separate entrance fee.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The northern coves of Rhenia for seagrass meadows and calm snorkeling when winds are light
- •The hilltop view above Delos’s Theater Quarter for a panorama of the Cyclades
Wildlife
Mediterranean shags (seabirds) along rocky shores, Schools of saddled seabream in Rhenia’s coves
Conservation Note
Help keep coves pristine: pack out all trash, avoid stepping on seagrass beds, and use mineral or reef-safe sunscreens to limit chemical runoff.
Delos was the religious and commercial hub of the ancient Aegean and is revered as the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis; in classical times, burials were moved to Rhenia to keep Delos sacred.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Milder temperatures, Quieter ruins at Delos
Challenges: Cooler water temps, Occasional windy days
Spring brings bright light, fresh breezes, and fewer crowds. Expect comfortable sailing and bracing-but-pleasant swims.
summer
Best for: Warm, clear water, Long swim stops
Challenges: Strong meltemi winds, High UV and crowds
High season delivers hot sun and vivid water clarity. Book early, hydrate, and plan for breezy afternoons.
fall
Best for: Warm sea temps, Softer light for photography
Challenges: Shorter days, Occasional showers
September–October offer sweet-spot conditions: fewer people, mellow winds, and water still warm from summer.
winter
Best for: Empty horizons, Cool, dramatic skies
Challenges: Limited tour availability, Choppy seas and cool temps
Winter operations are limited and weather-dependent. If available, expect brisk sailing and minimal crowds.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Reef-safe Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects your skin and helps keep marine life and water quality healthy.
Wide-brim Hat with Chin StrapEssential
Shields face and neck while staying put when the meltemi kicks up.
Lightweight Long-sleeve Sun Shirt
Adds sun protection without overheating and dries quickly after swims.
Compact Dry Bag (5–10L)
Keeps phone, camera, and wallet dry during boarding, spray, and swim stops.
Common Questions
Do I need to be an experienced swimmer?
No. Swim stops are in sheltered coves, and you can stay close to the boat. A basic level of comfort in open water is recommended; ask the crew for a float if needed.
Is the Delos archaeological site entrance fee included?
No, site and museum tickets are purchased separately on Delos. Bring euros and allow time to explore before reboarding.
What should I wear on the boat?
Wear a swimsuit under light, breathable layers, plus a hat and sunglasses. Deck-friendly sandals or barefoot are best on board.
Will the tour run in strong winds?
Sailings operate weather-permitting. The crew monitors the meltemi; routes or timings may adjust for safety and comfort.
Are food and drinks provided?
Yes. Expect a buffet of Greek specialties with complimentary wine and soft drinks. Dietary requests should be shared in advance when booking.
Can children join this cruise?
Yes. This is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, though guardians should supervise kids during swim stops and while moving around the boat.
What to Pack
Swimsuit and quick-dry layers for seamless swim stops; reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the sea; compact dry bag for phone, camera, and cash; hat and polarized sunglasses for glare and UV protection.
Did You Know
Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized as the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and was a major commercial and religious center of the ancient Aegean world.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 20 minutes early to check in and get settled on deck; bring euros for Delos tickets and any on-island purchases; hydrating before boarding helps with sun and wind exposure; if sensitive to motion, take non-drowsy sea-sickness medication 30–60 minutes before departure.
Local Flavor
After docking, wander to Mykonos Town’s Old Port for seafood and ouzo at a waterfront taverna, or tuck into meze and a cold beer in Little Venice at sunset. For a quick bite before or after sailing, local bakeries near the port serve excellent spinach pies and sesame koulouri that travel well on the boat.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Mykonos (JMK), 10–15 minutes by taxi from the New Port at Tourlos. Meeting point: Marina’s Office, Tourlos. Driving: ~2.5 km/10 minutes from Mykonos Town. Cell service: Good near shore; spotty while anchored in remote coves. Permits: No permits needed for the cruise; Delos archaeological site entry ticket is purchased separately on the island.
Sustainability Note
Delos and Rhenia are fragile maritime and cultural landscapes—pack out everything, don’t remove stones or artifacts, avoid anchoring or standing on seagrass, and choose mineral, reef-safe sunscreen to limit chemical impact.
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