Mykonos: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and Transfer

A good sea day beats another bar crawl. This half-day catamaran outing mixes Delos views from the water with a proper swim stop at Rhenia, plus lunch and drinks onboard. It’s a simple plan that still feels like you visited more than one place.

I like two things most: the Rhenia cove time (swim, snorkel, even SUP) and the fact that lunch and homemade rosé show up right when you’re ready for a break. You’ll also get a calm, guided flow to the trip, with crew members helping you settle in.

One consideration: if the wind is up, the captain can change the route, and you may end up spending more time on safer shoreline spots instead of the exact plan you pictured. Also, this tour isn’t set up for mobility impairments, and you’ll want your swim stuff ready since towels aren’t included.

Key highlights you’ll actually feel

• Rhenia cove swim window with swimming and snorkeling time, plus free time to lounge
• Unlimited homemade rosé (and plenty of drinks during the day) paired with a traditional meal
• Snorkeling gear and SUP provided onboard, so you’re not hunting for rentals
• Delos photo stop from the sea (you won’t hike or step onto the island)
• Small-group vibe you can feel right away once you’re on board
• Route tweaks when conditions change, with an alternate sailing plan if needed

Why this Mykonos catamaran feels different from a typical boat tour

This cruise is built around one key idea: you don’t just look at the Aegean—you spend time in it. You get that classic Delos “from the water” moment, then the schedule shifts into beach-life mode at Rhenia with a long enough break to swim and snack like you mean it.

I also like that the pace is practical. You spend real time anchored, then you’re back in Mykonos territory while the ride still feels relaxed. And with a Bluetooth speaker onboard and a crew that keeps things moving, it doesn’t drag.

Getting on board: transfers, safety briefing, and who welcomes you

Pickup is either optional or you meet at the base. If you choose hotel pickup, you wait in the lobby about 10 minutes before your scheduled time, and drivers won’t wait more than 15 minutes after that. The van ride is short—around 15–20 minutes—so you’re not burning half your day just to reach the harbor.

Before you sail, there’s a safety briefing and welcome refreshments. In the crew, you might run into English-speaking hosts such as Iliana and Dmitris (names that show up often in bookings). The vibe tends to be friendly and hands-on—people mention being looked after, with the crew checking in when they had questions or needed something.

One small note that matters: this is a group cruise, so you’ll want to be on time and ready to board when they call names. It keeps the day smooth for everyone.

Delos from the water: what you see without the hike

Delos is one of Greece’s famous island names, and on this trip you’ll get it the easy way. You pass by Delos and get a photo stop, plus sightseeing while the boat positions for good views.

Important: you won’t go onto Delos Island. There’s no hike included, and the focus is strictly visual—photos from the sea, not walking ruins. If you’re hoping for an archaeological stroll, this isn’t the right match. If you just want the wow-factor views without logistics and stairs, it’s a smart way to include Delos in a half-day schedule.

You usually get about 1.5 hours around the Delos portion of the day (including passing by and the photo time). That’s enough to feel like you “hit” Delos, even without stepping foot there.

Rhenia Island cove time: swimming, snorkeling, and SUP in real turquoise

Rhenia is where this cruise turns from sightseeing into a beach day. The boat drops anchor in a small cove with clear, turquoise water, and you get a two-hour break that’s long enough to do more than a quick dip.

What makes this stop work well is the variety:

• You can swim right from the boat
• You can snorkel using the provided gear
• You can lounge and just take in the view
• You can try SUP (stand-up paddleboard), since it’s included

Even the snorkeling part is set up for comfort. Many people mention that they had the gear ready and that the team was attentive and helpful in the water. Also, one review specifically points out that the cove can be great for swimming when conditions make other parts of the route less comfortable.

If the sea is choppy or wind is strong, the captain may adjust the plan to keep you safe and comfortable. On rougher days, that can mean less time “out there,” but usually it results in the kind of protected cove where swimming still feels good.

Lunch and drinks: homemade rosé plus a meal that doesn’t feel like an afterthought

This is not one of those tours where lunch is a sad roll and a sip of something. The onboard meal is a fresh traditional menu with seafood pasta, meat, and vegetarian options, plus seasonal fruit.

The drinks are a big part of why people rate this so highly. You’ll have homemade rosé and you can expect unlimited wine during the sailing time. During the Rhenia portion, beer and wine come into the picture as well, and the crew generally keeps it flowing.

A few practical points that make the difference:

• You’ll eat while you’re still in a “vacation mode,” not at the end when everyone’s already exhausted.
• The crew tends to be attentive, so if you need a top-up or want to know what’s next, you can ask.
• There’s a Bluetooth speaker onboard, and you can pair the music with the sea time without it taking over the day.

One thing I appreciate: the meal is described as traditional and balanced, and the vegetarian option is explicitly mentioned. That matters on group days when you don’t want to guess what you’ll be able to eat.

The ride back: Mykonos views, windmills, and possible sunset magic

On the return, you’re not stuck staring at water for hours. You get photo moments around Mykonos, with the itinerary including a look back at the windmills and Mykonos town sights as you sail.

If you book the sunset version, the timing shifts to catch golden light. One review calls out sunset views as a highlight, and you can see why: the deck setup plus the slow glide back makes it feel like the day ends in the right place.

You’ll also get a final pass-by photo moment in the Mykonos area before the day wraps up. Then it’s back to land with a short van ride to drop-off points.

Group size and onboard comfort: the big reason ratings stay high

Catamaran cruises can feel crowded fast, especially in peak season. Here’s what I like about the setup based on feedback: groups are described as fairly small—often around 10–12 people on board, sometimes with up to about 15 depending on the departure.

That small group size changes the whole feel. People can actually spread out on the deck. Conversations happen naturally without you feeling shoulder-to-shoulder. And crew members can keep track of everyone, especially during water time.

Onboard extras that people consistently mention:

• Snorkeling gear is included
• SUP is included
• A Bluetooth speaker is available
• Music helps set a relaxed mood
• One review mentions there’s a bathroom onboard
• Some mention pool noodles too, which can help if you’re not confident in open-water swimming

One additional note from a review that I think you should know: a person pointed out that it’s not sail-only in the way some classic travelers imagine, since it can be powered more like a motorized catamaran. That won’t matter if your goal is comfort and swimming time. If you’re specifically chasing the sound and feel of pure sailing, you might want to consider that ahead of time.

Price and value: what $123 really buys you in Mykonos

At $123 per person for about 5 hours, you’re paying for three things that add real value in Mykonos:

1. Transportation convenience (optional hotel pickup and scheduled drop-off)
2. A true sea-based experience with a long swim stop, snorkeling gear, and SUP
3. Food and drinks included, including homemade rosé and a full traditional meal

If you try to recreate this on your own—boat rental or day tour plus a guided stop plus snorkeling gear plus a sit-down lunch—you’ll usually end up paying more. The “included” part is what makes this feel like a good deal rather than a pricey splurge.

That said, it’s not cheap by budget standards. So I’d choose it if you’re the type who will use the water time. If you’re more interested in strolling towns and shopping, you might prefer a land-based plan and skip the boat day.

What to bring (and what to skip) for an easy day at sea

The tour gives you a lot onboard, but you still need to handle your personal comfort.

Bring:

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• A camera
• (Most people should also plan on extra sunscreen)

What to know about missing items:

• Towels aren’t included, so pack one if you want a dry option after swimming.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s worth noting that at least one review mentions Dramamine was ready. Still, it’s smart to take your own precautions too, since sea conditions can vary.

A balanced check: who this works best for

This cruise fits best if you want:

• A break from Mykonos crowds
• Time in clear water
• A guided day that includes lunch and drinks
• A relaxed group vibe with enough space to enjoy the deck

It’s not a great match if you:

• Need mobility assistance or wheelchair-friendly routing (it’s listed as not suitable for mobility impairments)
• Are hoping to step onto Delos Island and explore ruins on foot
• Don’t like the idea of sea time or being out for about five hours

On windy days, the captain can adjust the plan for safety and comfort. That’s a plus, not a failure. It just means the exact scenic route might shift.

Should you book this Mykonos catamaran cruise?

If you’re choosing between a “see the coastline” boat trip and an actual swim-and-eat day, book it. The standout value is the combination: Rhenia’s cove time plus included snorkeling/SUP plus onboard lunch and homemade rosé. It’s the kind of half-day that feels like a real memory, not a checkmark.

I’d especially recommend it if you like the idea of small-group comfort and you want crew members like Dmitris and Iliana (or other English-speaking hosts you may meet) to help the day run smoothly. You’ll get the sea views, the Delos photo moment, and a proper break away from the busiest spots.

Skip it if Delos ruins on foot are your priority, or if you need accessibility support the boat can’t provide. Also, bring your towel and your sun protection—simple, but it prevents day-of stress.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the cruise?

Your base manager waits outside of Mathios tavern by 8:30 every day. If you choose pickup, you’ll be collected from hotels in Mykonos instead.

Do I get to go onto Delos Island?

No. Visitors will not go onto Delos Island. You’ll pass by and take photos from the boat.

How long do we spend swimming at Rhenia?

The tour includes a 2-hour swimming stop at Rhenia Island, with time to swim and snorkel.

What’s included in the lunch and drinks?

Lunch is a fresh traditional meal with seafood pasta, meat, and vegetarian options, plus seasonal fruits. Drinks include homemade rosé wine, and beer and wine are part of the onboard offerings during the day.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. Snorkeling gear is included, and you’ll have access to it during the Rhenia swimming stop.

Are SUP boards available?

Yes. SUP is included as part of the onboard activities during the anchored time at Rhenia.

Is hotel pickup available in Mykonos?

Pickup is optional from hotels in Mykonos. You should wait in the hotel lobby about 10 minutes before pickup, and drivers wait no longer than 15 minutes after the scheduled pickup time.

What happens if the weather is too windy or the sea conditions are rough?

The captain can modify the itinerary when wind and sea conditions don’t allow the original plan. If it’s too windy, the alternative sailing route may be along the south coast of Mykonos and include famous beaches and a protected cove away from crowds.

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments.