Mykonos: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and Transfer

The best part of this cruise is the long stop at a quiet Rhenia cove, where you can swim in clear water while the crew prepares lunch onboard. You pass Delos for photos, then spend far more time in the water than on sightseeing commentary. Rhenia is the real star, especially on a warm, calm day.

I like the generous food and drinks, and I like the small-group feel reported on many departures, with some boats carrying only 7 to 15 people. Crew members such as Dimitris, Iliana, Margarita, Chris, and Nikos have been singled out for warm service. The main drawback is that this is not a true sailing trip every minute. The catamaran may run under motor, and strong wind can change the route.

Key points to know before booking

• Rhenia gets about two hours: Swim, snorkel, use the SUP, or relax while lunch is prepared.
• Delos is a photo stop only: You will not go ashore or visit the archaeological site.
• Lunch is a full Greek spread: Seafood pasta, meat, vegetarian choices, seasonal fruit, bread, and drinks are included.
• The boat has useful extras: Snorkeling gear, a SUP, Bluetooth music, a bathroom, and fuel are covered.
• Weather controls the route: On windy days, the captain may choose a protected cove along Mykonos instead.
• The $123 price includes plenty: At five hours, with transport available, food, drinks, equipment, and fuel, the cost can be good value for a relaxed day at sea.

What this Mykonos catamaran cruise is really about

This is a swimming and social boat trip first, and a sightseeing trip second. You leave Mykonos by catamaran, pass near Delos, anchor off Rhenia, eat a meal on the boat, and return with views of Mykonos Town, the windmills, and possibly the sunset.

That distinction matters. If you want to walk among Delos temples, this is the wrong outing. If you want a simple way to trade Mykonos crowds for open water, lunch, music, and a long swim, it fits very well.

The cruise lasts about five hours. Depending on the departure selected, you may be collected from your hotel, or you may meet the base manager outside Mathios Tavern by 8:30 in the morning. Hotel pickup requires you to wait in the lobby 10 minutes early, and the driver will wait no longer than 15 minutes after the agreed time.

Leaving Mykonos by catamaran

After a short van ride, you meet the skipper and crew at the boat. A safety briefing and welcome refreshments take about 15 minutes, then you settle into a seat on the modern catamaran.

The early part of the trip gives you broad views of Mykonos as the boat pulls away. White houses, the shoreline, and the Aegean horizon replace the tight streets and busy beach roads. This is a good time for photographs, though keep your hat and sunglasses secure if the wind picks up.

The boat includes a Bluetooth speaker, so the mood can be lively without being formal. The crew also serves homemade rosé, along with beer, soft drinks, and water. Several departures have had a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, with people from different countries sharing the boat and getting to know one another.

The group size can make a big difference. Some trips have carried only around 10 or 12 people, while another listed departure had 15. That leaves more room to stretch out than you would get on a large excursion boat, but the exact number is worth confirming when you book.

Passing Delos without going ashore

The route crosses the northern part of Mykonos toward Delos. You pass the island and stop for photographs from the boat, with about an hour and a half allocated to this general part of the journey, including sailing and sightseeing.

Delos is one of the Aegean’s most important ancient sites, but this cruise does not include a landing, guided walk, or entrance ticket. You cannot hike through the ruins as part of this experience. Think of Delos as a striking view from the water rather than the main event.

That arrangement works well if you have already visited Delos, have limited time, or mainly want a sea day. It will disappoint you if ancient sites are your main reason for booking. For a proper Delos visit, plan a separate excursion.

The crew may share information about Delos, Rhenia, Mykonos, and local history during the ride. Names noted for warm hosting and helpful commentary include Margarita, Chris, Kostas, and Dimitris, though the exact crew varies by departure.

Two hours at a Rhenia cove

The catamaran then heads to Rhenia, a smaller island near Delos. The boat anchors in a cove with clear turquoise water, and this is where the schedule opens up.

You can swim directly from the boat, snorkel with the provided equipment, use the SUP, or simply sit in the sun. Pool noodles and other floatation aids have also been available on some trips. Bring your own towel, since towels are not included.

The water is the main attraction. It is clear enough for pleasant snorkeling, though you should not expect a major reef or a large variety of fish. The appeal is the clean, open swimming area and the chance to get away from the packed beaches of Mykonos.

You may also have time to step ashore or swim toward land, depending on the anchorage and conditions. The experience is built around relaxing, not a demanding water-sports program. If you want long periods of activity, two hours may feel short. If you prefer a leisurely swim followed by lunch and a drink, the timing is comfortable.

Wind makes a real difference here. On rough days, the captain may skip the original route or choose a calmer cove along Mykonos’ south coast. That can mean missing the planned view of Rhenia, but it is a sensible safety choice. One reported windy trip moved to a protected cove and still allowed time for swimming and snorkeling.

Lunch served on the boat

While you swim, the crew prepares lunch onboard. The meal is described as a traditional Greek spread with seafood pasta, meat, vegetarian choices, seasonal fruit, and other accompaniments. Specific meals have included shrimp pasta, lamb, salad, bread, and wine.

This is more substantial than the usual boat-trip snack. You can expect a proper sit-down meal after the water stop, with the crew serving food and keeping drinks available. Homemade rosé is included, along with beer, soft drinks, and water.

I like this setup because lunch comes at the right point in the day. You swim first, then eat while the boat begins its return. It also means you do not lose part of your shore time searching for a taverna or waiting for a table.

Food quality can never be guaranteed to suit every taste, and the menu may change with the day’s provisions. Still, meat and vegetarian choices make the meal easier for mixed groups. If you have a strict dietary need, ask before booking rather than relying on the standard menu.

The crew is a major part of the meal. Dimitris, Iliana, Nikos, Chris, and other hosts have been praised for checking on people, offering drinks, and adjusting the experience to the group. The service is informal rather than restaurant-style, which suits the easygoing mood.

The ride back to Mykonos

After lunch, the catamaran turns toward Mykonos. The return is another chance to sit on deck, listen to music, take photographs, or continue chatting with the people around you.

The route may include views of Mykonos Town and the famous windmills. If you choose a sunset departure, the return can line up with the sun dropping over the horizon. Sunset light is especially good for photographs of the coastline, though the exact view depends on the date, weather, and route.

You should also know that the boat may not sail under canvas for the whole outing. One passenger found the trip worthwhile but noted that the catamaran operated under motor rather than relying on its sails. If you picture a quiet, wind-powered sailing lesson, adjust your expectations. This is a catamaran cruise with sailing scenery, swimming, lunch, and motorized travel as needed.

The final van transfer takes about 20 minutes when included. Drop-off may be available at Mykonos, Mikonos, or Mathios Tavern, depending on the selected option.

Is $123 a good value?

At $123 per person, the cruise is not the cheapest way to reach the water around Mykonos. You are paying for a five-hour experience that combines transport, crew, fuel, food, drinks, equipment, and a swimming stop.

The value improves if you would otherwise pay separately for a beach transfer, lunch, drinks, and water equipment. Snorkeling gear and a SUP are included, and you do not need to organize your own route to Rhenia. The included homemade wine also makes the price feel more reasonable for adults who plan to enjoy the social side of the trip.

The cost is less attractive if you want serious sightseeing. Since you do not visit Delos ashore, much of the value comes from the boat time and the relaxed meal. A history-focused visitor may get more from a separate Delos excursion and a public beach day.

Group size is another value point. A smaller boat can make the price worthwhile because you have more personal space and easier access to the crew. Ask about the expected number of people if that matters to you, since the group is not fixed at one published size.

Who will enjoy this trip most

I would choose this cruise for couples, friends, solo visitors who enjoy meeting people, and families with older children. One departure included children aged 8 and 10, and the crew adjusted well to a rough-weather day. The atmosphere is not described as adults-only, but there is wine, music, and a social tone.

It is also a good choice if you want a break from Mykonos’ crowded beaches. The trip gives you a full half-day outside town without requiring you to plan several separate activities.

You should think twice if you have a mobility impairment, since the activity is not suitable for people with mobility limitations. Boarding, moving around the catamaran, swimming from the boat, and using a van transfer can all be awkward.

It is also a poor fit if you dislike open water, get seasick easily, or want a tightly scheduled sightseeing tour. Wind can make the crossing choppy. The crew has provided Dramamine to some people, but you should bring any medication you normally need and speak with a medical professional if seasickness is a concern.

Practical ways to enjoy the five hours

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera. The boat provides snorkeling equipment and a SUP, but towels are specifically not included.

Use sunscreen before boarding and keep reapplying. You will spend a long stretch exposed to sun and reflected light from the sea, even if you choose to sit in a shaded area.

Wear something easy to move in. You may be climbing aboard, walking on a wet deck, or stepping into the water from the boat. The supplied information does not promise beach time on every departure, so do not pack as if you are guaranteed a long walk ashore.

If you want a quieter experience, ask about morning versus sunset options. Sunset adds beautiful light, but a daytime departure may give you stronger swimming conditions and clearer views. Starting times vary, so check the schedule for your date.

The cancellation policy is friendly: you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund. You can also reserve and pay later, which helps if wind conditions or your Mykonos plans are still uncertain.

Should you book this Mykonos boat trip?

Book it if you want a relaxed sea day with a long swim, generous lunch, drinks, and friendly crew service. The strongest reasons are the Rhenia stop, the food, and the chance to see Mykonos from the water without arranging the pieces yourself.

Do not book it as your Delos archaeological tour, and do not expect constant sail power. The route may change in strong wind, and rough water can affect the ride.

For most visitors who want five easy hours away from town, $123 is a fair package price. I would especially consider it early in a Mykonos stay, giving you a pleasant day at sea while leaving other days for beaches, Delos on foot, and the old town.

FAQ

Does the cruise visit Delos Island?

No. The catamaran passes by Delos and stops for photographs from the water. You do not go ashore or hike around the archaeological site.

How long does the catamaran cruise last?

The activity lasts about five hours. The schedule includes a short transfer when pickup is selected, a stop near Delos, about two hours at Rhenia, and the return to Mykonos.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is prepared and served onboard. It includes seafood pasta, meat, vegetarian options, seasonal fruit, and other traditional meal items. Drinks include homemade rosé wine, beer, soft drinks, and water.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling gear and a SUP are included. Towels are not included, so bring your own.

Can the route change because of wind?

Yes. The captain can change the itinerary when wind or sea conditions are not suitable. A common alternative is a route along Mykonos’ south coast with a stop at a protected cove.

Is hotel pickup available?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option. You should wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before pickup, and the driver will wait no longer than 15 minutes after the scheduled time.