From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Trip

Travelers looking for a full-day adventure in the Cyclades often consider combining iconic islands like Delos and Mykonos. This tour, offered by Cycladic Cruises, promises a scenic cruise, archaeological wonders, and the lively streets of Mykonos—all wrapped into one 10-hour package. We’ve gathered insights from reviews, official info, and the general vibe of this experience to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to visit Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site with incredible ruins and fascinating history. Second, the opportunity to explore Mykonos Town, with its scenic alleys and famous windmills. Third, the fun and relaxed cruise aboard a modern, air-conditioned catamaran that makes the journey comfortable.

However, a key consideration is the seasickness risk, as some reviews report rough conditions, especially in windy weather. If you’re prone to motion sickness, this could be a challenge, and you might want to prepare accordingly.

This tour works best for travelers eager to combine history, scenic vistas, and island charm into a single day without overextending their schedule. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure, with a flexible approach to exploring on your own.

Good To Know

• Historical significance: Visit Delos, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.
• Scenic cruise: Enjoy a comfortable ride through the Cyclades in a modern catamaran.
• Flexible exploration: Free time in Mykonos allows for shopping, dining, and wandering.
• Waterproof planning: Prepare for sun and possible rough seas—bring water, hat, and sunblock.
• Cost vs. value: The $83 price includes the boat trip, access to Delos, and time in Mykonos, but extra expenses like food and entry fees aren’t included.
• Mixed reviews on weather: Windy days can make the experience uncomfortable or even challenging, so check the forecast before booking.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary – What to Expect

The day begins early, with travelers gathering at the designated meeting point where the big catamaran of Cycladic Cruises awaits. The boat is modern, spacious, and equipped with a bar, making the 1.5-hour cruise from Naxos to Delos quite pleasant under normal conditions.

First stop: Delos Island

Arriving at Delos marks one of the highlights of this trip. Known as a sacred island and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Delos was once the religious hub of ancient Greece. Expect to walk through remnants of ancient Greek and Roman mansions, temples, and mosaics that tell stories of a bygone era. Most visitors spend around 3 hours here, which is enough to see the major monuments and soak in the atmosphere.

The cost of entry is paid on-site, and some travelers opt for guided tours—these can offer deeper insights, but many enjoy wandering independently. A reviewer noted, “There is no shade except at the museum, so bring water, a hat, and sunscreen.” The site’s open-air nature means sun protection is a must, especially during summer.

Second stop: Mykonos Town

After about 15 minutes of cruising, the boat arrives at Mykonos. Here, you’ll have roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes to explore at your own pace. The narrow streets of Mykonos Town are packed with charming cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. The famous windmills and Little Venice are iconic sights that provide fantastic photo opportunities and a true sense of Cycladic charm.

Many reviews mention taking a picnic onboard between Delos and Mykonos, which can be a relaxed way to enjoy the day. The free time allows for a leisurely lunch, shopping, or simply people-watching from a sidewalk cafe.

Return journey

In the evening, the boat departs back to Naxos, with a cruise duration of about 1.5 hours. The route offers views of the setting sun and the islands’ coastlines, making it a peaceful end to a busy day.

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Practical Details – What You Need to Know

Transportation and Duration

The tour starts early, with check-in at the meeting point for the catamaran. The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, with the boat trips totaling around 4.5 hours. The included transfers are on your own, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on time.

Price and Value

Costing $83 per person, this tour packs in the cruise, Delos entry, and time in Mykonos. Reviewers feel it offers good value for money, especially considering the scenic cruise and access to major sites. Additional costs include food, drinks (which are not included onboard), and the Delos entrance fee.

Group Size and Comfort

While specific group sizes aren’t listed, the modern catamaran’s spacious layout suggests a comfortable experience even on windy days. The boat is equipped with a bar, so you can purchase refreshments, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Weather and Seasickness

Reviews highlight that rough seas and wind can significantly impact the experience. It’s essential to check the weather forecast and prepare for potential discomfort, especially if you’re prone to seasickness. Some guests have described the trip as traumatic in windy conditions, with crew members sometimes unhelpful or lacking in English, which can add to frustration.

Tips for Travelers

• Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen—there’s little shade at Delos.
• Consider taking motion sickness tablets if you’re sensitive to rough seas.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven archaeological surfaces.
• Allocate extra funds if you wish to join guided tours or purchase souvenirs.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

One traveler from the UK shared, “We took a picnic and enjoyed it on the boat between Delos and Mykonos,” emphasizing the relaxed pace. Conversely, some experienced windy, rough conditions that marred their day: “People started throwing up… the crew didn’t warn us and kept going at high speed,” described a Portuguese guest. This illustrates that weather can profoundly affect the trip, so flexibility and preparation are key.

Another reviewer commented, “Mykonos was very crowded with three cruise ships in port,” which is common during peak seasons. If avoiding crowds is a priority, visiting outside of peak months might provide a better experience.

The Sum Up – Is this tour right for you?

This full-day trip offers a wonderful balance of cultural exploration and scenic cruising, making it suitable for travelers who want to experience iconic Greek islands without the hassle of planning multiple separate tours. The Delos archaeological site provides a glimpse into ancient Greece’s religious and social life, while Mykonos Town offers a lively, picturesque setting perfect for wandering and soaking up local atmosphere.

If you’re after a value-packed day, with good opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and relaxing onboard, this tour fits the bill. Just be aware of the weather conditions, as windy days can turn the experience less enjoyable or even uncomfortable. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability at sea.

For those prioritizing comfortable, smooth sailing and detailed guided tours, some reviews suggest considering alternatives, especially on windier days. But if you’re ready for a day mixing history, island charm, and a scenic cruise, this trip can be a highlight of your Naxos adventure.

FAQ – Practical Questions Answered

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat trip, bar onboard, visit to Delos archaeological site, and free time in Mykonos.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can purchase refreshments on the boat, or bring your own picnic.

How long is the boat ride?
The total boat journey is about 3 hours, split into two trips—1.5 hours each way.

How much time do I spend on Delos?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours to explore the archaeological site and enjoy the ruins.

What about visiting Mykonos?
The free time in Mykonos is around 3 hours and 15 minutes, enough for sightseeing, shopping, and grabbing a bite.

Is there a guided tour at Delos?
Guided tours are optional, but some travelers prefer to explore independently, paying the entrance fee on-site.

What should I bring?
Bring water, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.

What if the weather is windy or rough?
Seas can be challenging; check the forecast and consider motion sickness remedies. Some reviews report uncomfortable experiences during windy days.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate walking and sea conditions suggest it’s suitable for older children. Always check with the provider if unsure.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on this popular tour.

This full-day adventure from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos provides a compact but enriching experience, blending history, island charm, and scenic cruising—perfect for those looking to make the most of their Cyclades visit with minimal fuss. Just pack wisely and prepare for weather variability, and you should have a memorable day exploring some of Greece’s most famous sights.

You can check if your dates are available here: