Setting Sail from Naxos

The Aegean Sea, with its azure waters and sun-drenched islands, has long been a siren call for those of us with a penchant for history and mythology. When I learned of the One Day Cruise from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. The prospect of exploring Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the mythological birthplace of Apollo, was particularly enticing. As a former professor of European history, the chance to walk among the ruins of such a storied place was a dream come true.

Our journey began early in the morning, setting sail from the port of Naxos. The ferry, though smaller than some of the larger vessels I’ve traveled on, was comfortable and offered fresh-squeezed orange juice—a delightful start to the day. I heeded the advice to bring snacks and water, a decision I was grateful for as the day unfolded. The anticipation built as we approached Delos, the island’s silhouette growing larger against the horizon.

Delos: A Step Back in Time

Upon arrival at Delos, we were greeted by our guide, whose knowledge and passion for the island’s history were immediately apparent. As we traversed the ancient ruins, I was struck by the sheer scale of the archaeological site. The temples of Apollo and Artemis stood as silent sentinels, whispering tales of a bygone era. The famous avenue of marble lions, though weathered by time, still exuded a sense of majesty.

Our guide’s engaging storytelling brought the ancient myths to life, capturing the attention of even the youngest members of our group. However, the two hours allotted for our exploration felt all too brief. There was so much more to see, and I found myself wishing for more time to delve deeper into the island’s secrets. The museum on Delos was closed, a minor disappointment, but the wealth of history surrounding us more than compensated for it.

Mykonos: A Taste of the Cosmopolitan

Leaving Delos behind, we set sail for Mykonos, a stark contrast to the ancient island we had just explored. Known for its cosmopolitan flair, Mykonos offered a different kind of charm. Our guide led us through the labyrinthine alleyways of Mykonos Town, where the whitewashed architecture gleamed under the midday sun. The famous “Little Venice” was a picturesque highlight, its colorful buildings perched precariously over the water.

One of the unexpected delights of our visit was meeting a local mosaicist. Her demonstration of the ancient art form was both fascinating and inspiring, a testament to the enduring cultural traditions of the island. As we wandered the town, I couldn’t help but reflect on the juxtaposition of ancient and modern, a theme that resonates throughout the Greek islands.

While the extra time on Mykonos was enjoyable, I shared the sentiment of others in our group who wished for more time on Delos. Nevertheless, the experience was enriching, and the insights provided by our guide were invaluable. As we sailed back to Naxos, the sun setting over the Aegean, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history.