Uninhabited Delos: The Unforgettable Gem of a Greek Island Cruise
From cultural immersion to culinary delights, a Greek island cruise provides ample opportunities to entertain and enrich passengers, as noted by Marc Shoffman. In the summer, he embarked on a journey through the Cyclades, visiting eight distinct Greek island destinations over six sun-drenched weeks with Star Clippers and Royal Caribbean.
During this adventure, he navigated crowds of Instagram enthusiasts for the perfect shot in front of Santorini's iconic blue domes, admired the classic white windmills of Mykonos, and enjoyed a horse-drawn carriage ride through the car-free, 18th-century streets of Spetses. He also sailed back in time surrounded by dolphins, explored the sacred caves and chapels of Patmos and Amorgos linked to John and the Virgin Mary, and swam in the pristine waters of Rhodes and Argostoli.
The Standout Island: Delos
While all these experiences were remarkable, the island that left a lasting impression was Delos, a place with no permanent residents. Located just a half-hour ferry ride from Mykonos, Delos offers a stark contrast to the bustling party atmosphere of its neighbour. Ferries operate four times daily from April to November, yet the island remains surprisingly uncrowded, even when multiple cruise ships are in port.
As a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, Delos has a population of zero, with only occasional workers present for archaeological excavations. This absence of inhabitants means no souvenir shops, restaurants, or typical tourist amenities—only a vending machine for water is available on the island. Visitors are advised to bring snacks and drinks from the ferry, which offers cold beer and ice cream.
Ancient Wonders and Historical Significance
Dating back to the third century BC, Delos was once the vibrant heart of ancient Greece, believed by Homer to be the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis. It served as a major religious centre and later a crucial commercial port under Roman rule, until attacks in 88 and 69 BC led to its abandonment.
Approaching by ferry, the island initially appears as a pile of rubble, with the pier itself constructed from excavation debris. However, upon closer inspection, the well-preserved ruins reveal a recently discovered archaeological treasure, with excavations beginning only in 1872, compared to Pompeii's start in 1748.
Key landmarks include the sun-bleached Agora of the Competaliasts, an ancient marketplace centred around a memorial to Hermes, and the ruins of four Eurasian lion statues that once guarded shrines to Apollo and Artemis. Pristine mosaic floors, towering marble columns, and the Ancient Theatre of Delos, with a capacity of 6,000, further illustrate the island's historical wealth and significance.
Preservation and Future Challenges
The Archaeological Museum of Delos houses many discovered relics, such as additional lion remains and an ancient Greek mural depicting a boxing match from around 100 BC. Despite these findings, much of the island remains unexcavated, with thousands of years of history still hidden.
A study by geoscientist Enes Zengin warns that rising sea levels due to climate change could submerge much of Delos within decades, posing a threat to future discoveries. As more is unearthed, there is hope that nature and perhaps the gods will ensure its preservation for generations to come.
How to Visit Delos
Cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Star Clippers offer excursions to Delos as part of Greek island itineraries, often during stops in Mykonos. While ferries are available from Paros and Naxos, the journey can take up to two hours, making Mykonos the most convenient departure point.
A cruise ship excursion typically costs between £80 and £100 per person, including round-trip ferry and a guided tour. For independent travellers, a return ferry from Mykonos costs £25, with an additional £10 ticket to explore the island.
