Chania: Private Cruise with Sup Food & Unlimited Drinks

Taking a boat tour along Crete’s coast sounds like the ultimate way to soak up the island’s beauty, and from what we’ve seen, the Private Cruise with SUP Food & Unlimited Drinks offered by Perseus Sailing Cruises hits many of the right notes. Whether you’re seeking secluded beaches, relaxing with a glass of local wine, or trying your hand at paddleboarding, this experience promises a flexible and personalized adventure on the water.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its small group setting, which ensures a laid-back atmosphere, attentive service, and a chance to truly connect with the surroundings. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and a delicious meal makes it both fun and filling. Of course, no experience is perfect — some travelers might find the longer durations a bit tiring or wish for more precise itinerary details. Still, this tour seems ideal for those craving a private, flexible day out with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

If you’re someone who loves customizable trips, appreciates local flavors, and wants a less crowded experience at Crete’s gorgeous beaches, this cruise could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, special events like weddings, or anyone wanting to escape the busy tourist spots for a day on the water.

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Key Points

Private, personalized experience with flexible durations from 4 to 10 hours
Includes food, drinks, SUP, snorkeling, and fishing for a full day of fun
Small group size (up to 10 guests) ensures intimacy and attentive service
Visits secluded beaches and historic sights, away from crowds
Perfect for special occasions like weddings, birthdays, and bachelor parties
Expert guides and friendly crew who prioritize your comfort and safety

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

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Booking and Overall Setup

This tour is run by Perseus Sailing Cruises, a reputable provider with glowing reviews and a 4.7-star rating from 31 travelers. What’s notable is that you book a private group, meaning you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, and you can tailor the experience to your preferences. The tours are flexible in length—ranging from as short as 4 hours to a full 10-hour day, giving you flexibility based on your schedule and energy levels.

The cost includes everything: skipper, port fees, fuel, hostess, guide, snorkeling masks, SUP boards, music, and unlimited drinks—beer, Cretan wine, raki, and soft drinks—as well as a delicious onboard meal with regional flavors and fresh fruits. You just need to bring your sense of adventure, sun protection, and some essentials like a towel and comfortable shoes.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at the Perseus Sailing Cruises dock at Souda port. From here, the boat departs to explore Crete’s coastline, offering a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and sightseeing. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose your start time based on availability, and there’s no need to worry about ticket lines or overcrowded groups.

Itinerary Breakdown

The itinerary is not rigid, allowing the captain to select the best spots based on weather and your preferences. The tour often visits highlights such as Marathi Bay, Seitan Limani, and other beaches only accessible by boat. Since the guide can take you to hidden coves and less touristy spots, you’re more likely to enjoy peace, privacy, and authentic scenery.

Stop 1: Departure from Souda. Expect a warm welcome from the crew, a safety briefing, and some refreshing drinks before setting sail.

Stop 2: Scenic cruising and snorkeling. The boat glides along the coast with views of the fortress on the hill and the White Mountains. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can explore the underwater world in crystal-clear waters that reviewers rave about, noting how beautiful and peaceful these spots are.

Stop 3: Marathi Bay and nearby beaches. This is often a favorite for its unspoiled beauty. Reviewers like Samantha mention that the spots visited are “simply magical,” perfect for photos and relaxed swims. The boat often stays here for about two hours, giving plenty of time to explore or just soak up the sun.

Stop 4: Kalami and surroundings. A quick scenic stop for photos and a chance to appreciate the spectacular coastline. According to reviews, this area offers brief but memorable vistas.

Stop 5: Scenic drive and lunch. Midday, you’ll enjoy a hearty, regional meal onboard—Greek appetizers, fruits, and plenty of drinks. Many reviews emphasize how plentiful and tasty the onboard food is. Vince fondly recalls that Christina, the friendly hostess, makes sure everyone is well-fed and hydrated, while John, the captain, keeps the boat steady and the journey smooth.

Stop 6: Final swimming, relaxing, and sunset. As the day winds down, you might be lucky enough to catch the sunset. The crew can arrange special decorations for celebrations like birthdays or weddings, adding a memorable touch.

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What Sets This Tour Apart

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Personalized and Flexible

Unlike large group excursions, this private cruise allows you to decide how long to stay at each location and what activities to prioritize. Whether you prefer a lot of swimming, a leisurely meal, or just relaxing on deck with a drink, it’s all up to you.

Authentic Local Flavors

The onboard food and drinks highlight authentic Cretan cuisine and beverages, including regional wine and raki. The reviews mention how plentiful and tasty the meals are, adding a layer of local culture to the experience.

Expert Crew and Guides

Guests frequently praise the crew, especially guides like Christina and captain John, for their attentiveness and friendliness. Reviewers note that they went out of their way to accommodate special requests and ensure everyone had a memorable day.

Stunning Yet Secluded Spots

The tour’s ability to take you to beaches like Seitan Limani, which are hard to access from land, means fewer crowds and more authentic experiences. The scenery includes dramatic cliffs, historic fortresses, and uninhabited islands, making for incredible photo opportunities.

Good Value for Money

Considering all inclusions—meals, drinks, SUP, snorkeling gear, and private service—this cruise offers strong value. Many reviewers comment that it’s far better than crowded group tours and worth the extra investment for a more intimate experience.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Duration flexibility is a big plus, but longer cruises mean more time on the water, which can be tiring for some. Assess your energy levels beforehand.
Bring essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a towel, since most of the day is spent outdoors.
No hotel pickup is included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point at Perseus Sailing Cruises.
Towels are not provided by the tour, so bring your own if you plan to swim.
Children and non-swimmers should inform the crew beforehand, as the boat’s activities involve swimming and snorkeling.
Private decorations and special event arrangements are available upon request, making it a perfect choice for celebrations.
Weather conditions can impact the experience—choppy waters might lead to rescheduling, so it’s good to be flexible.
Cost considerations: While not explicitly priced here, reviews suggest that the experience offers excellent value compared to larger, less personal tours.

The Sum Up

This private cruise from Chania offers a beautifully balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor. The small group size and personalized approach make for a memorable day, whether you’re exploring secluded beaches, snorkeling in clear waters, or simply enjoying great food and drinks. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or celebrations seeking a more exclusive experience away from the crowds.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic Greek cuisine creates a genuine and enjoyable atmosphere. If you’re after a laid-back yet adventurous day on Crete’s coast, this tour ticks many of the right boxes—just be ready for a day that might make you wish the trip lasted longer.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
You can choose between 4 to 10 hours depending on availability and your preferences.

Are meals included?
Yes, regional Greek appetizers, fruits, and onboard meals are included, along with unlimited drinks like wine, beer, and raki.

What activities are available?
Snorkeling, SUP paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, and relaxing on deck are all part of the experience.

Is this tour private?
Yes, you book a private group, which ensures personalized service and a more intimate atmosphere.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but check with the crew about swimming or snorkeling with children.

Do I need to bring my own towels or sunscreen?
Towels are not provided, so bring your own. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are recommended for sun protection.

Can I celebrate a special occasion on the boat?
Absolutely, the crew can add decorations for weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations upon request.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes suitable for the sun and water activities. Shoes should be non-slip and suitable for deck walking.

Is there a dress code?
No strict dress code; casual and beachwear are perfect.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour may be rescheduled or canceled if weather conditions are unsafe; flexibility is advised.

Are there any hidden costs?
All major costs, including food, drinks, equipment, and guide services, are included in the price.

This private boat cruise offers a taste of Crete’s natural beauty with the comfort of personalized service. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, it’s a flexible choice that delivers authentic experiences in a stunning setting.