From Rethymno: Souda Bay Boat Tour with Lake Kournas Stop

Experience the best of Crete on a full-day boat tour from Rethymno, combining the tranquility of Lake Kournas with an exhilarating mini cruise through Souda Bay. Whether you’re a nature lover, a sea enthusiast, or simply craving a relaxing day with stunning views, this tour offers a balanced mix of both. We appreciate that this experience showcases some of Crete’s most picturesque spots without rushing, all while offering opportunities for swimming, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the Mediterranean breeze.

What we like most about this tour is the chance to explore Crete’s only natural freshwater lake, where lush surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere. The 3-hour mini cruise around Souda Bay promises to reveal hidden beaches and rugged cliffs, perfect for those seeking a scenic boat ride. Plus, the included pick-up and drop-off make it a hassle-free way to enjoy Crete’s natural wonders.

A potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness, which is common with boat trips. Also, since meals and drinks aren’t included, you’ll want to plan for some snacks and sunscreen. This tour is ideal for active travelers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a taste of Crete’s diverse landscapes in one day.

This experience is best suited for visitors who enjoy scenic outdoor activities, tranquil lakeside moments, and coastal cruising. If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic way to see Crete’s natural beauty without overextending your schedule, this tour could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery at Lake Kournas, Crete’s only natural freshwater lake
• Scenic 3-hour mini cruise through Souda Bay, with opportunities to swim and spot wildlife
• Comfortable transportation with included pick-up and drop-off from Rethymno
• Ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquil lakeside moments and coastal views
• Not suitable for wheelchair users, people with back issues, or seasickness-prone travelers
• Cost-effective way to combine lake exploration and sea adventure in one day

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour begins with a convenient pick-up service right from Rethymno, making the logistics straightforward and stress-free. The 7-hour duration promises a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The Stop at Lake Kournas

The first major highlight is Lake Kournas, often called Crete’s ‘hidden gem.’ Surrounded by lush greenery and mountainous terrain, it’s a peaceful spot perfect for relaxing, paddling a pedal boat, or simply soaking up the sun and scenery. Reviewers mention that the calm, crystal-clear waters make this a great place for a peaceful break and some scenic photography. One visitor loved that the lake offers a chance to see local wildlife, adding an authentic touch to the experience.

The 1.5-hour stop here allows enough time to explore or unwind, though some travelers noted that a longer stay might be preferable if you’re keen on swimming or renting a pedal boat. Since rental of pedal boats isn’t included, you’ll want to bring your own or plan to purchase during the visit.

Transition to Souda Bay

After the lakeside stop, the tour continues with a scenic drive toward Souda Bay, famous for its rugged coastline and striking cliffs. The drive itself offers a taste of Crete’s verdant countryside and traditional villages, giving you a glimpse of local life.

The Mini Cruise in Souda Bay

Next up is the 3-hour boat trip through Souda Bay, one of the standout parts of this experience. The boat, operated by Allcretetours, is said to be comfortable and well-suited for sightseeing. During the cruise, you’ll have chances to spot hidden beaches, rugged cliffs, and panoramic coastal views — perfect for photography and appreciating Crete’s diverse seascape.

Travelers mention feeling the gentle sea breeze and basking in the Mediterranean sun, making this a truly relaxing experience. Some reviewers appreciated that the boat provided opportunities for swimming, with crystal-clear waters inviting dips along the way.

Those who’ve taken the tour say the captain and crew are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting tidbits about the coast and wildlife. The cruise’s pace is unhurried, giving ample opportunities for relaxation or snapping photos.

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Return and Reflection

After the cruise, the group heads back to Rethymno, with plenty of time to reflect on the natural beauty experienced throughout the day. Guests are usually pleased with the balance of activities, the scenic variety, and the overall value for money.

What to Expect: Practical Details

Transportation & Group Size: The tour includes a pick-up and drop-off service—an advantage for travelers staying in Rethymno, simplifying logistics. The group size tends to be moderate, fostering a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Timing & Duration: Starting times vary, so it’s essential to check availability. The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, which makes it suitable for a day trip without exhausting your schedule.

Cost & Value: While the tour doesn’t include meals or pedal boat rentals, the overall package offers good value considering transportation, guided commentary, and the boat trip. The chance to see Crete’s natural lakes and coast in one day is quite attractive for the price.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your camera. The weather can be hot and sunny, so preparation is key for enjoying swimming and sightseeing.

Restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, those with back problems, or anyone prone to seasickness. Smoking and eating/drinking are not permitted on the bus, but you can purchase refreshments during stops.

Authentic Experiences & Traveler Insights

Multiple reviews highlighted how stunning the views at Lake Kournas are — some describing it as a peaceful oasis that feels worlds away from busy city life. One reviewer noted that the lake offers an “ideal spot for relaxing and taking in Crete’s natural beauty,” emphasizing the tranquility of the setting.

Regarding the boat cruise, travelers consistently mention the scenic coastlines and hidden beaches that are only accessible by boat. The gentle pace and friendly crew make it a comfortable experience, even for those new to boat trips or prone to seasickness.

A few reviews mentioned that the crystal-clear waters make for excellent swimming during the cruise, with some even noting that the water’s quality exceeded expectations. The opportunity to dip in the Aegean Sea while surrounded by rugged cliffs and scenic landscapes elevates the entire experience.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Crete’s natural beauty. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine lakeside serenity with coastal adventure, all within a manageable timeframe. The flexibility of the itinerary, combined with stunning scenery and opportunities for swimming, makes it suitable for active couples, nature lovers, and families seeking a relaxed day out.

If you’re after a quiet spot to unwind and enjoy Crete’s lush landscapes, Lake Kournas delivers. Meanwhile, the Souda Bay cruise adds a splash of excitement and offers memorable coastal views that are hard to match from land. Just remember, if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider alternative options.

This tour balances beautiful scenery, light adventure, and practical comfort — a fantastic way to make the most of a day on Crete.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?

The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

• What is included in the tour?

The package includes pick-up and drop-off, a 1.5-hour stop at Lake Kournas, and a 3-hour mini cruise in Souda Bay, plus opportunities for swimming and relaxation.

• Are meals provided?

No, meals and drinks are not included, but you can buy refreshments during stops.

• Can I rent a pedal boat at Lake Kournas?

Pedal boat rentals are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to arrange this separately if interested.

• Is the tour suitable for children?

The tour is generally suitable for active travelers; however, it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

• Is snorkeling or swimming available?

Yes, during the cruise, you can swim in the clear waters along the coast.

• What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and your camera are recommended.

• Can I cancel the tour?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?

No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems.

• Are there any restrictions on smoking or eating?

Smoking and food or drink consumption are not permitted on the bus or boat.

This tour from Rethymno offers a balanced glimpse into Crete’s diverse natural landscapes, combining tranquil lakes and scenic coastlines with a relaxing boat cruise. Whether you’re seeking peace, adventure, or a mix of both, it provides a memorable day out that highlights the island’s best features.

You can check availability for your dates here: