Planning a trip to Crete and craving a fun-filled adventure on the sea? The Malia Booze Cruise offers exactly that—a lively, energetic party at sea with music, swimming, and plenty of drinks. While it may not be a pristine, quiet boat ride, it’s undoubtedly a memorable way to spend part of your holiday, especially if you love to dance and mingle.
What we particularly appreciate about this experience are three things: the vibrant atmosphere created by top-notch DJs, the beautiful swimming stops in the bay, and the inclusive vibe with games and free photos capturing the fun. The main consideration? The drinks at the bar can be quite pricey, so budgeting for beverages might be wise. This cruise is best suited for young travelers, party enthusiasts, or those young at heart wanting a high-energy, social day at sea.
Key Points
- Vibrant party atmosphere with live DJs and energetic MCs
- Multiple swim stops in scenic bays perfect for cooling off
- All-inclusive fun with games, lunch, and free photo coverage
- Transport from Malia included, making logistics easier
- Limited alcohol options on board and pricey drinks at the bar
- Four hours of nonstop entertainment with beautiful sunset views
An Overview of the Malia Booze Cruise
The Malia Booze Cruise is arguably the island’s most popular boat party, especially for those looking to combine sightseeing with classic party vibes. It departs from Agios Nicolaos port, with pick-up transportation from Malia at 15:00, lasting around 40 minutes before arriving at the port. The boat sets sail at 16:00 and returns by 20:00, giving you four hours of lively entertainment on two decks packed with around 400 party-goers.
This experience is hosted by THALIAS Travel, a provider with over a decade of hosting such events, which speaks to their experience and understanding of what makes a good party at sea. They offer a well-organized event with professional photographers on board, and the lively DJ lineup keeps the dance floor alive for the entire cruise.
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Detailed Breakdown of the Day
The Journey to the Port
Transportation from Malia is included, saving you the hassle of arranging your own transfer. The ride is about 40 minutes, and it’s a good chance to start soaking in the scenery or get hyped up for the party ahead. The Malia Booze Cruise office is conveniently located opposite Kaza Pub at the top of the street, where you’ll exchange your voucher for a ticket and receive your wristbands before departure.
Boarding and Initial Vibes
Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a vibrant scene: two decks, a busy onboard bar, and a crowd of mostly young, energetic people. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, with free wristbands helping everyone feel part of the crew. You’ll notice two bars offering drinks starting from around €5 for standard spirits and mixers, but some reviews note that drinks can be quite expensive—€6 for a 330ml Corona, for example.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Swim Stops and Bay Exploration
The boat anchors in a lush bay, chosen for its suitability for swimming, jumping, and playing music. This is the prime time for cooling off, with stops allowing plenty of time to splash around, jump from the boat, or simply sunbathe on deck. The bay’s scenery makes for excellent photos, especially with the professional cameraman capturing the fun.
Games and Activities
A highlight for many is the lineup of lively drinking games—although reviews mention some inconsistency with the entertainment quality. Expect champagne dives, belly flops, and competitive games designed to get everyone involved. The guide or MC, often lively and entertaining, keeps the energy high and the mood festive.
Music and Dancing
The DJs and MCs are the true stars of the cruise. They spin the best tunes throughout, making it impossible not to dance, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just there to have fun. In some reviews, the music at the start was a bit chaotic with frequent microphone interruptions, but by the last hour, the mood definitely picks up with good music and great drone shots.
Lunch and Refreshments
Lunch is included—choices are sandwiches, hot dogs, or vegetarian options, according to preferences. The quality is simple but sufficient to keep you energized for the dance floor. Drinks from the onboard bar are available throughout, but again, prices are high, so consider bringing some cash if you want extra drinks.
Sunset and Return
As the boat heads back to port, you’ll get to enjoy stunning Mediterranean sunset views. The DJ plays into the evening, and the professional photographer captures moments for free. Arriving back at the port around 20:00, guests are transported back to Malia by bus, ending a whirlwind four-hour party.
Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback
While many rave about the energy and views, some reviews highlight less positive aspects. One guest mentioned that the boat only runs for an hour before sitting around for three hours, questioning the value of the experience. They also found drinks overly expensive and noted unprofessional crew behavior, including inappropriate comments and poor service.
On the other hand, many travelers have loved the lively atmosphere, the scenic swimming spots, and the chance to make new friends. The presence of professional photographers is a big plus, helping preserve memories and adding to the fun vibe.
Practical Tips for Your Cruise
- Arrive early at the Malia office (before 14:45) to exchange your voucher for your wristbands.
- Bring cash for extra drinks and snacks, as prices at the bar aren’t cheap.
- Wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear—the deck can be lively, and swimming is a highlight.
- Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season, and remember that you can reserve now and pay later.
- Consider your alcohol limitations, as bringing your own isn’t allowed and drinks on board are pricey.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This cruise is ideal for young travelers or groups wanting a fun, energetic day on the water. It’s perfect if your main goal is socializing, dancing, and enjoying scenic swimming stops in a lively environment. However, if you prefer a more relaxed or upscale experience, this might feel a bit hectic or pricey.
It’s also suitable for people comfortable with noise, crowds, and the party scene, but less so for families, pregnant women, or travelers seeking tranquility.
The Sum Up
The Malia Booze Cruise delivers a lively, spirited experience on the Crete coast, blending stunning views, music, and social fun. It’s a great way to make friends, dance under the sun, and enjoy the Mediterranean’s natural beauty in a party atmosphere. The included transportation, lunch, and professional photos add value, making it easy to relax and just have fun.
While some travelers find drinks expensive and the crew unprofessional at times, the overall vibe and scenic stops make it worth considering if you’re after a memorable, energetic day at sea. It’s best suited for those wanting to party, meet new people, and embrace the carefree spirit of a Greek island adventure.
FAQ
Is transportation included to the port?
Yes, transportation from Malia to Agios Nicolaos port is included, and it takes about 40 minutes.
What time does the cruise start?
The boat departs at 16:00, with check-in at the Malia office before 14:45, and returns by 20:00.
Are meals provided?
Yes, a simple light lunch is included, with options for sandwiches, hot dogs, or vegetarian choices.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
No, visitors are not allowed to carry their own alcohol on the boat.
How much do drinks cost onboard?
Drinks start from €5, but some reviews mention drinks can be quite pricey, with €6 for a small beer.
Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or those with epilepsy.
What’s the group size?
The cruise hosts around 400 people across two decks, creating a lively, bustling environment.
Is there music all four hours?
Yes, with DJs and MCs playing throughout, though some reviews note initial disruptions with microphone use.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
In summary, if you’re after a fun-filled day packed with music, swimming, and social vibes, the Malia Booze Cruise is a solid choice. It’s best for lively souls who want to embrace the party spirit in a scenic setting—just be prepared for some expenses and the lively crowd.
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