From Hersonissos: Half-Day Pirate Boat Trip with Lunch

Trying to picture a perfect afternoon on Crete? This half-day pirate boat trip from Hersonissos offers a lively mix of scenic views, water activities, and family-friendly entertainment—all wrapped up in a themed adventure that’s bound to bring out your inner pirate.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the professional crew ensures everything runs smoothly, creating a relaxed vibe from start to finish. Second, the stunning swimming and snorkeling spots in Saint George’s Bay invite you to cool off and explore beneath the surface. And third, the delicious onboard lunch with local flavors turns the trip into a true taste of Greece.

A possible consideration? The depth of the swimming spots can be too much for very young children, as one reviewer noted, so families with toddlers might want to plan accordingly. Still, for anyone seeking a fun, active day on the water with a touch of pirate flair, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups looking for an engaging, relaxed excursion that offers both adventure and comfort.

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Key Points

Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Kids get pirate diplomas, face painting, and chances to steer the boat.
Beautiful Water and Scenic Views: Swim, snorkel, and relax in Saint George’s Bay and along the coastlines of Malia and Stalis.
Tasty, Generous Lunch: Local flavors with options for children, including pasta with tomato sauce.
Entertaining Crew: Guides keep the mood lively with music, dancing, and friendly interaction.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.
Duration and Timing: 11:00 AM departure, returning at 3:00 PM—perfect for a half-day escape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Pirate Boat Experience

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The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

This half-day trip kicks off at the port of Hersonissos, with guests encouraged to arrive 30 minutes before departure. The boat departs promptly at 11:00 AM, giving you a comfortable window to settle in and get ready for the adventure. The journey begins with a scenic 20-minute cruise past the bays of Anissaras, setting the tone with beautiful views and a relaxed maritime vibe.

Shortly after, the boat arrives at Saint George’s Bay, the first major highlight. Here, you’ll have about an hour and a half to dive into the clear waters. Whether you prefer to swim, snorkel (equipment provided), or simply sunbathe on deck, the calm, inviting water makes it easy to unwind. Several reviews mention the crystal-clear waters as one of the trip’s best features. One guest, Aron, called it a “great vibe” with “nice breaks in the bay,” emphasizing how relaxing and enjoyable the stops are.

The Lunch Experience

A key part of the trip is the onboard meal, which arrives during the middle of the cruise. The menu features pork steak, baked potatoes, salad, tzatziki, and bread—a hearty, satisfying spread that suits most tastes. Kids get a special pasta with tomato sauce, ensuring they aren’t left out of the feast. Guests consistently praise the quality and quantity of the food, with Anne noting, “there was plenty of it” and enjoying the “really good” flavors.

The meal isn’t just fuel—it’s a chance to sit back, chat, and soak in the scenery while tasting authentic Greek flavors. The inclusion of one drink per person (water or soft drink) adds a thoughtful touch, making it a more complete experience.

Exploring Malia and Stalis

After the meal, the boat heads toward the coastlines of Malia and Stalis for a 45-minute stop. This is a great chance for guests to explore, take photos, or simply relax on deck. The scenery here is often described as picturesque, with many reviewers mentioning how beautiful the bays and coastlines are from the water.

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The Return Journey and Water Sports

On the way back, the boat cruises along the shoreline, giving everyone a chance to admire the action of water sports and the bays’ scenic beauty. The crew keeps the atmosphere lively with music and dancing, and children especially enjoy the pirate-themed activities like face painting and receiving their pirate diplomas. According to Sandra, “it was a great day for families” with “super friendly” pirates and a fun, engaging environment.

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Authentic Pirate Experience for Kids

One standout feature is the pirate theme, which truly appeals to children. Kids get to steer the boat, earn diplomas, and participate in lively activities. Reviewers like “Mathias” mention the crew as “brilliant,” and the overall atmosphere is described as good-humored and friendly. The music and dancing add to the festive mood, making it more than just a boat trip—it’s a mini adventure with a playful, pirate spirit.

Practical Information and Tips

What’s Included and Not

The tour fee includes the boat trip, swimming stops, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and entertainment. You’ll want to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and cash for any extras or souvenirs. Transfers aren’t included, so consider organizing your own transport or arriving at the port a bit early.

Timing and Duration

The trip runs from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, making it ideal for a half-day outing. This timing suits those who want to enjoy the afternoon elsewhere or just prefer a relaxed, daytime activity. The length provides enough time for swimming, eating, and exploring without feeling rushed.

Accessibility and Suitability

While most guests seem to enjoy the trip, one review notes the swimming spots are too deep for small children. If traveling with very young kids or non-swimmers, this is worth considering. On the other hand, families with older children will find plenty of fun activities and a safe environment.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Based on reviews, the crew is a big highlight—friendly, competent, and lively. Guests appreciated the music, dancing, and pirate-themed activities, which foster camaraderie and fun. The guide names aren’t specified, but the overall team is described as super friendly and engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families with children, especially those who love the idea of a pirate adventure. It’s also great for couples or groups wanting a relaxed yet lively day at sea. The scenic swims, delicious food, and friendly atmosphere make it a well-rounded option for anyone seeking a memorable Crete outing.

However, those sensitive to loud music or seeking a more tranquil experience may want to consider whether the lively atmosphere matches their preferences. Also, if little ones are very young or non-swimmers, they should be aware of the depth of swim spots.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This half-day pirate boat trip from Hersonissos offers a solid combination of beautiful scenery, water fun, and family-friendly entertainment. It’s a great value at $69 per person, considering the lively crew, delicious Greek lunch, and the chance to explore the coastlines of Malia and Stalis.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted, interactive way to enjoy Crete’s waters, this trip ticks many boxes. It’s especially ideal for families, groups, or anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, and scenic half-day escape. The friendly crew, refreshing swims, and pirate theme ensure you’ll leave with plenty of stories—and maybe a pirate diploma or two.

For travelers who love good food, beautiful water views, and lively atmospheres, this boat trip delivers a memorable slice of Crete’s coastal charm. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash, and your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
No, transfers are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the port of Hersonissos or arrive early to meet the group.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash for any extras.

What is the departure time?
The boat departs at 11:00 AM and returns around 3:00 PM.

Are there activities suitable for young children?
Yes, children enjoy face painting, pirate diplomas, and the lively atmosphere. However, some swimming spots may be too deep for very small kids.

What’s on the menu for lunch?
The meal includes pork steak, baked potatoes, salad, tzatziki, and bread. Kids get pasta with tomato sauce.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option for spontaneous plans.

This pirate-themed boat trip combines fun, scenic beauty, and delicious food, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone in Hersonissos looking to add a lively, family-friendly adventure to their Crete holiday.