Planning a day on the water in Crete? This Rethymno catamaran cruise offers a blend of comfort, stunning views, delicious food, and fun water activities—perfect for those seeking relaxation with a touch of adventure. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out, along with some honest insights from past travelers, so you can decide if it fits your holiday plans.
What we love about this experience? First, the luxurious and spacious catamaran promises comfort even in a small group. Second, the excellent quality of food and drinks onboard makes it feel like a floating restaurant. Third, the scenic stops for swimming and snorkeling give you a real taste of Crete’s crystal-clear waters. The only thing to keep in mind? The price of $170 might seem high for some, but many reviewers feel it’s justified by the overall experience.
This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a laid-back day with beautiful scenery, good food, and water-based fun, without the hassle of organizing their own boat trip. If you’re after a memorable, family-friendly outing or a romantic escape, this tour could be just what you need.
Key Points
- Luxury and Comfort: Spacious catamaran with a friendly crew dedicated to your safety and enjoyment.
- Culinary Excellence: Mediterranean lunch with seafood, meat, vegetarian options, and unlimited drinks.
- Water Activities: Snorkeling gear, SUP boards, inflatables, and a playful flamingo for fun in the water.
- Scenic Moments: Crystal waters, turquoise bays, and the chance to see marine life like flying fish and possibly dolphins.
- Family Friendly: Special meal options for kids and toys onboard, but note that pregnant women are advised against booking.
- Weather Dependence: Sailing is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled in bad conditions.
What to Expect: A Day on the Rethymno Catamaran
Your journey begins at the Rethymno Marina, where the crew—wearing friendly DanEri T-shirts—is eager to welcome you. Arrive 15 minutes early to settle in and get acquainted with your fellow guests. The boat itself is one of Crete’s newest luxury catamarans, designed for comfort, with plenty of seating zones, a large deck, and modern amenities like WiFi and onboard music.
The crew—all certified by the Red Cross—sets the tone for a relaxed and safe day. As the sails unfurl and the boat departs, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the coastline and the endless blue of the Aegean. Many reviews highlight the crew’s attentiveness and friendliness; one guest noted how they immediately helped with sea sickness, even in calm waters, which speaks to the level of care onboard.
Looking for more options in Port Of Rethymno? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The First Stop: The Bay for Swimming and Snorkeling
After about 2.5 hours in transit and sailing, the boat anchors in a picturesque bay, known for its clear waters. Here, you can jump into the sea for a swim or snorkel. Snorkeling gear, inflatables, and stand-up paddleboards are included, so everyone can find a way to enjoy the water. One reviewer raved about the marine life, mentioning the “impressive variety of fishes” and how they loved paddling around the turquoise waters.
The bay also offers a chance to relax on the boat’s deck, soak up the sun, and listen to the playlist curated by the crew. Some guests, like Emma, appreciated how the boat was well-equipped to handle sea sickness, even though the waters were mild on that day. The inflatable flamingo adds a playful touch, making floating more fun for kids and adults alike.
Mid-Morning: A Gourmet Mediterranean Lunch
Lunch on this cruise is more than just a snack—it’s a well-thought-out feast. The menu includes freshly prepared salads, seafood like mussels, pasta with prawns, grilled chicken, and an assortment of fruits and desserts. Past travelers consistently describe the food as “restaurant quality,” with one noting that the chef’s dishes “were absolutely delicious.” Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, making it accommodating for various dietary needs.
Many guests mention how the unlimited drinks—soft drinks, white wine, and beer—kept everyone refreshed and in good spirits. The overall value of the experience is reinforced by the quality and quantity of food served. Guests have reported seconds being offered, and even special dishes prepared for shellfish allergies—an extra touch of attentiveness.
Afternoon: More Water Fun and Scenic Sailing
Post-lunch, the boat often moves to a second swimming spot or continues sailing along the coast, giving you more chances to relax and take in Crete’s stunning scenery. Water activities continue with paddleboarding or casual floating; there’s plenty of space for everyone to unwind. The crew, as many reviews highlight, are attentive and eager to ensure everyone has a good time.
Some guests, like Jason, enjoyed seeing flying fish during their cruise, adding an element of wildlife spotting to the trip. Others appreciated how the crew was flexible, sometimes adjusting stops based on weather or group preferences. The sail back generally involves a gentle cruise, with soft music and a peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights.
More Great Tours NearbyGroup Size, Duration, and Practical Details
This tour generally hosts up to 20 guests, making it feel intimate without sacrificing social vibe. The full experience lasts around 4-5 hours, including sailing, swimming, and dining. The route is designed to maximize water time and scenic views, with the boat leaving from Rethymno Marina at a set time—just arrive 15 minutes early for boarding.
Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the marina. Parking is available nearby, so driving is a convenient option. The crew is multilingual, speaking English and Greek, and they’re known for their friendly, professional attitude.
Pricing and Value
At $170 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience: the luxury boat, a top-quality meal, unlimited drinks, and water activities. Reviewers like Paul and Rebekah remark on how the food was comparable to restaurant quality, and the crew’s hospitality was outstanding. Many say the price is justified by the overall enjoyment, scenic beauty, and the chance to relax without worrying about logistics.
Suitability & Considerations
While most guests find this experience perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends, pregnant women are advised not to participate. Also, weather can influence the trip—bad weather might result in rescheduling or cancellations, so flexible plans are helpful. The boat’s open deck means limited shade, so during hot months, sunscreen and hats are essential.
Authentic Experiences from Past Guests
Guests consistently mention the crew’s attentiveness and the delicious meals. Rebekah, for example, emphasized how the staff kept the drinks flowing and the meals plentiful, describing it as “well worth the price.” Others appreciated the small group size, allowing for personalized service and the chance to socialize easily.
Emma pointed out that the boat was spacious and equipped for everyone, and Paul praised the “restaurant-quality lunch” served onboard. The ability to see flying fish, dolphins, and marine life was often highlighted as a memorable part of the trip.
Many reviews also note the professionalism and warmth of crew members like Panos, Kleo, and Orpheus, whose care and friendliness leave a lasting impression. The overall consensus is that this cruise delivers value, scenic beauty, and a relaxing way to enjoy Crete’s coast.
The Sum Up
This Rethymno catamaran cruise is a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a luxury day out on the water that combines comfort, great food, and scenic views. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. The inclusive water activities and unlimited drinks add real value, and the small, friendly crew ensures everyone feels cared for.
While the price might be on the higher side, many guests agree that the quality of food, the comfort of the boat, and the beautiful stops make it worthwhile. If you love a mix of scenic sailing, water fun, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, this tour will likely meet your expectations.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included? No, transportation to the marina is not included. Guests need to arrange their own transfer, and parking is available nearby.
How early should I arrive? It’s best to arrive at Rethymno Marina 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to allow time for boarding and safety measures.
What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a passport or ID. The boat has limited shade, so sun protection is essential.
Is the cruise suitable for children? Yes, there are special meal options for children, and toys are provided onboard, making it family-friendly. However, pregnant women should avoid participation.
What is the group size? Typically, the cruise hosts up to 20 guests, creating an intimate atmosphere with plenty of space for everyone.
What water activities are included? Snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and arm floaties are provided for water fun.
Can I participate if I don’t want to swim? Absolutely. You can relax on the deck, enjoy the scenery, or listen to music—water activities are optional.
Is the food vegetarian or vegan? Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, ensuring dietary needs are met.
What happens in bad weather? The cruise is weather-dependent; it might be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe.
How long is the cruise? Expect around 4-5 hours, including sailing, swimming, and dining, making it a full but comfortable day out.
This Rethymno catamaran cruise offers a blend of luxury, scenic beauty, and water-based fun, making it a memorable way to experience Crete’s coastline. Whether you’re after a relaxing day in the sun or a lively adventure on the waves, it’s a well-rounded choice for a scenic escape.
You can check availability for your dates here: