Crete Pirate Ship Cruise with the Black Rose to Stalis and Malia

If you’re looking to see Crete’s coast in a fun and relaxed way, a half-day pirate ship cruise from Hersonissos might just be what you need. Set sail aboard the Black Rose, a charming pirate-style vessel, and explore some of the island’s most popular bays and small towns. You’ll get a chance to swim, snorkel, and even spot dolphins and sea turtles—plus enjoy a tasty BBQ lunch onboard.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines authentic boat time with the chance to relax in beautiful spots like St. George’s Bay, Malia, and Stalis. The crew’s friendly attitude and the fun pirate theme make it more than just a boat trip—they craft an experience that’s laid-back, lively, and perfect for families or solo travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention the trip can be quite short—about four and a half hours—so if you’re expecting a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit quick. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to make your way to Hersonissos Port yourself.

This cruise is ideal for those who want a relaxed day on the water with plenty of swimming and enjoying the sea, rather than a packed sightseeing itinerary. It fits well for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who like engaging crews and good value for money.

Key Points

• Authentic pirate atmosphere with a friendly, interactive crew
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops in scenic bays and caves
• Delicious BBQ lunch included, with fair prices for drinks
• Strong emphasis on fun and relaxation rather than complex sightseeing
• Shorter duration (around 4.5 hours), perfect for a half-day experience
• No hotel transfers included, so plan your transportation to Hersonissos Port

An In-Depth Look at the Crete Pirate Ship Cruise

The Experience in a Nutshell

This Black Rose cruise is all about combining the charm of a pirate adventure with a laid-back day on Crete’s waters. Starting from Hersonissos Port, you’ll meet a crew that’s known for being friendly, lively, and engaging, setting a fun tone right from the start. The boat itself feels like a scene straight out of a pirate movie, which adds a playful element that appeals to kids and adults alike.

The tour lasts roughly 4 hours 30 minutes, departing at 11 am, which means you get a good chunk of the daytime to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and lounging with a cold drink if you decide to purchase one onboard. The trip is capped at 120 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded but still social enough to meet fellow travelers.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

1. Departure from Hersonissos:
You’ll head to the port, where the crew welcomes you aboard the Black Rose. The ship’s crew are often praised for their humor and friendliness, making guests feel comfortable and involved. This initial part sets a lively tone, especially if you love a playful pirate aesthetic and jokes.

2. Sailing to St. George’s Bay:
The first stop often features a scenic cruise along the coast with plenty of opportunities for photos of the ship’s classic pirate look and the stunning Cretan coastline. As the ship approaches St. George’s Bay, the crew prepares for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers highlight how beautiful this bay is for a dip—crystal-clear waters and enough space for everyone.

3. Swimming and Snorkeling:
This is a prime highlight. Reviewers like Ciara_O appreciated how she felt included, with the crew making the effort to engage solo travelers. The bay offers a chance to see underwater life, and the crew often provides snorkeling gear. Be aware that there aren’t many buoyancy aids, so children and less confident swimmers should take extra care.

4. Lunch on Board:
After some time in the water, the crew serves a BBQ lunch, which most reviews describe as decent and satisfying. The menu includes grilled meats, salads, tzatziki, and bread. Prices for drinks are reported as affordable, with beer at around €2.50 and soda at €2.00. While some reviews mention the lunch as “correct,” others felt it was basic but sufficient for a casual day out.

5. Cruising to Malia and Stalis:
The ship then sets sail along the coast towards Malia and Stalis. The scenery here is picturesque, with many travelers remarking on the views and the chance to relax in the sun. The crew often plays music, adding to the pirate-themed vibe and creating a festive atmosphere.

6. Final swimming stop & return:
On the way back, you’ll likely have another opportunity to jump in the water. Some reviews mention that the trip feels somewhat rushed—about two hours at the second stop, with others feeling the overall length didn’t match expectations of a longer excursion. The cruise concludes back at Hersonissos Port around 3:30 pm.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Insights

Many guests, like Diordy_D, mention that the crew are “there for you” and make a real effort to create a fun environment. Their jokes, dancing, and interactions make the entire trip more engaging, especially for families and groups of friends. Several reviewers appreciated how the crew noticed solo travelers and made a point to include them, which adds a friendly and welcoming touch.

On the flip side, some travelers felt the trip was not quite worth the price—particularly if they had higher expectations for a longer or more varied experience. One guest, Angela_J, called it a “waste of money,” citing a very short, 10-minute window out of port and an underwhelming snorkeling experience. Others were disappointed that no visit to the island of Dia was included, as advertised, and felt the time spent on the boat was too limited.

Value for Money

At $62.70 per person, this cruise offers a decent value considering the included BBQ, swimming stops, and fun pirate theme. It’s not an all-day tour, but for a relaxed half-day on the water, it’s reasonably priced. The reviews suggest that if you appreciate a lively crew and scenic spots, you’ll find this outing worthwhile. However, if you’re seeking a comprehensive island tour or longer time ashore, you might find this trip a bit light on content.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a fun, social, and laid-back way to enjoy Crete’s coast. Families with children, solo travelers, and groups of friends looking for a memorable day with a playful pirate theme will likely enjoy it most. It’s also good if you’re happy with limited sightseeing and focus on swimming, sunbathing, and good company.

However, if you’re after a more extensive sightseeing trip or want a full day of activities, you may feel this cruise is a little brief. Also, be prepared to arrange your own transport to Hersonissos Port, as transfers aren’t included.

The Sum Up

This pirate-themed cruise on Crete offers a lively, family-friendly way to enjoy the island’s beautiful coastline. With friendly crew members creating a fun atmosphere, scenic swimming spots, and a satisfying BBQ, it’s a great choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, social day on the water. The trip’s highlights—stunning bays, snorkel opportunities, and the playful pirate vibe—make it a memorable experience, especially for those who love being outdoors and in the sea.

That said, it’s important to keep expectations in check regarding the duration and included activities. The cruise is more about having fun and soaking up the sun than covering a lot of ground or sightseeing. For the price, most guests find it offers good value, especially if you enjoy casual, convivial outings with a bit of adventure.

If you’re traveling with kids, love snorkelling, or want a social, relaxed cruise with a humorous crew, this trip is worth considering. Just plan your transport in advance, and you’ll be set for a enjoyable half-day adventure aboard the Black Rose.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, the tour starts from Hersonissos Port, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point.

What’s the best time to join this cruise?
The cruise departs at 11:00 am, so arriving a little earlier is recommended to get settled and prepared.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price. The crew offers drinks for purchase at reasonable prices—around €2-€3.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, including swimming stops, sailing, and the BBQ meal.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling is available at the swimming stops, with gear typically provided. Be aware that buoyancy aids may be limited.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children having a great time, especially with the friendly crew and opportunities to jump off the boat and swim. However, parents should supervise children in the water and ensure they’re comfortable swimming.

This Crete pirate ship cruise strikes a nice balance of fun, scenic views, and relaxation—perfect for those wanting a memorable, informal day out on the sea.