Black Rose Pirate Boat: 5-Hour Trip from Hersonissos

Black Rose Pirate Boat: 5-Hour Trip from Hersonissos – A Detailed Review

If you’re looking to combine adventure, relaxation, and a touch of pirate fun during your stay in Crete, the Black Rose Pirate Boat trip could be just what you need. This 5-hour excursion offers a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, all wrapped up with a delicious onboard meal and entertainment suitable for kids. The tour departs from Hersonissos and includes round-trip transfers from several popular areas, making it a convenient way to enjoy Crete’s coastline without the hassle of organizing transport yourself.

One of the things we love about this experience is the chance to see Crete’s beautiful bays up close while relaxing on a lively boat. The inclusion of two swimming stops at Agios Georgios Bay and Stalis Beach means you get plenty of time to cool off, explore underwater life, or simply soak up the sun. Plus, the onboard lunch—described as delicious food with tapas-style options—adds a nice touch for those wanting a substantial meal after swimming.

However, a potential consideration is the condition of the boat’s ladders, which some reviewers have noted are rusty or shared, leading to minor injuries. While safety measures are presumably in place, this is something to be aware of if you’re planning to hop in and out of the water frequently or have small children.

This tour is best suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to enjoy Crete’s coast with a fun, relaxed vibe. If you’re after a day of good value, casual swimming, and a lively atmosphere, this trip could be an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable round-trip transfers from select Crete locations simplify your day.
• Two swimming stops at Agios Georgios Bay and Stalis Beach provide plenty of water-based fun.
• Kid-friendly activities like face painting make it appealing for families.
• Lunch onboard is included, with mention of tasty, tapas-style food.
• The trip lasts approximately 4-5 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.
• The boat’s max capacity of 70 travelers ensures a lively but not overly crowded environment.

An In-Depth Look at the Black Rose Pirate Boat Experience

Easy and Convenient Transfer Service

One of the biggest advantages of booking this tour is the included pick-up and drop-off service from a variety of locations like Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Analipsi, Malia, and Chersonissos. This makes the day much smoother, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transportation options. The meeting point is clear, and the tour starts around 11:00 am, giving you a full day of fun without the hassle of organizing your own transfers.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Passing by Anisaras Bays

Before we get to the main stops, the boat cruise itself offers lovely views of Crete’s coastline. The journey begins with a scenic passage past the bays of Anisaras, setting a relaxed tone for the day. It’s an opportunity to settle into the vibe of the boat, enjoy the breeze, and perhaps snap a few photos of the beautiful scenery.

Stop 1: Agios Georgios Beach

The first swimming stop is at Agios Georgios Beach, where you’ll have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy the crystal-clear waters. According to reviews, the crew is efficient in organizing snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater, and kids can sunbathe or paddle on the sandy beach. One reviewer, Sam_S, noted the delicious food and friendly staff, which enhances the overall experience.

What makes this stop special?

• Calm waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming
• Plenty of space for sunbathing or relaxing
• Free admission, so no extra costs to explore

However, travelers should be cautious when climbing back onto the boat via the ladders, as some have found them rusty or shared, which could pose a minor safety risk.

Stop 2: Stalis Beach

Next, the boat passes by the coast of Malia en route to Stalis Beach for a second swim, lasting about 45 minutes. This spot is perfect for those who want to cool off again or enjoy a quick paddle after the first stop. Stalis Beach is well-known for its lively atmosphere and shallow waters, making it suitable for families and less confident swimmers.

A reviewer highlighted the passage past Malia, noting the scenic views along the way. While the beach itself isn’t a long stop, it offers an authentic taste of Crete’s coastal life.

Onboard Experience: Food, Activities, and Atmosphere

The included lunch receives praise for its taste, with many travelers describing it as delicious and filling—perfect for replenishing energy after a swim. The menu includes a selection of tapas-style dishes that cater to different tastes.

Kids onboard enjoy dedicated activities like face painting, adding a playful element to the trip. The crew, described as great, manages to keep both adults and children entertained, contributing to a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour appeals most to families, groups of friends, and solo travelers who enjoy easy-paced boat trips with ample water activities. The small group size of up to 70 travelers helps maintain a lively but manageable environment, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd. The value for money—at around $68 per person—includes transportation, two swimming stops, lunch, and onboard activities, offering a comprehensive coastal experience.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer pointed out a safety concern with the ladders, which are shared and rusty—something to keep in mind, especially if you plan to jump in and out of the water multiple times. Despite that, the overall sentiment was positive, with many mentioning the great staff and tasty food.

Another traveler appreciated the convenience of the round-trip transfer service, making it easy to relax without worrying about logistics. The moderate duration of around 4 hours allows travelers to enjoy a fulfilling experience without feeling rushed.

The Value Proposition

For the cost, you’re getting a well-organized boat trip that combines sightseeing, water fun, and a tasty onboard meal. It’s not a luxury cruise but an authentic, lively experience that captures the relaxed holiday vibe of Crete’s coast. The trip’s flexible cancellation policy—free up to 24 hours in advance—adds a layer of reassurance for cautious planners.

While the experience covers basic needs well, it’s worth noting that drinks are not included, so you might want to bring water or purchase beverages onboard if available. The main draw remains the scenic stops, the friendly crew, and the opportunity for a fun, family-friendly day out.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, affordable water adventure with opportunities to swim and enjoy some good food in a lively setting. Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly activities, while solo or group travelers can enjoy the social atmosphere. It’s also ideal if you want to see Crete’s coast from a different perspective without committing to a full-day tour.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers are included from specific areas like Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Analipsi, and Malia, which helps make your day hassle-free.

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 11:00 am, with time split between two swimming stops and onboard lunch.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat cruise, two swimming stops, lunch, and transfers. Drinks are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip, making it flexible for changing plans or weather concerns.

Is the experience suitable for kids?
Yes, kids can enjoy face painting and other onboard activities, and the stops at beaches are family-friendly.

What safety concerns should I be aware of?
Some reviewers noted rusty or shared ladders, so caution is advised when re-entering the boat after swimming.

Where does the tour start?
It begins from Hersonissos, with meeting times around 11:00 am, depending on your pickup location.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a water bottle. It’s also helpful to have cash or cards for additional drinks or souvenirs.

Is the food onboard good?
According to feedback, the onboard food is tasty and filling, with some reviewers calling it delicious tapas-style dishes.

In The Sum Up, the Black Rose Pirate Boat trip offers a lively, family-friendly way to enjoy Crete’s coastline with a good mix of water activities, scenic views, and tasty food. While safety concerns with the ladders are worth noting, most travelers find the overall experience worthwhile, especially for the value. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and making memories with your loved ones.