Chania: Morning Catamaran Cruise with Premium Lunch & Drinks

If you’re seeking a relaxing yet activity-packed way to enjoy Crete’s stunning coastline, this morning catamaran cruise from Kolymvari offers a mix of comfort, scenic views, and authentic Greek hospitality. With a focus on luxury and all-inclusive amenities, it’s designed for travelers wanting to indulge in good food, crystal-clear waters, and a leisurely pace.

One of the standout features is the spacious, premium-class catamaran, which ensures comfort during the approximately five-hour journey. We especially appreciate the thoughtful touches like snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and inflatable toys, making it an ideal choice for those who love outdoor water activities.

A potential consideration is that a full day on the water, while idyllic, might not suit travelers seeking non-stop sightseeing or those sensitive to boat movement, as the ride can sometimes be slightly rough depending on the weather.

This experience suits couples, families, and groups of friends looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure—especially if they enjoy good food and engaging water activities in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Spacious, well-equipped catamaran with a professional crew ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drinks: Gourmet Mediterranean lunch, local wines, beers, and soft drinks are included, offering great value.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing gear are provided, catering to adventure and relaxation alike.
• Scenic Stops: Time at Agioi Theodoroi Islands offers stunning views, swimming, and photo opportunities.
• Family Friendly: Kid-friendly options like a special menu, toys, and onboard entertainment keep the little ones engaged.
• Flexible & Transparent: Options for private groups, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, add peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour departs from Kolymvari Port, a charming seaside village just outside Chania. Whether you opt for a pickup or meet directly at the pier, you’ll be welcomed aboard by the crew, known for their kindness and professionalism. The first moments onboard are relaxed—light snacks and a warm drink set a cozy tone, perfect for soaking up the early morning sun and sea breeze.

The boat itself is a luxurious vessel with ample deck space, decked out for comfort and entertainment. Music softly plays, Wi-Fi is available for those wishing to share their views in real-time, and the crew’s attention to detail ensures everyone feels taken care of.

The Itinerary: From Kolymvari to Agioi Theodoroi Islands

The cruise kicks off with about an hour of sailing, giving you a chance to get comfortable and enjoy the views. During this time, you’ll likely notice the crew’s friendly banter and their readiness to assist with water gear or answer questions about the area.

Once at the Agioi Theodoroi Islands, the main highlight is the secluded bay, perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Reviewers mention that the waters are “crystal clear” and “inviting,” making it an ideal spot for a dip. The crew provides all the necessary gear, and many guests appreciate the way they encourage safe, enjoyable water exploration.

Water Activities and Scenic Stops

You’ll love the variety of options available—paddleboards, snorkel sets, and even fishing gear. Several reviewers highlight how these equipment options are a real plus, especially when paired with the guided support from the crew. One guest commented, “We had more than enough time to paddle around and explore the underwater world,” adding that the equipment was easy to use and well-maintained.

The stop typically lasts around 2.75 hours, providing plenty of time to swim, take photos, and relax on the boat or shoreline. The scenery is often described as “breathtaking,” with some guests praising the untouched, natural beauty of the bay.

Gourmet Lunch & Drinks

After working up an appetite, the onboard Mediterranean lunch is a real treat. The menu features fresh salads, cheeses, seafood, and chicken, all sourced from organic, local products. Reviewers often mention how delicious and generous the servings are—definitely more than just a snack.

Complementing the meal, unlimited soft drinks, local white wine, and beer are included, which many find to be a great value for the price. Several reviews note that the wine selection was “surprisingly good,” adding a touch of luxury to the meal. For the little ones, a child-friendly menu with options like chicken nuggets or pasta keeps the whole family happy.

Return Journey & Final Stops

After lunch, you’ll spend about another hour cruising back along the coast, enjoying the stunning views and perhaps a bit more swimming or relaxing. The return trip offers another chance to take photos, unwind, and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

The tour concludes with drop-offs at 11 different locations, including popular spots like Almyrida, Kalyves, and Chania. The wide range of drop-off points makes it convenient for guests to continue exploring Crete’s coast without worrying about transportation.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Guests consistently mention the crew’s knowledge and friendliness as a major highlight. One review notes, “The crew went above and beyond, making us feel like VIPs,” which is a testament to the personalized service. Many also praise the quality of the food and drinks, with comments on how they exceeded expectations for a boat tour.

Water activities receive high marks, with reviewers appreciating the well-maintained gear and the freedom to explore. One guest shared, “The paddleboards and snorkel gear made the day extra special,” highlighting the added value of these inclusions.

Plus, the scenery and tranquility of the bay are often described as “breathtaking,” making this trip perfect for photography or simply relaxing in nature’s lap.

Practical Aspects

The tour is priced at $141 per person, which includes almost everything—meals, drinks, water gear, Wi-Fi, and entertainment. Considering the quality of the food, the luxury of the vessel, and the variety of activities, many consider this excellent value for a half-day luxury experience.

However, note that hotel pickup is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport or meet at the port. The experience lasts around 5 hours, making it suitable for those with a half-day window.

Accessibility and Family Considerations

The cruise is wheelchair accessible and offers a kid-friendly environment, including a special menu and toys onboard. However, pregnant women are advised to consult with the provider beforehand, as the ride can sometimes be a bit bumpy depending on weather conditions.

Why This Cruise Is Worth It

This catamaran trip combines the best of Crete’s natural beauty with the comforts of a luxury vessel. The all-inclusive aspect, especially the quality food and drinks, means you can relax without constantly reaching for your wallet. The variety of water activities keeps things lively, and the scenic stops allow for memorable photos and peaceful dips.

Many guests leave feeling they received more than they paid for, particularly when considering the high standards of the crew, the gourmet meal, and the well-planned itinerary. If you’re someone who enjoys a balance of adventure, relaxation, and good food, this cruise is a compelling option.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends who want a luxurious yet authentic Crete experience. It’s ideal if you value excellent food, scenic views, and water activities. The onboard amenities and kid-friendly options also make it suitable for families with children.

However, if you’re not comfortable on boats or prefer a more active, sightseeing-focused tour, you might want to explore other options. The cruise’s relaxed pace and emphasis on leisure make it less suitable for those seeking a fast-paced adventure or strict itinerary.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price includes the luxury catamaran, all water gear like snorkeling and paddleboards, a gourmet Mediterranean lunch, unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer, and onboard entertainment.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup is not included. Guests can meet at Kolymvari Port or arrange their own transportation.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts about 5 hours, including sailing, swimming, lunch, and the return journey.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, and a kid’s menu with kid-friendly options is offered.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. There are toys onboard, kid-friendly food options, and water activities suitable for children. The experience is very family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos. The boat provides life jackets and floats.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility concerns should notify the provider in advance.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The cruise is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe. You’ll be notified in advance.

Is this experience good value for money?
Considering the luxury vessel, gourmet meal, and variety of included activities and drinks, many guests feel it offers very good value for a half-day luxury experience.

Wrapping It Up

This morning catamaran cruise from Kolymvari strikes a wonderful balance between relaxation and activity, catering to those who enjoy scenic water-based adventures combined with fine food and drinks. The professional crew, top-notch amenities, and beautiful stops make it a solid choice for anyone visiting Crete who wants to indulge without sacrificing comfort.

While it might not be suited for those seeking a high-energy or purely sightseeing tour, it’s ideal if you want to unwind, enjoy amazing scenery, and sample authentic Greek cuisine in style. With its great reviews and thoughtful touches, this cruise promises a memorable day on the water—perfect for creating long-lasting holiday memories.