Rethymno: Sailing Catamaran Cruise & Premium Meal & Drinks

Imagine spending a relaxing day aboard a spacious, modern catamaran, drifting along Crete’s stunning coastline, with the sun warming your skin, and the sound of gentle waves in your ears. This popular Rethymno experience offers all that and more—cruise in style, enjoy a delicious Mediterranean feast, and swim in some of Greece’s clearest waters. It’s a well-rounded, lively option that combines scenic beauty, comfort, and excellent hospitality.

What we particularly love about this tour is the supremely comfortable boat, designed with ample space for relaxation and socializing. The unlimited drinks — including wine, beer, and soft drinks — make every sip a pleasure, and the snorkeling gear and SUP boards give plenty of opportunity to cool off and get active. Still, one potential upside is that this experience revolves around a fixed schedule, so if you’re craving a very secluded or private day, it might feel a bit busy or structured.

This cruise suits those who want a balanced mix of scenic sailing, fun water activities, good food, and social vibe. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or family, this tour offers something for all—especially if you value comfort and a lively atmosphere. Now, let’s unpack what makes this trip so compelling and what you need to know before booking.

Key Points

• Comfort & Style: Spacious, luxurious catamaran designed for relaxation and socializing.
• Scenic & Fun Water Activities: Snorkeling, SUP, inflatables, and swimming in crystal waters.
• Gourmet Mediterranean Lunch: Freshly prepared seafood, meats, and regional dishes included.
• Unlimited Drinks: White wine, beer, and soft drinks served throughout the day.
• Authentic Crete Experience: Friendly crew, traditional treats, and regional flavors.
• Ideal for: Travelers seeking comfort, scenic beauty, and a lively atmosphere with good value.

Setting Sail from Rethymno: What to Expect

Starting your day in Rethymno Marina, you’re greeted by a crew known for their warmth and professionalism. According to reviews, their friendly attitude, combined with a welcome of tea, coffee, and local treats, immediately sets a relaxed tone. The boat itself is one of Crete’s newest and most luxurious, offering plenty of space for lounging, socializing, or sunbathing.

Once onboard, you’ll set sail into the Greek seas, surrounded by panoramic views that seem to stretch forever. Expect soothing background music that enhances the chilled-out vibe, and the convenience of WiFi, so you can share your trip in real time or just browse for a quick connection.

The Scenic Voyage and Water Stops

The first part of the cruise, approximately 105 minutes, is spent sailing along the coast, giving you many chances to snap photos of the rugged shoreline and shimmering waters. As the boat glides smoothly, the crew’s expertise makes for an enjoyable, safe passage, even if the weather turns a tad choppy—reviewers note that the crew was quick to provide seasickness remedies, which is a thoughtful touch.

The highlight is anchoring in a stunning bay, where you’ll have ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Reviewers consistently mention the crystal-clear waters and the chance to see schools of fish, sea turtles, and dolphins—if you’re lucky. The inflatable flamingo adds a fun splash of color and levity, perfect for kids or the young-at-heart.

The Heart of the Experience: Georgioupoli Stop

After a couple of hours at sea, your next destination is Georgioupoli, a charming spot full of regional beauty. Here, guests often take a photo stop, and a chance to enjoy regional food and drinks—think fresh seafood, regional cheeses, and regional sweets. Lunch on board is described as “restaurant quality”, with guests raving about the variety and freshness of the dishes like seafood, grilled meats, and fresh vegetables.

The reviews reveal that the lunch is a major highlight, with many commenting on how it exceeds expectations for a day cruise. One guest mentions, “The lunch served onboard was of restaurant quality. Freshly prepared salads, orzo, mussels, and dessert.” The continuous flow of unlimited drinks — including wine, beer, and soft drinks — keeps everyone refreshed, making the experience feel both indulgent and value-packed.

Water Activities: Snorkeling, SUP, and Inflatables

Engaging with the water is a significant part of this tour. Reviewers love the snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards, which allow for slow, peaceful exploration of the underwater world. Several mention seeing schools of fish or enjoying the peaceful float in turquoise waters. The inflatables, like the flamingo, add a playful element, especially for families or groups looking for fun photo moments.

Guests with concerns about seasickness appreciate the calm waters on most days, and the crew’s readiness to help is often praised. For example, one reviewer states, “They quickly helped me with natural tips to recover from nausea,” showing a high level of care.

The Return and Drop-off

The cruise provides a scenic sail back, roughly 105 minutes, with plenty of time to relax and reflect on the day. The 11 drop-off locations along Rethymno’s coast mean the experience is designed with flexibility in mind, making it easy for guests to be dropped at their accommodation or nearby spots, saving you the hassle of extra transfers.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $171 per person for a 6.5-hour luxury cruise, this experience offers excellent value if you consider what’s included: a spacious, modern boat, a gourmet Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks, and a variety of water activities. Reviewers consistently mention the high standard of food and service, noting that the lunch felt more like a restaurant meal than a typical cruise buffet.

The added comfort, combined with the lively atmosphere and scenic stops, justifies the cost for travelers who want a full, enjoyable day without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This cruise is particularly well-suited for travelers who value comfort and social vibes. Families with kids will appreciate the inflatables, floaties, and the relaxed pace. Couples looking for a romantic yet lively day also find it appealing, especially with opportunities for photos and shared meals. It’s also a good choice for groups of friends wanting a fun, hassle-free day on the water.

However, if you prefer very secluded, private adventures or dislike structured group activities, this tour might feel a bit crowded or regimented. Also, those who are pregnant or sensitive to seasickness might want to consider alternative options, as the day involves a fair amount of sailing and swimming.

Practical Tips & Important Info

• Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and your ID or passport for check-in and safety.
• Book early, as this tour is highly rated and popular—reviews show it fills up quickly.
• Weather conditions can affect the schedule; if the weather turns bad, the cruise might be rescheduled or canceled.
• Group size is capped at around 15 to 20 guests, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• No hotel pickup included, but you can opt for a convenient meet-up point or private transfer for extra comfort.
• Seasickness remedies are available, and staff are attentive to passenger wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup. You can meet at the marina or arrange a private transfer.

Can I bring my kids?
Yes, a special meal option for children is available, and the water activities are fun for families, though very young children should be supervised.

What is the group size?
The cruise typically hosts up to 15-20 people, ensuring a comfortable and personal experience.

Are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available?
Yes, options are available upon request, so inform the tour provider in advance.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is included, and many reviewers mention how easy and fun it was to explore the waters.

What happens in bad weather?
The cruise is weather-dependent; if conditions are unsafe, it may be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Rethymno catamaran cruise offers a well-balanced day of scenic sailing, water-based activities, and authentic Greek cuisine. It’s a top pick for those wanting a comfortable, lively, and thoroughly enjoyable way to experience Crete’s coast. The friendly crew, delicious food, and beautiful scenery make this a memorable outing, especially if you appreciate good value and a social atmosphere.

While it might not be suited for those craving complete privacy or a very relaxed, low-key experience, it’s perfect for travelers who want to soak up the sun, enjoy great food, and make some fun memories with fellow travelers. If that sounds like your kind of day, this cruise might just be your next highlight in Crete.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a fun day on the water, this experience promises plenty of smiles, stunning views, and carefree relaxation.