Day cruise to Georgioupolis bay from Rethymno port

An Authentic Day on the Water: Rethymno to Georgioupolis Bay Cruise

Taking a day cruise along Crete’s stunning coastline is a fantastic way to add a splash of adventure and relaxation to your holiday. This particular tour, offered by Allcretetours, promises a full day on a premium catamaran, sailing from Rethymno to Georgioupolis Bay — a stretch of coast famous for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and inviting beaches. The experience combines scenic sailing, delicious local food, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. It’s an insider’s way to enjoy Crete’s seaside without the hassle of planning your own boat trip.

What we love most about this cruise is the way it balances comfort, authentic local flavors, and fun water activities. The organic Cretan menu, served with a view of the sea, is truly a highlight, offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make every bite memorable. Plus, the boat’s equipment for snorkeling, SUP surfing, and inflatable toys ensures there’s never a dull moment. However, it’s worth noting that the schedule can shift depending on weather, which might affect your timing or specific stops — a common thing with sea trips, but something to keep in mind when planning around it.

This cruise will suit travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic days with a mix of activity and leisure. It’s especially great for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for an authentic Crete experience that combines nature, food, and fun. If you’re after a luxurious, all-inclusive day that takes care of everything from snacks to drinks, this tour offers excellent value for the price.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete Cuisine: Enjoy a menu made with organic local products, served with beautiful sea views.
• Water Activities Galore: Snorkeling, SUP, fishing, and inflatable toys keep everyone entertained.
• Flexible and Inclusive: All necessary equipment included, with options for transportation and accessibility.
• Ideal for Relaxed Days: Perfect for those wanting a laid-back, scenic experience with enough opportunities for fun.
• Weather-Dependent Schedule: The itinerary might shift depending on weather conditions, which could influence your stops.
• Great Value: For $169, you get a full day of sailing, food, drinks, and water activities in a private, friendly atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: A Warm Welcome and Smooth Sailing

Your adventure begins around 9:30 am, when the crew welcomes you aboard with snacks and beverages. Expect a friendly reception with coffee, tea, soft drinks, and water, alongside some traditional cheese pies and biscuits. This initial moment sets a relaxed tone, as you settle into the boat and receive safety instructions before setting sail. The vessel itself is a premium catamaran, offering stability and comfort for a full day on the water.

From the start, the crew’s warmth and professionalism shine through. They’re well-versed and eager to ensure everyone feels comfortable, which is especially important for first-time boaters or those slightly wary of open waters.

The Journey: Sail Along Crete’s Coastline

Once underway, the views are captivating. The coastline of Rethymno unfurls alongside you, with rugged cliffs, olive groves, and charming beaches. The sail to Georgioupolis Bay typically takes about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to relax, chat, or simply take in the scenery.

The presence of a knowledgeable crew — often praised in reviews — helps make the experience more engaging. They’re happy to share little insights or answer questions about Crete’s geography and marine life.

Swim, Snorkel, and Play

Around 11:15 am, the boat anchors in a scenic bay, providing the perfect spot for a swim or snorkel. Equipment such as snorkeling gear, fishing gear, SUP boards, and inflatable toys are all available, ensuring everyone from kids to adults can join in the water fun. Many reviews highlight how well-organized the water activities are, with guests appreciating that all equipment is provided and in good condition.

Snorkeling here is a favorite, with some travelers noting the clarity of the water and the chance to see marine life, while others enjoy the playful inflatables or the simple joy of floating on an inflatable flamingo.

A Feast for the Senses: The Onboard Meal

At around 12:30 pm, a hearty, organic, and traditional meal is served on deck. The menu includes a Greek salad with feta, pasta with shrimp saganaki, mussels in turmeric sauce, and a choice of chicken or pasta for kids. Fresh fruits and homemade sweets round out the meal, paired with water, regional white Cretan wine, beer, or raki.

Guests have described the food as “delicious,” highlighting the quality and freshness of ingredients — which is no surprise given the emphasis on organic local products. The setting, with the sea as a backdrop, elevates the experience, making the meal feel like a special occasion rather than just a buffet.

Leisure and Exploration

Post-lunch, guests are encouraged to relax, sunbathe, swim, or engage in water activities. Many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the balance of scheduled activities and free time. The crew’s friendly approach means you can linger in the water or take more photos without feeling rushed.

By 2:15 pm, the boat departs the bay to head back to Rethymno port. The return journey offers another chance for enjoying the scenery, chatting with fellow travelers, or simply soaking up the sun.

Ending the Day: Return to Rethymno

The cruise concludes around 4 pm, with the boat arriving back at the port. The whole experience lasts about seven hours, making it a well-paced day that doesn’t feel rushed. It’s a satisfying mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: While the cruise price doesn’t include transportation to the port, arranging a transfer is straightforward. The tour provider can organize pickups at your hotel or other locations, with options suitable for individuals, small groups, or large parties, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

What to Bring: To make the most of your day, pack essentials like sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Although the crew provides all water activity equipment, bringing your own waterproof camera or phone case can be a good idea.

Weather: The schedule may shift depending on weather conditions, which can impact the route or stops. It’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

Language: All services are provided in English, making communication easy for international travelers.

Booking & Flexibility: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, which adds flexibility to your planning. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the trip.

Why This Cruise Is a Great Choice

For travelers seeking a combination of scenic sailing, authentic Cretan food, and water fun, this tour ticks all the boxes. The tour’s focus on organic, locally sourced cuisine adds a special touch that elevates a typical boat trip into a memorable culinary experience. The inclusion of all water sports gear means you don’t need to bring or rent equipment elsewhere, which simplifies planning.

The day’s flexible schedule, friendly crew, and picturesque stops make it a solid choice whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple. The achievable price—considering the food, drinks, and activities included—represents excellent value for a full day’s entertainment and relaxation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic, and fun-filled day without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It suits those interested in authentic local flavors, water sports, or simply enjoying beautiful views from the deck of a well-equipped catamaran. Families with children will appreciate the safe water activities and the kid-friendly menu options, while couples can enjoy a romantic day with stunning scenery and fresh cuisine.

If you’re a solo traveler wanting a social experience or part of a group looking for a memorable outing, this cruise offers a balanced mix of activities and relaxation in a friendly setting.

FAQ

Is transportation to the port included?
No, transportation isn’t included but can be arranged through the tour provider. They offer options suitable for individuals, small groups, or larger parties, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

What should I bring with me?
Pack sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. You might also consider waterproof accessories for your phone or camera.

How long is the cruise?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 9:30 am and returning by 4 pm, though the schedule can shift slightly depending on the weather.

Is the schedule flexible?
Yes, the itinerary depends on weather conditions, so stops and timing could change to ensure safety and comfort.

What kind of food is served?
A variety of organic, local Crete dishes, including Greek salad, shrimp pasta, mussels, and chicken, plus fruits and sweets. Drinks include water, wine, beer, and raki.

Can children join the cruise?
Absolutely, with kid-friendly options like pasta and chicken nuggets, plus inflatable toys and SUP boards for water play.

Final Thoughts

This day cruise from Rethymno to Georgioupolis Bay offers a wonderful blend of scenic sailing, authentic Crete cuisine, and engaging water activities. It’s a practical, enjoyable way to experience the coast beyond the crowded beaches or typical sightseeing. The knowledgeable crew, quality food, and variety of water sports make it especially appealing for those seeking both relaxation and fun.

Whether you’re after a peaceful day of sunbathing, a culinary adventure, or some playful water fun, this cruise has a lot to offer. The flexible booking options and inclusive amenities make it a reliable choice for most travelers looking to enjoy Crete’s stunning waters in comfort and style.

To sum it up, if you value authentic local food, scenic views, and active water fun, this cruise provides a memorable, well-rounded day out. It’s particularly suitable for families, couples, and groups who want to enjoy Crete’s coast comfortably and authentically—without sacrificing quality or variety. For a day that combines adventure, relaxation, and genuine Greek flavors, this tour stands out as a fantastic option.