Kolimvari: Sailing Cruise with Meal & Water Activities

A Complete Guide to the Kolimvari Sailing Cruise with Meal & Water Activities in Crete

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Crete’s stunning coastline without the hassle of planning, the Kolimvari Sailing Cruise offers a perfect combination of sailing, swimming, and delicious food. This experience, rated 4.7 out of 5 from nearly 200 reviews, promises a relaxed day on a comfortable yacht, exploring Agioi Theodoroi island, known for its crystal-clear waters and the famous Kri-Kri goats.

What truly makes this trip stand out is the blend of scenic sailing, water-based fun, and a gourmet Mediterranean meal served aboard—plus unlimited drinks. Whether you’re into snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun, this tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic Crete experience.

One thing to keep in mind is the group size, which, while generally praised for being intimate, might feel a bit crowded for some on larger boats. Also, the experience is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness—so a little heads-up for sensitive travelers.

This cruise is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day on the water with good food, friendly guides, and a chance to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty in a comfortable setting. If you love a mix of adventure and relaxation, and appreciate well-organized, authentic experiences, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Sail along the coast of Chania and enjoy breathtaking views.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling and paddleboarding in crystal waters, with equipment provided.
• Authentic Experience: Fresh, Mediterranean cuisine including Greek salad and shrimp linguine.
• Expert Crew: Friendly, knowledgeable guides delivering a seamless experience.
• Flexible Timing: Options for morning or afternoon cruises, including sunset views.
• Good Value: For around $87, you get a full day of sailing, food, drinks, and activities.

Why You’ll Love the Kolimvari Sailing Cruise

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight. From the moment you step onto the yacht, the experience feels curated to maximize comfort and enjoyment. The crew, including guides like Paul, Jason, and Elias, are often praised for their friendliness and expertise—making you feel welcome and well looked after.

We loved the way the guides keep the atmosphere light and fun, sharing insights about the local area and the marine life, including the Kri-Kri goats—an iconic symbol of the island. The boat itself is described as large, comfortable, and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth ride across the waves.

One of the standout features is the water activities. Snorkelers and paddleboarders report plenty of fish and beautiful waters to explore, with some reviewers mentioning seeing octopuses—adding a touch of marine excitement. The crew is attentive, offering equipment readily and encouraging guests to make the most of their time in the water.

The food is another highlight. Many reviews rave about the quality and generous portions of the meal, particularly the shrimp linguine, which is home-cooked and flavorful. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request, catering to various dietary needs. Paired with local wine, beer, or soft drinks, this meal turns the cruise into a true culinary treat.

However, the length of the stops can be a consideration. The main swimming and activity break lasts about 3 hours, which is enough for a decent swim, but some travelers might prefer more time. Also, the group size can reach up to 10 people, which might feel a tad crowded during meals or water activities for some.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour typically starts from Kolimvari Port, with options for pickup from nearby areas. After a brief safety briefing and introductions, you’ll set sail along the north coast of Chania, enjoying scenic views and a relaxed vibe. This sailing segment lasts about an hour and is the perfect way to get into the holiday mood, with music and panoramic vistas.

The first stop is Agioi Theodoroi island, roughly an hour from the start. Here, you’ll anchor in a calm bay, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Reviewers highlight the clarity of the waters and the variety of marine life, making it a fantastic spot for underwater exploration.

During your time here, the crew is friendly and accommodating, offering equipment and drinks to keep you refreshed. Many guests comment on how crystal-clear the water is—some even seeing octopuses, which adds an extra thrill for snorkelers.

After about 1-2 hours of water fun, the crew serves a freshly prepared Mediterranean menu. Guests typically enjoy Greek salad, appetizers, and the main course of shrimp linguine, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. The meal is considered plentiful and flavorful, often paired with local wine or soft drinks. Some reviews mention the delicious fruit mixture of tropical and local fruits served as dessert, providing a sweet finish to the meal.

Post-lunch, the boat sets sail back towards Kolimvari, passing scenic spots and enjoying the sea breeze. The return journey, approximately an hour, offers another chance to relax and take in the views. If you chose a sunset cruise, this segment is especially memorable as the sky turns orange and pink.

Additional Details:

• Duration: About 5 hours total
• Start times: Morning or afternoon options (check availability)
• Inclusions: Sailing, certified captain, crew, meal, unlimited drinks, snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment, music
• Transport: Optional pickup from nearby areas, with instructions provided the day before
• Meeting Point: Kolimvari Port bus stop, with parking available
• Group Size: Usually up to 10 guests, ideal for a cozy experience
• Not suitable for: Pregnant women, wheelchair users, or seasick-prone travelers

Authentic Experiences & What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently mention how accommodating and friendly the crew is. Patrick notes guides Paul and Jason as particularly attentive, stating, “they were friendly and accommodating,” which enhances the overall relaxed vibe. Hanna-Leena echoes this sentiment, praising the crew as “amazing” and the food as “excellent.”

The water activities receive high praise for their clarity and variety. Kim mentions how the boat is well looked after and appreciates the “great lunch,” while another reviewer, Peter, describes snorkeling and paddleboarding as “wonderful relaxing days.” Several travelers highlight the small group size, which makes the experience more intimate, allowing for more personal interaction with the crew and fellow guests.

The cuisine is frequently described as home-cooked and generous. The shrimp linguine, in particular, gets rave reviews for its flavor and quality. The drinks, including wine and beer, are unlimited, which adds to the laid-back, festive atmosphere.

Some comments note the boat’s capacity feels a bit tight during lunch or water activities, especially when the full 10 guests are onboard. However, many find this adds to the charm rather than detracts.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring a towel and sun protection—the sun can be intense, and you’ll want to dry off after swimming.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• Request snorkeling and paddleboarding gear early on; the crew are happy to provide.
• Consider seasickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness, as sailing can sometimes be bumpy.
• Check dietary requirements in advance—vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
• Bring a camera or waterproof phone case to capture the scenic views and underwater moments.
• Note that towels are not included, so pack accordingly.
• Opt for the sunset cruise if you prefer a more romantic and picturesque experience.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This sailing cruise is perfect if you want a relaxed, scenic day with some water-based activities thrown in. It suits travelers who appreciate a small-group atmosphere, good food, and friendly guides. Those looking for an active day with snorkeling and paddleboarding will enjoy the variety of options, while families and couples will find the experience charming and intimate.

However, if you’re seeking a high-adventure or party vibe, this might not be the best fit. Also, those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider the restrictions, and seasickness-prone travelers should prepare accordingly.

Overall, it provides excellent value for the price, combining scenic sailing, water fun, and a delicious meal in a way that feels authentic and effortless.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

• What is the price of the cruise?
  It costs $87 per person, which includes the sailing, meal, drinks, and water activities.

• How long does the trip last?
  The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including sailing, swimming, eating, and returning.

• Are meals included?
  Yes, a 3-course Mediterranean meal is served, with options for vegetarian and gluten-free upon request.

• Can I request specific dietary options?
  Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free meals are available if requested in advance.

• Is there music on board?
  Yes, the crew plays music to enhance the relaxing atmosphere.

• Are drinks unlimited?
  Yes, guests can enjoy unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water.

• What water activities are available?
  Snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding are offered, with equipment provided upon request.

• Where do we meet?
  The meeting point is at the bus stop of Kolimvari Port, with parking available at the dock.

• Is pickup included?
  Pickup from select nearby areas is available; you’ll be contacted the day before for details.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  The experience is generally best suited for adults; children over 12 might enjoy it, but younger kids or those prone to seasickness should be cautious.

In essence, the Kolimvari Sailing Cruise offers a delightful blend of scenic sailing, water fun, and local cuisine, all wrapped in a friendly and intimate setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a relaxing day on Crete’s waters, this tour provides a well-rounded, authentic experience that captures the essence of island life—sun, sea, and good food.