Luxury Private Cruise with homemade lunch on board

A Deep Dive into Crete’s Luxurious Private Boat Experience

Imagine the gentle sway of a boat, warm sun on your face, and the smell of fresh, homemade Greek food wafting through the air. That’s the kind of vibe you get with the Luxury Private Cruise with homemade lunch on board around Crete. This seven-hour adventure, offered by CRETE YACHT CRUISES, promises an intimate, well-curated day exploring small islands, caves, and bays—places you’d struggle to access without a boat. It’s designed for those who crave comfort, authentic local touches, and a sprinkle of adventure.

One thing we especially like is the combination of personalized service and authentic experiences. From the homemade lunch cooked by the captain’s wife with vegetables straight from their family garden to the professional snorkel gear and fishing equipment, it feels thoughtfully curated. However, a possible consideration is that the price of $1,863 for up to 8 guests might make it less accessible for travelers on a tighter budget. Still, for those looking to splurge on a private, luxury day out in Crete, this cruise hits the mark. It’s best suited for small groups, families, or couples wanting a tailored day on the water with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small-group private cruise with up to 8 guests ensures personalized service.
• Authentic Cuisine: Homemade organic lunch featuring vegetables from a family garden and local olive oil.
• Varied Activities: Snorkeling, fishing, sea scooters, and floating mattresses appeal to adventure lovers.
• Stunning Views & Historic Sites: Visit Spinalonga island, the sunken city Olous, and explore caves and bays inaccessible by land.
• Flexible & Convenient: Duration of 7 hours with included equipment, refreshments, and optional meal in a traditional fish restaurant.
• Accessible & Easy Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours, reserve now and pay later, with English-speaking guides.

An In-Depth Look at the Crete Private Cruise Experience

The Start Point and Logistics

Your day begins at Akti Nearchou 18, a convenient and central meeting spot. From there, the boat departs on a journey that lasts approximately 7 hours, offering ample time to explore, relax, and indulge. The cruise is private, meaning you won’t be sharing this experience with strangers, which adds a layer of exclusivity and comfort.

The group size is capped at 8 people, creating a cozy setting where the crew can tailor the experience to your interests. The tour is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides who are attentive but unobtrusive, ensuring you get the most out of each stop.

Highlights and Activities

Snorkelling in protected waters is a real treat, thanks to top-quality equipment provided. The water clarity in these spots is often crystal clear, making the underwater scenery quite vivid—think colorful fish and interesting rock formations. Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of the gear, which boosts confidence in this activity.

Fishing with high-end rods and the “secret bait” mentioned by the operator promise a fun challenge, even if you’re a beginner. Captain Mike often offers gentle instruction, making it accessible for novices. Several travelers appreciated the chance to try their hand at fishing, with some catching fish to take home or simply enjoy the thrill of the attempt.

Sea scooters are another highlight. Easy to use, these motorized devices let you glide through the water, adding a touch of playful adventure. Reviewers describe this as “something I’d never tried before—so much fun!”

Floating mattresses add an extra layer of relaxation, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying the scenic views from the water.

Itinerary Breakdown and Key Stops

Stop 1: The Starting Point
The tour kicks off at Akti Nearchou 18, a straightforward starting point. From here, the crew typically heads towards the first island or cave, depending on weather conditions and your preferences.

Stop 2: Exploring Small Islands & Caves
Cruising around smaller islands, you’ll have the chance to duck into hidden caves and bays that are only accessible by boat. Many reviews mention the stunning scenery and the thrill of discovering secluded spots away from crowds. This part of the tour is perfect for photography, with opportunities to capture the natural beauty of Crete’s coastline.

Visit to Spinalonga Island and the Sunken City Olous
One of the tour’s most praised features is the visit to Spinalonga, a small but famous island with a compelling history as a former leper colony. The guides are praised for their knowledge, giving context about the island’s story and its significance. The sunken city Olous is another fascinating site, offering both historic intrigue and excellent photo opportunities.

The Homemade Lunch Experience

After a morning of exploration, you’ll be treated to homemade lunch prepared onboard by the captain’s wife. This isn’t just your average sandwich; it’s a thoughtfully prepared meal featuring organic vegetables, fresh from their family garden, and olive oil from their own trees. Several travelers emphasize how authentic and delicious the meal is, transforming a typical tourist lunch into a genuinely local experience.

Refreshments like good quality wines, local beers, and fresh fruits are served throughout the day, enhancing the relaxed, indulgent vibe. There’s also an option to have your meal at a traditional fish restaurant with a view (additional cost), which some guests found a charming way to extend their culinary experience.

Additional Activities & Considerations

Beyond snorkeling and fishing, the tour includes Sea Scooters and floating mattresses, adding a sense of fun and relaxation. These activities are designed to give everyone, regardless of experience, an enjoyable time in the water.

Guests have noted that the equipment provided is top-notch, making the activities accessible even for beginners. The flexible itinerary allows the crew to adapt based on weather and guest interests, which adds to the overall value.

The Value & Who Will Love This Tour

While the price of $1,863 for a private group might seem steep, it’s important to remember that this includes a luxurious, personalized experience, homemade organic food, and all activity gear. For travelers seeking an exclusive, memorable day on Crete’s waters, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience is especially suitable for small groups, families, or couples who value privacy and tailored service. Those who appreciate authentic Greek hospitality, scenic photography opportunities, and active water sports will find it particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This private cruise is perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy Crete’s coast in style. It offers a rare combination of luxury, authenticity, and adventure. If you’re drawn to local, homemade cuisine with a personal touch, or eager to explore hidden caves and islands, this experience will resonate with you.

The inclusion of high-quality equipment and knowledgeable guides makes it a safe and immersive option. You’ll leave with not only beautiful photos but also stories of sunken cities, historic islands, and the friendly crew who made your day special.

However, if budget is a concern, or you prefer larger group tours with less personalized service, you might want to compare this with other options. But for those who want a private, memorable day with a touch of luxury, this cruise hits all the right notes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private boat for 7 hours, professional snorkeling and fishing equipment, sea scooters, floating mattresses, refreshments, beers, quality wine, and fresh fruits. Homemade lunch made from organic vegetables and olive oil is also provided.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the activities involve water-based options like snorkeling and sea scooters, which may require some comfort with water. It’s best suited for those comfortable with water activities or under supervision.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides communicate in English, making it easy for international travelers to follow along and learn about the sites.

How many people can join the tour?
The experience is designed for private groups of up to 8 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there an option to have lunch ashore?
Yes, there is an option to have your meal at a traditional fish restaurant with an amazing view, though this is at your own expense.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera if you have one, and a sense of adventure. Equipment and refreshments are provided, so you won’t need to worry about the gear.

To sum it up, the Luxury Private Cruise with homemade lunch on board offers a beautifully balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic local flavor. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized, high-quality experience exploring Crete’s coast, with the comforts of good food, professional equipment, and a knowledgeable crew. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable day on the water, this tour delivers on all fronts, making it a worthwhile splurge for the right traveler.