Crete Pirate Ship Cruise with the Black Rose to Stalis and Malia

Crete Pirate Ship Cruise with the Black Rose to Stalis and Malia

If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed way to explore Crete’s stunning coastline, this half-day pirate ship cruise from Hersonissos is worth considering. For around $62.70 per person, you’ll set sail aboard the Black Rose, a ship styled like a classic pirate vessel, heading toward the bays of St. George’s, Stalis, and Malia. The trip lasts about 4.5 hours — a good length for those wanting a taste of the sea without losing a full day.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at various beaches and caves, plus the friendly, lively crew that keeps spirits high. The delicious BBQ lunch served onboard is another highlight — simple, tasty, and perfect for refueling after a swim.

A possible drawback is that some reviews mention a shorter trip than expected or feeling that certain stops, like the promised island of Dia, were missed. Also, not included are drinks and hotel transfers, so you’ll need to plan your transportation.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy social, informal outings with natural beauty, good food, and a touch of pirate-themed fun. Families, singles, and groups seeking an engaging coast adventure will find this trip appealing — especially if they like swimming, snorkeling, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic pirate ship experience with a lively crew that enhances the fun atmosphere.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops at stunning beaches and caves.
• Delicious BBQ lunch onboard, offering good value and satisfying hunger after swimming.
• No hotel pickup or drinks included, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Approximately 4.5 hours of sailing, with varying reviews about how long each stop lasts.
• Aimed at a broad audience: families, solo travelers, and groups wanting a relaxed coastal adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Crete Pirate Ship Cruise

When we think about experiencing Crete, a boat trip is often one of the best ways to see the coast and enjoy the Mediterranean’s beauty. The Black Rose pirate ship cruise from Hersonissos offers just that, combining a dash of adventure with relaxation, great food, and a good dose of sun and sea.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $62.70, the trip includes a delicious BBQ lunch and the services of an experienced tour escort/host. You’ll meet at Agias Paraskevis 125, Limenas Chersonisou, and the experience lasts roughly 4.5 hours, with the cruise beginning at 11:00 am. However, drinks are not included, and there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off — so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the port.

The Itinerary and Stops

The main focus of this tour is the coastal cruise along the north of Crete, starting from Hersonissos. The ship departs from the port, where a crew of friendly, lively guides welcomes guests with a warm smile. From there, the journey takes you through beautiful blue waters toward St. George’s Bay.

This bay is praised for its crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The reviews highlight that St. George’s Bay is particularly stunning, with one guest mentioning, “St Georges bay was beautiful for swimming and snorkelling,” which sums up what many travelers love.

Next, the cruise continues eastward toward Stalis and Malia, small towns with inviting beaches. Here, you get plenty of time to refresh yourself in the sea, with some reviews describing the stops as “plenty of time for a swim,” and others noting that the crew even stops at caves and beaches with good snorkeling spots.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Cave Exploration

The water stops are the core of this trip. Guests can expect swimming and snorkeling in refreshingly clear waters, often in caves or coves that are accessible only by boat. The reviews tell us that the crew is attentive and makes an effort to create a friendly, fun vibe — joking, dancing, and engaging with guests.

One guest raved, “Staff were really friendly and a great laugh dancing and messing around,” which shows how much the crew’s attitude can boost the experience. Another mentioned, “The voyage on the ship was great. The crew was friendly and very interactive making everyone feel very comfortable.”

Food and Drinks

The BBQ lunch served onboard is often highlighted as a highlight. It typically includes steak, salad, tzatziki, and bread, which many guests find perfectly adequate for the length of the trip. Multiple reviews mention the delicious food and fair prices for beverages, with some describing the meal as “super tasty” and “a good addition to the trip.”

However, drinks are not included, and some guests have expressed disappointment over the limited variety or quality of the food and beverage options. If you’re a foodie or want a more elaborate onboard meal, you might find this experience basic but satisfying.

Crew and Atmosphere

The real charm of this cruise is the pirate theme and the crew’s lively personality. Many reviews mention how friendly, humorous, and engaging the staff are, creating a festive and relaxed environment. Some travelers noted that they felt included, even if traveling solo — “they made a special effort to talk to me and make me feel included.”

One guest even said, “The crew was friendly and very interactive,” emphasizing that the crew’s attitude can turn a simple boat trip into a memorable outing.

The Drawbacks and Considerations

While many reviews are positive, some travelers felt the trip was shorter or less eventful than anticipated. For instance, one review stated, “we were no more than 10 minutes out of the port & the anchor was dropped… told to swim for 2 hours — who swims around the hull of a ship for two hours?”

Others felt that the promised visit to Dia was not honored, leading to disappointment. Plus, not having hotel pickup or drinks included could be a drawback for some, especially if they prefer a more all-inclusive experience.

Some reviews also mention long waiting times before departure or crowded conditions, but these seem to be minor issues compared to the overall enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

This cruise is well-suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back, fun day on the water. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and a casual social atmosphere with a bit of pirate flair, this trip delivers. It’s ideal for travelers who value good food, friendly staff, and beautiful scenery, rather than a highly structured or long tour.

Final Thoughts

This pirate-themed cruise from Hersonissos offers a lively, authentic slice of Crete’s coast, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard. The friendly crew and delicious BBQ make it a good value for the price, especially if you appreciate casual, social outings on the water.

While it’s not a luxury or all-inclusive experience, it delivers on fun, scenic views, and a friendly vibe. It’s perfect for those wanting a light-hearted day at sea, with a bit of pirate flair and plenty of opportunities to cool off in the Mediterranean.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The cruise begins at 11:00 am, meeting at Agias Paraskevis 125, Limenas Chersonisou.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transfers. You’ll need to make your own way to the port.

What’s included in the price?
The trip includes a BBQ lunch and the services of an experienced tour escort/host.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the package, so plan to buy beverages separately.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts about 4.5 hours, with time split between sailing, swimming, and eating.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Some reviews mention limited buoyancy aids for children, so bring your own if needed.

Is snorkeling provided?
Yes, snorkeling is available at stops with clear waters and caves, and many guests enjoyed exploring beneath the surface.

What is the crew like?
Guests consistently describe the crew as friendly, humorous, and engaging, often creating a festive pirate atmosphere.

Can I expect to visit Dia Island?
It appears that Dia Island is not always included in the itinerary, as some reviews mention missing this stop despite expectations.

If you’re up for a relaxed, fun-filled day on the water with great scenery, friendly staff, and good food, this pirate ship cruise makes for a memorable Crete adventure. Just remember to plan your transportation, bring some extra drinks if desired, and enjoy sailing along this beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coast.