Rethymno: Sailing Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks

Rethymno: Sailing Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks
Rating: 4.5/5 from 45 reviews
Location: Crete, Greece
Price: $143.10 per person
Duration: Approximately 6 hours 30 minutes
Features: Mobile ticket, small group size, free WiFi

A quick glance at the experience: For about six and a half hours, you’ll glide across the sparkling waters off Crete aboard a modern, luxurious catamaran. Starting from Rethymno Marina, the trip promises a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and beautiful scenery. As a highlight, you’ll anchor in a calm bay with clear waters where swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on deck are all options. Included in the package are a fresh Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks—think local wine and beer—and a variety of activities like paddleboarding and fishing.

What truly makes this cruise stand out are the friendly crew and the attention to detail, from the onboard WiFi to the thoughtfully prepared meal. It’s a well-organized escape that caters to both those who want to relax and those eager for some aquatic fun.

Two reasons we particularly like this trip are its spacious, comfortable deck—ideal for soaking up the sun and snapping photos—and the quality of the food and drinks, which elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and inflatable flamingos adds a playful touch.

The only consideration? Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, which is centrally located in Rethymno. This could be a minor hurdle if you’re staying outside the town or prefer a door-to-door service.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of scenic beauty, good food, and casual fun—perfect for couples, small groups, or families (kids have their options too). It’s especially appealing if you appreciate comfortable, all-inclusive experiences that don’t skimp on quality.

Key Points

• Luxurious Catamaran: Modern, well-maintained vessel with plenty of space for relaxing and socializing.
• Multiple Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, fishing, and fun inflatable flamingo.
• Delicious Mediterranean Lunch: Fresh seafood, meats, vegetables, and seasonal fruits served onboard.
• Unlimited Drinks: Local wine, beer, sodas, and water included, with a focus on quality and refreshment.
• Flexible and Small Group: Max 25 travelers, ensuring a personal and authentic experience.
• No Hotel Transport: You’ll need to plan your own way to the meeting point in Rethymno.

An In-Depth Look: What to Expect on Your Catamaran Day

Starting off at Rethymno Marina: The cruise begins at 9:30 am from DanEri Yachts. The check-in process is straightforward, and most travelers find the location is easy to reach thanks to nearby public transportation options. We loved the way the crew greets guests with tea, coffee, and local treats, setting a friendly, welcoming tone for the day.

Setting sail and enjoying the scenery: As the catamaran slips away from the marina, you’ll immediately notice the luxurious interior and deck space. The boat is one of Crete’s newest, offering a smooth ride and ample room to spread out. Soft music plays in the background, adding to the relaxing atmosphere as you glide across crystal-clear waters. WiFi on board means you can update your social media or check in with friends while soaking up the stunning scenery.

Anchoring in Georgioupoli Bay: Around midday, the boat anchors in a tranquil bay known for its crystal-clear waters—a perfect spot for a swim or snorkeling. We loved the calm, inviting waters where several reviews mention being able to “swim in calm, crystal blue waters” and enjoy the secluded spot away from busy beaches. Equipment for snorkeling and fishing is provided, making it easy for beginners to try out.

Activities on deck: For those who enjoy a bit of playfulness, the inflatable flamingo is a hit for lounging or fun photos. Paddleboarding is also included, giving guests an easy way to explore the bay from a different perspective. Even if you’re new to paddleboarding, the shallow, calm waters are forgiving and safe for beginners.

Culinary highlights: The onboard Mediterranean lunch is a true highlight. The menu features a cheese platter, salads, shrimp pasta or rice with feta, mussels in turmeric sauce and ouzo, chicken breast with oranges, and seasonal fruits for dessert. Reviewers rave about the “delicious, freshly cooked” dishes, praising the “excellent food” and the generous servings. The meal is served buffet-style, allowing everyone to try a bit of everything, and pairs beautifully with unlimited local wine and beer, making this a true foodie experience at sea.

Relaxation and socializing: After lunch, guests typically lounge on deck, enjoy the free WiFi, or take more dips in the water. Music continues softly in the background, and the small group size means it’s easy to chat with fellow travelers or just enjoy the serenity.

The Experience Beyond the Basics

What sets this cruise apart is not just the scenery but the quality of the experience. As one reviewer states, “The crew was professional and attentive,” ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort throughout. The small group size fosters an intimate atmosphere, which makes conversations and sharing experiences more natural.

The unlimited drinks elevate the mood, especially after a swim or a paddle, and the beautiful boat provides a picturesque setting for photos—something many travelers mention as a highlight. One guest called it a “great day on the water“, emphasizing the wonderful scenery, good food, drinks, and music.

Authentic touches like traditional cheese pies during the welcome drinks and the focus on local, fresh produce add a layer of genuine Cretan hospitality. The attention to detail in aspects like snorkel gear, paddleboards, and fishing equipment makes the experience feel well-rounded and inclusive.

A couple of small drawbacks: Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to plan how to get to the meeting point, especially if you’re staying outside central Rethymno. Also, the experience relies on good weather—if the day is stormy or windy, the trip could be canceled or rescheduled, but the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect if you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic day with excellent food, drinks, and some aquatic fun. It’s ideal for couples wanting a romantic escape, small groups of friends, or families with kids (who have kid-friendly options like pasta and nuggets). The small group size and friendly crew create a laid-back atmosphere, making it suitable for travelers who value authentic, personal experiences without feeling crowded.

If you enjoy luxury touches but don’t want to pay the high price for a private yacht, this cruise offers a lot of value. You get a quality boat, multiple activities, and a delicious meal—all in one package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to DanEri Yachts in Rethymno.

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise departs at 9:30 am from DanEri Yachts.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including sailing time, swimming, and dining.

Are there activities suitable for children?
Yes, kids can enjoy the paddleboarding, swimming, and the kid-friendly menu options like pasta and nuggets.

Is there WiFi on board?
Yes, free WiFi is available, allowing you to share your adventures in real time.

What drinks are included?
Unlimited local white wine and beer are included, along with soda and water.

What is the meal like?
You’ll enjoy a fresh Mediterranean buffet with seafood, meats, vegetables, and seasonal fruits, served onboard.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I book in advance?
Yes, the experience is usually booked about 34 days in advance, ensuring good availability.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a relaxing yet fun day on the water with stunning sea views, excellent food, and friendly service, this Rethymno sailing catamaran cruise is hard to beat. The combination of luxury, casual activities, and authentic touches makes it a standout choice for travelers looking to unwind and soak up Crete’s maritime charm.

It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate small-group experiences and value quality food and drinks amid beautiful surroundings. Keep in mind the need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point and stay flexible with weather-dependent plans. If these conditions match your travel style, this cruise offers a memorable day in Crete’s incredible waters.

Final thoughts

This cruise provides a perfect escape to enjoy Crete’s coast without the hassle of planning multiple activities or meals. It balances scenic beauty and relaxation with delicious local cuisine and playful water activities—a great choice for a laid-back, memorable day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful break, you’ll leave with plenty of photos, good stories, and a healthy dose of sunshine.