Heraklion: Preveli Palm Beach Boat Trip & Rethymno Town Tour

Heraklion: Preveli Palm Beach Boat Trip & Rethymno Town Tour offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, history, and local charm. For around $56, you get a full-day adventure that takes you from the bustling city of Heraklion into some of the island’s most breathtaking landscapes. Expect to visit pristine beaches, float through turquoise waters, and stroll historic streets—all with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

What we love most about this tour is the boat trips—they add a relaxed, fun element while giving you an up-close look at the coast’s natural beauty. Plus, the stop at Rethymno offers enough time to soak in the charming atmosphere of a well-preserved old town. On the flip side, the tour does involve a fair amount of bus travel—between 2.5 and 4 hours just to get to the first stop—which might be tiring for some.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, a bit of history, and local flavor. If you’re comfortable with a long day on the road and want a comprehensive taste of Crete’s south coast, this trip offers good value and authentic sights.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery: Get breathtaking views of Kourtaliotis Gorge, the Libyan Sea, and lush palm forests.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines boat trips, beach time, sightseeing, and a town visit, giving a well-rounded experience.
• Expert guides: Expect knowledgeable, friendly guides who help you get the most out of each stop.
• Flexible free time: Ample opportunities for swimming, exploring, and relaxing at each location.
• Value for money: All transportation, boat tickets, and insurance included—lunch and drinks are extra.
• Long day but rewarding: Prepare for a day that can stretch up to 13.5 hours, but with plenty of memorable highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Heraklion to Damnoni Beach

Your day begins with a morning pickup from select locations, including Heraklion, Malia, Stalida, and other popular spots. Depending on where you stay, the bus ride to the south coast takes about 2.5 to 4 hours. While this sounds long, it’s a chance to enjoy some scenic views and get introduced to the landscape beyond the city.

Once you arrive at Damnoni Beach, you’ll board a boat that takes you across the water—an enjoyable 30-minute cruise that offers your first glimpse of the coastline’s beauty. The boat ride alone, with its cool sea breeze and views of rugged cliffs, sets the tone for the day ahead.

Visiting Preveli Palm Beach

The highlight for many is the Preveli Palm Forest. After arriving here, you’ll have approximately 1.5 hours to relax, swim, and explore. The combination of a sandy beach with a river flanked by palms makes it one of Crete’s most unique spots. The scenery is striking—rocky outcrops framing the lush green palms and turquoise waters.

Many reviews highlight how well-organized the visit is, with one traveler remarking that “Preveli beach was wonderful, and the sun came out just as we arrived.” You’ll love the chance to snorkel, dip into the Libyan Sea, or just lounge and take photos of the stunning landscape.

Returning to Damnoni Beach & Optional Lunch

After the boat trip back to Damnoni, you’ll have about an hour for a casual lunch at a local tavern—an extra cost if you choose to eat on your own. The timing here allows for some downtime, but if you’re eager to maximize your beach time, you’ll appreciate the flexibility.

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Exploring Kourtaliotis Gorge

Next, your journey continues with a scenic drive through Kourtaliotis Gorge. While only 10 minutes are allocated here, the view of the towering cliffs and rushing waters makes a lasting impression. It’s a quick stop, but a memorable one—an excellent chance to snap some photos and appreciate the wild beauty of Crete’s landscapes.

The Charm of Rethymno

The final stop is the historic town of Rethymno. With about 70 minutes of free exploration, you’ll walk through narrow streets, visit the old port, and soak in the atmosphere of a town that perfectly balances history and everyday life.

One reviewer notes, “The visit to Rethymno was quaint and charming,” which captures how this stop offers a taste of authentic Cretan life amidst picturesque surroundings. If you’re a history buff or just enjoy wandering through lively markets and cafes, you’ll find plenty to like here.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After a leisurely exploration, the bus departs Rethymno for the scenic drive back to your hotel, lasting between two and three hours. Keep in mind, depending on traffic and your hotel’s location, the return trip can be a bit lengthy. But it’s a small price for the memories collected throughout the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guided boat trips are a real highlight, providing a relaxing way to see the coast’s natural beauty. Many travelers praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, with one reviewer mentioning, “Elizabeta was knowledgeable and gave us time to explore each place on our own.” That thoughtful balance of guided commentary and free exploration makes the experience feel personal and enjoyable.

The scenery at Preveli is often described as stunning—palm trees, sandy shores, and turquoise waters. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated the time to swim and photograph the landscape, making the visit memorable.

However, some travelers feel the day could be improved with more time at Preveli Beach. One review states, “more time on Preveli Beach, no need to stop in Rethymno,” suggesting a preference for extended relaxation rather than sightseeing in town. This points to a potential consideration if your priority is beach lounging over sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear and towels if you want to take full advantage of the beaches and boat trips.
• Photographers will love the scenic stops; a waterproof camera could be handy for the boat ride and swimming.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around Rethymno’s cobbled streets.
• Lunch and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to purchase food at the stops.
• Long day alert: Prepare for a full day out—pack water, sunscreen, and a hat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for outdoor lovers who appreciate natural beauty and want a taste of Crete’s south coast. It’s also perfect if you enjoy boat rides and want to see the coastline from the water. Travelers who like small-group guided experiences will value the knowledgeable guide and flexible free time.

However, it might not suit those who prefer a leisurely pace or want more time to explore Rethymno’s historic sites in depth. The long bus rides may be tiring for some, so it’s best for those comfortable with full days and some travel.

The Sum Up

This combined boat trip, beach visit, and town tour strikes a fine balance between adventure, relaxation, and culture. The stunning scenery, especially at Preveli and Kourtaliotis Gorge, makes it a highlight for anyone visiting Crete. The professional guides enhance the experience with local insights, and the inclusion of boat tickets and insurance offers good value.

While the schedule is quite packed—meaning some may wish for more time at certain stops—the overall experience delivers a vivid snapshot of the island’s diverse landscapes and lively towns. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a full-day, active exploration that doesn’t just stick to tourist spots but offers authentic sights and fun moments on the water.

If you’re looking for a day that combines scenery, history, and local flavor without breaking the bank, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts between 11 and 13.5 hours, depending on traffic and hotel location.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned bus, a professional driver, a tour guide, boat tickets for the cruise to Preveli Palm Forest, all legal taxes, and liability insurance by ALLIANZ.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included. There is an optional opportunity to buy lunch at Damnoni Beach.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring Rethymno.

Can I swim at Preveli Beach?
Yes, you will have plenty of free time to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the water at Preveli.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the long duration and outdoor activities suggest it’s best suited for older children and teenagers.

Will I have free time?
Yes, each stop offers free time for swimming, sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
Guides speak French, Polish, English, German, and Italian.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I know where to be picked up?
You will receive a personalized email with your exact pick-up location and time within 24 hours of booking.

This trip offers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s natural beauty and charming towns, perfect for those looking to explore beyond the usual. Expect a full day of scenic sights, cultural flavor, and relaxing moments by the water—just remember to pace yourself and enjoy every view.

You can check availability for your dates here: