Crete: Arriving by cruise ship at Chania – Port of Souda

Introduction

When cruise ships pull into the port of Souda, many travelers look for experiences that reveal the true essence of Crete beyond just sunbathing or quick sightseeing. This Crete shore excursion offers a thoughtfully curated taste of the island’s rich agricultural traditions, picturesque old town, and stunning natural beauty—all in just four hours. Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or nature enthusiast, this tour packs in a variety of highlights.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances educational elements with picturesque scenery. The olive oil tasting at Kanakis farm is both fascinating and delicious, giving you insight into local production methods. Plus, wandering through Rethymno’s old town feels like stepping into a living postcard, filled with atmospheric streets and historical architecture. And ending the trip at Lake Kournas, with its peaceful waters and mountain views, offers a calm, restorative close to your busy day.

A potential consideration is that the tour, while well-paced, covers quite a bit in just four hours. Travelers who want a more leisurely pace might find it a bit rushed, especially at the old town and lake stops. Still, if you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized overview of Crete’s highlights, this tour should suit you nicely.

This experience is best for travelers who want a mix of local culture, authentic food experiences, and beautiful scenery—especially those arriving on a cruise and eager to make the most of a short time ashore.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Educational olive oil experience with tasting and production insights
• Charming exploration of Rethymno’s old town with its blend of architectural influences
• Relaxing visit to Lake Kournas, Crete’s only freshwater lake and a peaceful retreat
• Private group tour, offering flexibility and personalized attention
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at Souda or Heraklion ports
• Includes audio guides in Greek and English for better understanding
• Ideal for cruise travelers wanting a compact but rich experience
• Cost-benefit offers good value for the variety packed into four hours

The Olive Oil Tasting: A Deep Dive

Our journey starts at Kanakis olive oil farm, a local operation that prides itself on traditional methods. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how olive oil is made, from harvesting to pressing. The fact that the tour includes tasting the current year’s extra virgin olive oil adds a fresh, authentic touch. This is not just about sipping oil; it’s about understanding what makes extra virgin special and how to tell good quality from less desirable options.

The guide explains the difference between First Cold Pressed and Cold Extraction techniques—terms that often confuse even seasoned foodies. You’ll learn what to look for in a quality olive oil and why it matters for your health and cooking. Plus, you get to taste raki, a local spirit, which adds a traditional flavor to the experience.

Reviews mention that visitors found the farm tour both educational and tasty, with one noting, “It was fascinating to see how much effort goes into just a bottle of olive oil.” The tasting is relaxed, and many appreciate the chance to try different flavors, which enhances their understanding and enjoyment.

This part of the tour is a highlight—not just for the tasting itself but for the stories and knowledge you’ll take home. If you’re into food and local traditions, it’s a solid start that sets a welcoming tone for the rest of the day.

Exploring Rethymno’s Old Town

Next, we venture into the labyrinth of streets that make up Rethymno’s old town. Here, the architecture is a living mosaic—Venetian, Ottoman, and Egyptian influences meld into a captivating scene. The port, with its lively atmosphere, gives just a glimpse of the town’s historical significance.

We loved the way the narrow streets are filled with character—hidden cafes, shops, and historic buildings that invite exploration. The guide offers commentary on the architecture and stories behind key landmarks, making the walk engaging without feeling rushed.

You’ll have about three hours here, which is enough time to wander, grab a coffee, or try a local sweet. Several reviews mention how easy it is to lose yourself in the old town’s charm, noting that “it feels like stepping into a Jane Austen novel,” with intricate buildings and atmospheric alleyways.

The old port is also picturesque, perfect for memorable photos or a leisurely stroll along the water. While some might wish for more time to truly get lost in the maze of streets, the tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and free time.

If you’re into history, architecture, or simply soaking up authentic local vibes, Rethymno’s old town offers plenty to enjoy in a short visit.

Lake Kournas: Nature’s Serenity

The final stop is Lake Kournas, the only freshwater lake in Crete. Surrounded by the White Mountains, it’s a tranquil spot that provides a stark contrast to the busy towns. The setting is truly picturesque—calm waters, lush greenery, and mountain views.

Here, you have about two hours to take photos, relax by the water, or enjoy a coffee overlooking the lake. It’s a perfect chance to unwind and take in some of the island’s natural beauty. Many visitors comment on how peaceful and scenic the area is, with one saying, “You get a real sense of escape here, away from the crowds.”

The location makes for a lovely photo backdrop, and the relaxed atmosphere is ideal if you want a moment of quiet before heading back to the ship. For those interested, the landscape also makes it a good spot for a gentle walk or just sitting and soaking in the views.

While Lake Kournas is a bit off the beaten path, it’s well worth the brief detour for nature lovers or anyone wanting a break from sightseeing.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour operates with flexible pickup options at Souda or Heraklion ports, which is convenient for most cruise travelers. It starts with a visit to Palea EO Chanion Rethimnou, where you can expect about 1.5 hours of touring—perfect for getting oriented with the landscape and initial sights.

Then, the Rethymno old town segment lasts around three hours, allowing ample time for exploration, photos, and maybe a snack or coffee break. The Lake Kournas stop spans roughly two hours, including free time for photos and relaxing by the water.

The timing ensures a well-paced experience without feeling rushed, although it’s good to be mindful of your cruise’s departure time. The tour is designed as a private group, so your experience is flexible and personalized. The driver, who speaks Greek and English, provides commentary and ensures smooth transitions.

The entire journey totals about four hours, balancing sightseeing with enough time to enjoy each stop fully. The tour ends with convenient drop-off back at your port, making it a stress-free addition to your cruise day.

Practical Details and Value

The price for this private tour reflects its personalized approach—your own driver, flexible timing, and a diverse itinerary. While it may seem like a quick overview, the variety of stops offers genuine value, especially considering the insider knowledge you’ll gain during the olive oil tour and the charming explorations of Rethymno.

Included audio guides in Greek and English enhance understanding, especially at the farm and during the main sightseeing points. The private aspect means you won’t be jostled in large groups, and your driver is there to cater to your pace.

The tour’s cancellation policy—free up to 24 hours in advance—adds flexibility, which is vital for cruise travelers on tight schedules. Bringing a hat, camera, and cash is recommended, as you’ll want to capture memories and enjoy some local treats.

The Sum Up

This Crete shore excursion offers a practical yet immersive glimpse into the island’s culture, history, and natural beauty. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to make the most of their limited time ashore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The combination of olive oil tasting, exploring the historic streets of Rethymno, and relaxing at Lake Kournas creates a well-rounded experience.

For those who love discovering local traditions, enjoying scenic views, and having some free time in charming settings, this tour hits the right notes. The private group format and knowledgeable guides add a personal touch that makes the experience feel special. While a full day might offer more depth, for a short cruise stop, this tour delivers efficiency, variety, and authenticity—all with a friendly, down-to-earth vibe.

If you’re after a taste of traditional Crete with beautiful scenery, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, so if you have mobility considerations, you should be able to enjoy most of the stops, especially the outdoor ones like Lake Kournas.

How long is the Olive Oil farm visit?
The farm visit includes a tour and tasting, but the exact duration isn’t specified; expect around 1-1.5 hours.

Can I buy souvenirs or local products during the tour?
While not explicitly mentioned, many farms and old towns have shops, so you might find local olive oils, souvenirs, or treats.

What should I bring on the tour?
A hat and camera are recommended to enjoy the sunshine and capture photos. Some cash might be handy for small purchases or snacks.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private group tour, giving you more flexibility and personalized attention.

How do I find the driver upon arrival?
The driver will be waiting with a sign bearing your name at the port’s arrival area.

How much time do I get at Lake Kournas?
You’ll have approximately two hours to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and relax.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The tour lasts around four hours, including all stops and transfers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for cruise schedules.

This experience offers a well-rounded slice of Crete, perfect for travelers who want to combine cultural insights with scenic beauty—all in a manageable, stress-free package.

You can check availability for your dates here: