Rethymno: Pirate Boat Cruise with Swimming Stop

If you’re in Crete and craving a laid-back day on the water, the Pirate Boat Cruise from Rethymno might just fit the bill. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and info, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a mix of scenic views, fun swimming, and a touch of pirate-themed charm. It’s a half-day adventure that’s generally well-reviewed, especially for those who enjoy relaxed boat rides and good company.

What we really like about this experience are the stunning coastal views—particularly of Rethymno’s fortress and the caves of Kefalas—and the friendly crew that keeps the mood light and fun. On the downside, some travelers mention that the swimming stops might not be as long or frequent as expected. Still, it’s a trip that suits those looking for a straightforward, enjoyable boat outing with plenty of chances to cool off and take in the scenery.

If you’re after a simple, reasonably priced cruise that’s suitable for most ages—especially if you like the idea of being on a pirate boat and swimming in clear waters—this one’s worth considering. It’s also a good choice if you want a laid-back, social experience rather than a high-energy adventure.

Key Points

• Good value for money at $65 per person, including meals and snorkeling gear.
• Stunning coastal views and interesting sights like caves and Venetian harbor.
• Relaxed, friendly crew that makes the trip enjoyable and approachable.
• Swimming and snorkeling in the Mediterranean, with masks and tubes provided.
• A straightforward experience with no complicated logistics—just show up at the marina.
• Limited time for swimming (about an hour), so don’t expect hours in the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Rethymno Pirate Boat Cruise

When considering a 5-hour boat trip like this, it’s important to know what to expect so you can get the most out of it. The cruise departs from the Rethymno marina, where you’ll meet the crew in front of the Dolphin Cruises pirate boat, about 30 minutes early—you’ll want to arrive on time to exchange your voucher for a ticket. The boat itself has a fun pirate theme, which adds a playful touch to the day and appeals especially to families or those young at heart.

The Itinerary: What’sIncluded and How It Unfolds

The cruise is designed to take you westward along Crete’s coast, giving you great views of the Fortezza fortress. This fortress is a prominent landmark, and many reviews mention how enjoyable it is to see it from the water—something you might not get to appreciate as much from land. You then cruise past the charming bay of Gerani before reaching Kefalas Bay, the highlight for many.

Once at Kefalas Bay, you’ll get about an hour to swim or snorkel. The boat provides masks and tubes, which many reviewers find convenient and helpful—especially since some mention the water is clear and full of fish, making snorkeling quite enjoyable. One reviewer noted, “The snorkeling was incredible in a really nice creek at approximately 1h15 from Rethymnon port,” which gives a good idea of what to expect.

The swim stop is often appreciated for the peaceful surroundings and beautiful landscape. Travelers have mentioned they saw lots of fish, and a few reviews even highlight that children enjoyed the activity, making it a family-friendly outing. However, some report that the swimming time can be a bit brief—about 30 minutes to an hour—so if you’re eager for more water time, you might find it somewhat limiting.

The Food and Drink: Simple but Satisfying

A light Greek salad lunch is included, topped with a glass of wine or a soft drink. The meal is straightforward but well-received, especially after a swim. As one reviewer put it, “A Greek salad is a good idea after one hour of swim,” which sums up the experience well. The food isn’t elaborate, but it’s fresh and enough to satisfy most travelers.

Anything extra, like additional drinks, isn’t included, so if you’re looking for a full bar experience, you’ll need to buy separately. The crew generally is praised for being friendly and helpful, often making space for guests to take photos or even let children drive the boat, adding a playful element.

The Scenic Highlights: What You’ll See

Beyond the caves and fortress, the views of Crete’s coastline are another big plus. You’ll enjoy the enchanting caves of Kefalas and the historic Venetian harbor on the return leg, giving you a good sense of the island’s layered history. Many reviews mention how peaceful and scenic the whole trip feels, especially with the gentle breeze and the sound of waves.

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The Crew and Overall Atmosphere

Reviews consistently praise the friendly and accommodating crew. Several mention Captain Florent, who “was really kind and let people and children drive the pirate boat,” adding a memorable personal touch. The crew’s relaxed attitude seems to be a big part of what makes this trip enjoyable—no stiff formalities, just good vibes.

Practicalities and Considerations

This experience doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation to the marina. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended. The cruise is in English, French, and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as boarding and moving around the boat might be challenging. Also, be sure to bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and your ID or passport, as these are essential.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of travelers enjoyed their time, with many giving it top marks for value and fun. Elizabeth from the UK called it “great value for money,” and others appreciated the stunning swim spots and the friendly staff. A common theme was that the crew made the trip more engaging—whether by letting kids drive the boat or just sharing good humor.

Some reviewers noted the short swimming window and the lack of a guide explaining sights or providing commentary—if that’s what you’re after, this might feel a bit basic. But if you’re happy with a laid-back cruise and some fun in the water, you’ll likely find this experience thoroughly enjoyable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy relaxed boat trips with scenic views, easy swimming, and a friendly atmosphere, this cruise hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a simple day out without fuss—families with children, couples, or groups looking to enjoy the coast. If you’re after an in-depth guide or more extensive water time, you might want to consider other options. But for those seeking good value, light adventure, and beautiful scenery, this pirate-themed cruise offers a charming taste of Crete’s coastline.

Final Thoughts

This Rethymno Pirate Boat Cruise delivers exactly what it promises: a relaxed, scenic, and fun-filled day on the water. The combination of stunning coastlines, snorkeling in clear waters, and friendly service makes it an appealing option for many travelers. The included Greek salad lunch and the casual atmosphere offer good value for a five-hour experience.

While the swimming time might feel limited to some, most reviews highlight the overall enjoyment of the trip—especially the views, the crew’s friendliness, and the chance to unwind in a beautiful setting. It’s a straightforward outing that suits anyone wanting a hassle-free adventure and a taste of Crete’s maritime beauty.

If you’re after a fun, laid-back day with a little pirate flair and plenty of photo opportunities, this cruise might just be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included in this tour?
No, the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers. You’ll need to get to the marina in Rethymno on your own and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to exchange your voucher for a ticket.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your ID or passport. It’s also helpful to wear comfortable clothes and perhaps a hat for sun protection.

How long is the swimming stop?
You’ll have about an hour to swim or snorkel at Kefalas Bay. Some reviews say that the actual swimming time can be around 30 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Are masks and snorkeling tubes provided?
Yes, the boat provides complimentary snorkeling masks and swimming tubes, which many travelers find helpful.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, many reviews mention kids enjoying the swimming spot and playful crew. However, be mindful that boarding might be challenging for those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
The cruise, swimming stop, Greek salad lunch, a glass of wine or soft drink, and snorkeling masks are included. Drinks beyond that are not covered.

How long is the cruise?
The entire trip lasts about five hours, including the time for swimming, sailing, and the meal.

What sights will we see?
Expect views of Rethymno’s fortress, caves of Kefalas, and the Venetian harbor. The coastline and the natural landscape are the main scenic highlights.

Is there any commentary or guide information during the trip?
No, there generally isn’t a guide providing commentary. The focus is on the scenic experience and relaxing in the moment.

Would this be a good romantic or solo activity?
Absolutely. It’s a calm, social experience that’s suitable for singles or couples wanting to enjoy Crete’s beauty without too much fuss.

In short, if you’re looking for a charming, comfortable cruise with friendly crew, scenic views, and some swimming fun, this pirate-themed boat trip really offers a lot for the price. It’s simple, relaxed, and satisfying—perfect for those who want to enjoy Crete’s coast in a laid-back way.

You can check availability for your dates here: