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

If you’re dreaming of exploring Crete from the water, this Pirate Ship Cruise aboard the Black Rose might catch your eye. It promises a laid-back, fun-filled half-day journey along the coast, stopping at some classic spots like St. George’s Bay, Malia, and Stalis. We’ve looked into what travellers really think, and here’s the scoop to help you decide if this is the right adventure for your trip.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this experience are the stunning views and the friendly, interactive crew. The boat’s pirate theme adds a playful vibe, making it feel like a mini adventure on the high seas. Plus, the chance to swim, snorkel, and spot marine life like dolphins and sea turtles appeals to many travelers. However, one potential drawback is that some guests have found the trip shorter or less varied than expected, especially if they’re after a more extensive sightseeing experience.

This cruise suits those looking for a relaxed, social outing with a dash of pirate flair, good food, and plenty of opportunities for swimming. It’s especially appealing for families, groups of friends, or anyone who appreciates a lively atmosphere combined with scenic views. If you’re after a more in-depth island exploration or a quiet day on the water, you might want to consider other options. But if you want a fun, casual day on the water with easy-going vibes, this cruise could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Duration & Price: About 4.5 hours for $62.70, offering decent value for the experience.
• Highlights: Swimming, snorkeling, dolphin and turtle spotting, BBQ lunch, pirate-themed boat.
• Group Size & Booking: Usually booked 22 days in advance, max of 120 travelers, so it’s popular but not overcrowded.
• What’s Included: Lunch and a friendly host, but drinks are extra.
• What to Bring: Passport or ID, and don’t forget sunscreen and swimwear.
• Experience Vibe: Casual, lively, and family-friendly, with an emphasis on fun rather than in-depth sightseeing.

An Honest Look at the Tour

This Crete cruise offers a chance to see the coast from a different perspective. Departing from Hersonissos Port at 11:00 am, the Black Rose sets sail across the clear waters of the Mediterranean. The ship itself is styled like a traditional pirate vessel, which instantly adds a playful element to the trip. You can expect the crew to be welcoming, interactive, and often joking around, making it an enjoyable atmosphere — as one reviewer put it, “Staff were really friendly and a great laugh dancing and messing around.”

Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins at the port of Hersonissos, where you’ll meet your crew and hop aboard the Black Rose. The first stop is around St. George’s Bay, a lovely spot for swimming and snorkeling. Many guests describe this as a highlight: “St Georges bay was beautiful for swimming and snorkelling,” says one reviewer. The calm, clear waters are perfect for a quick dip, and the crew often encourage guests to take advantage of the beaches and caves nearby.

After some time in the bay, the boat continues eastward along the coast to Stalis and Malia. Interestingly, some travelers noted that they didn’t get the full promised itinerary, with at least one commenting that “no visit to Dia Island was offered,” and instead, the boat just cruised the coast with music. While this might be disappointing if you were expecting a longer or more varied trip, many still enjoyed the laid-back vibe and the scenic views.

Swimming & Snorkeling

Guests consistently mention the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the refreshing waters. Some reviews highlight the beauty of the surroundings: “beautiful day, with very friendly and open crew,” and “plenty of time for a nice swim.” The crew often set up stops at caves and beaches, which are ideal for relaxing and exploring the local marine life.

Food & Drinks

The included BBQ lunch is often praised as a tasty addition to the day. One reviewer described it as “delicious,” with some noting the BBQ features items like steak, salad, and tzatziki. The reviews also indicate that beverage prices are fair, with beer costing around €2.50 and sodas €2.00, so you can choose to enjoy some drinks without feeling gouged.

However, some guests expressed dissatisfaction with the limited or basic nature of the included lunch, and a few reviews mentioned that drinks are extra, and not included in the ticket price. As always, if you’re planning to sip a lot, bring some cash for drinks onboard.

The Crew & Atmosphere

We loved the way the crew created a fun, interactive environment. They make jokes, dance, and play the pirate role convincingly, which really sets a lively tone for the trip. Several reviewers commented on how the staff went out of their way to make solo travelers feel included, which adds a nice touch to the experience.

While most reviews are glowing, a few guests found the trip too short or felt the entertainment was geared more towards party-goers. If you prefer a quiet or more educational cruise, this might not be your best choice.

The Good & The Not-So-Good

What travelers love:

• The friendly, humorous crew that makes the trip lively and engaging.
• The scenic swimming spots with clear waters to snorkel and relax.
• The delicious BBQ lunch, often described as satisfying and well-prepared.
• The affordable drinks on board, making it easy to enjoy the day without overspending.

What to consider:

• The trip’s short duration (about 4.5 hours) might feel rushed, especially if you’re hoping for a full-day adventure.
• Some guests mention the itinerary not matching the advertised — no island visits, just cruising along the coast with music.
• Limited floatation aids for children were a concern for some, so if you’re traveling with kids, bring your own floaties if they need them.
• Be prepared for some basic food options, and remember drinks are extra.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is well-suited for those wanting a fun, social afternoon at a reasonable price. If you love a lively crew, scenic swimming, and a pirate theme, you’ll enjoy this. Families with kids often find it entertaining, especially if the little ones like jumping off the ship and swimming. It’s also perfect for groups of friends looking for a laid-back, engaging day without the hassle of planning.

If you’re after a detailed island tour or a more relaxed, educational experience, you might find this too short or focused on entertainment. And if you’re sensitive to noise or prefer quiet, this lively, music-filled trip might not be ideal.

Final Thoughts

The Crete Pirate Ship Cruise with the Black Rose offers a good balance of fun, scenery, and good value. It captures the playful spirit of a pirate adventure while giving you plenty of chances to swim and relax by the coast. The positive reviews about the staff and the food suggest this is a well-organized outing that will satisfy most travelers who are after a lively half-day on the water.

However, it’s worth noting that some guests found it shorter or less varied than expected, and a few experienced issues with food or itinerary specifics. Still, for those craving a quick, enjoyable boat trip with a friendly crew and scenic stops, this cruise ticks many boxes.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for a casual, social outing in Crete—especially if you enjoy lively atmospheres and the idea of sailing on a pirate ship. Just keep your expectations in check if you’re seeking a more comprehensive sightseeing experience.

FAQs

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at Agias Paraskevis 125, Limenas Chersonisou. You’ll meet the crew at Hersonissos Port, ready to set sail.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the BBQ lunch and a tour escort/host. Drinks, however, are not included and are available for purchase onboard.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, from departure at 11:00 am until returning to the starting point.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Some guests mention limited floatation aids for children, so plan accordingly.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made around 22 days in advance, which is recommended given its popularity.

Is hotel pickup provided?
No, the tour does not include hotel transfers. You need to make your way to the meeting point at the port.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID (a photo on your phone works), swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and some cash for extra drinks or souvenirs.

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.

If you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and enjoyable way to spend half a day on Crete’s coast, this pirate-themed cruise could be just the ticket. It balances fun, scenery, and good value, with friendly crew and tasty food making it a memorable little adventure.