Black Rose Pirate Boat: 5-Hour Trip from Hersonissos

Exploring the Black Rose Pirate Boat: A Practical Look at the 5-Hour Crete Cruise

If you’re considering a boat trip while staying in Hersonissos, the Black Rose Pirate Boat promises a fun-filled 5-hour outing that combines swimming, good food, and a bit of seaside adventure. While we haven’t done this trip ourselves, we’ve gathered enough details to help you decide if it fits your plans, what to expect, and how to make the most of it.

Two things really stand out about this experience: First, the value for money is quite solid, especially with included lunch and multiple swim stops. Second, the onboard kid-friendly activities, like face painting, make it a good choice for families or anyone traveling with children. One consideration to keep in mind is the rusty ladders and shared sea access, as a review mentioned some safety issues, so if you’re uneasy about that, it’s worth weighing. This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed day on the water with a touch of pirate flair, eager to enjoy swimming and a tasty meal without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At about $68, you get a lot—a boat cruise, two swimming stops, lunch, and transfers.
• Flexible for Families: Kid-friendly activities onboard make it a family-accessible option.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: Enjoy time at Agios Georgios Bay and Stalis Beach, with the chance to snorkel or sunbathe.
• Convenient Transfers: Pickup and drop-off from key areas streamline the experience.
• Weather-Dependent: Good weather is essential; cancellations are possible if conditions turn poor.
• Mixed Reviews on Safety: Some feedback points to rusty ladders, so caution is advised when getting in and out of the sea.

What the Tour Entails: A Look at the Itinerary

The trip begins at 11:00 am, with pickup from designated locations such as Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Analipsi, and others. Once aboard the Black Rose Pirate Boat, the day starts with a cruise passing by the bays of Anisaras, giving you a chance to get comfortable and enjoy the views as you head toward your first stop.

First Stop: Agios Georgios Beach

This is the main swimming and snorkeling spot on the trip, with about 90 minutes allocated. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to dive into clear waters or simply lounge on the beach soaking up the sun. The review from a past guest describes it as a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing, emphasizing how relaxing it can be. The beach is free for guests, but the true value lies in the chance to cool off and explore the underwater world.

Second Stop: Stalis Beach

After passing the coast of Malia, the boat makes a second stop for about 45 minutes at Stalis Beach. This provides another opportunity for a swim, with the option to relax on the sandy shore or take more photos of the coastline. The cruise by the coast adds a scenic element, making the day about more than just swimming—it’s about enjoying the views and the sea breeze.

Lunch and Onboard Activities

A highlight for many travelers is the included lunch, which is described as delicious and plentiful. While specific menu details aren’t provided, the positive feedback about the food suggests that it’s a satisfying meal that adds significant value for the cost. The boat also hosts face painting and other kid-friendly activities, making it a more engaging experience for children.

What Makes This Experience Worth Considering

The price point of $68.30 per person offers a decent value, especially considering the two swimming stops, lunch, and transfers. This package suits travelers who prefer a relaxed day on the water without the hassle of organizing their own boat trips or transfers. The round-trip transfer service from popular areas like Chersonissos, Malia, and Stalida adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside central Hersonissos.

The timing is also convenient, starting at 11:00 am, leaving plenty of time for other activities later in the day or to relax in the evening.

The Realities of the Trip: Pros and Cons

With a rating of 4 out of 5 from 7 reviews, this tour has its share of fans and a few cautious voices. The most common praise centers on the value for money and the quality of the onboard lunch. It seems that most guests enjoy the scenic cruise, the gentle pace, and the friendly staff.

However, one review pointed out an important safety concern: the ladders from the sea are rusty and share bits that could cause injury, as experienced by a guest’s wife. This is a reminder that, while the trip offers a lot of fun, safety should be a priority, especially when swimming from boats with shared ladders or platforms.

Weather can also be a wildcard—if winds pick up or conditions worsen, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, so flexible plans are a good idea.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This cruise is especially suited for families with children, thanks to onboard activities and shallow swimming spots. It’s also great for travelers who want an affordable water day with a scenic cruise, good food, and multiple opportunities to swim. If you’re looking for a relaxed, no-fuss option that includes transfers, this trip ticks those boxes.

However, if safety concerns about the ladders or a more adventurous, less structured experience are priorities for you, it’s worth considering other options. If your main goal is sightseeing or exploring Crete’s inland sites, this water-based adventure might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For about $68, this trip offers a decent mix of swimming, scenery, and food, making it a good value for a day on the water. The included transfers and kid-friendly elements add to its appeal, especially for families or groups looking for a straightforward, enjoyable experience.

While the safety issue with the ladders is worth noting, most guests seem happy with the overall value and the friendly atmosphere onboard. It’s a casual, laid-back way to enjoy part of Crete’s coast, perfect if your idea of a good day involves sun, sea, and a relaxed vibe.

If you’re after a family-friendly cruise with good food and picturesque stops, this could very well be the trip for you. Just keep an eye on the weather and safety considerations, and you should have a pleasant day out.

FAQ

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts about 4 hours, beginning at 11:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in the afternoon.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get pickup and drop-off transfers from certain areas, lunch onboard, and a tour escort/host. The two swimming stops are also part of the package.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring water or other beverages, especially if you plan to be out in the sun.

Where does the boat depart from?
It departs from the port of Hersonissos, with pickups from locations like Gouves, Analipsi, and nearby areas.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy face painting and activities onboard, making it family-friendly. Just be cautious about safety when getting in and out of the water.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour operates with a maximum of 70 travelers, but a minimum number might be needed to run the trip.

What’s the main highlight of the trip?
Most guests cite the swimming stops, especially at Agios Georgios Bay, as the trip’s main highlight, along with the onboard lunch.

Is the trip environmentally friendly?
This isn’t explicitly addressed, but as with any boat trip, it’s good to be mindful of your impact and avoid unnecessary waste.

If you’re after a relaxed day on the water that balances swimming, scenic cruising, and good food, the Black Rose Pirate Boat from Hersonissos could fit the bill. Just keep safety in mind and plan your day around the weather, and you’re likely to enjoy a pleasant Crete adventure.