Rethymno: Sailing Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks

If you’re dreaming of a day spent relaxing on the water with stunning views, good food, and a laid-back vibe, then the Rethymno Sailing Catamaran Cruise might just be what you’re after. This experience offers a blend of scenic sailing, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying a hearty Mediterranean meal—all aboard one of Crete’s newest and most luxurious catamarans.

From what we gather, this tour has earned a solid reputation, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 45 reviews. Travelers seem to love the combination of relaxed waterside fun and quality dining, making it a popular choice well in advance. We’re here to give you an honest, detailed look at what you can expect, along with some practical insights to help you decide if this cruise fits your holiday plans.

Two things that really stand out about this cruise are the quality of the crew and the delicious, freshly prepared onboard meal. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and attentiveness of the staff, which makes a big difference when you’re out at sea. Also, the food appears to be a highlight—think fresh seafood, Mediterranean salads, and juicy fruits, all served with unlimited drinks.

One possible consideration is the lack of hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. Also, the tour lasts about 6 and a half hours, which is a good chunk of time, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with spending a half-day on the water.

This experience tends to attract travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day without too much activity pressure. It’s especially well-suited for couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a taste of Crete’s beautiful coastline with some good eats and drinks thrown in.

Key Points

• Scenic Sailing Experience: Enjoy the views of Crete’s coastline aboard a luxurious catamaran.
• Swimming and Snorkeling: The tranquil bay offers crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip.
• Gourmet Mediterranean Lunch: Savor seafood, meats, fresh vegetables, and seasonal fruits, all freshly prepared onboard.
• Unlimited Drinks Included: Beer, local dry white wine, soda, and water—perfect for unwinding.
• Flexible Water Activities: Use of SUP boards, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and inflatable flamingo for fun photos.
• No Hotel Transfers: You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at DanEri Yachts.

What the Experience Looks Like

Starting at 9:30 am from DanEri Yachts in Rethymno, you’ll step aboard a stylish, comfortable catamaran, greeted by friendly staff offering you drinks and snacks. The initial part of the tour is all about soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful seascapes. The onboard music adds a relaxed vibe, making you feel instantly at ease.

The boat will sail across the waters toward Georgioupoli Bay, a pristine spot known for its crystal-clear waters. Once anchored, you’re free to swim or snorkel using the provided gear, or just lounge on deck soaking up the sun. For a playful touch, there’s an inflatable flamingo—perfect for lounging or snapping some fun vacation photos.

According to reviews, the secluded bay is one of the highlights, offering a peaceful retreat away from crowded beaches. Travelers love the calm waters, which are ideal for both swimming and paddleboarding. One reviewer notes, “a nice secluded spot to swim,” emphasizing how calm and inviting the environment is.

The Food and Drinks

The onboard meal is a key part of this cruise. The menu features a variety of local and Mediterranean-style dishes: cheese platters, salads, shrimp pasta or rice with feta, mussels in turmeric sauce with ouzo, and chicken dishes, including options suitable for kids. The desserts are seasonal fruits, rounding out the meal nicely.

What really earns praise are the fresh ingredients and generous portions. Many reviews mention the “copious and excellent” food, with a crew that’s attentive and professional in the galley. The unlimited drinks, especially the local dry white wine and beer, keep everyone relaxed and in good spirits.

The inclusion of WiFi also means you can share your meal and experience in real time—though, honestly, you’ll probably be too busy enjoying the scenery.

The Water Activities

Besides swimming and snorkeling, you’ll have access to paddleboards and fishing gear. For beginners, paddleboarding can be a fun challenge, and it’s a great way to explore the bay at your own pace. The provided snorkeling equipment is straightforward, and the calm waters make for a safe experience even if you’re not an expert swimmer.

A reviewer said, “multiple materials proposed (paddle, buoy, mask, snorkel, fins),” indicating a variety of options to keep everyone entertained. This flexibility means you can switch between relaxing on deck and actively exploring the underwater world.

The Crew and Group Size

The reviews consistently praise the professional and friendly crew. They’re attentive, prompt, and ready to help—making the trip more enjoyable. The maximum group size is 25 people, which helps keep things intimate and manageable, avoiding the crowds often associated with larger tours.

One reviewer noted, “Very friendly and helpful,” which goes a long way when you’re out on the water and want to feel well looked after.

Price and Overall Value

At roughly $143 per person, this cruise offers a good balance of cost versus experience. For that price, you get a full half-day of scenic sailing, water activities, a substantial Mediterranean meal, and unlimited drinks. When you consider the quality of the food and the inclusiveness of drinks and WiFi, it feels like fair value.

Compared to other experiences, the all-inclusive nature—especially with the fresh, tasty meal and the variety of activities—makes this a worthwhile choice for those wanting a relaxed but memorable day on the water.

Practical Considerations

A key point to remember is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point, which is conveniently located near public transport options. The start time at 9:30 am means you should plan your morning accordingly.

The tour is suitable for most travelers—most people can participate—but if you’re not comfortable in the water or with boat travel, it’s worth considering. The moderate duration is perfect for a day trip, but be prepared for the full six and a half hours onboard.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for those who want a leisurely day out, enjoying the sea, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s especially appealing if you value quality dining, stunning coastal views, and casual water activities. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, most kids comfortable with swimming and boat rides would likely enjoy it.

If you’re after a stress-free, scenic, and enjoyable experience with friendly staff and a good variety of activities, this cruise could be just the ticket.

FAQ: Common Questions

• What time does the cruise start?
  The tour departs at 9:30 am from DanEri Yachts.

• Is transportation included?
  No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

• What’s included in the price?
  Unlimited beer and local dry white wine, coffee/tea, a Mediterranean lunch, soda/water, snorkeling and fishing equipment, SUP boards, WiFi, and a friendly crew.

• Are kids allowed?
  The experience seems suitable for most travelers, including children, especially if they’re comfortable with water activities.

• Can I swim during the trip?
  Absolutely. The bay stop offers crystal-clear waters for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.

• Is there any entertainment onboard?
  Music is played to enhance the atmosphere, but there’s no mention of live entertainment.

• How many people are on the cruise?
  A maximum of 25 travelers ensures a relaxed, less crowded environment.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable clothing suitable for being in the sun and water. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and swimsuits for swimming.

• Is there WiFi onboard?
  Yes, free WiFi is available, so you can share your experiences in real time.

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

For anyone looking to combine scenic beauty, good food, and relaxing water activities into one half-day adventure, this catamaran cruise seems like a smart choice. The emphasis on fresh Mediterranean cuisine, unlimited drinks, and the calm, inviting waters makes it a standout option in Crete. While you will need to organize your own transportation and keep an eye on the weather, the overall experience promises a delightful escape from the hustle.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or just seeking some downtime under the Greek sun, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day at sea. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate good food, a relaxed pace, and stunning views— all wrapped up in friendly, attentive service.