Planning a day out on the water in Crete? If the idea of sailing on a spacious, luxury catamaran sounds appealing, this cruise might be just what you’re after. With a focus on comfort, good food, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sea, it’s designed for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.

What really catches our eye are the seamless blend of high-end comfort and local experience, plus the delicious healthy Cretan lunch crafted by a nutritionist. On the flip side, this cruise isn’t for everyone—if you’re prone to seasickness or traveling with very young kids, it’s worth considering that. However, if you love a leisurely day on the water, taking in beautiful views with unlimited drinks and swimming stops, this experience deserves a closer look. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a well-rounded, relaxed day that balances comfort with activity.

Key Points

Luxurious and spacious catamaran designed for maximum comfort and style.
Healthy, chef-designed meals featuring local, organic ingredients that cater to those mindful of their diet.
Unlimited drinks bar with Greek beer, wine, soft drinks, and water throughout the day.
Excellent water-based activities including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and floating on inflatable toys.
Breathtaking scenery with calm waters at Marathi Bay, perfect for swimming and relaxing in beautiful surroundings.
Ideal for travelers seeking a balance of leisure, good food, and sea fun, though not suited for pregnant women or those with serious health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What’s Included in the Experience?

Imagine starting your day at Souda Port, where a modern, stylish catamaran awaits. As you step aboard, a crew of friendly professionals welcomes you with espresso, tea, water, and soft drinks—plus a healthy breakfast bowl to get you energized for the day ahead. The vibe is relaxed but refined, with comfortable seating and soft background music to set the mood.

The cruise lasts roughly 6.5 hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the views, swim, and enjoy the amenities. The boat itself is designed to keep everyone comfortable—whether you prefer sunbathing on spacious loungers, relaxing in shaded areas, or having a dance under the open sky.

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The Journey to Marathi Bay: Highlights and Details

First Stop: Souda to Marathi Bay

Your journey begins with a scenic sail from Souda Port toward Marathi Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful environment. As the boat glides through the water, you’ll be treated to views of the White Mountains and the soothing sounds of the sea.

The crew serves espresso and detox waters, setting a calm, inviting tone. The open deck is perfect for stretching out on a sunbed or finding a shaded spot—whichever suits your mood. We loved how the boat feels roomy and stylish without sacrificing intimacy; with a capacity of only 20 guests, it’s more like a private yacht experience.

Water Toys and Water Fun

Once you arrive at Marathi Bay, the real fun begins. The crew drops anchor, and water toys come out—stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and inflatable noodles. They’re always ready for your use, so whether you want to paddle around, snorkel along the coast, or just float on an inflatable flamingo, your options are plentiful.

One reviewer mentioned, “The water toys were fantastic, and the crew really made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable.” For those who love a bit of adventure, this is a highlight. For others, it’s simply a lovely way to cool off and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

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Lunch: Healthy, Flavorful, and Local

After working up an appetite, the crew prepares a delicious, healthy lunch designed by a qualified nutritionist. The menu emphasizes fresh, organic ingredients sourced locally—think Mediterranean flavors, seafood options, or vegetarian plates, depending on the season.

Guests rave about the balance of flavors and the quality of the food, not to mention the generous portions. Meals are complemented by unlimited Greek wine and beer, so you can truly savor the experience without feeling rushed. One guest called the lunch “light yet satisfying, with flavors that reminded me of home-cooked Cretan meals but served in a luxurious setting.”

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Relaxation and More Swimming

Post-lunch, the boat drifts back into calm waters, offering a chance for yet another swim or to simply unwind on deck. The gentle sea breeze, the warmth of the sun, and the soothing sounds of the water make this a perfectly peaceful way to end your morning at sea.

The Return Journey and Drop-Off

As the cruise winds down, you’ll sail back toward Souda Port, feeling refreshed and recharged. The experience typically concludes with a scenic sail back, offering more chances to relax and take in those last views of Crete’s coastline.

The tour offers convenient drop-off at up to 13 different locations, including popular spots like Platanias, Kalyves, and even central Chania, making it easy to incorporate into your broader travel plans.

What’s Special About This Cruise?

Comfort and Style: The boat’s design emphasizes space and luxury, so you won’t feel cramped. Whether soaking up the sun or enjoying the shaded lounge areas, you’ll find a spot that suits your mood. Guests frequently mention the “level of comfort” and “relaxing ambiance” as major selling points.

Quality Food and Drinks: The emphasis on healthy, local ingredients sets this cruise apart from typical food offerings. The menu is thoughtfully curated, with a focus on freshness and flavor, and the unlimited drinks bar keeps everyone refreshed without extra charges.

Varied Activities: From snorkeling and paddleboarding to simply floating and sunbathing, there’s enough to keep everyone entertained. The water toys are easy to use, and the crew is attentive and helpful.

Beautiful & Calm Setting: Marathi Bay is often praised for its tranquil waters and stunning views. Facing the White Mountains, it provides a picture-perfect backdrop for swimming or relaxing on deck.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect if you’re seeking a luxurious yet laid-back day at sea. It suits travelers who appreciate good food, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s especially great for those who want to avoid crowded, overly commercial tours and prefer a more intimate experience.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or travelers with certain medical conditions or mobility issues due to the nature of the activity. Kids over 2 are welcome, and the boat can accommodate families, but it’s generally geared more toward adult travelers or those comfortable in a boat setting.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: 6.5 hours, enough time to enjoy swimming, eating, and relaxing.
Group size: Limited to 20 travelers, so it feels exclusive and personalized.
Cost/value: For a luxury experience with chef-designed meals and unlimited drinks, the price reflects quality. It’s a good value if you want a hassle-free day with everything included.
What to bring: Sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towel, passport/ID.
Restrictions: No red wine onboard, and certain items like weapons or glass objects aren’t allowed for safety.
Weather & cancellation: The tour depends on good weather, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable. Check the forecast before booking.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
While children over 2 are welcome, the experience is mainly geared towards adults, and young children should be comfortable on a boat. Kids will enjoy the water activities, but parents should consider their child’s comfort with being on the water.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private group bookings are available, making this a good choice for celebrations or special occasions.

What’s included in the meal?
The lunch is a healthy, balanced meal created by a nutritionist, with seasonal regional ingredients. Vegetarian and children’s meals can be requested.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, swimwear underneath, with a sun hat and sunscreen recommended. You might want a light cover-up for the shaded areas.

Are drinks included?
Yes—unlimited Greek beer, wine, soft drinks, and water are available throughout the cruise.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The cruise is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled if conditions aren’t safe or comfortable.

How many people are on the boat?
The group is limited to 20 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It departs from Souda Port, with optional pickups at nearby locations, and returns there at the end of the day.

✨ Book This Experience

Chania: Day Catamaran Cruise with Lunch from Souda Port

Final Thoughts

If your idea of a perfect day in Crete involves sailing on a stylish boat, enjoying health-conscious yet flavorful food, and swimming in calm, clear waters, this cruise hits most of those marks. The attention to comfort, quality, and local flavors makes it stand out among sea excursions.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, upscale experience, especially those who prioritize good food and a peaceful setting over high-adrenaline activities. The small group size and unlimited drinks add to the feeling of exclusivity, making it an ideal choice for a memorable day at sea in Crete.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a break from your busy itinerary, this cruise offers a lovely balance of luxury, scenery, and fun. Just be sure to book in advance, check the weather, and pack appropriately for a day under the Cretan sun.