Kolymvari 5.5m-30hp License Free Boat Rental

Exploring Crete by Boat: A Review of the Kolymvari 5.5m-30hp License-Free Boat Rental

If you’re dreaming of wandering along the stunning shores of Crete without the fuss of needing a boat license, this boat rental from Kolymvari might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve gathered the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect, so you can decide if this self-guided boat trip fits your style.

What we really like about this experience is the freedom it offers — you can set your own pace and visit some of Crete’s lesser-known beaches, away from crowded tourist spots. Plus, the boat is described as very easy to operate, even for beginners. On the flip side, a key consideration is that fuel and skipper services aren’t included, so you’ll need to manage those separately. This kind of trip suits travelers who enjoy a bit of independence and are comfortable handling small boats, or at least willing to learn quickly with good instructions.

This tour appeals most to those who want a flexible, budget-friendly way to explore Crete’s coastline, especially if you love a bit of adventure but prefer doing your own thing rather than joining a guided tour. Now, let’s break down exactly what makes this boat rental a solid option—and where it might fall short.

Key Points

• No license required, making it accessible for beginners or those without boating experience.
• Visit beautiful beaches on the Rodopou peninsula, including Menies, Choironisia, Sfako, and Afrata beaches.
• Easy to operate, thanks to good instructions and a friendly team.
• Includes all fees and taxes in the price, with optional extras like a large cool box available.
• Fuel and skipper services are extra, so budget accordingly if you want a full-service experience.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours, giving some flexibility if plans change.

The Experience and What to Expect

Imagine starting your day at the charming Notos Mare – Marine Adventure Kolymbari in Crete, ready to set out on your own boat adventure. The boat itself is a compact 5.5 meters, powered by a 30hp engine — enough punch for a day exploring but still manageable for those new to boating. Since no license is needed, you won’t be bogged down by paperwork or training, making this trip very straightforward.

Once you’re out of the harbor, the fun begins. The main attraction here is the chance to visit beaches of the Rodopou peninsula, which are a hit among those looking for a quieter, more authentic side of Crete. According to reviews, the boat is very easy to use, with clear instructions from the team, so even if you’ve never operated a boat before, you’ll likely find yourself gliding along smoothly.

What makes this trip particularly appealing is the ability to craft your own itinerary. You can cruise along the coast, stopping at beaches like Menies — the site of an ancient Diktynna temple — or explore secluded coves such as Sfako beach. The freedom to stop and explore at your own pace means you can tailor the day to your preferences.

The included rental covers all fees and taxes, so there are no surprises once you arrive. However, fuel is not included, so keep that in mind when planning your budget. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you might consider bringing your own supplies or arranging for fuel beforehand.

The Reviews: What Past Renters Say

Two recent reviews give us a really positive vibe about this experience. One reviewer shared, “We had a great time on the boat. Everything we needed was supplied including a large cool box (extra 5). Boat was very easy to use with good instructions from the guys. We headed out of the harbour, turned left and visited a few nice spots.” This suggests that the rental process is smooth and the boat’s ease of use makes it accessible even for first-timers.

Another happy customer added, “I recommend this trip frankly. The ride was wonderful. I did not know how to drive the boat, and thanks to the explanations, we took it easily.” Here, the emphasis is on how helpful the staff is and how straightforward the experience can be, even if you’re totally new to boating.

The overall perfect rating of 5.0 from both reviews indicates that most renters find this a worthwhile, enjoyable experience. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach seem to be appreciated, making the process stress-free for visitors.

Itinerary Breakdown: Your Day on the Water

Since this is a self-guided tour, your day depends on your plans. But generally, you’ll start at the meeting point in Kolymvari, where you’ll get your boat and instructions. From there, it’s all about cruising along the coast and choosing your stops.

• Morning departure from Kolymvari, heading west toward the Rodopou peninsula.
• Exploring beaches and coves: Depending on your interests, you might spend time at Menies, known for its ancient Diktynna ruins and scenic setting. Other options include the quieter Sfako beach or Afrata beach, each offering different atmospheres — some more remote, others more accessible.
• Lunch or a snack: The boat rental includes a large cool box (extra charge) so you can keep drinks and snacks chilled on board. Bring some sandwiches or fresh fruit to enjoy with the views.
• Flexibility in timing: The total duration is about 10 hours, so you can take your time, swap beaches, or stay longer at spots you really enjoy.
• Return to Kolymvari in the late afternoon, feeling relaxed and satisfied with your day.

Why This Boat Rental Is a Good Value

At $156.50 for the whole group (up to six people), you’re paying roughly $26 per person if you’re a couple or a small group, which is quite manageable for a full day on the water in Crete. When you factor in the freedom to explore at your own pace, plus the all-inclusiveness (minus fuel), it’s a pretty fair deal.

The added bonus is that everything is private — only your group will be on the boat — so you can enjoy a personalized experience without the crowds. And if you’re a group of friends or a family, this setup offers a great way to spend quality time together, away from busy tour buses or organized excursions.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a self-directed adventure and are comfortable handling a small boat, or at least eager to learn. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed day exploring Crete’s coastline without the constraints of guided groups. If you’re someone who enjoys taking control of your itinerary and loves the idea of discovering hidden beaches, this rental fits the bill.

It’s also suitable for travelers on a modest budget who appreciate all-inclusive pricing and want the flexibility to stop where they like. And since it’s a quite straightforward operation, it’s accessible even for those new to boating, especially with clear instructions provided.

The Downsides and Things to Keep in Mind

While the experience is mostly praised, a few considerations are worth noting. First, fuel isn’t included in the price, so depending on how far you go, you might need to plan for extra costs. If you rarely drive or operate boats, you’ll want to pay close attention to the instructions provided by the staff.

Another point is the weather. This being Greece, weather can change, and trips can be canceled if conditions aren’t safe. The cancellation policy is flexible — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — so it’s good to keep an eye on the forecast.

Lastly, the experience doesn’t include a skipper unless you hire one separately, so you should be comfortable navigating the boat yourself or willing to learn quickly.

The Sum Up

This license-free boat rental from Kolymvari offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Crete’s western coastline at your own pace. With an easy-to-handle boat, the freedom to visit remote beaches, and positive reviews highlighting the helpful guides and smooth process, it’s a solid choice for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their trip.

While it requires some planning regarding fuel and weather, the flexibility and privacy make it appealing for independent travelers or small groups wanting a personalized day on the water. Whether you’re a novice boater or just seeking a relaxing day discovering Crete’s hidden coves, this experience delivers genuine value and memorable moments.

If you love the idea of steering your own little vessel along the coast, soaking in stunning views, and avoiding crowded tourist spots, this rental could be just right. For travelers seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy Crete’s beaches, it’s well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this boat rental suitable for beginners?
Yes, most reviews mention that the boat is very easy to operate with good instructions. Even if you’ve never driven a boat before, you’ll likely find it manageable.

Are there any additional costs besides the rental price?
Fuel is not included, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. You can also opt to pay extra for a large cool box if you’d like to keep drinks chilled.

Can I cancel this booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your booked time. The policy allows for a full refund if done within this window.

What’s the meeting point?
The rental activity starts and ends at Notos Mare – Marine Adventure Kolymbari, located in Kolymvari, Greece.

Is this experience private?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a personalized day out on the water.

Are guides or skippers provided?
No, the trip is self-guided, but staff offers clear instructions to help you operate the boat safely and confidently.

With this kind of experience, you’re all set for a relaxed, independent exploration of Crete’s beautiful beaches. It’s a great way to enjoy the island’s coastline without the typical crowds or guided tour schedules — just you, the sea, and the freedom to explore.