Rethymno Barbarossa Pirate Ship Cruise

Rethymno Barbarossa Pirate Ship Cruise Review

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure and a hint of fun to your trip in Crete, the Rethymno Barbarossa Pirate Ship Cruise might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally set sail on this vessel, I’ve looked into what it offers and what you can realistically expect. It’s a lively, themed experience that appeals especially if you enjoy boats, water activities, and a bit of playful drama.

One thing you’ll love is the pirate theme—from costumes to the atmosphere, it’s a playful way to enjoy the coast. Plus, the sail along scenic spots like the caves and Camarola rock arch offers some beautiful views from the water. Another highlight is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in Geropotamus Bay, which is always a hit for water lovers. However, one possible downside is that the cruise is a bit on the shorter side—about five hours total—so if you’re after a full-day experience, this might feel a little limited.

This cruise seems well-suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone interested in a relaxed, themed boat trip with some fun photo moments. Just keep in mind, it’s more about entertainment and scenery than a deep cultural dive or extensive wildlife spotting. If that sounds good to you, keep reading to see whether this pirate adventure might be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Family-friendly and lively with pirate costumes and fun atmosphere.
• Beautiful water views of Rethymno’s coast, caves, and rock formations.
• Swim and snorkel at Geropotamus Bay, with gear included.
• Includes live commentary and a selection of Greek salad wine or soft drinks.
• No hotel transfers included, so plan transportation accordingly.
• Booking in advance is recommended, with most travelers reserving about 3 weeks ahead.

What the Rethymno Barbarossa Pirate Ship Cruise Is All About

This pirate-themed cruise is designed to turn your day on the water into an adventure straight out of a storybook. You’ll hop aboard the replica Spanish galleon Barbarossa, a vessel that’s designed to look like a pirate ship, complete with its own charm and a dash of theatrical flair. It’s a lively experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers, especially those who enjoy a bit of playful scenery and summery water activities.

What makes this cruise stand out is the ambiance. From the moment you step on board, you’re transported into a pirate story—costumes are included, and there’s a lively commentary to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, you’ll appreciate the fun of dressing up and engaging with the crew.

The scenic sailing along Crete’s northern coast is a highlight. The boat passes by notable landmarks like the Venetian fortress of Rethymno, giving you a unique vantage point of the town’s history and architecture. Plus, the stops at pirate caves and Camarola rock arch provide fantastic photo ops and some time to soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Departure and initial sail

The adventure begins at the Dolphin Cruises meeting point in Rethymno, usually around 9:30 am. From there, you’ll board the Barbarossa and set sail westward, heading past the Fortezza, the historic fortress that dominates Rethymno’s skyline. This first stretch offers a chance to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and take in the coastline.

Scenic cruising and pirate caves

As the boat glides along, the guide offers insights into the sights, making the journey educational as well as entertaining. The route takes you past the bay of Gerani, offering views of the waters and coastlines that have witnessed centuries of history. The highlight here is the pirate caves and Camarola arch, where you’ll stop for photographs and to marvel at the natural rock formations.

Swimming and snorkeling at Geropotamus Bay

One of the main draws is the one-hour swimming and snorkeling stop at Geropotamus Bay. Masks are provided, so you can explore underwater at your leisure. The water here is typically calm and clear, perfect for kids and adults alike. Reviewers have appreciated this stop: one described it as “a spot for swimming and snorkeling,” which suggests it’s a relaxing and fun part of the trip.

Return cruise and final sights

On the way back, the boat cruises past Rethymno’s Venetian fortress, offering a different perspective of the city’s historical defenses. As the cruise winds down, you’ll have the chance to enjoy some drinks (note that these are at your own expense) and reflect on the day. The cruise concludes back where it started, around 2 pm.

The Experience on Board

Live commentary adds an engaging touch, as crew members share tales and facts about the coast, caves, and history of the area. The pirate costumes are a fun addition, especially if you enjoy dressing up or taking photos in playful outfits. For adult guests, there’s a Greek salad with wine, which is a nice touch, especially after a swim.

The snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to jump in and explore the underwater world without extra hassle. As one reviewer highlighted, “the crew was very friendly,” which makes a big difference in creating a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

The ship bar, however, is not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for drinks if you want something other than water or soft drinks. This might be a consideration if you’re planning to sip wine or beer on board.

How About the Value?

At $65.85 per person, the cruise offers a neat combination of scenery, water fun, and playful entertainment. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the live commentary makes it more than just a boat ride—it’s a mini adventure. That said, it’s not a full-day experience; it’s about five hours, which is enough for a relaxed, fun outing without feeling rushed.

The fact that most travelers book about three weeks in advance suggests it’s popular enough to fill up quickly, especially during peak season. The free cancellation policy gives some peace of mind, allowing you to adjust plans if needed.

Who Will Appreciate This Cruise?

This experience is well-suited for families (kids love costumes and swimming), groups of friends looking for a fun day out, or couples wanting a scenic, relaxed trip with a playful twist. If you’re interested in boat rides, water activities, and a lively atmosphere, this cruise hits the right notes.

However, if you’re seeking a more in-depth historical tour or a full-day event with extensive stops, this might feel a bit light. Also, keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to organize your transport to the meeting point.

Final Thoughts

The Rethymno Barbarossa Pirate Ship Cruise offers a cheerful, scenic way to enjoy Crete’s coast from the water, with an added dash of pirate fun. Its strengths lie in the beautiful views, snorkeling opportunities, and playful atmosphere, making it a good choice for those wanting a laid-back, family-friendly adventure.

While it’s not a comprehensive cultural or wildlife expedition, it delivers on entertainment and scenery in a relaxed setting. Expect friendly crew, fun costumes, and the chance to snap some great photos of the coastline. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and a nice wine with local salad adds to the value.

If you’re after a lighthearted, scenic day that combines water, history, and a bit of playful drama, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially worthwhile if you want a memorable, fun-filled outing that balances relaxation with entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly, with pirate costumes and swimming, so kids generally enjoy the playful atmosphere. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling masks and equipment are provided as part of the tour, so you can jump right into the water.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks at the ship bar are at your own expense. The tour does include a Greek salad with wine for adults and soft drinks for children, but additional beverages need to be purchased.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately five hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at Dolphin Cruises in Rethymno.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled later, the full amount paid is non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Having a camera or phone for photos is highly recommended!

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and slightly whimsical way to enjoy Crete’s coast, the Barbarossa Pirate Ship Cruise could be just the ticket. It’s a straightforward outing with a playful twist, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of water activities and lighthearted entertainment.