Rethymno: Private Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

If you’re eyeing a day on the water in Crete, this private catamaran cruise from Rethymno might catch your attention. We haven’t personally been on this exact trip, but reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture—especially for those seeking a mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and a touch of indulgence.

What we really like about this experience? First, the luxury and space aboard a newer, spacious catamaran means you’ll be cruising in style and comfort. Second, the personalized nature of a private group allows for a tailored, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for celebrating something special or just escaping for a day of sunshine.

One possible consideration? The cost of around $2,146 for up to ten people might seem steep, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. However, for a private, all-inclusive day with meals, drinks, and activities, many would argue you’re paying for a high-end, hassle-free experience.

This tour is best suited for those who value privacy, comfort, and scenic beauty and are happy to splurge a bit on a memorable day at sea. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or families who want a flexible, personalized adventure without the crowds.

Key Points

• Private luxury experience on a spacious, modern catamaran
• Flexible itinerary with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding
• All-inclusive with Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks, and onboard WiFi
• Customization with playlist choices and personal attention from crew
• Designed for comfort with shaded areas, music, and toys for kids
• Weather-dependent — check the forecast before booking

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

We love the idea of setting sail from Rethymno aboard a luxurious, newer catamaran. This isn’t a crowded tour boat—it’s a private cruise designed for a maximum of ten guests, meaning you get plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the day. The warm welcome from the crew promises a personalized touch that makes the experience feel exclusive rather than generic.

The Departure and Initial Sailing

The cruise begins at the marina of Rethymno, with a crew member greeting you in a DanEri logo shirt—simple, straightforward, and friendly. The check-in happens about 15 minutes before departure, giving you enough time to settle in with a welcome drink, fresh coffee, tea, and Greek pies.

This initial moment sets the tone—relaxed and hospitable. As you depart, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and shimmering sea. The deck is designed for comfort, with plenty of space to relax, soak up the sun, or enjoy the onboard music—either your playlist or the curated selection provided.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

The first stop is Ombros Gialos Bay, renowned for its clear waters. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to dip into the turquoise sea for some snorkeling, paddle around on SUP boards, or lounge on inflatable floats like a giant flamingo—surely a highlight for many. The calm waters and scenic setting make it ideal for swimming and relaxing.

The boat then heads to Georgioupoli, where you’ll stop for about two hours. This is a favourite part of the trip, as it offers a chance to capture photos of the picturesque surroundings, enjoy regional food, and sample regional wines, beers, or coffee. The trip reports rave about the delicious, fresh Mediterranean lunch, made onboard with local ingredients—seafood, meats, vibrant vegetables, and Cretan cheeses. One reviewer even mentioned, “The service, the food, the whole day was just brilliant.”

Back on the boat, after lunch, you can unwind with more drinks or simply enjoy the sunshine, listening to music or sharing pictures with fellow travelers. The journey back offers more scenic views and a chance to reflect on a day well spent.

What Makes It Stand Out?

The personalized service is a big plus—you’re not just a passenger but a guest. The crew’s friendly attitude is often highlighted in reviews, and the onboard WiFi means you can share your trip in real time, a bonus for those who want to keep friends updated.

Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and inflatables means there’s plenty to do without extra hassle or cost. The attention to safety is evident—they provide life jackets and arm floaties for kids, making it accessible for families or less experienced swimmers.

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The Price and Value

At roughly $2,146 per group, this experience is certainly a splurge, but you get a lot for your money. It’s essentially a private yacht day, with the boat, crew, meals, drinks, and activities included. For groups who want to experience Crete in style without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves, this could be a worthwhile investment.

The reviews confirm this value: travelers have called it “the best boat trip we’ve ever been on,” praising the service, food, and overall experience. The exclusivity and the flexibility of a private cruise make it attractive.

The Details That Matter

The Itinerary

This cruise is well-structured, with two main cruising intervals of about 105 minutes each—giving enough time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and participate in water activities. The stops are designed to maximize your enjoyment, from swimming and snorkeling in tranquil bays to scenic photos and regional tastings.

Duration and Timing

At 6.5 hours, the trip is longer than many group tours, offering a leisurely pace. Departure times are flexible—simply check availability—but starting early in the day allows maximum sunlight and plenty of time for each activity.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 10 guests, the experience is intimate and personalized. It’s perfect if you prefer a quieter, more tailored day rather than a crowded tour. This is especially suitable for couples, small groups, or families comfortable with a private setting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

All the essentials are covered: meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, WiFi, and toys for kids. You won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you want transfers, which can be arranged for an additional fee. The food options include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options if requested, showing some flexibility.

Practical Tips

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID (since port authorities require passenger info). The cruise is weather-dependent, so check the forecast beforehand. It’s also worth noting that pregnant women are not advised to participate, and you should provide passenger details during booking.

Final Thoughts

This private catamaran cruise offers a blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and personalized service that can make for an unforgettable day in Crete. It’s clearly geared toward travelers who want a more exclusive, relaxed, and flexible experience—whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a bit of luxury.

The included amenities and thoughtful touches, like WiFi and music, elevate it beyond just a boat trip. The chance to snorkel, paddleboard, and enjoy regional cuisine while soaking up the sun makes it a well-rounded package.

While the price might be a barrier for some, those who value privacy and a high-end, all-inclusive experience could find it a worthwhile splurge. If you’re after a scenic, relaxing day at sea with the bonus of personalized service, this cruise ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Is this a private experience?
Yes, this is designed for private groups of up to 10 people, offering a personalized, intimate setting.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private cruise, experienced crew, swimming stop, Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks (soft drinks, wine, beer), snorkeling and fishing gear, paddleboards, inflatables, WiFi, music, and toys for kids.

Are dietary options available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be requested, and a special meal for children is included.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with two main cruising periods and stops for swimming and food.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID. It’s also good to have a camera or phone for photos.

Is there any flexibility in departure times?
Yes, check availability, but generally, departures are scheduled to maximize daylight and weather conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your plans shift unexpectedly.

This cruise is a solid choice if you’re after a luxurious, private day at sea in Crete, packed with scenic views, water activities, and regional flavors. It’s ideal for those who want to celebrate, relax, and enjoy Crete from a different perspective—comfortably and in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: