Rethymno Premium Catamaran Cruise: Healthy Lunch & Open Bar

The best part of this Rethymno cruise is the mix of a proper Cretan meal and easygoing time on the water. You sail along Crete’s rocky coast, stop in clear water for swimming and snorkeling, then return to a lunch that feels closer to a restaurant meal than standard boat food. It is a polished day out, not just a quick harbor ride.

I like the generous open bar, which includes Greek beer, Cretan white wine, soft drinks, and water, and I like the amount of room on the catamaran. Sunbeds, shaded seating, a clean WC, outdoor shower, SUP boards, and noodles make the six-and-a-half-hour trip comfortable. The main consideration is the long sailing time: you spend about three and a half hours in transit, and some people have found the single swim stop less rewarding for snorkeling than expected.

The essentials at a glance

• A 390-minute day on the water: Expect roughly 105 minutes of sailing in each direction, with about 2 hours and 45 minutes near the swimming area.
• Food planned with care: Start with espresso, tea, detox water, a protein drink, and a light brunch, followed by a fresh Mediterranean lunch prepared with local organic ingredients.
• A small-group atmosphere: The maximum is 25 people, though some departures have been much smaller, leaving plenty of deck space.
• Two possible coastal destinations: Weather determines whether the boat heads toward Georgioupoli Bay or Skaleta.
• Water gear included: SUP boards, snorkeling masks and fins, swim vests, noodles, a pink flamingo float, and fishing equipment by request.
• A premium price with real inclusions: At $170 per person, you are paying for the boat, food, drinks, crew, and time, not just transportation to a beach.

Setting off from Rethymno Marina

Arrive at Rethymno Marina 15 minutes before departure. Look for the sailing catamaran Karina and crew members wearing DanEri T-shirts. A municipal parking lot is available at the marina, but hotel transfers are not part of the standard price. Pickup and drop-off can be arranged from Bali Village if you select the appropriate option.

The crew begins with a short safety briefing and welcome refreshments. Espresso, tea, detox water, and a protein cocktail give the morning a pleasant start, while local snacks and a light breakfast bowl keep the first part of the trip from feeling like a wait for lunch.

The boat carries up to 25 people. That is not an intimate private yacht, but the catamaran’s size helps prevent the usual elbows-and-sunbeds problem. Several people have particularly liked the clean, modern design and the choice between open sunbeds and covered lounge areas. If you are booking with friends, give the company the names of everyone in your party. Two boats may leave at the same time, and clear group details help keep everyone together.

The long sail along Crete’s north coast

The first and last legs each take about 105 minutes. That is a significant part of the day, so think of this as a sailing experience with a swim stop, not a short transfer to a nearby beach.

The payoff is time to settle into the rhythm of the boat. You can stretch out on a sunbed, sit under cover, listen to light music, or watch the rocky coast pass by. On calm days, the catamaran offers a smooth ride and wide views over the water. When the sea becomes choppy, the same crossing can feel long, especially if you are prone to seasickness.

The crew has been quick to help people feeling unwell, offering practical advice and, according to several accounts, anti-seasickness tablets when needed. Still, bring any medication you normally use and check the forecast before booking. The trip is weather-dependent and can be rescheduled, canceled, or redirected if conditions are poor. One previous departure had to change destination because of rough water, with transport arranged afterward.

The boat has Wi-Fi, music, an onboard WC, life jackets, and an outdoor shower. Shoes are not worn indoors, and smoking indoors is not allowed. The atmosphere is social but not usually loud enough to stop conversation. On some trips, the music helped create a holiday mood without taking over the whole boat.

Georgioupoli Bay or Skaleta, depending on the weather

The crew chooses between Georgioupoli Bay and Skaleta according to conditions. Both are presented as clear-water coastal stops with good views, but the exact quality of the swim can vary with wind, current, and visibility.

At the anchorage, the crew brings out the water equipment. You can use a stand-up paddleboard, snorkeling mask and fins, swim vest, or inflatable noodle. The pink flamingo float is there for relaxed floating and photos. Fishing gear is also available on request, and children can ask for a box of toys.

The swim stop lasts around 2 hours and 45 minutes, including time for food service. That gives you enough time to try more than one activity without rushing. I would start with snorkeling while your energy is fresh, then move to the SUP or simply float beside the boat. The crew can help with the equipment, which matters if you have never used a paddleboard.

Water clarity has often been excellent, with fish visible in some areas. Sea turtles, dolphins, and flying fish have also been spotted on certain outings, but wildlife is never guaranteed. You should treat those sightings as luck, not part of the product.

The main weakness is that the snorkeling can be variable. Some stops are beautiful but deep, with limited marine life close to the boat. Strong current has also made swimming harder on some days. A few people have wished for a second swim location instead of spending so much time at one cove. If your main goal is serious snorkeling, this may not be the right boat trip. If you want a pleasant swim in clear water, plus food and comfort, it makes more sense.

A healthy lunch that feels like a real meal

Food is one of the strongest reasons to choose this cruise. The menu is designed by a certified nutritionist and uses fresh local ingredients from a Cretan farm. The aim is balanced Mediterranean food rather than heavy buffet fare.

The exact menu changes with the season, but past meals have included fresh salads, orzo, mussels, prawns, grilled chicken, pasta, pita, and several desserts. Vegetarian options and lighter dishes are available, and children’s meals can be requested. If you have an allergy, tell the company before the trip. A separate pasta dish was prepared for one passenger with a shellfish allergy, which shows that the crew can make adjustments when informed in advance.

The lunch is served after the water activities, which gives the meal a relaxed setting. You can sit with a view of the sea, take seconds when available, and pair the food with Cretan white wine, local beer, or a soft drink. Unlimited still water is also included.

The earlier brunch is lighter. Depending on the day, you might receive a breakfast bowl, cakes, or other local snacks. I would still eat something modest before boarding if you need a large breakfast, especially if you are sensitive to motion. The protein cocktail and detox water are pleasant extras, but they are not a substitute for a full morning meal for everyone.

Open bar, music, and the feel onboard

The open bar is one of the clearest benefits of the $170 price. Water, soft drinks, Greek beer, and local white wine are available throughout the trip. Espresso and tea are included as well.

Cocktails and alcohol outside that selection cost extra and are not included. Red wine is not allowed, so do not bring a bottle onboard. Glass objects, drugs, and alcohol brought from outside are also prohibited.

The service is attentive without requiring you to line up constantly. Crew members refill drinks and check on people during the crossing and the swim stop. The staff has been praised for being warm, patient, and helpful, especially when someone felt nauseous or needed assistance with equipment.

Music plays during the trip, creating a relaxed holiday setting. It is not a silent sailing expedition. If you want a quiet boat with no soundtrack, this may feel too lively. If you enjoy a sociable day with a drink in hand and music in the background, it fits well.

Is $170 good value?

At $170 per person, this is one of the more expensive boat trips from Rethymno. The value depends on how much of the package you will use.

You receive 6.5 hours onboard, a modern catamaran, professional crew, brunch, a substantial lunch, an open bar, water equipment, safety gear, Wi-Fi, and a shower. Food and drinks alone can add up quickly on a full-day outing, and the spacious boat is a meaningful advantage over a crowded excursion vessel.

The price is easier to justify for people who want comfort and convenience in one package. It is less attractive if you mainly want a quick swim or a cheap way to reach the coast. You also need to arrange your own transport unless you select the optional pickup, and towels and sunscreen are not supplied.

Past departures have sometimes carried only 10 to 15 people, although the official maximum is 25. A smaller load makes the price feel more reasonable because you get more space around the deck and easier access to the water equipment. The company also offers private groups, which may suit a celebration or family gathering, but private arrangements should be confirmed before booking.

Who will enjoy this catamaran most?

I would choose this cruise for couples, families with older children, and small groups who want a comfortable day at sea without planning food or drinks. It is also a good fit for a birthday or anniversary. Tell the company in advance about the occasion, and a complimentary branded gift may be arranged.

Families should note that children’s meals and toys can be requested. Unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and children under two require a conversation with the team before booking. The boat has swim vests and noodles, but you still need to supervise children around the water.

This is not the best choice for anyone who dislikes boats, has serious health concerns, is pregnant, or is over 95. People with mobility issues should contact the operator before paying. Seasickness is the most practical concern. Even on calm days, some people have felt queasy, while others found the ride very smooth.

Bring a towel, swimwear, sun hat, sunscreen, and a passport or ID card. A copy of your identification is accepted. The port authority requires each passenger’s full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport or ID number when you book, so have those details ready.

What makes the day memorable

The strongest moments are not limited to the advertised equipment. A sail going up on the return journey can be a striking sight, especially when the sea is calm. Flying fish, dolphins, and turtles have appeared on different trips, adding an unexpected lift to the crossing.

The crew is another important part of the experience. Panos and Kleo have been singled out for warm service on one departure, while other accounts praise the captain and hosts for keeping drinks topped up and helping with seasickness. The names of the crew can vary, but the pattern is consistent: service is a major part of what you are paying for.

The food also raises this above a basic boat excursion. Freshly prepared salads, pasta, seafood, chicken, desserts, and local snacks give the day a genuine Cretan flavor. You are not simply handed a wrapped sandwich after swimming.

Still, keep expectations in check. The coast is scenic, but this is not a sightseeing cruise with several landings. You will spend long periods at sea, and the exact swimming location depends on weather. Snorkeling may be excellent one day and fairly ordinary the next.

Should you book the Karina catamaran cruise?

Book it if you want a full day built around comfort, good food, open-bar drinks, and relaxed time in the sea. The spacious catamaran, attentive crew, healthy lunch, and included SUP and snorkeling gear make it a strong choice for a special day from Rethymno.

Skip it if your priority is the lowest price, multiple snorkeling sites, or a short ride to shore. The long sailing legs and variable underwater conditions are the trade-offs. For most people who see the boat itself, the meal, and the easy service as part of the holiday, $170 is a fair premium. Just check the forecast, bring seasickness precautions if needed, and arrive early enough to board without stress.

FAQ

How long does the Rethymno catamaran cruise last?

The cruise lasts 390 minutes, or about 6.5 hours. The schedule includes approximately 105 minutes of sailing in each direction and around 2 hours and 45 minutes at the swimming area.

Where does the cruise depart?

The meeting point is Rethymno Marina. Arrive 15 minutes before departure and look for the catamaran Karina and crew members wearing DanEri T-shirts.

Which destination will the boat visit?

The boat may sail toward Georgioupoli Bay or Skaleta. The destination depends on weather and sea conditions.

Are food and drinks included?

Yes. The cruise includes welcome refreshments, a light healthy brunch, gourmet Mediterranean lunch, unlimited water, soft drinks, local beer, and Cretan white wine. Cocktails and other alcoholic drinks are not included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling masks and fins, SUP boards, swim vests, inflatable noodles, and a pink flamingo float are included. Fishing equipment is available on request.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a sun hat, and a passport or ID card. A copy of your identification is accepted. Towels and sunscreen are not supplied onboard.

Can I cancel or pay later?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. A reserve-now, pay-later option is also available. The cruise may be changed or canceled because of bad weather.