Kolimvari: Sailing Cruise with Meal & Water Activities

A Sail Through Crete’s Coastal Beauty: Kolimvari: Sailing Cruise with Meal & Water Activities

Imagine gliding along the rugged coastline of Crete, feeling the breeze in your hair, with crystal-clear waters inviting you to swim and explore. That’s exactly what this sailing cruise from Kolimvari offers—an authentic, relaxing day on the water combined with delicious food and plenty of opportunities for fun in the sea.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are its spectacular scenery and the friendly, knowledgeable crew who make every moment memorable. The boat itself is described as large and comfortable, perfect for kicking back and enjoying the ride. A potential consideration is the group size—some reviews mention that larger groups can feel a bit cramped during meals or on the deck. Still, if you’re someone who enjoys a mix of relaxation and socializing, this cruise suits travelers looking for a well-rounded, scenic day out.

This experience is ideal for those who love the water—swimmers, snorkelers, and anyone eager to soak up the sun—and for anyone wanting an easy, leisurely way to see Crete’s coast while enjoying great food and drinks. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group vibes, good value, and a mix of sightseeing and water-based fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: Sail along Chania’s coastline and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding with equipment provided.
• Delicious Mediterranean Cuisine: A 3-course meal featuring shrimp linguine, Greek salad, and local appetizers.
• Unlimited Drinks: Wine, beer, soft drinks, and water are available throughout the trip.
• Authentic Experience: Small group sizes and friendly crew fostering a relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Options: Morning or afternoon cruises, with sunset views available.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Our journey begins at Kolimvari Port, a convenient spot with parking right at the dock—a practical advantage for travelers arriving by car. The tour offers an optional pickup service from several locations including Chania, Platanias, and other nearby resorts, which makes it accessible for most visitors. The pickup times are arranged the day before, so travelers can plan accordingly. Meeting at least 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start, especially as safety briefings and introductions are part of the routine.

The Sailing Itinerary

The cruise lasts about five hours, giving ample time to enjoy the coast, water, and meal without feeling rushed. The initial part involves a scenic one-hour sail along the coastline of Chania, where you’ll get your first taste of the island’s rugged beauty. The crew—described as friendly and knowledgeable—will point out sights and keep the atmosphere lively.

The highlight for many is the stop at Agioi Theodoroi island, a small and scenic spot famous for its crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll anchor for roughly 1-2 hours, offering plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or try stand-up paddleboarding. Several reviews mention that the snorkeling offers opportunities to see marine life, and the water temperatures are perfect for cooling off on a hot Crete day.

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Water Activities and Marine Life

Expect equipment for snorkeling and SUP boarding to be available upon request—so if you’re eager to get in the water, just ask the crew. Reviewers praise the ease of access to gear and the crew’s helpfulness. One reviewer highlighted the chance to see an octopus while snorkelling, elevating the experience from simple swimming to wildlife spotting.

The Culinary Experience

After working up an appetite, you’ll settle into a luxurious Mediterranean meal. The menu includes Greek salad, various appetizers like tzatziki and olive paste, and a main course of shrimp linguine. Vegetarian and gluten-free options can be requested, making this a flexible choice for dietary needs. The generous servings and the chance to enjoy your meal with some of Crete’s best wines, beers, or soft drinks make this a true highlight, as described in reviews emphasizing the “excellent” food and “plentiful drinks.”

Dessert features a local and tropical fruit mixture, a refreshing end to a hearty meal. Reviewers often mention the quality of the food and the attentive service, making it clear that the crew take pride in offering a memorable culinary experience.

Return Journey and Sunset Views

Following the meal, the boat departs for the return trip, which takes about an hour, often complemented by sunset views if you choose the afternoon cruise. Many reviewers mention that the timing of the trip allows for some gorgeous vistas, especially as the sun dips below the horizon.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the cruise can hold up to ten guests, some reviews note that larger groups can feel a bit tight during meal times or when moving around the boat. That said, most travelers appreciate the small-group atmosphere, which fosters conviviality and personalized attention from the crew. The maximum of 10 people allows for a more intimate experience, which many consider a key value point.

Practical Details and Value

For $87 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded day—sailing, swimming, snorkeling, paddling, and eating—plus drinks, all on a comfortable yacht. The reviews consistently praise the good value for money and the friendly, professional crew. The options for pickup add convenience, especially for those staying outside of Kolimvari.

The duration of five hours strikes a nice balance—long enough to relax and enjoy each element without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. Plus, the cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours in advance—giving peace of mind for those with unpredictable schedules.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing cruise is perfect for travelers who want to see Crete from a different perspective—on the water, away from crowds, with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or families who appreciate good food, friendly service, and beautiful scenery. If you’re not prone to seasickness, and you enjoy a leisurely, social atmosphere, you’ll find this trip highly rewarding.

It’s also good for those who value flexibility—morning or afternoon options, optional pickup, dietary accommodations—and who enjoy a mix of activity and downtime. However, if you’re someone who prefers a more active or adventure-heavy itinerary, or if you’re sensitive to larger crowds, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Pickup from various nearby areas is available if you book in advance, and the activity starts at Kolimvari Port, where parking is also available.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and your passport or ID. Towels aren’t included, so it’s best to have one for swimming.

Can I request special dietary options?
Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request for the meal.

What water activities are available?
Snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding are offered, and equipment can be requested from the crew.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts about five hours, with stops for swimming and lunch. Check availability for specific start times.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those prone to seasickness should consider their comfort level before booking.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the water-based activities and relaxed pace make it suitable for older children who can enjoy swimming and paddling, but always check with the provider if you have young kids.

Summary

The Kolimvari sailing cruise offers a scenic, relaxed way to enjoy Crete’s coast with the added bonus of swimming, snorkeling, and a hearty Mediterranean meal. The friendly crew, good value, and stunning views make it a favorite among travelers, as reflected in the glowing reviews. If you’re seeking a leisurely day on the water with the chance to soak up the sun and local flavors, this trip fits the bill perfectly.

While group size might be a consideration, most find the intimate setting and attentive service well worth it. Whether you’re after a picturesque sailing adventure, a fun water day, or just some quality food with a view, this cruise provides a safe, enjoyable, and authentic way to see Crete from a different angle.

You can check availability for your dates here: