Rethymno Barbarossa Pirate Ship Cruise

Our review of the Rethymno Barbarossa Pirate Ship Cruise offers a look at this lively, family-friendly adventure along Crete’s northern coast. While we haven’t personally set sail, the experience promises a taste of pirate life with stunning views, snorkeling opportunities, and a touch of playful fantasy. Whether you’re traveling with kids or simply seeking a memorable day on the water, this cruise has several appealing features.

Two things we particularly like are the authentic-looking replica galleon that sets a fun, pirate-themed tone and the inclusion of snorkeling gear and costumes—making it more than just a boat ride. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the price excludes drinks from the onboard bar, so you’ll want to budget accordingly. This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, family-friendly outdoor activity that combines scenic coastline views and playful adventure.

Key Points

• Family-Friendly: Great for kids and adults alike, with costumes and snorkeling equipment included.
• Scenic Water Tour: Offers views of Crete’s north coast, the Venetian fortress, and notable sea caves.
• Active & Relaxing: Combines sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and downtime, making it well-rounded.
• Cost-Effective: At $65.85 per person, it provides a fun, all-in-one day out with surprisingly good value.
• Limited Included Drinks: Be prepared to purchase beverages separately if you want drinks onboard.
• Departure & Duration: Starts at 9:30 am from Rethymno marina and lasts about 5 hours.

Setting Sail on a Pirate-Themed Adventure

This cruise aims to make you feel like a buccaneer for the day, aboard a replica Spanish galleon named Barbarossa. The setting is particularly charming—sailing along Crete’s north coast, you’ll get close-up views of the famous Venetian fortress of Rethymno and the pirate caves that give the tour its name.

The boat’s playful pirate theme, including costumes available for guests, adds a sense of fun, especially for families or groups celebrating a special occasion. The onboard commentary, led by the crew, promises to enrich your understanding of local sights and pirate lore—adding a layer of storytelling to the scenic experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Start at Gerani Beach

The cruise departs from Dolphin Cruises at Sofokli Venizelou 24 in Rethymno. As you set out around 9:30 am, you’ll sail westward, passing the Fortezza, the towering fortress that dominates Rethymno’s skyline. From the water, the fortress appears even more impressive, guarding the old city and offering a striking backdrop to your voyage.

Cruising Past the Bay of Gerani and Kefalas

Traveling along the coast, you’ll enjoy views of serene bays, with commentary highlighting local history and landmarks. The boat then stops at Kefalas Bay for about an hour, giving you time to swim or snorkel. Masks are provided, and the water here is usually calm, making it suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Snorkeling & Swimming at Geropotamus Bay

This is the tour’s highlight for many: a chance to dive into the clear waters, explore underwater scenery, and relax on the boat. One reviewer mentioned, “the masks are included, and the swimming spot was very well-organized,” which bodes well for a hassle-free experience.

Exploring the Pirate Caves & Camarola Arch

Back on the boat, you’ll cruise past notable geological features like the pirate caves and the Camarola rock arch, both great for photos. The caves, in particular, add a sense of adventure and connection to local legends.

Return Journey & Venetian Fortress

On the return trip, the boat passes Rethymno’s Venetian fortress, a historic site that looks even more striking from the water. The cruise concludes back at the starting point, after about five hours of scenic, playful sailing.

The Onboard Experience: What’s Included?

Snorkeling gear is provided, allowing you to explore underwater without extra cost. Guests can also wear pirate costumes, which adds fun, especially for children and group photos.

A Greek salad with wine for adults and a soft drink for children is included, making for a quick refreshment. However, drinks from the bar are not included—so if you want anything beyond the provided soft drinks and wine, you’ll need to pay separately. The review from Fouzia highlighted that the crew was friendly and the vegetarian meal was well-organized, which suggests a comfortable, family-friendly environment.

What We Like & Considerations

The scenic water views combined with the pirate theme make this cruise stand out. It offers a good balance of sightseeing, active swimming, and relaxed fun. The cost of about $65.85 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions like snorkeling gear and costumes, especially for a 5-hour tour.

One thing to keep in mind is the lack of hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the meeting point. Also, while the cruise is family-friendly, young children should be supervised—though the review mentions that kids could even steer the ship if they wish, adding to the fun.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families with kids, groups wanting a playful, memorable experience, or anyone interested in coastal scenery from a different perspective. It’s also a good choice for travelers seeking an active day on the water without the expense or complexity of a full-day sailing or diving trip.

If you’re after a romantic sunset cruise or a deep dive into local history, you might prefer other tours, but for a lighthearted, scenic adventure, this ticks many boxes.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For $65.85, this pirate-themed cruise on Crete offers a fun, scenic, and family-friendly outing. It balances sightseeing, swimming, and playfulness, making it suitable for those looking for a relaxed yet engaging day on the water. The inclusion of costumes and snorkeling gear adds value, and the views of the Venetian fortress, caves, and coast are memorable.

While drinks are extra, the overall experience provides a great way to see Crete from the sea and indulge in a bit of childhood fantasy. It’s best suited for families, groups, or anyone wanting a lighthearted break from sightseeing with lasting photo opportunities and a splash of pirate adventure.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with pirate costumes, snorkeling gear, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel equipment?
No, snorkeling masks and gear are included in the tour.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a towel. The boat usually has shaded areas but also plenty of sun.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks from the onboard bar are at your own expense. A Greek salad with wine or soft drinks is included.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to the original meeting point.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Dolphin Cruises at Sofokli Venizelou 24 in Rethymno.

Is there hotel pickup?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum group size is 100 travelers, so it’s relatively intimate.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a playful, scenic day that blends the fun of pirate lore with the natural beauty of Crete’s coast. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, family-friendly outing with memorable photo opportunities and a touch of adventure.