Rethymno: Private Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

Imagine a day spent sailing along Crete’s rugged coastline, enjoying the warm sun, cool drinks, and a leisurely pace—all aboard a luxurious catamaran custom-tailored for your group. That’s exactly what this private cruise from Rethymno offers. Designed for those craving a blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic Greek hospitality, it’s an experience that promises memorable moments on the water, away from the crowds.

What makes this cruise especially appealing is its exclusivity: it’s a private tour for up to 15 people, meaning you won’t be sharing your boat with strangers. Plus, the mix of luxury, relaxed activities, and local cuisine creates a well-rounded day out. Our favorites? We loved the stunning coastal scenery and the delicious Mediterranean lunch, but we also appreciated the flexibility and authentic touches that make this trip stand out.

Of course, a price tag of over $2,500 per group means it’s not the most budget-friendly option. Travelers should weigh whether the personalized service, private setting, and all-inclusive offerings fit their travel style and budget. It’s best suited for couples, families, or friends celebrating a special occasion who want a tailored, comfortable experience on Crete’s beautiful waters.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience for up to 15 guests — ideal for intimate groups or special celebrations.
• All-inclusive with lunch, drinks, and activities—great value considering the luxurious setting.
• Flexible options like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and inflatable flamingos add fun and adventure.
• Stunning coastal views along the Crete shoreline, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• High-quality service praised by past guests for their attentive crew and smooth operation.
• No hotel pickup/drop-off—be prepared to meet at the designated yacht location in Rethymno.

Introduction: A Luxurious Day on Crete’s Waters

While we haven’t personally set sail on this private catamaran cruise, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions create a clear picture of a truly memorable day. It’s the kind of experience that combines the laid-back charm of Greece with the ultimate comfort of a modern, well-equipped yacht. Perfect for travelers who want to steer clear of crowded tours and instead enjoy a personalized, intimate adventure on the sea.

Two aspects stand out immediately: the stunning scenery and the quality of the onboard meal. Expect to see rugged coastlines, turquoise waters, and plenty of opportunities to take incredible photos—all while sipping unlimited drinks and relaxing on a spacious deck. The chance to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard means active options are built-in for those who want to cool off or get a bit of water fun.

One potential consideration is the price—at over two thousand dollars for the whole group, it’s a significant investment. But, if you value privacy, premium service, and a flexible itinerary, most travelers find it’s worth every euro. This tour is best suited for those looking for a luxury experience, celebrating a special occasion, or simply eager to enjoy Crete’s coast in style.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

First Stop: Rethymno Meeting Point

The adventure begins at DanEri Yachts in Rethymno at 9:30 am. The meeting point is straightforward—located at Sofokli Venizelou 37, and the boat is a luxurious catamaran ready to whisk you away. Remember, this is a private experience, so only your group will be on board.

A Welcome and Light Breakfast

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with welcome drinks, traditional cheese pies, and biscuits. This sets a warm, hospitable tone—showing that Crete’s renowned culinary friendliness starts right on the water. We loved how this initial gesture made everyone feel at home.

Cruising Along the Stunning Coastline

As the boat sets sail, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the rugged shoreline and sparkling Aegean waters. The crew’s friendly attitude and curated playlist—though you can bring your own—make for a relaxed, personalized atmosphere. Unlimited drinks, including local dry white wine and beer, keep the mood lively without any pressure.

The Main Stop: Ombros Gialos Bay

The highlight is the stop at Ombros Gialos, famed for its turquoise waters. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or paddleboard—activities that both beginners and experienced water lovers will appreciate. For added fun, inflatable flamingos and fishing gear are available, making it a playful spot for photos and lighthearted moments.

The reviews mention how the crystal-clear waters excite guests, with one noting they could “explore and snorkel easily,” while others enjoyed relaxing on inflatable flamingos for memorable shots. You can also try your hand at fishing, adding a touch of local, casual life to your day.

Lunch and Relaxation

Back on board, the crew serves a Mediterranean feast featuring fresh, local ingredients. Past guests rave about the delicious dishes, including cheese platters, salads, shrimp pasta or rice with feta, and mussels in turmeric sauce and ouzo. For dessert, seasonal fruits cap off the meal nicely.

The unlimited drinks continue, and the soft background music completes the relaxed atmosphere. Free WiFi lets you share your photos instantly or just stay connected during the trip.

Returning to Rethymno

After a leisurely afternoon, the boat heads back, sailing along the coast with plenty of time for lounging, chatting, and soaking in the views. The crew’s attentive service ensures everyone’s needs are met, making the 6.5-hour trip feel both luxurious and fun.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Feedback

Guests consistently praise the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. One reviewer describes the team as “working beautifully to make sure our trip was first rate and perfect,” and mentions that the chef prepared a delicious lunch, highlighting the quality of the onboard meal. The captain and first mate create a smooth, stress-free day, emphasizing the luxurious, private nature of the cruise.

The stunning scenery receives particular note, with travelers loving the opportunity to capture photos of the coastline and water. The flexibility to customize playlists and activities contributes to a personalized feel, making each trip unique.

Plus, the value for money is often highlighted, especially given the all-inclusive nature—lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, SUP boards, fishing equipment, and WiFi are included. Many reviews mention that the overall experience exceeds expectations considering the cost.

Practical Details: What Travelers Should Know

Price and Value

At $2,545 for up to 15 people, the experience costs roughly $170 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But considering the luxury setting, private space, all-inclusive food and drinks, and personalized service, many find it a worthwhile splurge for a special day. It’s definitely aimed at those willing to invest in a premium, private experience.

Group Size and Duration

This tour caters to up to 15 guests, making it perfect for small groups or families. The activity lasts about 6.5 hours, starting at 9:30 am, so it’s best suited for a full-day outing.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The cruise departs from a specific location in Rethymno—Sofokli Venizelou 37—and does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers should plan accordingly, especially if staying outside Rethymno.

Weather and Cancellation

The trip requires good weather—if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. Cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk option if weather concerns arise.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private catamaran cruise is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, families seeking a relaxed day at sea, or small groups of friends. It’s perfect if you want a luxurious, personalized outing with flexibility in activities and a focus on comfort and good food. If you’re craving a peaceful day away from busy tours, but still want plenty of fun in the water, this cruise checks all the boxes.

It’s also a great choice for travelers who value excellent service and authentic, local flavors. The combination of scenic beauty, delicious cuisine, and attentive crew ensures a memorable day, especially if you’re willing to invest in a premium experience.

The Sum Up: Is This Cruise Right for You?

In essence, this private catamaran cruise offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and authenticity that’s hard to beat on Crete. For those looking to enjoy the island’s stunning coastline in a comfortable, exclusive setting, this trip delivers on all fronts. The combination of beautiful scenery, tasty Mediterranean dishes, unlimited drinks, and water activities creates a day to remember.

If you’re celebrating a special milestone or simply want to treat yourself to a relaxing, private day on the water with your loved ones, this cruise offers true value. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize personalized service, scenic beauty, and a laid-back atmosphere over budget options or highly structured group tours.

Just keep in mind that it’s a full-day commitment and requires planning to meet at the designated location. For those who want a special, bespoke experience in Crete, this cruise is a rewarding choice.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the designated location in Rethymno.

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise begins at 9:30 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier to settle in.

How many people can join?
Up to 15 guests can participate, making it perfect for small groups or families.

What should I bring?
While the cruise provides snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and fishing equipment, bringing your personal items like sunscreen, hat, and camera is a good idea.

Can I bring my own playlist?
Yes, you can customize the onboard music with your own playlist.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, unlimited beer and local dry white wine are included, but only for guests aged 18 and above.

What about vegetarian or special dietary needs?
The menu features Mediterranean dishes with local ingredients, but it’s best to check in advance if you have specific dietary restrictions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip. If canceled within 24 hours, no refund is available.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, kids are welcome, with some options like chicken nuggets or pasta included in the meal. However, alcohol is only for adults.

How do I book this cruise?
Bookings should be made in advance, as it is a popular experience—on average, travelers book about 37 days ahead.

To sum it up, this private catamaran cruise from Rethymno offers a luxurious, relaxed, and scenic way to enjoy Crete’s coastline. With excellent reviews highlighting the stunning views, quality cuisine, and attentive crew, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, intimate day at sea. While the price is a consideration, the personalized experience and all-inclusive nature provide compelling value for those wanting a truly special Crete adventure.