A private catamaran day in Crete changes pace. I love how this cruise feels tailor-made for your group, and I also love the fresh Mediterranean lunch prepared onboard while you’re making the most of the water. It’s built around one beautiful bay, but it packs in plenty of time to swim, snack, and relax.

The big catch to plan for: it’s mainly centered on a single swimming stop near Georgioupoli, so if you’re chasing a nonstop “see everything” itinerary, this one may feel a bit focused.

On the bright side, you’re on a luxurious sailing catamaran with snorkeling gear, SUP boards, fishing equipment, WiFi, and unlimited drinks included, plus a crew that keeps things moving smoothly.

Key highlights at a glance

• Private cruise for up to 15: your group controls the vibe and pace.
• Main swim time near Georgioupoli: crystal-clear water for snorkeling and relaxing.
• Onboard extras: SUP boards, fishing equipment, snorkeling gear, and an inflatable flamingo for photos.
• Mediterranean lunch made onboard: from salads and cheese platters to shrimp pasta/rice with feta.
• Unlimited drinks (adult-only alcohol): local dry white wine and beer, plus soft drinks and water.
• Free WiFi on deck: share photos the same day, not later.

A private catamaran day from Rethymno to a Georgioupoli bay

This is a private sailing catamaran cruise that starts from Rethymno in the morning (9:30 am) and runs about 6.5 hours. You’ll head to a stunning bay near Georgioupoli, where the whole experience revolves around the water: swimming, snorkeling, and just hanging out with that “we’re on island time” feeling.

What makes the set-up especially nice is that it’s not a cattle-call day trip. With private sailing for up to 15 people, the crew can run your day with less waiting around and more actual time enjoying the sea.

And because this is offered in English with a mobile ticket, you’re not stuck decoding anything complicated. You just meet at the listed departure point and let the boat and crew handle the rhythm of the day.

The water plan: swim, snorkel, SUP, and try fishing

The centerpiece is the swimming stop in clear water near Georgioupoli. You can go in at your own speed, whether you want an easy swim, a proper snorkeling session, or both. You’ll have snorkeling equipment provided, which matters because you’re traveling light without needing to pack your own gear.

If you like activities but don’t want to spend your vacation wrestling with logistics, the SUP boards are a great option. They’re included, and even if you’re new to stand-up paddleboarding, this kind of setup is one of those “try it and laugh” experiences—especially from a catamaran deck where getting in and out feels straightforward.

Then there’s fishing equipment, which adds a different kind of fun. It’s not the sort of thing you always get on a typical island cruise, and it turns the swim stop into something more than just floating and sunbathing.

Finally, there’s the unexpectedly fun visual moment: an inflatable flamingo. It’s clearly meant for relaxing and for those group vacation photos that actually look like vacation, not like a quick snapshot in front of a restaurant. If you care about getting a few memorable images, this is an easy win.

Practical tip for comfort

Even if you’re not planning to snorkel for long stretches, having options helps. You can spend 20 minutes in the water, hop back on deck for lunch or a drink, then switch to SUP or fishing whenever you feel like it.

Lunch onboard: Mediterranean plates with wine, beer, and coffee

The lunch is one of the strongest reasons this cruise works. You’re not relying on a later meal on land. The crew prepares food onboard so you can eat without rushing to a restaurant or coordinating transport.

Here’s what’s included:

• A cheese platter
• Green and Greek salads
• Shrimp pasta or rice with feta
• Mussels in turmeric sauce and ouzo
• Chicken breast with oranges
• For kids: chicken nuggets or pasta
• Dessert: seasonal fruits

That’s a lot of variety for a half-day outing, and it covers different tastes: lighter bites (salads and cheese), main courses that feel Greek-Mediterranean, and even a kid-friendly backup. If your group has mixed appetites, the menu is flexible enough to keep everyone happy.

Drinks: unlimited, with an adult-only rule for alcohol

You also get unlimited beer and local dry white wine, plus coffee or tea with a welcome snack that includes traditional cheese pies and biscuits. Soft drinks are covered too (Fanta, Cola, Sprite, Cola Zero) and water is included.

One consideration: alcohol is only for guests 18 and above. If you’ve got teens or mixed-age groups, you’ll still be fine because non-alcoholic options are included too.

Why onboard lunch is more valuable than it sounds

Eating on the catamaran changes the whole day. You’re not breaking the mood to find parking or walk through a busy spot. Food and drinks become part of the sailing rhythm, and it helps you stay relaxed even if the swim water makes you want to stay longer.

The deck vibe: photos, soft music, and free WiFi

The catamaran deck is designed for lounging, and you’ll feel that as soon as you’re settled. The open space makes it easy to find a spot for shade if you want it, and also to get into the sun when that’s your plan.

The experience also includes soft music, which keeps things from feeling stiff. You’re on a private cruise, so the atmosphere matters, and this kind of background sound makes the day feel more like a slow celebration than a timed activity checklist.

Then there’s free WiFi. You shouldn’t underestimate this. If you have family back home waiting for photos, you won’t have to wait until you’re back on shore and hunting for signal.

And yes, the flamingo helps the photo situation. But it’s more than a gimmick: it’s a marker that the crew expects you to enjoy the moment, not just pass through it.

Crew care makes the difference (and yes, it includes picture help)

The quality of the day really shows in the crew execution. You’re looking at a full team effort: the captain and first mate help keep everything running smoothly, and a chef handles the cooking onboard. That matters because food on a moving boat takes coordination, and it sounds like they do it well.

One name you’ll see mentioned is Rena. In particular, there’s a standout detail about her taking family photos while people were in the water. If you’re traveling with kids or you’ve got a group who always ends up missing the “we’re all together” shot, this kind of extra help is surprisingly meaningful.

Also, people describe the crew as extremely friendly and attentive, with everything taken care of. That’s exactly what you want on a private cruise: you shouldn’t have to manage timing, gear, or where everyone should be.

When a single bay is a plus, not a minus

A fair note: the day is built around one main swimming stop near Georgioupoli. Some people may expect multiple viewpoint stops, and that’s not the format here.

But that focus can actually be a benefit. You get longer, less fragmented time in the water and less time transferring between locations. If your ideal day includes swimming and relaxing more than ticking off new views, you’ll probably like this style.

The key is to match your expectations. If you want variety every hour, you may want to look for a route with multiple anchor points. If you want one gorgeous water setting and a smooth, fun schedule in one place, this setup fits nicely.

Price and value: what $2,643.35 really means for your group

The price is $2,643.35 per group, with space for up to 15 people. That means the “value” depends heavily on how many of you are sharing the boat.

A quick way to think about it:

• If you fill it with 15, you’re paying roughly $176 per person
• If you book as 6 people, it’s closer to $440 per person
• For 2 people, it becomes a different type of splurge

So when does it make sense? It makes sense when:

• you’re traveling with a group (family, friends, multigenerational crew)
• you want private boat time without paying for separate excursions
• you value included extras like snorkeling gear, SUP boards, fishing equipment, lunch, and unlimited drinks

Also, the menu and drink plan aren’t an afterthought. Lunch onboard with mains, dessert, welcome cheese pies, plus unlimited beer/wine for adults can be a big deal on the day itself—especially on the water where you’d otherwise pay for drinks in multiple stops.

Who this cruise is best for (and who might not love it)

This is a strong fit if you like water time, want a relaxed day, and prefer a private group setting. It’s also good for mixed groups because there’s food for kids and plenty of non-alcoholic drinks included.

It’s especially appealing for:

• families who want a memorable, low-stress day
• friend groups who want private time with activities included
• travelers who care about good food and smooth crew service, not just scenery

It may be less ideal for travelers who:

• want multiple distinct sightseeing stops during the day
• plan to do very little on the water and mainly want land attractions (there’s no hotel pickup or land itinerary built in)

Practical info that affects your day

You don’t get hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to get yourself to the meeting point in Rethymno. The start is at DanEri Yachts, Sofokli Venizelou 37, Rethymno 741 00, Greece, with the activity ending back at the same meeting point.

Service animals are allowed, and the tour notes that most travelers can participate. Since the experience includes water activities, it’s smart to think about comfort in and around the sea, even if you’re not planning to be super active the whole time.

Also, confirmation is typically received within 48 hours, depending on availability. The operator recommends good weather for the cruise, which matters because this is the kind of day that shines when the water is inviting.

Should you book this Rethymno catamaran cruise?

If your idea of a great Cretan day includes time on the water, included gear for snorkeling and SUP, a real lunch onboard, and a private group vibe, I’d say this is worth booking. The combination of activities + food + unlimited drinks helps you avoid decision fatigue, and the crew approach seems genuinely service-forward.

The main “don’t ignore this” factor is the format: it’s focused on one bay near Georgioupoli, not a multi-stop sightseeing loop. If you want variety in locations, look for a different type of cruise. If you want a smooth, fun, water-centered day where lunch happens while you’re still in vacation mode, this one fits well.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the cruise?

The cruise meets at DanEri Yachts, Sofokli Venizelou 37, Rethymno 741 00, Greece.

What time does the cruise start?

The start time is 9:30 am.

How long is the experience?

The duration is about 6 hours 30 minutes.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group will participate.

How many people can be in the group?

The private cruise is for up to 15 people.

What food is included for lunch?

Lunch includes a cheese platter, green and Greek salads, shrimp pasta or rice with feta, mussels in turmeric sauce and ouzo, chicken breast with oranges, and either chicken nuggets or pasta for kids, plus dessert with seasonal fruits.

What drinks are included?

Unlimited beer and local dry white wine are included, along with coffee and/or tea, welcome drinks with traditional cheese pies and biscuits, soda (Fanta, Cola, Sprite, Cola Zero), and water.

Is there an age requirement for alcohol?

Yes. Alcoholic beverages are permitted only for individuals aged 18 and above.

What water activities and equipment are included?

You get snorkeling equipment, SUP boards, and fishing equipment.

What happens if weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is free cancellation available?

Yes. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount paid is not refunded.