Crete Boat Trips: Hersonissos, Balos, Spinalonga and Santorini

Crete provides diverse activities in Hersonissos, Balos, Spinalonga, and Santorini. Private boat rentals range from €50 ($54.40, £44) for motorboats to €1,500 ($1,630, £1,323) for yachts with skippers. Popular day trips include Knossos Palace, Heraklion City tours, and Samaria Gorge hikes, costing €35 ($38.10, £30.80) to €50 ($54.40, £44) per person. Crete is accessible by ferries from Athens and nearby islands, with tickets starting at €36 ($39.20, £31.70). Snorkeling and paddleboarding are favored at Elafonissi Beach and Agia Pelagia. Combo packages for car rentals and boat trips are available, with reliable services like Rental Center Crete.

Find below a list with the Crete Boat Trips.

Hersonissos Boat Trips. Hersonissos offers diverse boat trips from its port, ranging from 3 to 6.5 hours. Options include luxury catamarans, yachts, and jet boats, with ticket prices starting at €10 ($10.85, £8.80) for basic trips and up to €145 ($157.35, £127.60) for premium experiences. Activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and BBQ meals are common.
Heraklion Boat Trips. Heraklion’s boat trips depart from the Old Venetian Port, lasting 3.5 to 8.5 hours. Prices start at €10 ($10.90, £8.80) for basic excursions and go up to €145 ($157.75, £127.65) for luxury tours with meals and activities. Notable trips include the Dia Island Sailing Trip, Sunset Cruise, and Dia Catamaran Tour.
Chania Boat Trips. Chania boat trips operate from the Old Venetian Port, offering durations of 1 to 8 hours. Prices range from €12 ($13.05, £10.55) to €1,650 ($1,796.25, £1,459.50) for private yacht charters. Highlights include glass-bottom boat tours to Lazaretta & Theodorou Islands, Balos Lagoon cruises, and private tours to hidden beaches.
Balos Boat Trip. Balos boat trips depart from Kissamos Port, lasting 5 to 10 hours. Shared ferries cost €24 ($26.10, £21.10) to €40 ($43.50, £35.20) per person, while private tours range from €650 ($707, £571) to €1,450 ($1,579, £1,275). Popular options include Blue Daily Cruises, private RIB trips, and semi-private tours, with activities like snorkeling and exploring Gramvousa Island.
Malia Boat Trips. Malia’s boat trips offer activities like snorkeling, party cruises, and family-friendly adventures. Trips last 1 to 5.5 hours, with prices from €12 ($13.05, £10.55) to €69+ ($75.05+, £61.10+). Notable tours include Malia Booze Cruise, Pirate Boat Trip, and sunset yacht experiences.
Panormo Boat Trips. Panormo boat trips depart from Panormo Port and last 3.5 to 6.5 hours. Prices range from €22 ($23.95, £19.35) for basic tours to €145 ($157.75, £127.65) for luxury cruises. Options include the Luxe Sailing Cruise to Bali Bay and a sunset cruise with drinks.
Santorini Boat Trips. Santorini boat trips leave from ports like Old Port, Ammoudi Bay, and Vlychada Marina, lasting 3 to 10 hours. Prices start at €30 ($32.70, £26.40) for volcano tours and exceed €1,300 ($1,417, £1,141) for private yacht charters. Popular options include the Volcano & Hot Springs Cruise, Sunset Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, and full-day caldera tours.
Loutro Boat Trips. Loutro trips depart from Chora Sfakion, with ferries costing €10 ($10.90, £8.80) per person and private tours from €200 ($218, £176) to €270 ($294.30, £237.90). Popular options include the ANENDYK Ferry, private taxi boats, and tours of Loutro Village with stops at Glyka Nera Beach and Marmara Beach.
Chrissi Island Boat Trips. Chrissi Island trips from Ierapetra last 4 to 7 hours, with tickets starting at €19 ($20.70, £16.70) for ferries and up to €1,600 ($1,744, £1,408) for luxury yacht charters. Popular options include Classic Day Cruises, semi-private yacht trips, and private RIB tours.
Gavdos Island Boat Trips. Trips to Gavdos Island depart from Chora Sfakion or Paleochora, lasting 1.5 to 5 hours. Prices start at €28 ($30.50, £24.60) for ferries and range from €1,300 ($1,413, £1,149) to €3,650 ($3,968, £3,226) for luxury yachts. Highlights include the ANENDYK Ferry and private day trips with snorkeling stops.
Sissi Boat Trips. Sissi’s boat trips depart from Sissi Port and last 2 to 8 hours, with prices from €50 ($54.40, £44) for group tours to €430 ($467.80, £379.40) for private rentals. Popular tours include Hidden Coves and Sea Caves, Sunset Cruise, and Spinalonga Island Excursions.

1. Hersonissos Boat Trips

Hersonissos offers a variety of boat trips, each providing experiences for tourists and locals. The boat trips typically depart from the Hersonissos Port. The duration of these Hersonissos boat trips ranges from 3 to 6.5 hours, depending on the specific tour. Departure times vary, with morning, mid-day, and evening options available. The types of boats used include luxury catamarans, sailing yachts, and even jet boats, catering to a range of preferences from comfort to adventure. Ticket prices also vary widely, starting at €10 ($10.85, £8.80) for basic coastal trips and reaching up to €145 ($157.35, £127.60) for premium experiences such as full-day catamaran cruises.

For those looking to plan their maritime adventure, here are some popular boat trips in Hersonissos:

Eleni Boat Trip. The Eleni Boat Trip is a four-hour journey featuring stops at St. George’s Bay and Stalis Bay. It includes swimming and a BBQ meal. It is bookable on platforms like TravelinCrete.com.
DanEri Yachts Day Cruise. DanEri Yachts Day Cruise is a 6.5-hour luxury catamaran trip to Dia Island with snorkeling and paddleboarding included. Available at DanEriYachts.com.
Fantasia Yachting Private Tours. Fantasia Yachting Private Tours is a flexible 6-hour private sailing tour ideal for families or groups. Reservations can be made through FantasiaYachting.com.
Sunset Catamaran Cruise: Sunset Catamaran Cruise is a romantic 3-hour evening trip to St. George Bay to enjoy the sunset. Often listed on platforms like Viator.com or GetYourGuide.com.
Jet Boat Tour: A thrilling 1-hour ride combining speed and snorkeling for adventure seekers. Bookable via platforms like Viator.com or GetYourGuide.com.

2. Heraklion Boat Trips

Heraklion offers a wide range of boat trips, primarily departing from the Old Venetian Port of Heraklion. The duration of these trips varies depending on the type of experience, ranging from 3.5 to 8.5 hours, with options for both morning and sunset departures. For instance, morning cruises often begin around 9:30 AM, while sunset trips typically start at 4:30 PM or later. The types of boats used include luxury catamarans, sailing yachts, and smaller private vessels, ensuring options for both group and private experiences. Ticket prices range widely, starting from € 10 ($10.90, £8.80) for basic excursions to €145 ($157.75, £127.65) for premium luxury tours featuring meals, drinks, and water activities.

Find below a list with the Heraklion boat trips and where to book them:

Heraklion to Dia Island Sailing Trip. Heraklion to Dia Island Sailing Trip is a 5-hour journey featuring snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a Mediterranean lunch. Bookable through platforms like DanEri Yachts or GetYourGuide.
Sunset Cruise to Dia Island. Sunset Cruise to Dia Island is a romantic 4.5-hour evening cruise with drinks and finger food. Available via Set Sails Crete or Avanti Sailing.
Dia Catamaran Tour with Open Bar & Lunch. Dia Catamaran Tour with Open Bar & Lunch is a luxurious experience that includes activities like snorkeling and fishing. Reservations can be made with providers like Cretan Yachts or CheckYeti.
Private Full-Day Cruise to Dia Island: Private Full-Day Cruise to Dia Island is an 8-hour customizable trip perfect for families or groups. It is offered by companies such as DanEri Yachts or Fantasia Yachting.

3. Chania Boat Trips

Chania offers diverse boat trips departing from the Old Venetian Port, with options ranging from short sightseeing tours to full-day adventures. The boat trips last between 1 and 8 hours, with morning departures starting at 9:30 AM and sunset cruises at 6:30 PM during the high season. Boats include glass-bottom boats, catamarans, traditional fishing boats, and luxury yachts, ensuring both casual and premium experiences. Ticket prices start at €12 ($13.05, £10.55) per person for basic tours and go up to €1,650 ($1,796.25, £1,459.50) for private yacht charters.

Find below a list with Chania boat trips and where to book them:

Lazaretta & Theodorou Islands Glass-Bottom Boat Tour. Lazaretta & Theodorou Islands Glass-Bottom Boat Tour is a 3.5-hour family-friendly trip with snorkeling, a WWII wreck, and a fish show.
VisitCrete.com
Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa Island Cruise. Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa Island Cruise is a full-day trip to Crete’s famous lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Available on platforms like
CheckYeti or Viator.
Seitan Limania & Akrotiri Peninsula Private Tour. Seitan Limania & Akrotiri Peninsula Private Tour is a 4-6 hour private tour to hidden beaches and coves.
SEAze The Day
Sunset Cruise to Lazaretta Island. Sunset Cruise to Lazaretta Island is a romantic 1-hour trip with raki tasting and views of Chania’s lighthouse. The boat trip is offered by
Manos Cruises
Hidden Beaches & Caves of Spatha Peninsula: Hidden Beaches & Caves of Spatha Peninsula is a 6-hour private tour to secluded locations accessible only by boat. Book via
SEAze The Day or local operators.

4. Balos Boat Trip

The Balos Boat Trip is one of Crete’s most popular excursions, offering visits to the Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. The boat trip is departing primarily from Kissamos Port, located 41 kilometers (25.48 miles) from Chania. The trips range from 5 to 10 hours in duration and include options for shared ferries, semi-private motorboats, and private yachts. Departure times vary, with shared ferries leaving at 10:50 AM and semi-private boats starting as early as 8:30 AM. Ticket prices range from €24 ($26.10, £21.10) to €40 ($43.50, £35.20) per person for standard ferry services, while private tours cost between €650 ($707, £571) to €1,450 ($1,579, £1,275) per group.

Find below a list with Balos boat trips and where to book them:

Blue Daily Cruises (Shared Ferry). Blue Daily Cruises departs at 10:50 AM from Kissamos Port, stopping at Gramvousa and Balos. Tickets start at €37 ($40.25, £32.50) per person and can be booked via their website or local ticket offices.
Visit website
Semi-Private Boat Trip (Cretan Activities). Semi-Private Boat Trip is a 6-hour tour departing at 8:30 AM from Kissamos, including snorkeling equipment, snacks, and towels. Prices start at €98 ($106.35, £86.20) per person.
Visit website
Private Boat Tour (Seaze The Day). A 5-hour private tour departing from Chania Old Port for groups of up to 9. Prices range from €1,050 ($1,141, £922) to €1,450 (1,579, 1,275) per group.
Visit website
Cretan Daily Cruises (Large Ferry). Cretan Daily Cruises is a 7-hour shared cruise departing daily from Kissamos Port, with tickets priced at €40 ($43.50, £35.20) per adult. Optional meals are available for €12 ($13.05, £10.55).
Visit website
Falassarna Port Option (Strata Tours). Falassarna Port Option is a smaller boat that departs at 12:00 PM and offers direct access to Balos without large crowds. Tickets cost €50 ($54.35, £44).
Visit website

5. Malia Boat Trips

Malia offers a wide range of boat trips, departing from Malia Port to explore Crete’s coastline. The boat trips excursions cater to various preferences, including lively parties, snorkeling, and family-friendly adventures. Trip durations range from 1 to 5.5 hours, with morning, afternoon, and sunset departures. Boats include party vessels, snorkeling boats, and pirate-themed ships, providing unique experiences for all. Ticket prices range from €12 ($13.05, £10.55) for basic tours to €69+ ($75.05+, £61.10+) for premium trips with meals and drinks.

Find below a list with Malia boat trips and where to book them:

Malia Booze Cruise. Malia Booze Cruise is a 4-hour party cruise with a live DJ, unlimited drinks for one hour, swim stops, and lunch.
Visit website
Snorkeling Adventure. Snorkeling Adventure is a 1-hour trip to swimming spots with snorkeling gear, snacks, and small group sizes.
Book through CheckYeti
Pirate Boat Trip to Stalis & Malia. Pirate Boat Trip to Stalis & Malia is a family-friendly trip with snorkeling, lunch, and pirate-themed activities aboard a vintage ship. Available on
CheckYeti or through local providers.
Sunset Sailing Trip. Sunset Sailing Trip is a 4.5-hour luxury yacht experience in Malia Gulf, including meals, drinks, and swim stops. It is operated by
VisitCrete.com

6. Panormo Boat Trips

Panormo, a coastal village in Crete, offers a variety of boat trips and departs from the Panormo Port, a convenient starting point for maritime adventures. The duration of these trips ranges from 3.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on the type of experience chosen. Departure times vary, with morning cruises typically starting at 9:30 AM and sunset cruises departing 4:30 PM or later. The types of boats used include luxury catamarans, sailing yachts, and smaller private vessels, providing options for both group and private experiences. Ticket prices range widely, starting from €22 ($23.95, £19.35) per person for sightseeing trips to €145 ($157.75, £127.65) or more for premium luxury cruises with meals and drinks included.

Find below a list with Panormo boat trips and where to book them:

Luxe Sailing Cruise to Bali Bay. Luxe Sailing Cruise to Bali Bay is a 6.5-hour semi-private catamaran trip featuring snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a Mediterranean lunch. Prices start at €145 ($157.75, £127.65) per person. Book with DanEri Yachts or GetYourGuide
Sunset Cruise with Snacks & Drinks. Sunset Cruise with Snacks & Drinks is a 3.5-hour romantic evening cruise offering Prosecco, unlimited drinks, snacks, and stunning sunset views over the Aegean Sea. Tickets cost €85 ($92.50, £74.80) per person and can be booked via DanEri Yachts or GetYourGuide
Boat Trip from Rethymno to Panormo. Boat Trip from Rethymno to Panormo is a 4-hour tour exploring pirate caves and rock formations along the coast before stopping in Panormo for swimming or exploring the village. Prices start at €22 ($23.95, £19.35) per person, available on CheckYeti
Private Catamaran Cruise from Panormo. Private Catamaran Cruise from Panormo is a customizable private sailing experience, perfect for families or groups, including snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and a gourmet onboard meal. Prices range from €950 ($1,034, £833) to €1,450 (1,579, 1,275) per group, bookable through DanEri Yachts
Boat Hire in Panormo. Boat Hire in Panormo is a renting a small boat (no license required) to explore the coastline independently. Prices start at €100 ($109.05, £87.70) per day.

7. Santorini Boat Trips

Santorini boat trips depart from popular ports such as the Old Port (Fira), Ammoudi Bay, or Vlychada Marina, depending on the itinerary. The duration of these trips ranges from 3 to 10 hours, with options for half-day, full-day, and sunset cruises. Departure times vary: morning tours often start at 9:30 AM, while sunset cruises typically begin at 2:30 PM to ensure guests enjoy the caldera views as the sun sets. The types of boats used include luxury catamarans, traditional wooden boats, and modern yachts, catering to different group sizes and preferences. Ticket prices range widely, starting from as low as €30 ($32.70, £26.40) per person for basic volcano tours to over €1,300 ($1,417, £1,141) for private luxury yacht charters, offering options for every budget.

Find below a list with Santorini boat trips and where to book them:

Volcano & Hot Springs Cruise. Volcano & Hot Springs Cruise is a 3-hour tour departing from the Old Port (Fira), featuring a hike on the volcano and a swim in the hot springs. Prices start at 30 € ($32.70, £26.40) per person.
Sunset Catamaran Cruise with BBQ. Sunset Catamaran Cruise with BBQ is a 5-hour semi-private cruise departing from Vlychada Marina, stopping at Red Beach, White Beach, and the hot springs, with dinner and unlimited drinks included. Prices range from €125 ($136.35, £110) to €180 ($196.20, £158.10) per person. Volcano & Hot Springs Cruise is bookable through Santorini-View.com
Full-Day Caldera Tour with Sunset in Oia. Full-Day Caldera Tour with Sunset in Oia is a 9-hour tour starting at Athinios Port, visiting the volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia Island, and ending with sunset views in Oia. Prices start at €80 ($87.20, £70.40) per person.
Private Catamaran Cruise. Private Catamaran Cruise is a customizable 5-hour private sailing experience for up to 17 guests, including meals and drinks. Prices start at €823 ($896.15, £724.75) per group.
Fishing Tours with Traditional Greek Meals. Fishing Tours with Traditional Greek Meals is a cultural experience featuring fishing and freshly cooked Greek meals onboard. Prices vary; contact providers like Flora Fishing Tours for details.

8. Loutro Boat Trips

Loutro, a village on Crete’s southern coast, is accessible only by boat and most boat trips to Loutro depart from Chora Sfakion, with a journey of 15 to 20 minutes. These boat trip options include regular ferry services, private taxi boats, and organized tours, catering to both group and private preferences. Ferries typically operate at 9:00 AM or 2:00 PM during winter schedules, while private boats and tours offer flexible departure times based on prior arrangements. Boats used range from ferries to RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) and motorboats. Ferry tickets are affordable, starting at €10 ($10.90, £8.80) per person, while private taxi boats cost between €200 ($218, £176) and €270 ($294.30, £237.90) per group, depending on passenger numbers.

Find below a list with the Loutro boat trips:

ANENDYK Ferry Service. ANENDYK Ferry Service is a direct ferry from Chora Sfakion to Loutro with multiple daily departures. Prices start at €10 ($10.90, £8.80) per person.
Private Taxi Boat to Loutro. Private Taxi Boat to Loutro is a flexible 5-hour tour stopping at Glyka Nera Beach, Marmara Beach, and Loutro Village. Prices range from €200 ($218, £1760) (1–5 people) to €270 (8–9 people) ($294.30, £237.90).
Glyka Nera, Marmara Beach & Loutro Day Trip: Glyka Nera, Marmara Beach & Loutro Day Tri is a 5-hour excursion visiting Sweetwater Beach and Marmara Beach before arriving at Loutro. Ideal for families or small groups. Prices start at €200 ($218, £176) per group.
Tour of Loutro Village with Lunch. Tour of Loutro Village with Lunch is a guided experience including a drive to Sfakia, a 20-minute boat ride to Loutro, and free time to explore or enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch. Bookable through TUI or Discover Greece.

9. Chrissi Island Boat Trips

Chrissi Island boat trips offer an incredible opportunity to explore one of Crete. Most of these boat trips depart from the Port of Ierapetra, the southernmost town in Europe, providing easy access to the island located 16.7 kilometers (10.38 miles) away. The duration of these trips typically ranges from 4 to 7 hours, depending on the type of tour. Departure times vary, with ferries and cruises usually leaving between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM, while private options allow for more flexibility. The types of vessels include ferries, luxury yachts, and RIB boats (Rigid Inflatable Boats), catering to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a premium experience. Ticket prices range from €19 ($20.70, £16.70) to €40 ($43.60, £35.20) per person for standard ferries, while semi-private or private cruises can cost between €80 ($87.20, £70.40) to €1,600 (1,744, £1,408) depending on the level of luxury and services provided.

Find below a list with the Chrissi Island boat trips.

Classic Day Cruise (Cretan Daily Cruises). Classic Day Cruise is a 6-hour ferry trip departing at 11:30 AM from Ierapetra, with stops near Golden Beach for swimming. Prices start at €40 ($43.60, £35.20) per person.
Semi-Private Cruise (Nautilos Cruises). Semi-Private Cruise is a 6-hour luxury yacht experience featuring a Cretan lunch, unlimited drinks, snorkeling, and swimming stops. Prices start at €80 ($87.20, £70.40) per passenger.
Private RIB Boat Trip. Private RIB Boat Trip is a 4-hour cruise offering 3 hours on Chrissi Island, including snorkeling gear and refreshments. Prices range from €200 ($218, £176) to €270 ($294.30, £237.90) per group.
Luxury Yacht Escape. Luxury Yacht Escape is a full-day private yacht tour including meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a visit to Chrissi or nearby Koufonissi Island. Prices start at €1,600 ($1,744, £1,408) for up to 17 passengers.
Morning or Afternoon Ferry (Blue Daily Cruises). Morning or Afternoon Ferry is a budget-friendly option with departures at 10:45 AM or later. Tickets cost €19 ($20.70, £16.70) to €40 ($43.60, £35.20) per person, with optional meals available onboard.

11. Gavdos Island Boat Trips

Gavdos Island, the southernmost point of Europe, is a must-visit destination for those seeking untouched natural beauty and beaches. Boat trips to Gavdos typically depart from Chora Sfakion or Paleochora, with journey durations ranging from 1.5 to 5 hours, depending on the type of boat and route. Departure times vary: ferries often leave in the morning at 9:00 AM, while private charters offer more flexibility. The boats used include ferries, private RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats), and luxury yachts, catering to different preferences and group sizes. Ticket prices range from €28 ($30.50, £24.60) per person for standard ferry rides to €1,300 ($1,413, £1,149) to €3,650 ($3,968, £3,226) per group for private luxury charters.

Find below a list with the Gavdos boat trips and where to book them:

ANENDYK Ferry Service. ANENDYK Ferry Service is a regular ferry from Chora Sfakion or Paleochora to Gavdos. Prices start at €28 ($30.50, £24.60) per person for a one-way trip. Bookable through ANENDYK’s website or local ticket offices.
Private Day Trip from Sfakia (Cretan Private Yachts). Private Day Trip from Sfakia is a full-day private tour departing at 10:00 AM, visiting beaches like Agios Ioannis, Sarakiniko, Potamos, and Trypiti. It includes snorkeling gear and refreshments. Prices start at €1,300 ($1,413, £1,149) per group.
Semi-Private Tour from Paleochora (Plakias Boat Tours). Semi-Private Tour from Paleochora is a 10-hour adventure exploring coastlines and beaches like Diana, Lavrakas, and Sarakiniko. It includes stops for swimming and lunch. Prices start at €80 ($87.20, £70.40) per person.
Luxury Yacht Cruise (Seaze The Day). Luxury Yacht Cruise is a customizable full-day tour departing from Chania or Paleochora, featuring stops at Gavdos’s best beaches and landmarks like the giant chair at Tripiti Beach. Prices range from €3,000 ($3,261, £2,649) to €3,650 ($3,968, £3,226) per group.

12. Sissi Boat Trips

Sissi, a seaside village in Crete, offers a range of boat trips that allow visitors to explore the coastline, hidden coves, and beaches of the area. Most boat trips depart from Sissi Port, a harbor that serves as the starting point for these maritime adventures. The duration of trips ranges from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the type of excursion chosen. Departure times vary, with morning trips typically starting at 9:00 AM and sunset cruises departing at 6:00 PM. The types of boats available include motorboats, luxury yachts, and RIB boats, catering to both independent travelers and those seeking guided tours. Ticket prices range from €50 ($54.40, £44) per person for shared tours to €430 ($467.80, £379.40) for private full-day rentals, with additional fuel costs of €2 per mile ($2.20, £1.76).

Find below a list with Sissi Island boat trips and where to book them:

Hidden Coves and Sea Caves Tour. Hidden Coves and Sea Caves Tour is a 4-hour trip exploring secluded beaches and caves along the Cretan coast. Prices start at €50 ($54.40, £44) per person for small groups. Book this tour on GetYourGuide
Sunset Cruise from Sissi Port. Sunset Cruise from Sissi Port is a 2.5-hour romantic journey offering stunning sunset views over the sea with drinks included. Prices start at €150 ($163.20, £132.30) for two people.
Spinalonga Island Excursion. Spinalonga Island Excursion is a 5-hour tour visiting the historic leper colony on Spinalonga Island, with swimming stops along the way. Prices start at €700 ($761.60, £617.50) for private groups of up to 8 people.
Fishing and Snorkeling Adventure. Fishing and Snorkeling Adventure is a 4-hour private trip featuring fishing gear, snorkeling equipment, and visits to crystal-clear waters. Prices start at €270 ($294.30, £238.20) per group.
Full-Day Private Boat Rental. Full-Day Private Boat Rental is an 8-hour customizable experience exploring nearby destinations like Dia Island or Milatos Bay. Prices start at €430 ($467.80, £379.40) plus fuel costs.

Can you hire a boat in Crete?

Yes, you can hire a private boat in Crete. Many companies provide boats that do not require a license to operate, typically with engines under 30 horsepower, making them accessible for beginners. For those seeking luxury or larger vessels, yachts and motorboats with professional skippers are also available. Prices range from €50 ($54.40, £44) per day for small boats to €1,500 ($1,630, £1,323) or more for luxury yachts, depending on the type of boat and duration of the rental.

Recommended vendors for private boat rentals in Crete include Manousakis Marine in Rethymno, which offers motorboats that can be rented without a license, equipped with GPS and safety gear, +30 6908990525, Boat Rentals Crete in Agia Pelagia, specializing in safe and fully equipped boats for beginners or experienced boaters, info@boatrentalscrete.com, and Seaze The Day in Chania, providing RIB boats, motorboats, and yachts with or without a skipper from Chania, Kolimbari, and Kissamos, +30 694 748 2447). Another option is Click&Boat, an online platform offering a wide selection of boats, including sailboats, catamarans, and motorboats, with prices starting at €150 ($163.20, £132.30) per day.

What are the best Crete day trips?

Crete offers many day trips that allow visitors to explore its history, topography, and culture. One of the most popular excursions is the Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Tour, which takes through the legendary Minoan palace and the capital of Crete. This tour typically lasts 4–6 hours and costs around €35.92 ($39.10, £31.60) per person, including transportation and entrance fees. Another must-see is the Full-Day West Crete Tour, which includes visits to Chania, Rethymnon Old Town, and Kournas Lake, lasting 8–10 hours at an average cost of €49.50 ($53.90, £43.60) per person. For nature lovers, the Samaria Gorge Walking Tour offers a challenging yet rewarding 16-kilometer (9.94 miles) hike through one of Europe’s longest gorges, lasting 8–10 hours with prices starting at €41.08 ($44.70, £36.10) per person.

Find below a list with the companies that offerCrete Day Trips:

GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide offers a wide range of tours, including Knossos Palace, Samaria Gorge hikes, and boat trips to Balos Lagoon. Contact: +49 (0) 30 544 459 44.
TUI Tours. TUI Tours specializes in full-day guided tours, such as the Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island trip or excursions to Elafonisi Beach. Visit their website for details.
VisitCrete.com. VisitCrete.com features unique experiences such as jeep safaris to the Lasithi Plateau and cultural tours of Cretan villages. Contact: info@visitcrete.com.
True Greece Tours. True Greece Tours provides premium day trips focusing on history and culture, including private tours of Knossos Palace and Zeus Cave. Contact: info@truegreece.com.

What are the ferry options to get to Crete?

Crete is well-connected by ferries, making it an accessible destination from Athens and various Aegean islands. The main ferry routes to Crete operate year-round from Piraeus Port (Athens) to the island’s major ports: Heraklion, Chania, and occasionally Sitia and Rethymno. Standard ferries take 8–10 hours, while high-speed options, such as the Speedrunner Jet 2, reduce travel time to as little as 5 hours during the summer months. Seasonal routes also connect Crete with popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros, with travel times ranging from 2 to 6.5 hours, depending on the vessel. Ferries to Crete ticket prices vary widely, starting at €36 ($39.20, £31.70) for standard ferries and up to €100 ($108.90, £88.10) for high-speed services. Major operators include Minoan Lines, Blue Star Ferries, and Seajets, offering both day and overnight options with cabin upgrades for added comfort.

Is snorkeling popular in Crete?

Yes, snorkeling is incredibly popular in Crete due to its crystal-clear waters, marine life, and diverse underwater topography. The island often exceeds 30 meters (98.4 feet), making it ideal for observing fish, octopuses, sea turtles, and even the rare Mediterranean monk seal. The best snorkeling season runs from May to October, when water temperatures range from 20 ℃ (68 ℉) to 27 ℃ (80.6 ℉). Popular snorkeling in Crete spots include Elafonissi Beach, known for its pink sand and turquoise waters; Chrissi Island, with its shallow, warm seas; and Skinaria Beach, famous for its rocky seabeds and marine diversity. Guided snorkeling tours are available at locations like Agios Nikolaos Bay and Chania, offering equipment and expert guidance for beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Are SUP rentals available in Crete?

Yes, Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) rentals are widely available across Crete. SUP is a popular activity for its accessibility for all skill levels and the calm seas that make Crete ideal for paddling. Rentals are offered at many beaches, with equipment available for beginners and advanced paddlers. Many rental providers include basic instructions, safety tips, and recommendations for the best spots to explore. Popular SUP locations include Rethymno Beach for calm waters ideal for beginners, Elounda Bay for exploring small islands and coves, Chania’s Nea Chora Beach for views of Lazareta islet and the Venetian Harbor, and Agia Pelagia with its crystal-clear sheltered bay.

Are combo packages available for boat trips and car rentals in Crete?

Yes, combo packages for boat trips and car rentals are available in Crete. Companies like Cretopia in Kissamos specialize in combining car hire with boat rentals or cruises, allowing visitors to seamlessly enjoy Crete’s coastline and interior topography. Their services include flexible packages that cater to both short-term and long-term needs, with transparent pricing and no hidden fees..

Where are the most popular car rental places in Crete?

The most popular car rental locations in Crete include Heraklion Airport, Chania Airport, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos, as these are key entry points and tourist hubs. Rental services are also widely available in resort areas like Elounda, Hersonissos, and Malia. Companies such as Rental Center Crete provide extensive coverage across these locations with free delivery and pick-up options at airports, ports, and hotels.

Why is Rental Center Crete the best car hire company in Crete?

Rental Center Crete stands out as the best car hire company in Crete due to its exceptional customer service, transparent pricing, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Rental Center Crete was established in 1975 and has built a reputation for reliability and professionalism. Rental Center Crete offer Risk Insurance with no excess, unlimited mileage, free cancellations up to 48 hours before pick-up, and no hidden fees. Their fleet is composed of new and well-maintained vehicles ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury models. Rental Center Crete provides free extras like baby seats and an additional driver at no extra cost.

Published on January 29, 2025