Chania: Morning Catamaran Cruise with Premium Lunch & Drinks

First impressions of the Chania Morning Catamaran Cruise with Premium Lunch & Drinks

This sailing experience, offered by DanEri Yachts, feels like a well-oiled combination of relaxation, adventure, and genuine hospitality—perfect for anyone looking to enjoy Crete’s coastal beauty without feeling rushed. Traveling from Kolimvari, you’ll set sail on a sleek, well-equipped catamaran toward the Agioi Theodoroi Islands, nestled in deep blue waters, for about five hours of sun, sea, and good company. The $137.66 per person price includes not just the cruise but also a hearty Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards, making it a pretty sound deal for a full half-day escape.

What I love about this trip is how many carefully thought-out touches make it special. First, the quality of the food—from homemade cheese pies to seafood salads and fresh fruit desserts—receives high praise, with reviews calling the lunch “delicious” and “prepared from scratch,” a rarity on boat tours. Second, the fantastic crew—notably the friendly team led by Captain Roman and Chef Francisco—keeps things lively and attentive. Guests consistently mention how hospitable they are, making everyone—from families with small children to solo travelers—feel welcome and comfortable.

One small consideration is the lack of hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point in Kolimvari. While this is an extra step, the departure from DanEri Yachts’ marina is straightforward, and most travelers find it manageable if they plan ahead.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete experience: Combines sailing, snorkeling, and a local-style lunch.
• Great value: Price includes drinks, snorkel gear, paddleboards, and a generous meal.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for kids, with activities and child-specific food options.
• Beautiful scenery: Multiple stops at serene bays with crystal-clear waters.
• Excellent reviews: Consistent 5-star ratings highlight the crew’s hospitality and quality.
• Weather dependent: The tour operates only in good weather; cancellations are fully refunded if canceled due to poor conditions.

Exploring the Full Experience: What to Expect on This Catamaran Cruise

If the thought of spending a few hours on a boat, soaking up the sun and exploring Crete’s coastline, appeals to you, this cruise offers a lot. The voyage begins at 9:30 am from DanEri Yachts, a cozy marina in Kolimvari. The group is capped at 20 travelers, which means a relaxed, intimate vibe that’s often missing from larger tours.

From the start, you’ll notice how smoothly everything is organized. The crew greets guests with drinks and cheese pies, setting an informal, friendly tone. Once aboard, the catamaran itself is praised for being beautiful and well-equipped—plenty of space for relaxing, with snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and inflatables like a flamingo ready for fun. WiFi on board is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share photos or check messages while at sea.

The Itinerary and Stops

The main highlight of this tour is the stop at Agii Theodori Bay, a tranquil spot where clear waters beckon you to get in. You’ll have about two hours anchored here, a perfect window for swimming, snorkeling, or trying out the paddleboards. Guests report that the water temperature might be cooler in September, but with plenty of equipment available, the experience remains enjoyable. As one guest, Lois, said, “Swimming on the Mediterranean Sea was wonderful,” and the available gear made exploring easy and fun.

The crew also prepares a Mediterranean lunch, which is a major selling point. Reviews rave about the freshness and variety of the meal—seafood, meats, salads, and desserts that showcase regional flavors. There’s also a kids’ menu, like pasta or chicken nuggets, ensuring the little ones are satisfied too. Multiple reviews mentioned how the lunch is served with care and attention—from homemade dishes to generous portions, it’s a memorable part of the day.

The Activities and Atmosphere

Besides relaxing on deck, the activity options keep everyone entertained. From snorkeling gear to paddleboards and even fishing equipment, there’s plenty to do. The inflatable flamingo, in particular, gets a lot of laughs and makes for great photos, as Janet_J highlighted. Many reviewers appreciated how attentive and helpful the crew was, always ready to assist with gear or take photos.

The music onboard adds a light, cheerful background that complements the sun-drenched scenery. As Robin_E put it, “It was a perfect day,” thanks to the crew’s accommodating nature and the well-planned schedule.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This trip is well-suited for families seeking safe, child-friendly activities like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and the optional game of fish-finding with provided gear. It’s also great for couples or solo travelers looking to unwind with good company, excellent food, and beautiful views. If you’re a food lover, the freshly made Mediterranean lunch will likely be a highlight, especially if you appreciate regional flavors and seafood.

For adventurous types, the snorkeling and paddleboarding options provide hours of fun in calm, scenic waters. And for those who enjoy a relaxed pace without the rush of larger, more commercial boats, this cruise offers intimacy and attentiveness without sacrificing comfort. Keep in mind, good weather is essential, as the tour is canceled with full refund if seas are rough.

Final thoughts

This catamaran cruise from Kolimvari provides a delightful slice of Crete’s coast—combining stunning scenery, authentic regional cuisine, and friendly service in a half-day package that feels both indulgent and authentic. The attention to detail from the crew, the quality of the food, and the variety of activities make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those wanting a taste of Crete’s sea and sun without leaving the comfort of a well-managed tour.

What sets it apart is the feeling of being on a small, elegant boat with a crew that genuinely cares about your experience. While it’s advisable to plan your transport to the meeting point, everything else, from the snorkeling equipment to the freshly prepared meals, promises a memorable outing. This cruise is ideal if you want a relaxed, friendly, and beautiful day at sea with high-quality food and plenty of opportunity to soak up the sun and sea.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, this cruise does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point in Kolimvari.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:30 am from DanEri Yachts in Kolimvari.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to swim, eat, and relax.

Are children allowed on this trip?
Yes, this cruise is family-friendly and offers child-specific food options like pasta or chicken nuggets. It also features child-friendly activities.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear and paddleboards are included and ready for use, making it easy to explore the waters.

What should I bring?
While the boat provides equipment, you should bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos.

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

This sailing trip offers an excellent chance to enjoy Crete’s coastline in a relaxed, fun environment. If you want good food, beautiful scenery, and plenty of water-based activities with attentive service, this cruise is a smart choice—especially for families and couples looking to make the most of a half-day at sea.