All Day Cruise to Ombrosgialos, Rethimno and Seitan Limania

A comprehensive look at the All Day Cruise to Ombrosgialos, Rethymno, and Seitan Limania, offers a fantastic way to see some of Crete’s most beautiful coastlines and historic towns without the hassle of driving yourself. Departing from Marathi, this 8-hour journey combines scenic boat rides, beach stops, and an immersive stroll through Rethymno’s charming old town. It’s a well-rounded experience, especially suited for travelers who want a relaxing day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, exploring, and just soaking in those iconic views.

What really shines about this trip is the variety of environments you’ll encounter — from crystal-clear waters perfect for a quick dip at Ombrosgialos, to the historic alleyways of Rethymno, and the dramatic cliffs and deep blue waters at Seitan Limania. The boat’s modern amenities, including diving masks and Sea Scooters, add an adventurous touch for underwater explorers. Two things I particularly appreciate are the well-organized itinerary that balances time on the water with enough time ashore and the fact that fuel, drinks, and a meal are all included, which makes this feel like excellent value.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the schedule is quite full, so if you prefer a slow-paced day with a lot of lounging, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, travelers need to arrive at the meeting point at least 30 minutes before departure, so planning is key. But overall, this tour’s combination of scenic beauty, culture, and adventure makes it a worthwhile option for most visitors.

Key points / Takeaways

Beautiful coastal stops: Ombrosgialos’ crystal waters and Seitan Limania’s striking cliffs are spectacular, perfect for swimming and photo ops.
Mix of cultural and natural: A three-hour stroll through Rethymno’s old town offers a taste of local life, markets, and history.
Family-friendly with adventure: The boat’s equipment — diving masks and Sea Scooters — makes underwater exploration accessible and fun.
All-inclusive value: Drinks, refreshments, and a meal are included, which simplifies budgeting and enhances the experience.
Expertly organized: Departing from Marathi port with a clear itinerary, the trip is well-managed, with fuel included and a private group setting.
Flexible booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Exploring the Itinerary: A Detailed Breakdown

Marathi Beach: Starting Point and Scenic Kick-off

The journey begins at Marathi Beach, a quiet spot that’s perfect for setting the tone of the day. It’s the departure hub, and you’ll want to arrive about 30 minutes early to settle in and meet your crew. The boat itself is comfortable, equipped with a fridge, WC, shower, Bluetooth speakers, and even diving gear, which signals a focus on both comfort and adventure.

Ombrosgialos: First Swimming Stop

After setting sail, your first highlight is Ombrosgialos. This small bay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. The reviews emphasize how refreshing it is to jump into such transparent waters, with some noting that the water’s clarity makes underwater exploration quite enjoyable, especially with the provided masks and Sea Scooters. It’s a quick but memorable break where you can relax on the boat or take a dip.

Rethymno Old Town: Cultural and Culinary Exploration

Following the water activities, you’ll head to Rethymno’s port, arriving in time for a three-hour exploration of the old town. This is a genuine highlight — wandering through narrow alleys lined with cafes, shops, and historic architecture. The market is described as ‘beautiful,’ and I can imagine it’s a feast for the senses, especially with the chance to see local artisans and taste fresh produce. The guided walk gives you a chance to absorb the town’s ambiance without the stress of navigating on your own.

Seitan Limania: Dramatic Cliffs and Deep Blue Waters

The final stop is at Seitan Limania, a stunning beach framed by high cliffs and deep blue waters. This spot is often praised for its striking scenery and the opportunity to swim in waters that seem to plunge into the abyss. The boat’s crew typically makes a short stop here for another swim and a bit of underwater fun — divers and snorkelers will especially appreciate the clarity and the chance to explore with masks and Sea Scooters.

Return to Marathi

After a full day of swimming, exploring, and enjoying Crete’s coast, the boat returns to Marathi, with most guests feeling satisfied with both the adventure and relaxation aspects of the trip.

What to Expect on the Boat and During the Day

The boat is equipped with modern amenities to ensure comfort. The inclusion of a fridge and refreshments means you can pick your drinks, and the meal — usually included in the 8-hour trip — is a nice touch, especially after a day in the sun. The Bluetooth speakers set a relaxed mood, but the quiet moments at each swim stop allow you to simply enjoy the scenery.

For underwater enthusiasts, the diving masks and Sea Scooters offer a semi-guided underwater experience, adding an element of adventure that’s rare for a day cruise. The non-slip mats on deck and the shower are practical touches that show the crew’s attention to guest comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a blend of scenic boat rides, beach relaxation, and cultural exploration. Families, couples, and small groups will find the pace manageable and the stops diverse enough to keep everyone engaged. If you like a full day that mixes activities with downtime and includes local flavors, this tour will hit the spot.

Price and Logistics: Good Value in a Full Day

For the price — which covers fuel, drinks, a meal, and all equipment — this cruise offers impressive value. The flexibility to reserve now and pay later, plus the cancellation policy, makes planning easy and risk-free. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth departure, and the private group setting promises a more personalized experience compared to larger tours.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re cruising Crete and want to see diverse highlights— from lush waters to historic alleys — this is a good choice. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and culture, appreciate well-organized trips, and want a day that balances active water stops with relaxed exploration. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a bit of everything, from swimming to wandering markets.

Final Thoughts

This full-day cruise to Ombrosgialos, Rethymno, and Seitan Limania is a smart way to experience Crete’s varied coastline and lively towns without the hassle of driving or planning complex schedules. You’ll enjoy stunning views, snorkeling opportunities, and a taste of local life all in one well-organized trip. The boat’s amenities and inclusion of drinks and a meal add to the comfort and value, making it a satisfying day for many travelers.

If you’re after a scenic, fun, and flexible way to explore Crete’s northern coast, this cruise offers an authentic and enjoyable experience — just remember to bring your sense of adventure and your swim gear.

FAQ

How early should I arrive at the meeting point?
You should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth start and meet your crew.

What is included in the price?
The price covers fuel, drinks, refreshments, a meal, and the use of diving masks and Sea Scooters.

Is there any restriction on bringing bikes or alcohol?
Yes, bikes, alcohol, drugs, fireworks, and explosive substances are not allowed on the boat.

How long is the entire cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 8 hours, from departure at Marathi to return.

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

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, families often enjoy the stops for swimming and exploring, though supervision is advised for younger children during water activities.

Is this a private group?
Yes, the tour is designed for private groups, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel. The boat supplies diving masks and Sea Scooters, but you might want to bring your own if preferred.

Are there any important safety tips?
Follow the crew’s instructions, especially during water stops, and stay within designated swimming areas.

Can I participate in underwater exploration if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Yes, the provided masks and Sea Scooters make underwater exploration accessible, but always listen to safety advice.

This tour is a great way to spend a full day soaking up Crete’s natural beauty and local charm. Whether you’re after scenic views, cultural flavor, or underwater fun, it’s a well-rounded experience that’s worth considering.