Private RIB Boat Tour to the Secret Beach from Rethymno

A Private RIB Boat Tour to Crete’s Secret Beaches from Rethymno offers an intimate way to experience the island’s rugged coastal beauty. For around $634, you get about two hours of cruising aboard a 7-meter boat, with your own skipper guiding you past caves, secluded beaches, and historic ruins. Starting from Rethymno’s Old Harbour, this tour combines the thrill of being on the water with the joy of discovering lesser-known spots that are often inaccessible by land.

What I love about this experience is how personalized it feels—it’s a private tour, so you won’t be sharing with strangers. The skipper, Kostas, receives rave reviews for his flexibility and local knowledge, making sure your trip matches your interests, whether that’s snorkeling, photography, or just soaking up the scenery. Plus, the stops at Spilies Beach, accessible only by boat, and the visit to Fortezza Castle from the sea, bring a genuine sense of adventure and discovery that bigger tours often miss.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency; since the entire experience relies on calm seas, choppy conditions can lead to rescheduling or cancellations. Also, if you or someone in your group has mobility issues, it’s worth notifying the operators beforehand, as not all aspects of the tour are suited for all mobility levels. Still, if you’re looking for a relaxed, tailored way to see Crete’s coastline, this tour offers significant value and authentic moments.

Key Points:

• Personalized Experience: The private format ensures your group’s preferences shape the trip.
• Excellent Guide: Kostas is praised for his flexibility and local insights.
• Unique Spots: Access to secluded beaches and caves that are only reachable by boat.
• Snorkeling & Photography: Opportunities to explore underwater life or capture stunning landscapes.
• Weather Sensitive: Tours depend on sea conditions and may be rescheduled if rough weather hits.
• Value for Cost: At $634, it’s a bit of an investment but offers customized, memorable experiences that larger groups can’t match.

An In-Depth Look at the Private RIB Boat Tour from Rethymno

When considering a boat trip around Crete, this private RIB tour offers something quite special. It’s designed for those who prefer an exclusive experience—no crowded boats, no preset itineraries that don’t suit your interests. Instead, you get to enjoy personalized service from a licensed skipper, Kostas, who has earned glowing reviews for his warm attitude and extensive local knowledge.

Starting from Rethymno’s Old Harbour, the journey takes you along the coast to Spilies Beach, a stunning natural haven surrounded by cliffs and caves. The boat stops just outside these caves, giving you the option to snorkel or simply wander around the area. One guest noted that Kostas only allows snorkeling if it’s safe, which shows his attention to safety and the importance of a smooth experience. Expect about 45 minutes here for swimming and exploring, with the chance to dip into crystal-clear waters that many reviews highlight as a highlight of the trip.

Next, you’ll visit the secret beach, accessible only by boat. This tiny strip of sand and pebbles is surrounded by rocks, which provide some natural shade—perfect for a relaxing sunbathing session or a quick dip. The natural arch called Kamarola offers great photo ops, and several reviewers mention capturing unforgettable shots here. The beach is quiet and private, making it ideal for families or couples looking for a peaceful escape.

On the return leg, your skipper will point out Fortezza Castle and the Rethymno Old Town coastline from the water—a perspective many travelers find more scenic than walking through crowded streets. The approximately 30-minute trip back includes views of the lighthouse and the coastal scenery, rounding off a trip that balances leisure with sightseeing.

What’s included—masks, snorkels, safety gear, WiFi, and bottled water—make sure you’re well-equipped to enjoy every moment. Paying an additional €40 in cash for fuel might seem like a small detail, but it’s good to be prepared for extra costs. The entire experience lasts around two hours, but it feels substantially richer due to the variety of sights and activities packed into that time.

Many reviews underscore the value of having a guide like Kostas, who ensures everyone is comfortable and engaged. Guests have praised his ability to accommodate special requests, with some celebrating birthday surprises or tailored snorkeling spots. Such attentiveness is part of what elevates this tour from a mere boat ride to an authentic adventure.

Who is this best for? It’s ideal for small groups, families, or couples who enjoy customized experiences, water activities, and a bit of history and scenery rolled into one. Because it’s private, it’s also perfect if you want to avoid the hustle of larger tours or prefer a quieter, more relaxed outing.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoyment

To get the most out of this tour, I suggest booking ahead, especially in high season, since the private boat experience is limited to your group. Confirm with the operator about the weather forecast—if seas are rough, rescheduling might be necessary, but most reviews highlight their flexibility and good communication.

Bring your own towels, sun protection, and maybe a waterproof camera or a phone in a waterproof case to capture the moments. Wear comfortable swimming attire, and remember that life jackets are required if you’re not a confident swimmer. The boat is suitable for most travelers, but if mobility is a concern, it’s best to notify the provider beforehand.

The €40 fuel fee paid in cash is worth budgeting for—consider it part of the overall value, since it contributes directly to the quality of the trip. The snacks and drinks provided onboard are enough to keep you refreshed, but bringing some extra water or a small snack may be a good idea if you’re especially hungry or thirsty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers looking for an intimate, flexible experience — those who want more than just a generic boat ride. It’s a perfect fit for families with kids, especially since the skipper is attentive to safety and comfort, and children who enjoy snorkeling or jumping into the water from the boat. It’s also excellent for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone interested in a laid-back day of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring hidden beaches.

If your goal is to see Crete from a different perspective, away from crowded tourist spots, this tour offers the kind of authentic, personal encounter with the island’s rugged coast. Plus, the chance to visit a secret beach only accessible by boat adds an element of exclusivity and fun.

The Sum Up

For those craving a more personal, hands-on way to see Crete’s coast, this private RIB boat tour is a smart choice. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning scenic views, and the chance to snorkel and relax in peaceful settings makes it a memorable experience, especially for families and small groups. While weather can affect plans, the flexibility and positive reviews suggest that, with some planning, you’ll have an unforgettable time.

The cost is justified by the custom experience, private transportation, and the variety of sights—something that larger, crowded tours struggle to match. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty at your own pace, this tour offers a genuine taste of the island’s lesser-known treasures.

If you enjoy adventures that combine scenic beauty with the thrill of the sea, and you value expert guidance and personalized service, this trip ticks all the boxes. It’s a chance to see Crete not just through pictures, but through your own eyes, with memorable moments that will stay with you long after you leave.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since the skipper is attentive to safety and safety gear is provided. Children who enjoy swimming and snorkeling will love the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The trip takes approximately two hours, with stops at various scenic spots along the coast.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the use of a private 7-meter rib boat with a licensed skipper, masks and snorkels, safety equipment, WiFi, and bottled water.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there is a €40 fuel fee payable in cash after the tour.

What if the weather is bad?
Boat tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the trip can be rescheduled or refunded.

Can I book this tour for a special occasion?
Yes, many reviews mention celebrating birthdays or honeymoons, and guides are willing to accommodate special requests.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
It’s not specifically designed for those with serious mobility issues unless notified in advance.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towels, sun protection, waterproof camera, and perhaps some extra snacks or water are recommended.

How do I book?
You can reserve via the provided platform or contact the operator directly. Early booking is advised during peak seasons.