Sunset Cruise from Hersonissos port to St. Georgios bay

Our review of the Sunset Cruise from Hersonissos port to St. Georgios Bay offers a detailed look at what travelers can expect from this well-promoted excursion. This 3.5-hour evening trip promises a blend of relaxation, fun water activities, and the chance to witness a memorable sunset over the sea. While it’s a popular choice for romantic evenings and family outings alike, it’s worth knowing both the highlights and potential pitfalls before booking.

One of the things I especially like about this cruise is its focus on authentic Cretan cuisine. The onboard chefs cook with local bio-products, serving delicious organic food that’s meant to complement the sea views perfectly. Another highlight is the variety of water activities, from snorkeling and paddleboarding to inflatable flamingos, which can keep both kids and adults entertained. However, a potential downside is the uncertainty of availability, as the trip is highly demanded, and bookings through the app don’t guarantee a spot — the confirmation process can sometimes be slow or unclear.

Despite its attractive features, some reviews reveal that the experience isn’t foolproof, with one guest mentioning, “The trip was cancelled and we were not advised,” which serves as a reminder to double-check bookings and be prepared for possible changes. Still, if you’re after a scenic, romantic evening with excellent food and a friendly crew, this cruise could be worth considering, especially if you’re flexible and ready to enjoy Crete from a different perspective.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic local food: The onboard cuisine is cooked with organic, bio-products, offering a true taste of Crete.
• Multiple activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, inflatable toys, and fishing make this more than just a sunset viewing.
• Scenic sunset: The cruise is designed to meet the sunset in open sea, creating a romantic atmosphere.
• Flexible amenities: Prosecco, local wines, fruit, and cheese are included, and you can arrange special romantic surprises.
• Booking caveats: Availability isn’t guaranteed upon booking; confirmation depends on the tour operator’s process.
• Potential for cancellations: There are reports of trips being canceled without prior notice, so flexibility is key.

Entering Hersonissos for a Sunset Voyage

The starting point for this cruise is the port of Hersonissos, a lively town that’s a good base for exploring Crete’s northern coast. The morning or afternoon before your cruise, I recommend arriving early to familiarize yourself with the area, enjoy a local coffee, or browse the shops. A quick note — transportation isn’t included, but it’s easy to arrange with the tour provider, and they also offer options for larger groups or guests with mobility needs, including wheelchair accessibility.

When you arrive at the port, you’ll be welcomed aboard in the early evening, with Prosecco, soft drinks, and light snacks like cheese pies and biscuits. The atmosphere is friendly, with safety instructions first, then the ship departs along the coastline of Hersonissos and Malia. This initial stretch offers a glimpse of Crete’s busy northern shore, with its cliffs, beaches, and resorts.

The Journey to Agios Georgios Bay

The cruise’s first major stop is in Agios Georgios Bay, roughly halfway through the trip. Here, you’ll find opportunities to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard, with equipment provided. The water is typically clear and inviting, perfect for a quick dip or underwater exploration. The guide will likely share interesting tidbits about the local area, adding some context to your water activities.

Guests often appreciate the chance to relax and enjoy the sea from a different perspective. One review notes that the crew supplies “snorkeling equipment, SUP boards, and inflatable flamingos,” which makes the experience more playful and engaging for families and friends alike.

Dining with a View: The Light Crete-Style Dinner

Around 19:00, as the boat drifts further out to sea, the onboard crew serves a light finger-food dinner. Expect a generous platter of local cheeses, nuggets, fresh vegetables like cucumber and carrot sticks, and fruits. Drinks include water, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and, notably, a selection of Cretan white wine, beer, and raki (Greek vodka). The quality of the food is a highlight for many: it’s cooked on board with local ingredients, giving you a taste of the island’s culinary traditions.

This meal serves as a pleasant break before the main event: the sunset. The focus here is on quality and local authenticity, making it a more satisfying experience than standard cruise fare. If you’re planning a romantic evening, you can arrange for special touches like champagne or rose petals — just share your plans with the crew ahead of time.

Watching the Sunset: The Main Event

At around 19:45, the boat starts its journey back across the open sea to catch the sunset. This is the most anticipated part of the cruise, and the crew will position the vessel for the best views. The sunset over the sea, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink, creates a breathtaking backdrop for photos and quiet reflection.

Guests often comment on how romantic and peaceful this moment feels, especially with a glass of wine in hand. It’s an ideal setting for couples, though families and friends also find this a memorable experience.

The Return and Disembarkation

The boat returns to port around 20:30, concluding a well-rounded trip filled with scenic views, good food, and water fun. The crew, including host or greeter staff, typically speak English, making communication straightforward.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise tends to appeal most to couples seeking a romantic, scenic evening, families wanting to combine water fun with good food, and anyone hoping to see Crete from a unique vantage point. It’s also a good choice for those looking for a relaxed pace, with the option to swim, snorkel, and enjoy local wines.

However, it’s important to be mindful of the booking process — as some reviews show, trips can be canceled without warning. So, if booking last-minute or during busy periods, confirm your reservation and be prepared to adapt your plans if necessary.

Price and Value Consideration

At around $90 per person, this cruise isn’t the cheapest activity in Crete, but it’s also not overly expensive considering the included food, drinks, water activities, and the sunset experience. The value lies in the combination of scenery, cuisine, and leisure. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic outing with a touch of luxury, this cruise offers decent bang for your buck.

Final Thoughts

While some logistical hiccups like availability and cancellations are worth noting, the overall experience can be quite rewarding if you’re flexible and prepared. Expect friendly staff, an authentic taste of Crete, and some of the best sunset views you can find from the sea. It’s a good choice for romantic evenings, family outings, or anyone wanting a peaceful break from the busy northern coast.

FAQs

Is transportation to the port included? No, transportation is not included but can be arranged with the tour provider. They also offer transfer options for individuals and groups at a competitive rate.

What should I bring on the cruise? Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. These are essential for enjoying the water activities and staying comfortable.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts about 3.5 hours, with specific starting times available upon checking availability.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour provider mentions that they have a wheelchair-accessible vehicle for those with mobility difficulties.

What if the trip gets canceled? The provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and if a trip is canceled, you’ll receive a full refund.

Can I book this last minute? Booking through the app doesn’t guarantee availability immediately; confirmation depends on the tour operator, so it’s best to book ahead or verify.

What kind of food is served onboard? Expect a light dinner with local cheeses, nuggets, vegetables, fruits, and drinks, including local wine, beer, and raki.

Are water activities included? Yes, snorkeling equipment, SUP boards, inflatable toys, and fishing gear are provided.

Can I make special romantic arrangements? Yes, you can share your romantic plans with the crew, and they will help set the mood with options like champagne or rose petals.

Is this experience suitable for children? Yes, children can enjoy the swimming and water activities, though parents should supervise their kids during water-based fun.

The Sunset Cruise from Hersonissos port to St. Georgios Bay offers a rewarding blend of scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and fun water activities. If you’re flexible and looking for a relaxed, memorable evening, it might just be the highlight of your Crete stay. Just keep an eye on booking confirmations and prepare for an authentic, peaceful sunset on the open sea.