Ag. Nikolaos: Catamaran Trip with Sushi, Drinks, & Water Toys

If you want Cretan water time, this delivers. I love the small-group feel on a modern catamaran, and I also like that your day is covered with unlimited drinks plus an onboard Mediterranean dinner. It’s the kind of trip that mixes big views with hands-on fun—snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and more—without making you plan anything.

One possible drawback: sailing can be more motor than full sail on some departures, and the Marina Kiosk meeting point can be a little confusing at first. Add in the fact that the boat layout can feel tight when everyone is grabbing swim time and shade, even if it is not packed.

Key Things That Make This Catamaran Trip Worth Your Time

• Small group, maximum 20 so the crew can actually manage the day without feeling rushed
• Mirabello Gulf views and Spinalonga photo time from the deck as you cruise through the late-afternoon light
• Two main swim-style breaks with snorkeling gear, SUP, kayak, and inflatable fun to keep you busy
• Unlimited open bar basics (water, soft drinks, local beer, white wine) plus coffee/tea and welcome drinks
• A lot of gear included like sea scooter time, fishing equipment, and snorkeling masks/fins—so you’re not hunting rentals

Late Afternoon Boarding in Agios Nikolaos: What You’re Getting Into

This cruise is designed for the late day vibe: meet at Marina Kiosk in Agios Nikolaos, then ease out into the Mirabello Gulf for a long, relaxed stretch on the water. You’re looking at about 5 hours total, with the catamaran returning to the same meeting point when you’re done.

The tour runs in English, and the provider is DanEri Yachts. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, which matters more than it sounds. On crowded boats, swim stops can turn into a queue. Here, you still get plenty of space to spread out—especially because the boat is set up with sunbeds, shaded lounges, and deck areas made for hanging out.

One practical note I’d keep in mind: towels and personal care items are not included, and sunscreen isn’t provided either. If you’re the type who hates scrambling for basics, bring a small kit. Also, you’ll want to be ready to change plans quickly if the sea decides to be rough—this activity does require good weather.

The Mirabello Gulf Cruise: Deck Views and Spinalonga Photo Time

Once you’re out, the trip leans hard into scenery. You’ll sail through the calm waters of the Mirabello Gulf, and there’s photo time that focuses on Spinalonga Island as it comes into view from the catamaran’s deck.

This part of the day is more than sightseeing. Catamaran cruising changes how you see the coast. Instead of looking across water from a shore viewpoint, you’re moving along it at a slower pace, with the horizon always nearby. That makes it feel less like a checklist stop and more like a long, floating window into Cretan life.

Now for the realistic heads-up: one review note that you might not get full sailing. In other words, don’t plan your day around the idea of constant wind-powered movement. If you’re expecting a movie-like sail the whole time, manage that expectation. You’ll still get the views and the water time, which are the main reasons to book.

Mirabello Bay Swim Stop: Snorkeling, SUP, Fishing, and Silly Fun

After cruising, the boat anchors in a serene bay in the Mirabello area. This is where the day turns from pretty scenery to hands-on fun.

You can jump in for swimming, or use the included high-quality snorkeling gear (masks and fins are provided). If you prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling is usually the easiest way to see what’s under the water without committing to anything intense. And because the gear is already aboard, you can spend your energy on enjoying the water rather than organizing rentals.

SUP time is a big part of the appeal. You’ll have stand-up paddleboards available, which is great if your group includes a mix of swimmers and non-swimmers. Paddleboarding gives you a different way to experience the anchorage—slower, steadier, and often more relaxing than moving fast in the water.

Want more options? You also have a kayak, inflatable noodles, inflatable comfort items, and even an inflatable flamingo. Yes, it’s that kind of fun. It also makes great group photos, which is exactly what you want at this stage of the trip.

Fishing is another included activity, but it’s described as gentle. That’s important for a family-friendly vibe. If you’re curious, it gives you something to do for an hour without turning the day into a serious fishing expedition.

The Second Part of the Day: Relax Time Between Activities

The flow here is built around breaks. You’ll spend time in the water, then you can go back to the deck and simply hang out. That might sound basic, but it’s actually where a lot of value comes from. For many people, the real luxury on a catamaran day is doing less while still getting plenty of experiences.

You’ll also have onboard WC plus an outdoor shower, which makes it much easier to rinse off after swimming. That matters more than people think. If you’ve ever been on a day trip where you have to wait to clean up, you know how quickly it dampens the fun.

And because the boat includes a free Wi‑Fi option along with music onboard, you can share photos right away. It’s the kind of setup that helps you stay present without feeling cut off from the world.

Food and Drinks: The Real Reason People Keep Rebooking

This is not a bare-bones cruise. Your ticket includes a lot of what typically costs extra on boats: dinner, coffee/tea, and a full beverage setup.

The welcome drinks list includes things like espresso, detox water, teas, and protein cocktails. Then there’s a snack and protein-focused element as well: a protein cocktail bar and light protein snacks onboard.

For the main meal, you’re served a Mediterranean dinner prepared fresh onboard. There’s also mention of a nutritionist-designed healthy lunch with vegetarian options, plus children options if requested. That’s a big deal if you travel with kids or if your group has mixed dietary needs.

On the drinks front, the included open bar covers water, soft drinks, local beer, and white wine. You shouldn’t count on every cocktail style being included beyond the open selection. If you have very specific drink preferences, plan to order within the stated open bar options.

I especially like how this reduces decision fatigue. Instead of budgeting each drink, you can enjoy the day without turning it into a spreadsheet. At $150.18 per person, the value depends on how much you’ll actually use what’s included. If you’re excited to drink, eat, and use water toys, the price makes sense quickly. If you’d rather buy everything separately, you might feel it’s heavy. But if you want a full “we’re taken care of” vibe, this is built for you.

Aboard the Catamaran Artemis: Comfort, Gear, and Small-Group Service

This cruise runs on a luxury catamaran (the Artemis name shows up in feedback). What you’ll care about most is how the boat supports the day: it has sunbeds, shaded lounges, and plenty of places to relax between activities.

The included gear list is long, and that matters. You’re not expected to bring a half-dozen items. Along with snorkeling gear and SUP boards, there’s also:

• Sea scooter (a motor-assisted option for feeling out underwater without doing more than necessary)
• Inflatable water slide
• Inflatable noodles
• Life jackets and safety gear
• Gentle fishing equipment
• A kids toy box available upon request
• An outdoor shower and onboard WC

Small-group service is where you feel it. When there are fewer people, the crew can help you set up gear, explain what’s safe, and keep the schedule from getting chaotic. Reviews also describe a very attentive crew, and the English-speaking staff is part of the comfort factor—if you’re not traveling with a perfect Greek vocabulary, you’ll still feel guided.

Also, there’s a note that private cabins aren’t guaranteed. If you care about a cabin, ask when you book, but treat it as request-based rather than promised. For most people, though, the deck and shaded areas are where you’ll live.

The Boat’s Pace: Romantic Sunset Feel vs. Real Wind and Real Space

Let’s talk honestly about expectations.

Late-afternoon cruises can feel romantic, and this one leans that way. You’re out on calm water with long light, and you’ve got dinner and drinks onboard. It’s a great fit for couples and birthdays where you want a nice setting without dressing up for a restaurant meal.

At the same time, I’d plan around space management. One concern mentioned is that the boat can feel crowded during certain moments, even if it’s not at full capacity. That’s often because everyone heads to the same deck zones at once—sunbeds, shaded areas, and swim access points.

So, my advice: pick your personal “home base” early. Decide where you’ll keep your stuff and where you’ll sit after swims. If you do that, the day feels smooth instead of stressful.

And remember: sailing conditions vary. If wind is light, you may get motoring. That doesn’t ruin the experience, but it affects the romance factor if you were expecting pure wind-driven motion.

Price and Value: Does $150.18 Include Enough?

Let’s do a quick value check.

Your ticket includes:

• Dinner
• Unlimited water + soft drinks
• Local beer and white wine
• Coffee/tea
• Snorkeling gear
• SUP boards
• Kayak
• Sea scooter
• Inflatable water slide
• Gentle fishing gear
• Toward-the-fun extras like noodles and an inflatable flamingo
• Free Wi‑Fi and onboard music

On typical day trips, even one or two of these items would be extra. Here, you’re paying one price for the whole floating package. That’s why this works best for people who want an all-in day on the water rather than a quick sightseeing cruise.

If you’re traveling solo and you’re the type who will actually use the water toys, this can be excellent. If you’re with friends, the small-group setup helps everyone get time on SUP and snorkeling gear. If you’re a family, the combination of slide, toys, and kid-friendly options can make the day feel balanced.

If you’re the type who only wants to look at the coastline and then leave, you might not get your money’s worth. The price is only fair when you participate.

Also, I suggest booking ahead. The trip is often reserved about a month earlier on average, and one note points out that earlier booking can help you land a lower fare. Even if prices aren’t identical week to week, it’s still smart to lock in your preferred date.

Should You Book This Catamaran Trip?

Book it if you want:

• A relaxed late-afternoon cruise with real swim time
• A day where food and drinks are included
• Multiple water activities without bringing or renting gear
• A small-group setting (max 20) that tends to feel more personal

Skip it or be cautious if:

• You’re expecting nonstop sailing with perfect wind
• You’re very sensitive to tight deck space during swim transitions
• You want towels or sunscreen provided (they’re not included)

If you’re flexible, this is one of those Crete experiences that feels worth it because it saves you decisions. You show up, get guided onto the right rhythm, and spend hours in the water with the scenery doing its job in the background. That’s the best kind of vacation math.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran trip?

It runs about 5 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Marina Kiosk, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece, and ends back at the same meeting point.

What’s included in the price?

The trip includes dinner, alcoholic beverages (within the open bar selection), soft drinks, coffee/tea, plus snorkeling gear, SUP boards, kayak, sea scooter, inflatable water slide, swimming jackets, and fishing equipment for gentle fishing.

Are there drinks included, and what kind?

Yes. You get unlimited water, soft drinks, local beer, and white wine. Welcome drinks are also included. Cocktails beyond the open bar selection aren’t included.

Is Wi‑Fi available on board?

Yes, the cruise includes free Wi‑Fi.

Is there snorkeling and paddleboarding gear provided?

Yes. Snorkeling masks and fins are provided, along with SUP boards. Other options like a kayak and sea scooter are also included.

Does the trip accommodate vegetarian or children’s needs?

Yes. The lunch/dinner planning includes options such as vegetarian and children options, but you should request them in advance.