Rethymno Catamaran Cruise: Healthy Lunch & Open Bar

A healthy lunch on a catamaran sounds easy. Then you get a full morning-to-afternoon floating routine in Crete: espresso and protein drinks at the port, a nutritionally planned brunch and lunch on board, and lots of water time in Georgioupoli Bay with gear included.

I especially like the crew-led service and the way they keep things calm and organized, plus the food plan built around fresh local ingredients rather than just snack chaos. One thing to consider: the day depends on weather, and some of the water play can feel a bit tight if you want nonstop activity from the moment you anchor.

Quick Key Points

• Open bar is included: unlimited water, soft drinks, Greek beer, and Cretan white wine.
• Water gear is ready for you: SUP boards, snorkeling masks and fins, swimming jackets, noodles, plus an inflatable flamingo.
• Small group on a modern catamaran: maximum 25 travelers, with shaded lounges and sunbeds.
• Meals aren’t an afterthought: a light breakfast bowl and a gourmet Mediterranean lunch made with organic farm-fresh ingredients.
• Onboard comfort extras: free Wi‑Fi, music, onboard WC, and an outdoor shower.
• Best for a relaxed pace: you get activity time, but the schedule has a few built-in pauses for sailing and meal breaks.

Rethymno to the Water: what makes this cruise feel “worth it”

If you’ve ever done a sea day where the boat show is great but the details fall apart, this one is the opposite. The structure is simple: you start with a proper welcome at Rethymno Port, you spend the middle of the day in Georgioupoli Bay doing water activities, and you end back at the port feeling fed, sun-warmed, and not mentally exhausted.

This is also a value-driven format. At around $174.98 per person for about 6 hours 30 minutes, you’re not just buying a ride. You’re paying for the whole package: a nutritionist-guided light brunch and lunch, an open bar with beer and Cretan white wine, and included gear like SUP and snorkeling.

The other big reason it works: it stays on the small-group side. With a cap of 25 travelers, you’re not constantly watching people climb over each other for a drink or a swim moment.

The Day’s Flow: from espresso welcome to Georgioupoli Bay time

Start time is 9:30 am at DanEri Yachts, Sofokli Venizelou 37 in Rethymno. It’s a straightforward meeting point, and it’s near public transportation, which helps if you don’t want to deal with taxis for a boat morning.

Morning welcome: drinks + a light healthy fuel-up

Your first minutes on board are about getting comfortable fast. The crew welcomes you with choices like espresso, tea, detox water, or a protein shake. Then you get a light breakfast bowl that’s described as being crafted by a certified nutritionist. That matters because it sets the tone: you’re not waiting until after sailing to feel like you’ll be okay for the day.

If you tend to skip breakfast on vacation, this part is a lifesaver. It also keeps the later lunch from feeling like a sudden food coma moment.

Sailing stretch: sunbeds, shade, and coastal views

After the brunch, you find your spot—sunbeds if you want the full sun treatment, or shade if you prefer to keep your shoulders intact. The cruise runs along the northern coast, and you’ll have time to relax while the boat heads toward Georgioupoli Bay.

This is where the “luxury catamaran” part shows up. You’re not packed shoulder-to-shoulder like some big-party boats. The space is there for lying down, moving around, and actually enjoying the motion instead of bracing for chaos.

Arrival and gourmet bites: the pre-water rhythm

When you reach Georgioupoli Bay, the plan shifts to a swim-and-play mode. You’re set up with gourmet bites first—meant to tide you over and keep energy steady—before you go into the water time.

A couple practical notes from the real-world flow: it’s not nonstop from the moment you arrive. Sailing time exists, and the anchor stop has a finite window. If you’re the type who wants to live in the water for hours, plan your expectations around a shared schedule and meal timing.

Food and Open Bar: Cretan lunch that isn’t basic

The heart of this experience is the way meals are handled. This is not a “cookies and chips” day.

The lunch: Mediterranean, organic-focused, and nutritionist-designed

Back on board, you’ll get a delicious Cretan lunch described as gourmet and made with fresh, organic ingredients from a local farm. It’s designed by a nutritionist, and the format feels intentional rather than random.

For me, that’s the difference between a boat day that feels like a snack run and one that feels like you actually ate well. Even if you’re not obsessed with healthy food, having lunch that tastes thoughtful lets you relax more and worry less.

Open bar: unlimited water, soft drinks, beer, and wine

Drinks are included and unlimited: water, soft drinks, local beer, and Cretan white wine. That’s a strong setup for a mid-day cruise, because you don’t have to make a mental budget while you’re on board.

Two useful considerations:

• The open bar is specific. Cocktails or alcohol beyond what’s in the open bar selection aren’t included.
• Timing can matter. Some people note that it can take a moment to get drinks flowing right after you settle, so don’t be shocked if you wait briefly before the full “at-will” rhythm starts.

Comfort matters too: showers and onboard bathroom

One of the underrated value points: the boat has an onboard WC and an outdoor shower. After swimming and SUP time, being able to rinse off quickly makes the rest of the day feel easier.

Water Time in Georgioupoli Bay: SUP, snorkeling, noodles, and the pink flamingo

This is the fun part, and it’s built to reduce your effort. The crew sets up the water activities, including SUP boards, snorkeling gear, and fishing equipment if you request it.

SUP and snorkeling gear are included (and you don’t have to hunt it down)

You’ll have high-quality snorkeling masks and fins, plus swimming jackets. There are also inflatable noodles for comfort and fun. The setup matters because you’re not wasting vacation time figuring out gear bags, missing sizes, or how to use something properly.

If you want an easy win, do SUP for a first pass—low-stress, scenic, and not as gear-intensive as snorkeling. Then use snorkeling gear for a close-up look at the water from the surface.

Fishing gear and a gentle approach

Fishing gear is included as a complete set for a gentle fishing experience, and it’s available upon request. This is a nice option if you want something different from just swimming.

The inflatable flamingo: silly, but part of the point

Yes, there’s an inflatable flamingo. It’s described as iconic and shows up as part of the included “toys” style setup. It sounds like a gimmick, but on a warm sea day, a little ridiculousness is exactly how you stop the day from feeling too serious.

Crew and onboard vibe: why the service style changes your day

You’re on a boat for hours, so service isn’t a bonus. It’s the whole experience.

This one runs with a professional, English-speaking crew. The crew handles logistics, supports you with the water gear, and keeps an eye on comfort—like bringing what you need rather than making you chase someone around the deck.

In the feedback pattern, the crew friendliness and attentiveness show up repeatedly: you’re met warmly, safety feels handled, and the boat stays clean and well organized. That combination matters more than you’d think. When you feel taken care of on the water, you relax sooner and enjoy more of what you paid for.

Also on the onboard amenities list:

• Music on board
• Free Wi‑Fi
• Life jackets
• Onboard WC and outdoor shower

There’s even a box of toys for kids available by request, plus personal feminine hygiene products are included. Those details don’t change the view, but they can change how smooth your day feels—especially if you’re traveling with family.

Price and logistics: how this fits your Crete schedule

Let’s talk value without pretending every euro is the same.

At about $174.98 per person for roughly 6 hours 30 minutes, you’re paying for:

• the catamaran ride on a modern luxury boat
• included meals (light brunch + lunch)
• included drinks (water, soft drinks, beer, wine)
• included water gear (SUP, snorkeling equipment, jackets, noodles)
• and onboard extras like Wi‑Fi, music, and bathroom facilities

If you’ve priced boat days in Crete before, you’ll recognize that drinks and gear often become add-ons elsewhere. Here, they’re included, which makes it easier to plan your day and keep costs predictable.

A couple logistics points that matter:

• Transfers from your hotel aren’t included, but they can be arranged on request.
• Towels and sunscreen aren’t provided. Bring your own towel and sunscreen (and any personal items you rely on).
• Private cabins aren’t guaranteed and are on request, so don’t structure your expectations around it.

The biggest “logistics” factor is weather. The experience requires good weather, and if it gets canceled for poor conditions you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Who should book this catamaran cruise (and who might not)

This cruise is a great fit if you want a sea day that feels organized, comfortable, and food-forward.

You’ll probably love it if:

• you want SUP and snorkeling gear included without extra rental steps
• you like having a planned meal and an open bar, not just improvising snacks
• you prefer a smaller crowd (max 25) on a spacious catamaran
• you’re traveling as a couple, group of friends, or family and want a day that works for different energy levels

You might want to think twice if:

• you need long, uninterrupted hours in the water the moment you arrive (the day has meal breaks and time for sailing)
• you’re very sensitive to “start time to anchor time” because the schedule includes a bit of travel before you get settled at the bay

Should you book the Rethymno Catamaran Cruise?

If your ideal Crete day is: good boat, decent space, included gear, and meals that don’t taste like they came from a party tray, then this one is an easy yes. The strongest reasons to book are the open bar included and the way the food is intentionally planned rather than winged at the last second.

Before you go, just pack like it’s a real beach-and-water day: bring sunscreen and a towel, and come ready for a relaxed pace instead of a nonstop action schedule. If you do that, you’ll likely finish the day exactly how you want to: lighter, sun-kissed, and with a full belly.

FAQ

What time does the cruise start, and where do I meet?

It starts at 9:30 am at DanEri Yachts, Sofokli Venizelou 37, Rethymno 741 00, Greece. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

How long is the Rethymno catamaran cruise?

It runs for about 6 hours 30 minutes.

What drinks are included in the open bar?

Unlimited water and soft drinks are included, along with Greek beer and Cretan white wine. Cocktails and other alcoholic beverages beyond the open bar selection are not included.

What water activities and gear are provided?

Stand-up paddleboards (SUP) are included, along with snorkeling gear (masks and fins), swimming jackets, inflatable noodles, and an inflatable flamingo. Fishing gear is available upon request.

Is Wi‑Fi and music included on board?

Yes. There is music on board and free Wi‑Fi.

Are towels provided?

No, towels are not included.

What should I bring for sun and comfort?

Sunscreen and personal care items are not included, so bring your own. Also plan for time in the water and sun.

Is hotel transfer included?

No. Hotel transfers are not included, but they can be arranged upon request.