This boat meal feels like a Cretan reset. I love the nutritionist-made lunch with organic Cretan ingredients, and I also like the roomy, modern deck with sunbeds and shaded lounges. One heads-up: on hot days there can be limited shade for everyone at once.

The day runs with an easy rhythm: espresso and detox-style drinks to start, then sailing time, then a long swim and photo break, then lunch that actually feels like a real meal, not just snacks. The vibe stays upbeat with music, but you can still talk without shouting.

If you’re prone to seasickness, plan smart. The cruise is weather-dependent, and you’ll be happiest if you come prepared for a moving boat (even if conditions look calm from the harbor).

Key things that make this cruise worth your time

• Nutritionist-led menu that still feels Greek: brunch and lunch are built for balance, using fresh local biological/organic ingredients.
• Open bar plus espresso timing, not just at the start: drinks are available whenever you want during the day’s main stretches.
• Real water toys included: SUP boards, snorkeling masks/fins, swim vests, inflatable noodles, and an inflatable flamingo for photos.
• A small group on a modern catamaran: max 25 people, with crew service that stays close without hovering.
• Scenic coast route with a weather-driven destination: you’ll sail along the rocky coastline toward Georgioupoli Bay or Skaleta.
• Crew names you might remember: I noticed the same helpful energy from hosts like Panos and Kleo, and on other sailings staff like Captain Adonis and Chef Kiril have been mentioned.

Rethymno Marina to Open Sea: how the morning sets the tone

Your morning begins at Rethymno Marina, where boarding starts with a quick welcome. Expect a short safety briefing and then those first sips: espresso, tea, detox water, plus a protein-style drink to help you feel ready for the day.

Once you’re on the catamaran, the best part is how the boat layout encourages you to claim your spot early. There are sunbeds up top and shaded lounge areas below or along the sides, so you can switch between “sun mode” and “shade mode” as the day warms up.

The sailing portion is long enough that you stop thinking in minutes and start thinking in views. You’ll glide along Crete’s dramatic coastline with music in the background, so it feels like a floating day party—without the chaos of a big ferry tour.

Modern deck comfort: sunbeds, shade, and space that actually matters

This is a modern spacious catamaran, and you feel it right away. People don’t have to fight for room to sit, and the water setup (SUP boards, snorkeling gear, float options) doesn’t make the deck feel cluttered.

The main trade-off is shade. Catamarans give you plenty of sun coverage, but the shaded spots can get claimed first on bright days. If you burn easily, I’d pick a shaded area early—then move back out to the sun for photos.

Also look for the little “comfort” details that make long days easier: an onboard WC, plus an outdoor shower so you can rinse after swimming. Add the fact there’s music and free Wi‑Fi onboard, and it becomes a pretty smooth setup for a day on the water.

The open bar that stays friendly: Greek wine, beer, and soft drinks

This cruise is built around included drinks, not a limited starter drink ticket. Your open bar covers unlimited still water, soft drinks, Greek beer, and Greek white wine—so you can pace your day without doing math every time you refill.

You’ll also have espresso and tea options during the morning routine, which helps if you want something warm before you hit the sun. Detox waters and protein cocktails show up early too, and they’re part of the cruise’s whole “healthy but fun” theme.

What’s not included is any cocktail beyond what’s in the open bar selection. And one more rule: red wine is not allowed, so keep that in mind if you’re a specific-vintage person.

Healthy brunch and lunch: what nutritionism tastes like on Crete

The food is a big reason to choose this one. Before you even reach the swim area, you’ll get a light breakfast/brunch bowl with the idea of fueling you without feeling heavy. After that, lunch comes later as a full onboard meal.

The standout detail is who’s behind the menu: it’s created by a certified nutritionist and designed to be balanced. The ingredients are described as fresh, local, biological, and organic, sourced from a Cretan farm—so you’re not stuck with generic “tour boat food” flavors.

Lunch itself is Mediterranean-inspired and typically includes a main course plus dessert, with menus that change with the seasons. You can expect options that work for seafood lovers, vegetarian preferences, and lighter eaters, and kids’ meals can be requested onboard.

If you’re the kind of person who always worries about dietary fit on group tours, this is where the cruise earns points. The menu is built to be varied, and the structure of the meal (brunch first, then lunch) keeps you from hitting the “hangry” stage while waiting for swimming time.

Georgioupoli Bay or Skaleta: how to get the most out of the water stop

The cruise chooses between Georgioupoli Bay or Skaleta depending on weather. Either way, you’re looking for crystal-clear water, photo-worthy coves, and a long stretch where you can swim at your own pace.

You’ll get a photo stop, then enjoy about 2.75 hours in the area for swimming and water activities. That’s long enough to do a full routine: rinse off snorkeling gear, try SUP, swim a bit, float on a noodle, then go back for another attempt.

Snorkeling: good odds, but conditions decide the show

Snorkeling gear is included: high-quality masks and fins, plus swim vests. You can also expect that sea life visibility varies with water conditions and where you’re dropped. Sometimes the cove delivers serious marine sightings, and other times it’s more about swimming than spectacle.

So here’s my practical advice: go slow, keep your movements calm, and focus on scanning rather than chasing fish. Even when the show is smaller, the clear water and coastline views are still the point.

SUP and flotation: easier than you think

Stand-up paddleboarding is included, and you’ll also have inflatables like noodles plus an iconic flamingo float. SUP is a great “first try” activity on this kind of calm-water stop—especially if the crew sets you up with a quick reminder about balance.

Even if SUP isn’t your thing, the flamingo float is. It’s simple, silly, and it creates instant photos without taking over your whole trip.

Fishing gear: a gentle add-on

Fishing gear is available too (request-based). This is not about becoming a full-time angler. Think of it as a relaxed extra for people who want something hands-on while others snorkel or float.

Why the crew (and the pacing) make it feel premium

Crew service is a defining part of this cruise’s value. The staff are described as friendly and attentive, and the flow of the day suggests they’re used to keeping everything running smoothly: drinks refreshed, food served, water toys set out without long delays.

I also noticed how they’re prepared for small health bumps. If someone feels queasy, there’s help on board and natural tips to recover—plus the crew is ready to work with the conditions rather than forcing a rigid schedule.

Names that have shown up in the crew stories include Panos and Kleo, and on at least one sailing Captain Adonis with Chef Kiril has been mentioned. Even if you never meet everyone by name, you’ll feel the difference when service is proactive instead of reactive.

One small “real life” consideration: if the sea is rough or currents are stronger, swimming can be harder and the water time can feel more work than play. The cruise is weather-dependent, so flexibility is part of the deal.

Price and value: is $170 a fair deal?

At $170 per person, this is not a budget outing. It’s a premium day where you’re paying for three things at once: a modern catamaran, included drinks, and a real cooked meal plus water equipment.

Here’s how I judge the value:

• You’re not buying add-ons. Drinks are unlimited within the open bar selection, and the water toys are included.
• The meal is built for quality, not volume. Lunch is prepared onboard and designed by a certified nutritionist, with fresh local ingredients.
• You get enough time to use it. With a long water stop and a smooth pace, you’re not stuck on the boat only to watch from the sidelines.

If you mainly want a quick swim and you’ll skip food and drinks, you might feel the price sting. But if you want a full day where everything is handled—food, gear, and time—this can feel like a smart spend.

Practical tips before you go: what to pack and what to skip

Bring what keeps you comfortable for a day out on open water.

Pack:

• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Passport or ID (a copy is accepted)

Know the rules:

• Towels are not provided
• Sunscreen and personal care items aren’t included
• No glass objects onboard
• Smoking indoors isn’t allowed
• Touching marine life isn’t allowed
• Pets aren’t allowed
• Unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed
• Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed

Also, if you’re someone who gets seasick easily, take extra care. The cruise is weather-dependent, and even calm-looking water can still move the boat.

Who should book this catamaran cruise, and who should skip it

This works best for people who want a balanced day: good food, included drinks, and real time in the water with equipment ready. It’s also a good fit if you like the idea of a small group on a modern boat—max 25 people.

It may not be the right choice if you’re:

• Pregnant
• Dealing with pre-existing medical conditions
• Over 95 years old

And if you’re chasing constant high-energy action, you might find the day more relaxed than thrilling. You’ll get snorkeling, SUP, and floats, but the cruise rhythm is about comfort and easy fun.

Should you book this Rethymno premium catamaran?

If you want a premium-feeling day where food is part of the experience and water time isn’t an afterthought, I’d book it. The mix of open bar, nutritionist-led lunch, and included SUP/snorkeling gear makes it one of those trips where you stop worrying about logistics and start enjoying the sea.

If shade, rough-water sensitivity, or extra-long snorkeling time are your top priorities, you should be honest with yourself. On a hot day, shade can be limited, and sea conditions decide how easy the water stop feels.

FAQ

Where do I meet the catamaran in Rethymno?

You’ll meet at Rethymno Marina. Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early for boarding, and the crew will be on board the catamaran Karina.

How long is the cruise?

The total duration is 390 minutes, about 6.5 hours including time at the port, sailing, and the main water stop.

What’s included in the open bar?

Unlimited still water, soft drinks, Greek white wine, and local Greek beer are included. Cocktails and other alcohol beyond the open bar selection are not included.

Is lunch included, and who prepares it?

Yes, lunch is included. The menu is created by a certified nutritionist, and lunch is described as freshly prepared using fresh local biological/organic ingredients.

What water activities come with the cruise?

You get stand-up paddleboards (SUP), snorkeling gear (masks and fins), swim vests, and inflatable noodles. There’s also an inflatable flamingo, plus fishing gear available upon request.

Does the catamaran have facilities onboard?

Yes. There’s an onboard WC and an outdoor shower.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?

Yes, free Wi‑Fi is included onboard.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID card (a copy is accepted).

Is pickup included?

Pickup is optional if you choose the right option. The provided transfer service covers pick-up/drop-off in Bali Village. Hotel transfers are otherwise not included.

What are the cancellation and weather rules?

The cruise is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled in bad conditions. You also get free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.