With an incredibly rich history and culture, fascinating ruins, brilliant natural beauty, delicious food and wine, and much more, it’s no secret why Crete has become such a hot spot for tourism.

There are virtually endless activities to do on the island, but to really appreciate all that the birthplace of the king of the Olympian gods has to offer you need a proper boat tour. These tours have been carefully curated by us, taking into consideration the experiences of many other participants.

These tours are worth the time and money, with professional tour guides who know the area better than anyone else. Without further ado, we present you with the top boat trips in Crete available!

Best Boat Tours From Crete

	Luxe Boat Trip on Sailing Catamaran From Heraklion, Crete	Sailing Trip to The Top Coasts of Crete with Sailing South Crete	Boat Trip with Guided Snorkeling Tour & SUP From Chania
Departure Point:	Cafe Marina, Epimenidou 19, Iraklio 712 02	Sfakia Port, 730 11, or hotel pickup and drop-off available	Almyrida 730 08
Departure Time:	9:30 am	Variety available	Variety available
Duration:	6.5 hours	6.5 hours	3 hours
Includes:	Breakfast, lunch, use of Snorkeling equipment, SUP-boarding, fishing, WiFi	Lunch, snacks, bottled water, soda	Local guide, snorkeling gear, stand up paddling, fresh seasonal fruits & bottled water, free photos & short videos
	Tour Information & Booking	Tour Information & Booking	Tour Information & Booking

Quick Answer: The 5 Best Rated Crete Boat Tours For 2024

1. Luxe Boat Trip on Sailing Catamaran, Heraklion, Crete
2. Sailing Trip to The Top Coasts of Crete with Sailing South Crete
3. Boat Trip with Guided Snorkeling Tour & SUP in Chania
4. Sunset – Sailing Cruise on Yacht Catamaran, Rethymno, Crete
5. Day Sea Excursion Heraklion to Dia with Full Menu

Crete Boat Trip Reviews

1. Luxe Boat Trip on Sailing Catamaran From Heraklion, Crete

This tour is always known for selling out quickly, and it makes sense why it’s so popular! The Luxe Boat Trip on Sailing Catamaran From Heraklion Crete tour is an intimate experience where it feels like you’re being taken out and about by a long-time local friend who knows all the best spots.

With onboard restrooms, wi-fi, and other handy amenities, they manage to make the experience very comfortable and one you’re sure to repeat in the future!

Meet up with your guide at 9:30 am where you’ll receive a safety briefing, ask any questions you may have, and hop aboard a luxury boat.

The crew is very welcoming and does a great job at making sure everyone is safe and has everything they need. Snorkeling gear, fishing gear, stand-up paddleboards, and inflatable unicorns – what more could you need?

As you cruise to Dia Beach, enjoy the beautiful views while you partake in a tasty breakfast that’s been prepared for you.

There’s plenty of tea and coffee available as well, to really ramp up your energy levels! The boat has more than enough room to easily move around and see the area from different points of view.

You’ll soon arrive to the gorgeous uninhabited island, Dia, where you’ll be able to explore and enjoy the perfectly clear waters. If you’ve never snorkeling or paddle boarded, the crew and guides are very helpful and will show you how.

Once you’re all snorkeled out, you can board the boat and enjoy a delicious Mediterranean lunch with refreshing, cold beverages.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

2. Sailing Trip to The Top Coasts of Crete with Sailing South Crete

Perhaps you’d like your own private sailboat to explore the brilliant blue waters of southern Crete. If so, then check out the Sailing Trip to the Top Coasts of Crete with Sailing South Crete tours.

This is one of the best ways to escape the crowds, and enjoy a luxurious adventure with professional, friendly hosts!

Meet up with your guide at the meeting point or request to be picked up at your hotel. You’ll then head out where you’ll receive a tour briefing as to what to expect and you can ask any questions you may have.

Then, it’s time to board the only sailing yacht in south Crete for a sophisticated private experience with you and up to 3 other guests!

This 6.5-hour adventure will take you sailing on the crystal-clear waters on a comfortable sailing yacht. The yacht has plenty of space, and you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch based off of your specific requests and requirements, along with plenty of drinks.

In fact, just about anything you may want for a fun time on the water will be on board. You’ll get to visit Sweet Water beach and Marmara beach, which feature fantastic caves for snorkeling and exploring around.

Not only that, you’ll also see the charming Loutro village known for its peacefulness, great hikes, ancient ruins, and secluded beaches. Depending on how the wind and sea are doing, you can also choose to do a sail and simply enjoy the captivating views of Crete’s top coasts.

Whether you’re just traveling with your significant other or bringing a whole crew along, you’ll love this private tour full of world-class swimming spots and gorgeous beaches.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

3. Boat Trip with Guided Snorkeling Tour & SUP From Chania

Perhaps you are looking to go out and have fun out on the water, but don’t have the time for such long tours. Not to worry, because the Boat Trip with Guided Snorkeling Tour & SUP From Chania is just the answer!

The 3-hour tour includes hotel pickup to maximize your time, and the small group size means that you’ll have more attention from the guide.

After you’re picked up, you’ll head to the offices where they’ll give you a safety briefing and answer any questions you may have. If you’ve never snorkeled or paddle boarded before, it’s not a problem as they can help instruct you. Guest safety is always at the forefront, so you never have to worry about it.

You and the rest of your group will board a luxury speedboat, and the boat crew will take you to some of the best hidden gem snorkeling and swimming sites in all of Chania.

The multi-stop design maximizes the experience, ensuring you get to explore different environments and sea life.

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to snorkel but don’t know how to begin, this is the perfect opportunity. The clear water offers incomparable visibility, and PADI-certified professional divers will be there to guide the way through this Mediterranean paradise. They’ll also teach you all about these ecosystems and how important they are.

Through different action cameras, the staff will record awesome footage and photos of the experience so you can relive the experience and hopefully do it again! While onboard, enjoy some delicious fresh fruit and cold water to keep hydrated.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

4. Sunset – Sailing Cruise on Yacht Catamaran From Rethymno, Crete

Following that up, we have yet another fantastic choice if you have a packed schedule. The Sunset – Sailing Cruise on Yacht Catamaran From Rethymno, tour is another quicker tour that will show you some of the most beautiful spots in the area in a luxurious way.

If you’ve ever wanted to try out snorkeling or paddle-boarding, you can try it here in a stunning environment with trained professionals to guide you.

Starting at 4:30 PM, this is the perfect tour if you have plans earlier on in the day. Meet up at Marina of Rethymno and board the luxurious yacht that will be taking you along the coast.

The route does depend on wind and water conditions, but it’s always a great experience – one that highlights the breathtaking beauty but focuses more on relaxation and taking in the views than high-energy activities.

Once onboard, you’ll be treated like royalty, with Cretan white wine, fresh fruit, and delicious cheeses. We can say that all of them are of the highest quality, and absolutely delicious. If you’re on the hunt for a great romantic evening, this is one of the top options for sure.

Once you get to the perfect spot, the captain will stop the boat and you’ll have plenty of time to cruise around on a paddleboard or explore the underwater world by snorkel.

Hop back on board and just relax or continue spending time in the clear blue waters – it’s all up to you. The staff are very knowledgeable and friendly, and it’s always a great time chatting with them.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

5. Day Sea Excursion From Heraklion to Dia with Full Menu

Are you looking for a day of fun on the water, with everything you need and more? Then check out the Day Sea Excursion From Heraklion to Dia with Full Menu tour.

This 5-hour tour starts out in the afternoon, making it easy to schedule if you have plans in the morning and will let you see the beautiful sunset on the water!

Meet up at Café Marina with your crew, where they’ll provide you with a briefing as to what you should expect on the tour.

They’ll also ensure everyone knows about proper safety protocols. Then, it’s time to board the sailing yacht-catamaran Lagoon 450F, which is luxurious but sporty.

Once you board, you’ll see that there’s just the right amount of space for your group. It’s not tight, with plenty of space to walk around and enjoy the view or sit back and relax.

Once you set off, you’ll be served up a delicious Mediterranean dinner complete with fresh-caught grilled fish, both local and imported beverages, and accessories for having fun!

Instead of going to dinner, we recommend instead trying out this cruise. You’ll get top-notch cuisine while enjoying an unbeatable view and excursion packed all into one.

These include all necessary snorkeling gear, a SUP board, water carpet, inflatable flamingo and unicorn, life jackets, armbands, and more.

Once you arrive to the uninhabited island of Dia, you’ll stop so you can splash around in the cool, clear waters and use all of the toys. Head back on board in time to enjoy the beautiful golden sunset reflecting off of the pristine waters.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

FAQs About Crete Boat Tours and Trips

Q: What will I see on a Crete Boat Tour?

You’ll see some of the most stunning and varied landscapes in the Mediterranean, from rugged mountains and gorges to sandy beaches and turquoise waters. You’ll also see some of the most ancient and historical sites in the world, such as the Minoan palace of Knossos, the Venetian fortress of Spinalonga, and the birthplace of Zeus.

You’ll also see some of the most charming and authentic villages and towns in Crete, where you can experience the local culture, cuisine, and hospitality. You’ll see all this and more on your unforgettable journey to Crete by boat!

Q: How can I book a Crete Boat Tour?

A: The easiest and most convenient way to book a Crete Boat Tour is by joining a guided tour that includes transportation, admission fees, and a professional guide. You can choose a full-day tour, a half-day tour or a private tour.

You’ll enjoy a comfortable ride in a modern boat with all the amenities you need, such as sun decks, shaded areas, toilets, bars, and music. You’ll also learn fascinating facts and stories about each destination from your knowledgeable and friendly guide.

Q: What are some of the highlights of a Crete Boat Tour?

There are so many amazing sights and activities to enjoy on a Crete Boat Tour that you’ll never get bored!

• The Balos Lagoon, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. It has crystal-clear water and white sand. You can swim, snorkel, or sunbathe.
• The Gramvousa Island, which is a former pirate stronghold that offers spectacular views of the sea and the mainland. There is an impressive castle that dates back to the 16th century that is worth seeing.
• The Elafonisi Beach, which is another stunning beach that has pink sand due to the crushed shells. You can also see rare plants and animals that are protected by a natural reserve.
• The Spinalonga Island, which is a former leper colony that has a rich and tragic history. You can also admire the architecture and the scenery of this island that inspired many novels and movies.
• The Knossos Palace, which is the largest and most famous Minoan site in Crete. You can explore the ruins and the museum that showcase the ancient civilization that flourished here more than 3,000 years ago.

Q: Where do Crete boat tours leave from?

A: Boat tours leave from different locations depending on the tour you choose and the destination you want to visit. However, most boat tours leave from the main ports of Crete, such as Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos.

You can easily reach these ports by public transportation, taxi, or car. You can also arrange a hotel pickup and drop-off service with your tour operator for extra convenience. You’ll meet your guide and your group at the designated meeting point and board the boat for your exciting adventure

Q: What other water activities can be done in Crete?

A: Crete is a paradise for water lovers, as it offers a wide range of water activities.

Snorkeling: You can explore the underwater world of Crete and see colorful fish, coral reefs, caves, and shipwrecks. You can rent snorkeling equipment or join a guided snorkeling tour that includes transportation, equipment, and instruction.

Scuba diving: By scuba diving you will see more marine life. You can choose from different dive sites and levels, from beginner to advanced. You can also get certified or take a course with a professional instructor.

Kayaking: You can paddle along the coast and enjoy the views of the cliffs, beaches, and caves. You can also stop at secluded spots for swimming and picnicking. You can rent a kayak or join a guided kayaking tour that includes transportation, equipment, and instruction.

Sailing: Take a sail on a catamaran and feel the breeze in your hair. You can also visit different islands and bays and enjoy the scenery and the culture. You can rent a boat or join a guided sailing tour that includes transportation, equipment, and instruction.

Windsurfing: You can surf on the waves and feel the adrenaline rush. You can also learn new tricks and skills with the help of the wind. You can rent windsurfing equipment or join a guided windsurfing tour that includes transportation, equipment, and instruction.

Q: When is the best time for a boat trip in Crete?

A: The best time for a boat trip in Crete depends on what you are looking to do. The most ideal time is between May and October. The weather is warm and sunny. All the attractions are open and accessible.

You can also enjoy the vibrant colors of the nature and the festivals of the culture during this period. However, this is also the peak season, so you may encounter more crowds and higher prices. To avoid the crowds you may want to consider going in April or November.

The weather is still pleasant, and the sea is still swimmable. However, you may also face some closures and limited options for some attractions and activities. If you don’t mind the colder weather and the rougher sea, you may also enjoy going in winter, when you can experience a different side of Crete and see some snow-capped mountains and cozy fireplaces.

However, you may also have to deal with some rain and wind and fewer choices for attractions and activities.