Crete: Coastline Snorkeling Cruise from Hersonissos Port

The best part of this two-hour cruise from Hersonissos is the simple mix of open-water sailing and beach time. You stop at Saint George Beach, and sometimes another secluded cove, with about 45 minutes to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or float on an inflatable lilo.

I like the low $35 price and the easy noon schedule. I also like that the boat supplies snorkeling gear and inflatables, so you can enjoy the water without packing much more than a towel and sunscreen. The main catch is that weather decides the stops, and some recent outings reached only one beach. Fish sightings can also be limited, and a few masks and snorkels have reportedly needed repair or replacement.

Key points at a glance

• Saint George Beach is the main swimming stop, with calm, clear water suited to a relaxed hour in the sea.
• The cruise lasts two hours, making it easy to fit around a beach day or evening plans in Hersonissos.
• A second beach is possible, not guaranteed, since the final route depends on weather conditions.
• Snorkeling equipment and inflatables are provided, but bring your own mask if you want the best fit and clearest view.
• The $35 fare covers the boat and equipment, while drinks, snacks, and transport to the port cost extra or must be arranged separately.
• The crew and boat ride receive strong praise overall, though equipment availability and photo sales have been concerns for some passengers.

Setting Sail from Hersonissos at Noon

This is a short coastal outing, not a full-day sailing trip. You meet the boat at Hersonissos Port for a noon departure, then spend roughly two hours along the coast before returning.

That timing works well if you want a break from the hotel pool without giving up the entire afternoon. I would pair it with a relaxed morning, then keep your evening free for dinner in Hersonissos. The schedule also suits families and casual swimmers who want a taste of the coast rather than a demanding water-sports session.

The boat itself is included, but there is no air-conditioned vehicle transfer. You need to make your own way to the port. That matters if you are staying outside Hersonissos, since the listed price is not a door-to-door excursion rate.

The cruise leaves at noon, when the Cretan sun is strong. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, beachwear, and a towel. You will want protection even if you spend much of the trip sitting in the shade or on the boat.

Saint George Beach and the 45-Minute Swim

Saint George Beach is the clearest anchor of the route. Its calm, clear water is suited to swimming and simple snorkeling, with enough time for you to get into the sea, look around, and dry off before returning to the boat.

A 45-minute stop is a useful length. It is not so brief that you spend the whole time getting ready, yet it is short enough to keep the cruise moving. I would use the first few minutes to swim away from the boat, then spend the middle of the stop snorkeling or floating on the inflatable beds. Save a few minutes at the end to rinse off and climb back aboard without a scramble.

The underwater life may be modest. You might see some fish, but this is not the trip to book if your main goal is a large or varied marine display. Recent feedback points to limited fish sightings, and one passenger found parts of the snorkeling equipment faulty. Bring your own mask and snorkel if you already have a comfortable set. That gives you a better fit and avoids waiting if the shared gear is in short supply.

The beach itself is the stronger reason to book. The appeal is calm water, a swim in a scenic cove, and a short break from the built-up coast around Hersonissos. Think easy coastal recreation rather than serious snorkeling.

When a Second Beach Is on the Route

The cruise may visit one or two secluded beaches. If conditions allow, you can expect a second stop with another 45-minute swim and rest period. The exact location is not fixed, and weather controls the route.

This flexibility is sensible at sea, but it creates an important booking expectation. The description of two beaches should be read as a possibility, not a promise. One recent outing visited only one beach, even though the passenger had expected two. The experience was still judged worthwhile, but the difference matters if you are comparing this with a longer island-hopping cruise.

A single beach stop also changes the rhythm of the trip. You spend more of the two hours sailing and more time at one cove, rather than checking off two locations. Some people will prefer that slower plan. You can settle into the swim instead of repeatedly boarding and unloading. Others will find it less satisfying if they wanted variety.

Weather may affect both the number of stops and the comfort of the ride. The route can change, so keep your expectations flexible. If visiting two beaches is essential, ask about the likely route before booking, but understand that conditions can still alter the plan.

Snorkeling, Swimming, and Inflatable Time

The boat carries snorkeling equipment and inflatable toys, including lilo-style float beds. This makes the activity easy for casual swimmers. You can move between swimming, floating, and sitting in the sun without needing a packed kit.

Still, supplied equipment is not always equal in quality. Some recent feedback points to defective items and too few snorkels for everyone who wanted one. The most practical solution is simple: bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them. At minimum, arrive ready to enjoy the cruise even if you end up using the inflatables or swimming without equipment.

The water conditions at Saint George Beach are described as calm and clear, which is helpful for people who prefer a gentle swim. The cruise is less suited to anyone looking for strong current, challenging snorkeling, or a guided lesson. No specialist instruction or underwater guide is listed.

People prone to seasickness should think twice. Even a short coastal trip can feel uncomfortable when the boat moves, and there is no promise that the ride will be calm from port to beach. If you know you are sensitive at sea, a land-based beach outing may be a better choice.

What the Boat Provides, and What It Does Not

The fare includes the boat, snorkeling equipment, and access to the inflatables. A mini bar is available on board, but drinks cost extra. Snacks are not included.

That arrangement keeps the base price low, but you should bring or arrange anything you need for two hours. The supplied information does not list snacks or included drinks, so do not assume refreshments are part of the fare. A towel and beachwear are essential, and sunscreen is especially important for a noon departure.

You also do not get air-conditioned transport. If you are staying near Hersonissos Port, that may not matter. If you are based farther away, factor in the cost and time of reaching the departure point.

The boat ride itself has been a strong part of the experience. The crew has received praise for being friendly and helpful, which can make a short outing feel relaxed. At the same time, one recent passenger felt pressured to buy photos on the return journey. You can enjoy the ride without treating photo sales as part of the tour.

Is $35 Good Value for Two Hours?

At $35 per person, this is a reasonably priced way to get on the water from Hersonissos. You receive the boat ride, beach access by sea, snorkeling equipment, and inflatables. For a half-day or full-day cruise, the price would be unusually low, but for two hours, the value depends on what you want from it.

I think the price works best for three types of people. First, you want a short outing with little planning. Second, you already have accommodation near Hersonissos and can reach the port easily. Third, you care more about swimming and sailing than about seeing rare fish or visiting several beaches.

The value drops if you are paying separately for long-distance transport, drinks, snacks, and replacement snorkeling gear. It also drops if you book mainly for two beach stops and the weather allows only one.

Still, a two-hour boat ride at this rate can be a practical addition to a Crete itinerary. You are paying for a quick change of scene, a swim from the boat, and a chance to see the coast from the water. That is a fair deal as long as you understand its limits.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise Most?

I would recommend it to couples, families with confident swimmers, and solo visitors who want an uncomplicated sea outing. The noon start is convenient, and the two-hour length avoids the fatigue that can come with a full-day boat trip.

It is also a good option for anyone staying in Hersonissos who has already spent time on the main beaches and wants a different view of the coast. The boat gives you access to beach areas that may not be as easy to reach by land.

You should choose another activity if you are seasick, need guaranteed access to two beaches, or are booking specifically for excellent snorkeling. The supplied equipment may be limited, and fish can be hard to spot. This is best understood as a swimming cruise with snorkeling available, not as a dedicated marine-life excursion.

Practical Tips for a Better Day

Arrive prepared to spend time in direct sun. Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, beachwear, and a towel. Wear your swimwear under your clothes so you can use the beach stop without wasting time changing.

If you own snorkeling gear, pack it. The boat provides masks and equipment, but recent problems with damaged items and limited supply make personal gear worthwhile.

Bring money for the mini bar if you want a drink on board. Snacks are not included, so plan ahead rather than assuming food will be available.

Keep your plans flexible. The number of beaches depends on weather, and the route may change. I would not schedule a tight appointment immediately after the cruise, especially if sea conditions slow the return.

The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those terms are useful when the weather forecast is uncertain, though you should still check the exact departure time and availability before booking.

Should You Book the Hersonissos Coastline Cruise?

Book it if you want a low-cost, short boat ride with a scenic beach stop, calm-water swimming, and a bit of snorkeling. The friendly crew, pleasant boat ride, inflatables, and $35 price give it a practical edge.

Skip it if you need a guaranteed two-beach itinerary, first-rate snorkeling equipment, or a serious fish-watching experience. Go in expecting one main beach stop, with a second possible if conditions cooperate, and you are more likely to enjoy the day.

FAQ

Where does the cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Hersonissos Port in Crete.

What time does the cruise start?

The listed departure is at noon. You should check availability for the exact starting time when booking.

How long does the activity last?

The cruise lasts two hours.

How many beaches does the cruise visit?

The cruise visits one or two secluded beaches. The number of stops depends on weather conditions.

How long do you stay at each beach?

The planned stop is about 45 minutes at each beach.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and snorkeling masks are available on the boat.

Are drinks and snacks included?

No. Snacks are not included. Drinks can be purchased from the mini bar on the boat for an extra charge.

What should you bring?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Personal snorkeling gear may also be useful if you want to avoid equipment shortages or poor fit.