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Boat Rental and Yacht Charter in Crete

The largest of the Greek islands, located in the Aegean Sea. Crete is known for its stunning natural beauty, beautiful beaches, and delicious local cuisine. A perfect destination for a beach holiday!

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Frequently asked questions

What happens when I request a quote?

Once we receive your request, we will confirm the availability of the boat, as well as check for alternative ones. To ensure your experience is the best it can be, we may contact you to discuss your request in detail. Let us do the research for you - free of charge.

When can I get in touch with the captain/skipper?

The timing depends on your charter type. For crewed charters, we can provide the captain's contact details upon request. For bareboat charters with a hired skipper, you can request the contact information 1-3 weeks before departure.

What is the Charter Fee?

The Charter Fee is an additional, obligatory cost, which typically includes the end cleaning of the boat, home port fees, and linen & towels. The details of the charter fee differ depending on the boat, location and charter partner.

Are there any other costs I should be aware of?

There are marina fees and fuel costs which vary depending on the type, duration and location of your sailing holiday. Marina fees need to be paid at each marina you choose to dock overnight - the amount varies but you may be able to find this information in advance by contacting the marinas directly. Fuel costs depend on whether you’re sailing a motorboat or a sailboat. You can estimate fuel costs by double-checking your chosen boat’s engine, and the expected distance you aim to sail.

Sailing Guide Crete

Rent a boat in Crete for an unforgettable sailing adventure around the Greek islands. Discover some of the most beautiful landscapes in this part of the Mediterranean and the most fascinating ancient ruins. Of course people also flock to the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean to soak up the sun and relax on the beach, but there is so much more to discover. If you want to head out on a boat rental, you get to see the island from a completely different perspective.

Things to do and see when sailing in Crete

Chartering a boat in Crete is a lot of fun, but you might want to take a break from sailing every now and then to see historical sites, eat traditional Greek food and mingle with the locals and tourists alike.

Activities in Crete

  • Rent a boat in Crete to explore the best spots on the island to go for a swim

  • Walk around the Old Venetian Port of Chania to discover the colourful house fronts and historical monuments. Turn into some of the cute alleyways to shop in some shops

  • Learn more about the history of the island in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum

  • Knossos Palace is the remnant of a major political and ceremonial building from the Bronze Age and a fascinating archaeological site to see when vacationing in Crete

  • CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos is an aquarium where you can see interesting fishes and other species living underwater. Different kinds of light allow the aquarium to replicate the sea in different depths and circumstances

  • The Cave of Diktaion Andron is not just a fascinating cave to discover, it is also said to be Zeus’ birthplace - however, there are also other places which attribute themselves to having birthed Zeus

  • Snorkelling in Crete is a great activity for anyone who wants to see the underwater world up close. Rent a boat on the island to have the flexibility of finding the best spots to go snorkelling, including Kolokytha Beach or Elafonissi Beach

Beaches in Crete

  • Chania Balos beach is a great spot to swim in the turquoise waters surrounding the island while being able to enjoy the stunning views of the mountainous landscapes all around

  • Sougia beach is a beach that is located not far from the White Mountains of Chania. You might not recognize that there is a beach in between the stunning hills, but it is the perfect spot for a swim and a relaxing afternoon.

  • Aspes beach is a secluded beach that could be easily missed when sailing along the rocky coast. It is a beach that looks like it’s built into the cliffs and you get to swim in the turquoise waters surrounding it

  • Swim in the waters of the rocky cove Seitan Limania. How could you resist swimming in the turquoise waters here?

  • Elafonissi Beach is one of the most popular beautiful beaches in Crete

Restaurants in Crete

Casual dining in Crete:

  • Papanikolakis is a great cheap bakery where you can enjoy some delicious pastries. It is also a wonderful spot to grab a quick breakfast

  • Talos Restaurant is a great place to get a delicious pizza in Crete. Dine outside next to the pool and chill out on some of the lounge chairs when you’re done

  • Pork to Beef Wild offers, you might have already guessed it, different kinds of meat. Get your chicken in a pita or a tasty beef kebab

Beach restaurants in Crete:

  • Salis might not be located right by the beach, but can be found in the Old Venetian Port in Chania, so you still get the stunning sea views. Expect Greek cuisine with an interesting touch experimenting with different flavours and influences. However, don’t expect to get the same food other people have tried here before as the menu changes regularly

  • You could probably fall into the water while enjoying a meal at Prima Plora if you’re not careful. The views are as amazing as the food here.

Fine dining in Crete:

  • Avli is a great fine finding spot in Crete. Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine in a lovely setting. The cute courtyard is a wonderful place to enjoy your dinner

  • Zaeri is located at the waterfront and you can see the lighthouse of Limenas Chersonisou from here. The octopus is highly recommended

Bars and Clubs in Crete

  • The Jolly Roger: A cool bar that is offering more than refreshing beverages. Live music and quiz nights create a fun atmosphere

  • Senses Club is the perfect place to dance the night away while sipping on delicious cocktails

Explore historical Crete

Humans have already settled in Crete since prehistoric times.

One of the most important historical sites to visit in Crete is Knossos palace which was built in the Bronze Age. Knossos is generally referred to as the oldest city in Europe. Unlike other ruins you might have seen before, the Knossos palace is painted in lots of bright colours that still shine strong nowadays.

Discover mystical Crete

Like many other Greek islands, there are many myths surrounding the island of Crete. Zeus is one of the Greek gods who was protecting the island due to it being his birthplace. However, the nearby islet of Paximadia is considered to be the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo, bringing extra meaning to the island of Crete.

Sailing conditions in Crete

As Crete is an island in the Mediterranean, it is generally blessed with warm weather and sunny days all year round. August is the warmest and most popular month to visit the island. Tourists from the Greek mainland as well as from all over the world love coming here to enjoy Greek food, sunny days by the beach and swimming in the beautiful turquoise waters. The rocky formations make it a unique experience to sail around the island. Sailing season starts in April and generally lasts well into November.

The wind conditions in this part of the Mediterranean are ideal for a sailing vacation. Sail with the winds and discover what the island has to offer.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Crete?

Renting a boat in Crete doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, Greece is one of the most affordable sailing destinations in the Mediterranean.

Renting a sailboat in Greece is one of the cheapest options at an average price of 53 EUR per person per day. A RIB is also relatively cheap at an average price of 93 EUR per person per day. Charterting a catamaran in Greece is a little more expensive at an average price of 150 EUR per person per day. Renting a motorboat in Greece will cost you 190 EUR per person per day on average.

Remember: These are only average prices and you might find boats that are cheaper or more expensive - also depending on the season.

What type of boat is best for sailing in Crete?

It all depends on the type of sailing holiday you would like to experience in Crete. Choose your boat according to the activities you have planned. If you want to discover hidden beaches and bays, you would rent a different type of boat than the one you would choose if you just want to sail across the Mediterranean to feel the wind on your skin.

Rent a catamaran in Crete

Pros of renting a catamaran in Crete

Renting a catamaran in Crete comes with many advantages, including the fact that they are equipped with shallow drafts. This makes them the perfect choice for sailing in shallow waters and closer to the shore in order to reach the most stunning remote beaches.

Another major advantage of renting a catamaran is the fact that they are equipped with both a sail and an engine. This means that you can set sail when the wind is going strong and you can sail naturally, but you also have a plan B in store and can drive along the coast with the engine rather than having to wait for the wind to pick up again when it suddenly stops blowing. You get the best of both worlds!

The fact that catamarans stand on two hulls gives them a lot more stability than other types of boats have. When the winds get a little stronger, you might not feel it as much as on other types of boats, but you might hear the water hitting the bottom of the boat which might cause some annoyance.

A very popular catamaran to rent in Crete is Catamaran Lagoon 400 which is available in the marina of Heraklion. Up to 10 people can sleep on board and a crew is included when renting this boat. Snorkelling and fishing equipment can be found on board for some extra fun activities while sailing around Crete. Head to Kolokytha Beach for a fun snorkelling experience away from the crowds.

Cons of renting a catamaran in Crete

One of the downsides of catamarans can be the fact that they are more spacious than other types of boats. While it is certainly a positive aspect of catamarans, it might cause some issues when trying to find a mooring spot at a marina - especially in the busy summer months. You might not be able to fit your boat in the marinas and have to search for a spot to anchor in a quiet bay.

Charter a catamaran in Crete

Rent a sailboat in Crete

Pros of renting a sailboat in Crete

Charter a sailboat in Crete if you are looking for an adventure. One of the advantages of sailboats is the fact that they are running on wind rather than fuel. So you don’t have to refuel your tank every time you leave the marina. This makes sailboats more environmentally friendly than other types of boats.

One of the most popular sailboats to rent in Crete is Sailboat Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42I. Up to 7 people fit on board this boat and you can rent it with or without a captain. Keep in mind that it will be more expensive if you hire a captain. The interior is already screaming ‘sailing vacation’. When is your turn?

Cons of renting a sailboat in Crete

One of the downsides of renting a sailboat in Crete is the fact that they are only running on wind. If the wind should suddenly stop blowing, you might get stuck in the middle of the sea and have to wait for the wind to pick up again in order to move forward. This can be a little frustrating.

Another downside of renting a sailboat is the fact that they usually don’t leave a lot of space for sunbathing on deck. Most of the space is necessary to store all the equipment that is needed in order to sail properly and safely.

Rent a sailboat in Crete

Rent a speedboat in Crete

Pros of renting a speedboat in Crete

One of the advantages of renting a speedboat in Crete is that speedboats are generally smaller than other types of boats, making them much easier to operate. They are also very easy to operate - even if you are a novice sailor.

Another great thing about speedboats is, as the name suggests, their speed. You can get from A to B in a very short period of time. This makes them the perfect boats to stop by all the spots you want to discover in a short amount of time.

Cons of renting a speedboat in Crete

One of the disadvantages of renting a speedboat in Crete is the fact that they are generally not well-equipped for longer periods of time on the water. It can be fine for a couple days, but not more than that.

Another downside is the fact that they run on fuel. This means that you always have to ensure that they are refueled when leaving the marinas.

Rent a speedboat in Corsica

Rent a motorboat in Crete

Pros of renting a motorboat in Crete

One of the advantages of renting a motorboat in Crete is the speed. Like speedboats, you will be able to get from North to South in no time. You will get to see as much as possible in the shortest amount of time.

Another advantage of chartering a motorboat is the fact that they have a shallow draft. This makes them the perfect boats to sail close to the shore and stop by the most beautiful hidden beaches. Also, unlike sailboats, motorboats don’t require you to store a lot of equipment necessary for sailing on deck. This means that you get to have more space on deck and get to soak up the sun without lying next to necessary sailing equipment. It’s perfect for a relaxing boat holiday in Crete.

One of the most popular motorboats to rent in Crete is Motorboat Catcruiser 45 which is offering free all-inclusive drinks as well as a crew who is accompanying you for the whole trip. Other amenities on board include snorkeling equipment, a SUP and a refrigerator. Up to 10 people can sleep on board, so grab your best friends and head out to explore the Greek island of Crete and its mountainous landscapes.

Cons of renting a motorboat in Crete

One of the downsides of renting a motorboat is the fact that it is running on fuel. With the ever-increasing fuel prices, this is not a cheap undertaking. This won’t change in the near future.

Motorboat rental in Corsica

Charter a luxury yacht in Crete

If you have the money, you should definitely charter a luxury yacht in Crete to experience the life of the rich and famous for a week. Replicate the glitz and glamour for a truly relaxing holiday. One of Borrow A Boat’s most popular luxury boats to rent in Crete is Motorboat Azimut 62. The elegant interior is inviting you for a good night’s sleep on board and you get to enjoy your meals with the most stunning view on deck.

Charter a luxury yacht in Crete

What kind of boat license do you need when renting a boat in Crete?

If you want to rent a boat in Crete, Greece, you are required to carry a valid boat licence. EU-residents are lucky, because their boat licences are automatically valid in Greek waters. Non-EU-residents are not as lucky. They need to ensure that their boat licence fulfills the requirements of a Greek boat licence. If your boat licence has been issued in a language other than English or Greek, you need to bring an official translation of your document in order to be able to rent a boat in Crete.

It is best to carry an International Certificate of Competency or short ICC in order to rent a boat on the island.

Sailing routes in Crete

One of the most popular sailing routes in the Mediterranean is only starting in Crete and taking you to some of the other beautiful Greek islands. You start your sailing adventure in Chania and sail all the way to Santorini.

Day 1 - Sail from Chania, Crete to Milos which can take between 4 and 5 hours depending on the wind conditions, the conditions at sea, etc. It is a wonderful route to discover the Mediterranean sea. In Milos you have to go and see Sarakiniko Beach, a stunning beach made of volcanic rock that is shining white.

Day 2 - Sail from Milos to Sifnos which will only take you about an hour. In Sifnos you can see some of the most beautiful Christian buildings, including the Chrisopigi Monastery on the edge of a cliff.

Day 3 - Sail from Sifnos to Paros. This trip can take you between one and three hours, depending on the conditions at sea and the type of boat you’ve chartered in Crete. In Paros you should visit Paros Park, a breathtaking natural park with stunning sea views, amazing trails to walk along the Northern part of the island and some fantastic beaches to stop by and take a quick swim to cool down.

Day 4 - Sail from Paros to Naxos which is going to take you around half an hour or an hour. It all depends on the type of boat you’re sailing on and the wind and sea conditions. In Naxos you should get your history fix and visit the Temple of Apollo in Portara and the Temple of Demeter. The Faragi Kouros, a huge statue, is also worth a visit.

Day 5 - Sail from Naxos to Ios. This trip can take you 30 minutes or 2 hours, depending on the weather conditions and the capabilities of your boat rental. Ios is not just famous for its stunning beaches like Magganari Beach or Kolitsani, but also as the resting place of Homer. You can visit the Tomb of Homer and get to enjoy the stunning sea views while there.

Day 6 - Sail from Ios to Folegandros, which is most famous for its fascinating rock formations and cliffs. The trip will take you around 1 or 2 hours. Enjoy the views while sailing before visiting some interesting sites like the Church of Panagia or the Chrissospilia Cave.

Day 7 - Sail from Folegandros to Santorini. This is going to take you between 1 or 3 hours depending on your boat and the weather conditions. Santorini is obviously most famous for its white houses and blue rooftops, but there is much more to see. Ancient Thera is one of the most interesting historical sites on the island.

Day 8 - Sail from Santorini back to Crete. This can take you between 2 and 6 hours. If you want to sail for just 7 days, you can also head back to Crete from Folegandros. However, this is going to take you much longer! Keep in mind that you might want to stop along the way.

Sailing Locations in Crete

Rent a boat in Chania

Rent a boat in Heraklion

 

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