The Best Boat Rentals in Crete

Expect small, license‑free motorboats to run roughly €150–€250 for a half day and about €220–€450 for a full day, typically plus fuel. Roomier RIBs and speedboats often range from about €350 to €1,200 per day depending on size, season, and whether a skipper is included. Shared sailing day trips to Dia Island commonly start around €75–€120 per person with lunch, while private sailing catamarans for groups often price around €400–€500 per hour or €1,500–€2,500 for a day, with crew and some refreshments included. Inclusions vary by listing—some trips include a skipper, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and VAT, while many private speedboat/RIB charters charge fuel separately based on the route. Always check the listing for what’s included and any extra fuel or port fees before you book.

You’ll find a broad mix: compact license‑free dayboats for easy coastal cruising, RIBs and speedboats for covering more ground, classic sailing yachts for a relaxed day under sail, spacious catamarans popular with groups, and motor yachts for a premium experience. Choose based on your group size, comfort preferences, and whether you want speed, shade, or sailing.

If anyone in your group lacks a recognized powerboat or sailing license, a captained trip keeps things simple—your skipper handles navigation, anchoring, and local wind patterns. In Greece, you may self‑operate small motorboats up to 30 hp without a license; for more powerful craft or any bareboat sailing yacht, a valid skipper’s license (often ICC/RYA/ASA equivalent) is required, sometimes with a co‑skipper declaration. Consider a captain in midsummer when winds can be brisk in the afternoons. (sunbum.gr, sailingheaven.com)

Popular departure points include the Old Venetian Harbor in Chania for coastal cruises toward Seitan Limania and Souda Bay; Heraklion’s Old Port/Marina for day sails to Dia Island; Agios Nikolaos Marina and nearby Elounda Port for trips to Spinalonga and Kolokytha; and Kissamos Port for the Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa run. You’ll also see departures from Rethymno Marina for north‑coast outings. Check your specific listing for the meeting point and check‑in time. (getyourguide.com, travelid.gr, spinalongatours.gr, cretelocals.com)

From the sea you can take in Crete’s Venetian harbors and lighthouses, bright‑blue coves, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs. Favorite routes include the turquoise Balos Lagoon and the fortress on Gramvousa in the far west, the uninhabited Dia Island north of Heraklion for snorkeling in calm bays, and Mirabello Bay’s Spinalonga islet with its striking Venetian walls. On calmer days around Chania, skippers often tuck into Seitan Limania or sheltered coves on the Akrotiri peninsula. (cretelocals.com, getyourguide.com, eiffel-tower.getyourguide.com)

For small motorboats up to 30 hp, no license is required in Greece, making them ideal for easy, self‑drive coastal cruising. For higher‑horsepower powerboats or any bareboat sailboat, you’ll need a recognized skipper’s certificate (for example ICC, RYA Day Skipper, or ASA equivalent), and many bases also ask for a competent co‑skipper or signed experience declaration. If you prefer not to handle paperwork or navigation, simply book a captained charter. (sunbum.gr, sailingheaven.com)

Children are welcome on most listings. Operators provide life jackets for every passenger, with child sizes available on request, and will brief you on safety before departure. Greek regulations require appropriate flotation for everyone onboard, and reputable operators follow standard safety checklists covering lifejackets, radios, and emergency gear. If you’re traveling with little ones, tell the owner your kids’ ages and weights so the right sizes are ready at check‑in. (safewatersports.com, getmyboat.zendesk.com)

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks and beverages; many boats have a cooler and some include water, soft drinks, or even a light lunch. Several shared sails, like day trips to Dia Island, include meals and drinks. Glass is often discouraged, and if you’re self‑driving, remember Greek rules prohibit operating a vessel under the influence—keep the skipper sober. Always confirm food, beverage, and alcohol policies with the owner in advance. (getyourguide.com, chaniaboat.gr, safewatersports.com)

Many operators are pet‑friendly, especially on private charters, while some shared tours restrict animals. Look for “pets allowed” in the listing details or message the owner before you book. Bring a towel, a collapsible water bowl, and plan shade breaks for your pup.

From about mid‑June through August, the meltemi—dry northerly winds—often builds in the afternoon, so mornings are typically calmer. Skippers may alter routes or reschedule on windy days, and a few protected nature sites occasionally limit shore landings, with boats anchoring offshore for swimming instead. Getmyboat cancellations are set by each owner’s policy; many will reschedule or refund for unsafe conditions, while standard policies apply if conditions are deemed safe. Always review the listing’s cancellation terms before you confirm. (en.wikipedia.org, cretelocals.com, getmyboat.zendesk.com)

Yes—private catamarans and motor yachts are popular for celebrations, with shaded lounge space, a sound system, and crew to handle the details so you can focus on the fun. For smoother seas and easier boarding, choose a morning start and consider weekday dates in July–August when weekends book out quickly. Tell the owner your plan—many can arrange cakes, decorations, or prosecco with advance notice.

The prime boating window runs roughly May through October. Shoulder months—May, June, and September into early October—blend warm seas with lighter crowds and often gentler winds, while mid‑July through late August is peak season with stronger afternoon meltemi and the highest demand. U.S. holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day don’t affect Crete, but local and European holidays do—expect extra demand around August 15 (Assumption Day). For calmer water and easier parking, go on weekdays and depart in the morning. (cntraveler.com, travelid.gr, ekathimerini.com, greeceindetails.com)

Morning departures around 9:00–10:00 are typical for day trips, with some operators offering afternoon sails and sunset returns. In high season, popular boats and time slots can sell out weeks ahead; if you’re planning a weekend in July or August or a special event, book as early as you can and have a weekday backup. Some routes run April 1 to October 31 each year, weather permitting.

Three classics top most itineraries: Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa for glass‑clear shallows and a hilltop fortress; Heraklion to Dia Island for snorkeling in protected bays; and Agios Nikolaos or Elounda to Spinalonga and Kolokytha for calm turquoise coves and Venetian history. On the south coast, summer ferries and cruises reach Chrissi Island from Ierapetra, though at times authorities restrict access ashore to protect the environment, with boats anchoring for swim stops just off the beach. (cretelocals.com, getyourguide.com, eiffel-tower.getyourguide.com, cretandailycruises.com)