Preveli Palm Beach Boat Cruise & Rethymnon Town from Heraklion

Explore Crete’s captivating coastline and lush landscapes with the Preveli Palm Beach Boat Cruise & Rethymnon Town tour from Heraklion. Priced at $59.34 per person, this full-day adventure lasts approximately 11 to 13 hours and includes boat rides, transportation, and guided commentary. The tour departs from Heraklion, taking travelers to Damnoni Beach, Preveli Palm Beach, Kourtaliotis Gorge, and finally Rethymnon Old Town. With a rating of 4.0 based on 18 reviews, this experience combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and leisure time, appealing to those interested in exploring Crete’s unspoiled spots.

This tour is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a well-organized day trip with free time for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring. The tour includes pick-up services, a professional driver and tour guide, and all fees and taxes, ensuring a smooth and informative experience. Keep in mind that lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or planning to dine at Damnoni Beach or Rethymnon is recommended.

Key Points

• Price: $59.34 per person for a full-day tour including boat trips and transportation
• Duration: Approximately 11 to 13 hours, starting with morning pick-up
• Stops: Damnoni Beach, Preveli Palm Beach, Kourtaliotis Gorge, and Rethymnon Old Town
• Activities: Boat rides, swimming, sightseeing, free time at each stop
• Participation: Suitable for small groups, solo travelers, and couples
• What’s Included: Air-conditioned vehicle, professional guide, boat trips, all taxes
• What’s Not: Lunch, so plan accordingly

The Tour Starts with Convenient Pick-Up in Heraklion

The day begins with pick-up from various locations in Heraklion, with the bus journey tailored to your hotel or apartment. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the drive, which typically lasts a few hours before reaching the first stop. This setup makes traveling between the beaches and towns easy, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.

The early start is designed to maximize your time at each location, giving you a full experience of Crete’s diverse scenery. The tour is suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking or swimming may be involved, especially at the beaches and gorge.

Exploring Damnoni Beach by Bus and Boat

The journey first takes you to Damnoni Beach, where you’ll board a boat to Preveli Palm Forest. The boat ride lasts about 30 minutes, providing a peaceful cruise with views of the coastline. Travelers often praise the stunning clarity of the water and the serenity of the boat ride.

At Preveli Palm Beach, you enjoy about 1 hour and 30 minutes of free time. The beach features a unique combination of sandy shores, a green river, and palm forests. Visitors love exploring the green river, walking through palm-lined areas, or simply soaking up the bright Cretan sunshine. Swimmers can take advantage of the inviting waters, although it’s also perfectly fine to relax on the sand.

Discovering Rethymnon Old Town’s Charm

After returning by boat to Damnoni Beach, the tour continues with free time at Damnoni Beach for lunch. Travelers typically find the local taverns inviting, offering fresh seafood, traditional dishes, and drinks. The hour-long stop allows for a relaxed lunch experience.

Later, a 20-minute bus drive takes visitors to Kourtaliotis Gorge, where 10 minutes of free time lets you admire the impressive natural landscapes. The gorge’s rugged cliffs and lush greenery reflect Crete’s wild beauty. Most visitors appreciate the photo opportunities and the chance to stretch their legs amid stunning scenery.

From the gorge, the journey proceeds to Rethymnon Old Town, arriving after a 30-minute drive. You then have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore this picturesque town. The narrow streets, lively cafes, and scenic port make for enjoyable wandering. The beach road offers lovely views, and the old town’s architecture provides a glimpse into Crete’s historic charm.

Relaxing at Preveli Palm Beach

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Preveli Palm Beach, where swimming and exploration are the main activities. The mix of sandy beach and green river makes this spot truly distinctive. Visitors are encouraged to bring bathing suits and good footwear if they want to walk through the river or explore the surroundings.

The 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated at Preveli is enough to enjoy the scenery, swim, or simply relax under the sun. The boat trip back completes the experience, offering another 30-minute cruise with scenic views.

Free Time at Damnoni Beach and Local Lunch Options

Back at Damnoni Beach, the additional hour provides a chance to grab lunch at a local tavern or continue exploring. Many find the nearby eateries offer delicious Greek cuisine, making this a good opportunity to sample regional flavors before heading further.

This stop is especially popular with those wanting to combine sightseeing with a relaxed meal in a less touristy setting. The free time ensures you can manage your own pace and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Visiting Kourtaliotis Gorge’s Natural Splendor

A brief 20-minute bus ride takes you to Kourtaliotis Gorge, often praised for its spectacular natural views. The 10-minute free exploration allows for photos and admiring the rugged scenery. This area showcases Crete’s wild landscapes, with rock formations, greenery, and rushing waters.

Visitors appreciate stopping here for a short walk or photo session, making it a perfect quick immersion into the island’s natural beauty. The favorable weather and scenic vistas make this a highlight for nature lovers.

Rethymnon Old Town’s Historic Streets and Coastal Charm

The 2-hour visit to Rethymnon Old Town offers ample opportunity to wander through historic streets, enjoy local cafes, and visit the picturesque harbor. The town’s narrow alleyways, Venetian architecture, and seaside promenade provide a charming backdrop for leisurely exploration.

Most travelers find this stop a pleasant way to experience Crete’s cultural side and soak up the lively atmosphere. The time is well-balanced, giving enough space to browse shops, take photos, or relax at a cafe before heading back.

Returning to Heraklion with Comfort and Convenience

The journey back to Heraklion takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with the bus dropping you off at your original pick-up points. The organized transfers and professional driver help make this a stress-free conclusion to a full day of sightseeing.

The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenic drive through Crete’s landscape. The tour’s structure ensures you maximize your experience without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts on the Preveli Palm Beach & Rethymnon Tour

This tour offers a solid value for money, combining beach relaxation, boat trips, and cultural exploration. The well-paced itinerary balances natural beauty, leisure, and sightseeing in a way that appeals to a wide range of visitors.

While lunch is not included, the stops at local taverns provide plenty of options. The guides are praised for their organization and friendliness, and the scenic stops remain some of Crete’s most beloved spots.

It suits those who want a full day of varied experiences without needing to plan every detail themselves. The moderate physical activity involved is manageable for most, but those with mobility concerns should consider the walking involved at certain stops.

The tour delivers a comprehensive taste of Crete’s coast and culture, making it an engaging choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to see Crete’s highlights comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are local taverns at Damnoni Beach where you can purchase food.

How long do I spend at each location?
You get approximately 1.5 hours at Preveli Beach, 1 hour at Damnoni Beach, 10 minutes at Kourtaliotis Gorge, and 1.5 hours in Rethymnon Old Town.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking and swimming. It’s suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, but consider mobility needs before booking.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, boat trips, and all fees and taxes. The liability insurance is provided by Allianz.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time, with a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the provided provider, Cretan Odyssey, with confirmation received at the time of booking.