Chania: Souda Bay Pirate Cruise with Swim Stops

Explore the Legendary Pirate Ship Black Pearl in Souda Bay

This 5.5-hour cruise from Souda Port offers a chance to sail aboard the Black Pearl, a pirate-themed vessel that captures the imagination. The tour departs at 09:30 and is operated by CRETAN DAILY CRUISES, which has earned a 4.1-star rating for its engaging experiences.

The cruise starts at the main port of Souda, where the Black Pearl awaits at coordinate 35.4919, 24.0715. The vessel’s pirate theme adds a fun and adventurous atmosphere, making it particularly appealing for families and those looking for a lively day on the water. You’ll enjoy pleasant music as the boat glides past the islet of Souda and the Venetian fortress, Fortezza, built in 1571 AD.

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Discover the Famous Souda Bay and the Islet of Souda

The tour takes you through the deep blue waters of Souda Bay, giving you panoramic views of the Akrotiri peninsula with its steep slopes and beaches. The islet of Souda, just off the coast, features the Venetian fortress Fortezza, a historic site that has protected the entrance to the harbor for centuries.

The views of the fortress and surrounding landscape provide great photo opportunities. The boat passively cruises past the fortress, so you can admire its historical significance without disembarking. The guide shares insights into the area’s history, making the experience both scenic and informative.

Swim and Relax at Marathi Beach

One of the main highlights of this cruise is the swim stop at Marathi Beach, known for its shallow, crystal-clear waters and sandy shoreline that is perfect for families. The location’s natural protection from the wind creates ideal conditions for swimming and relaxing.

Passengers have the option to disembark and swim at Marathi Beach or stay aboard to enjoy the sun and scenery. The beach’s shallow waters make it a safe and comfortable spot for children. The boat remains anchored for approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the beach, take photos, or simply unwind.

Fresh Onboard Meal and Refreshments

A key part of this experience is the delicious onboard meal included in the price. The meal features a main course suitable for vegetarians, a personal salad, and bottled water available from the self-service bar.

The meal provides a relaxed dining experience while you take in the views of Souda Bay. All on-board purchases are credit/debit card only, so travelers should plan accordingly. The food adds value, especially for those wanting a full-day activity with good refreshments.

Scenic Views of Aptera and the Mountain Landscapes

As the boat heads eastward along the bay, you get spectacular views of the mountain landscapes of Apokoronas. The mountains tower over the bay, offering a stunning backdrop for photos.

On the hill of Kamami, you can see the Turkish Izzeddin Fortress, built in 1870 and now a cultural heritage monument. The view of the ancient city of Aptera is equally impressive, standing as a reminder of the area’s historical importance in western Crete.

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Additional Swimming at Leeward Beaches

The journey continues with a second swim stop near a leeward beach, weather permitting. The boat anchors in calm waters, providing another opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim in blue waters before heading back to Souda Port.

This extra stop depends on the weather conditions but offers a chance to relax in quieter surroundings. It keeps the tour varied and engaging, with plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the scenery.

Return to Souda Port with Breathtaking Mountain Views

On the way back, the mountains of the Apokoronas peninsula dominate the horizon, creating a picturesque end to the cruise. The return trip concludes around 15:00, giving you a full and well-paced day on the water.

This final leg provides more photo opportunities of the rugged landscape, rounding out a day full of sights, sun, and sea.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point is at the “BLACK PEARL” pirate ship located at Souda Port, with coordinates 35.4919, 24.0715. The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most guests.

Transportation to the port is convenient, with free parking available. It’s recommended to bring a towel, beachwear, and sunscreen due to high summer temperatures. The tour is conducted in English and Greek, with guides ready to share insights and answer questions.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for travel plans. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour provider emphasizes credit/debit card payments only for on-board purchases, so travelers should prepare accordingly.

Why Choose This Pirate Cruise Experience?

This cruise is ideal for families, groups, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and historical sights. The Black Pearl’s pirate theme adds an extra layer of fun, especially for children or those young at heart.

The combination of panoramic views, historical sites like Fortezza and Aptera, and the relaxing stops at Marathi Beach make this trip a well-rounded outing in Crete. The onboard meal and swimming opportunities enhance the value, providing a full day of entertainment and relaxation.

The Sum Up: A Fun-Filled Day on the Crete Coastline

The Souda Bay Pirate Cruise offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and leisure. Its 5.5-hour duration strikes a good balance, giving enough time for swimming, sightseeing, and dining.

While the cruise’s theme and scenic stops are the main draws, it’s the stunning views of the mountains, fortress, and crystal waters that leave a lasting impression. This tour suits families, history enthusiasts, and sea lovers looking for a lively, well-organized day on Crete’s waters.

The moderate rating of 4.1 stars reflects its consistent delivery of an enjoyable experience, with some considerations for weather-dependent stops. Overall, it provides a memorable way to explore Souda Bay and its surroundings, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and refreshing swims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the shallow waters at Marathi Beach and the family-friendly atmosphere make it suitable for children, especially with the pirate theme adding extra fun.

What should I bring?
A towel, beachwear, and sunscreen are recommended. Remember that all purchases onboard are credit or debit card only.

Can I disembark at Marathi Beach?
Yes, passengers have the option to disembark and swim at Marathi Beach or stay onboard. The boat remains anchored for about 2 hours at that stop.

What are the main sights visible during the cruise?
You’ll see Souda Bay, the Venetian fortress Fortezza, the Akrotiri peninsula, Aptera, and the Izzeddin Fortress on the hills.

How long are the swim stops?
The stop at Marathi Beach lasts approximately 2 hours, with a possible second swim stop depending on weather conditions.

Is parking available at Souda Port?
Yes, free parking is available at the port for travelers arriving by car.

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