Crete Pirate Ship Cruise with the Black Rose to Stalis and Malia

Exploring Crete by boat offers a unique perspective of the island’s stunning coastline and charming small towns. The Crete Pirate Ship Cruise with the Black Rose provides a lively half-day adventure from Hersonissos, focusing on stunning sea views, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying a delicious BBQ lunch onboard. Priced at $62.70 per person, this tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes and is especially popular, often booked 22 days in advance.

While the experience is generally well-received, with a rating of 4.0 out of 5 from 98 reviews, it’s important to note that the trip’s pacing can vary, and some may find the overall duration somewhat short for the price. This tour suits travelers seeking a fun, family-friendly day on the water with pirate-themed flair and beach stops, but those expecting a long, leisurely cruise should consider its 4.5-hour schedule.

Key Points

• Departs from Hersonissos Port at 11:00am with a mobile ticket.
• Visits St. George’s Bay, Malia, and Stalis for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
• Includes a BBQ lunch onboard, with no drinks included.
• Crew is known for being friendly, interactive, and engaging.
• Not suitable for guests seeking alcohol or hotel transfers.
• You need to bring your passport or ID, as verification is required.

Crete’s Pirate Ship Experience Starts at Hersonissos Port

This pirate-themed cruise begins at Agias Paraskevis 125, Limenas Chersonisou in Hersonissos. The Black Rose sets sail around 11:00am, guiding travelers through the Mediterranean waters toward the bay of St. Georges. The friendly crew welcomes groups of up to 120 people, and no hotel transfers are offered, so arriving by car or local transport is necessary.

The boat itself offers a traditional pirate ship design, bringing a sense of adventure and fun. The cruise is designed to be lively yet relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Since most travelers book this cruise about three weeks in advance, securing your spot early is recommended for guaranteed availability.

The Scenic Route: From Hersonissos to St. Georges Bay

Once onboard, the cruise heads toward St. Georges Bay, a highlight for swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters and coastal views make it a perfect spot for relaxing in the sea. The crew often spot dolphins and sea turtles, adding a touch of wildlife excitement to the day.

The itinerary emphasizes free time for swimming and exploring caves along the coast. Guests can expect to spend around 1 to 2 hours at each stop, with the crew encouraging participation and interaction. The initial stop offers the best chance for refreshing dips and underwater adventures.

Malia and Stalis Bays: Beachside Breaks and Fun in the Sun

After enjoying St. Georges Bay, the Black Rose cruises eastward to Malia and Stalis. These stops provide additional beach access and swimming opportunities. The coastal scenery along these areas is striking, with blue waters and rugged cliffs creating a picturesque backdrop.

Guests have ample time to refresh in the sea, take photos, or just unwind on the boat’s deck. While the itinerary suggests a focus on water activities, some reviews indicate that not all stops may match expectations, with occasional reports of longer waits or less exciting locations.

Onboard BBQ Lunch: What to Expect

A key feature of this cruise is the BBQ lunch served onboard, praised for its deliciousness and generous portions. The menu typically includes steak, salad, tzatziki, and bread. Food quality receives mixed reviews; many appreciate the flavorful meal, but a few mention simple or limited options.

Drinks are not included, so travelers should bring some cash or their own beverages if they want to enjoy cold drinks during the trip. The crew is known for being friendly and engaging, making the dining experience a social highlight of the cruise.

The Crew and Atmosphere: Friendliness and Pirate Flair

Multiple reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness, sense of humor, and interactive style. The guides and staff often joke around and dance, creating a lively, pirate-themed atmosphere that appeals especially to families and children.

Guests traveling solo or with children appreciate personalized attention, with crew members making an effort to include everyone in the fun. The pirate theme helps set a playful tone, making the cruise suitable for all ages.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Wildlife Spotting

The main attraction remains the opportunity to swim and snorkel in beautiful coastal waters. The clear waters and hidden caves are often praised as excellent spots for underwater exploration.

Wildlife sightings include dolphins and sea turtles, with some reviews emphasizing how special these encounters feel. The waters are generally calm, making it accessible for children and less experienced swimmers, although buoyancy aids may be limited during some parts of the trip.

Practical Tips for the Voyage

Travelers should arrive at Hersonissos Port early, as the meeting point is at Agias Paraskevis 125. Remember to bring your passport or ID, as it’s required for verification. Since hotel transfers are not included, plan your transport accordingly.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children, but not ideal for those seeking an alcohol-focused or longer cruise. The weather can affect the experience; if it’s too windy or rainy, the cruise may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

Pacing and Duration of the Tour

The 4 hour and 30-minute schedule offers a short but lively experience. The first stop at St. Georges Bay is typically the longest, allowing multiple swimming and snorkeling sessions. The remaining time is spent cruising along the coast, with beach breaks at Malia and Stalis.

Some reviews note that the overall experience can feel speedy or rushed, especially if the weather conditions limit stops or activities. Conversely, the friendly crew and lively atmosphere help fill the time with entertainment and fun.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

Priced at $62.70 per person, this cruise offers a competitive option for a half-day adventure. The included BBQ lunch, scenic stops, and friendly crew make it a good value, especially for families or groups seeking lighthearted fun.

However, some reviews mention disappointing moments, such as short stops or less impressive locations, and a few express dissatisfaction with food quality or overall length. It’s important to keep expectations realistic and remember that this tour emphasizes entertainment and coastal exploration rather than a luxury experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Pirate Ship Cruise?

This tour is ideal for families with children, couples, and groups of friends looking for a fun, interactive day on the water. The pirate theme and friendly crew create a lighthearted atmosphere suitable for all ages.

It’s less suited for guests seeking a more relaxed, scenic cruise or alcohol-focused outings. Travelers should be prepared for limited onboard amenities, no hotel transfers, and a shorter schedule. For those wanting to combine beach time with a lively boat experience, this cruise offers a memorable option.

Crete Pirate Ship Cruise with the Black Rose: A Playful Coastal Adventure

This half-day cruise from Hersonissos combines scenic coastal stops, swimming, and a pirate-themed atmosphere for a fun-filled experience. The friendly crew, delicious BBQ, and wildlife sightings add to the appeal, though some might find the main stops somewhat brief or the food options simple.

The tour’s lively vibe makes it a popular choice for families and young groups, especially those wanting a taste of pirate adventure while enjoying the beauty of Crete’s coast. Just keep in mind the no drinks included policy and lack of hotel transfers, and plan accordingly.

If you’re after a short, entertaining boat trip filled with sunshine, swimming, and good humor, the Black Rose cruise offers a whimsical and lively way to explore Crete’s waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included with this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Travelers need to arrive at Hersonissos Port at the designated meeting point.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, sunscreen, and cash or cards for drinks (not included). It’s recommended to arrive early to ensure timely boarding.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, with water stops and lunch included.

Are children allowed on this cruise?
Yes, children are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult. Some reviews mention children enjoying the swimming and jumping activities.

Can I expect wildlife sightings?
Yes, dolphins and sea turtles are sometimes spotted along the route, adding to the fun of the trip.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.