Boat Hire Crete Greece, Compare and Book Online

You want to explore Crete from the water, but you don't own a boat and you're not a licensed skipper. That's where BoatHire24 comes in. We compare boat hire options across Crete, Greece, from motor yachts to catamarans and RIBs, all with a professional skipper included. No hidden fees, no licence needed, just you and the Med.

Crete has over 1,000 km of coastline, from the pink sand of Elafonisi to the deep gorges of the south. Renting a boat is the only way to reach the secluded coves and sea caves that the tourist buses can't get to. And because every charter comes with a skipper, you can sit back, drink a beer, and let someone else do the work.

What Is Included in a Boat Hire Crete Greece

Every boat hire on BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper, fuel for a standard day trip, and basic insurance. You get the boat for a full day, usually 8-10 hours, from around 9am to 6pm. Some operators offer half-day options, from 4-5 hours, at a lower rate. The skipper knows the local waters, the best swimming spots, and the tavernas that only serve locals. They also handle mooring, anchoring, and any unexpected weather changes, so you don't have to worry about a thing.

Most boats come with a cooler, snorkelling gear, and a Bluetooth speaker. Some larger yachts include a paddleboard, a small inflatable tender, or even a water slide. You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks, or you can arrange a catering package through the operator. The skipper will have a list of recommended tavernas if you want to stop for lunch onshore. Just remember that the skipper's tips are not included, and it's customary to tip around 10-15% of the charter fee if you are happy with the service.

All charters are private, meaning you and your group are the only passengers. No shared tours, no strangers. You decide the itinerary, the pace, and the music. The skipper will advise on what's feasible given the wind and sea conditions, but the final call is yours.

Boat Types Available for Crete

The fleet in Crete is diverse. Motor yachts from 30 to 60 feet are the most popular, with flybridge or sun deck layouts. A 40-foot motor yacht typically sleeps 4-6 in cabins but is used for day charters with up to 12 guests. Prices start from around EUR 800 per day for a 30-footer and go up to EUR 3,000 for a 55-foot luxury yacht. Catamarans are also big in Crete, especially for groups who want stability and space. A 40-foot catamaran has a wide beam, a large trampoline net at the bow, and a shaded cockpit. Day rates start from EUR 1,200 for a Lagoon 38 and rise to EUR 2,500 for a 50-foot Bali or Leopard. Sailing yachts are available too, but they are slower and less common for day hire. A 38-foot monohull sailboat costs around EUR 600 per day, but you will be sailing, not motoring, so the itinerary is wind-dependent. RIBs and speedboats are the cheapest option, from EUR 400 per day for a 6-metre RIB with a 150hp outboard. They are fast, fun, and can access shallow coves that larger yachts cannot. Fishing boats are also listed, with basic equipment included, from EUR 500 per day. Superyachts over 80 feet are available on request, with prices starting at EUR 8,000 per day.

Popular Departure Ports in Crete

Most boat hires depart from Heraklion, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, or Rethymno. Heraklion is the largest port, with the most options for motor yachts and catamarans. From here you can reach Dia Island, a marine reserve with crystal clear water and no development. Chania port is smaller but more picturesque, with the Venetian lighthouse and the old town. Boats from Chania often head to the Gramvousa peninsula and Balos lagoon, famous for its turquoise water and white sand. Agios Nikolaos is on the east coast, close to the Spinalonga island fortress and the Elounda bay. Rethymno is on the north coast, with easy access to the caves of Matala and the southern beaches. Some operators also offer pickups from smaller harbours like Kissamos, Ierapetra, or Sitia. You can check the exact departure port on the boat listing page before booking.

How to Book a Boat Hire Crete Greece on BoatHire24

Booking is straightforward. Go to our search page, enter your preferred port and date, and filter by boat type, group size, and budget. You will see a list of available boats with photos, specs, and the total price. Click on a boat to see the full description, the itinerary suggestions, and the cancellation policy. To confirm, you pay a deposit online, usually 30-50% of the total. The balance is paid to the skipper on the day, in cash or by card. We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance during peak season, July and August, because the best boats go fast. For last-minute bookings, you can contact us directly and we will check availability with our partner operators. All bookings come with a 48-hour free cancellation policy, so you can change your mind without penalty.

Best Time for Boat Hire in Crete

The season runs from April to October. June, July, August and September are the best months, with air temperatures around 28-32 degrees C and water temperatures above 24 degrees C. The Meltemi wind, a strong northerly, can blow in July and August, especially on the north coast. It makes the sea choppy but also keeps the heat bearable. If you are prone to seasickness, choose a catamaran or a large motor yacht for stability. May and October are quieter and cheaper, with fewer tourists and lower prices. The water is cooler, around 18-22 degrees C, but still pleasant for swimming. The south coast of Crete is more protected from the Meltemi, so it's a good choice for sailing yachts in summer. Winter charters are not common because many operators close from November to March. If you want a boat in the off-season, contact us and we will check availability.

Who Is Boat Hire Crete Greece For

Boat hire in Crete suits everyone from couples to large groups. Families with children love the catamarans because of the space and the safety net. Groups of friends prefer motor yachts for the party vibe and the sun deck. Solo travellers can join a shared tour if they want, but most boats are private. Corporate events and team-building trips are also possible, with catering and AV equipment available on larger yachts. If you are a non-swimmer, don't worry, the skipper will provide life jackets and the boat has a ladder for easy access. The only requirement is that you can climb the boarding ladder from the water, which is usually a few steps. If you have mobility issues, let us know and we will find a boat with a swim platform at water level.

You don't need any sailing experience, a licence, or even the ability to swim. The skipper handles everything. You just need to bring sunscreen, a towel, and a sense of adventure. Alcohol is allowed, but the skipper will not serve it if you are going to swim. You can bring your own beer and wine, but no glass bottles on the boat, use plastic cups.

What to Expect on the Day

On the morning of your charter, you meet the skipper at the designated port. They will give a safety briefing, show you the toilet and the cabin, and ask about your preferred itinerary. Most skippers have a default route but are happy to customise. A typical day starts with a 30-minute cruise to the first swimming spot, then a couple of hours of swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. Around 1pm, you stop for lunch, either on the boat or at a beach taverna. The skipper will recommend a place and can call ahead to reserve a table. After lunch, you cruise to a second spot, maybe a sea cave or a hidden beach, then head back to port around 5pm. The skipper will clean the boat, so you don't have to do anything. You can tip them directly .

Why Book Through BoatHire24

We are a marketplace, not a boat operator. That means you can compare multiple boats and prices in one place, without having to contact each company separately. We verify all operators and skippers, so you know they are licensed and insured. Our BoatHire24 platform handles the booking and payment securely. If anything goes wrong, we act as the middleman to resolve disputes. We also have a blog with guides on the best beaches, anchorages, and tavernas in Crete, written by locals. Check it out before you book to get ideas for your itinerary.

Price Guidance for Boat Hire Crete Greece

Prices vary by boat type, size, season, and duration. For a half-day (4-5 hours) on a 6-metre RIB, expect to pay from around EUR 400. A full day on a 40-foot motor yacht costs from EUR 800 to EUR 1,200 in low season, and from EUR 1,400 to EUR 2,000 in August. Catamarans are more expensive, from EUR 1,200 to EUR 2,500 per day. Superyachts are price on request, but you can expect EUR 8,000 and up. Fuel is included in the price, but if you want to go on a long trip, like from Chania to Balos, the operator may charge a fuel supplement. Always confirm what is included before you book. The price you see on the listing is the total for the boat, not per person. You can split it among your group. For a group of 10, a EUR 1,500 motor yacht costs EUR 150 per person, which is cheaper than a day trip on a tourist boat.

Local Tips for Your Crete Boat Trip

Crete has some of the best snorkelling in the Mediterranean. The waters around Dia Island and the south coast are clear and full of fish. Bring an underwater camera. The sea caves near Matala are worth a visit, but the skipper will know which ones are safe to enter. If you want to see turtles, head to the bay of Elounda. For a quiet anchor, try the beach of Plakias on the south coast. The water is calm and the taverna on the beach serves fresh fish. Avoid the north coast ports in the afternoon if the Meltemi is blowing, it can get rough. The skipper will adjust the itinerary accordingly. If you are prone to seasickness, take a tablet an hour before departure. You can buy them at any pharmacy in Greece.

Crete is a big island, and you cannot see it all in one day. Focus on one region. If you are staying in Chania, explore the west. If you are in Heraklion, go east to Agios Nikolaos. The boat trip is about relaxing, not racing. Let the skipper set the pace. You can always book another day if you want to see more.

Exploring Crete’s South Coast by Boat

The south coast of Crete is a different world from the busier north. The Libyan Sea is warmer and usually calmer, especially in July and August when the Meltemi wind hits the north. Departing from Ierapetra or Matala, you can reach beaches that are inaccessible by road. Try the beach of Preveli, where a palm forest meets the sea, or the cove of Agiofarago with its sandstone cliffs. The village of Loutro is only reachable by boat or on foot, so it feels like a secret. A full-day charter from Ierapetra to Chrissi Island, a protected nature reserve with white sand and cedar trees, costs around EUR 900 for a 30-foot motor yacht. The water is so clear you can see the sea grass 15 metres down. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, because some areas are protected and regular sunscreen damages the marine life.

Half-Day vs Full-Day Charters: Which One Works

A half-day charter, usually 4-5 hours, is enough for a quick swim and a taverna lunch. It costs from around EUR 400 for a RIB and EUR 600 for a small motor yacht. You depart at 9am or 2pm, so you either get the morning calm or the afternoon heat. A full day, 8-10 hours, lets you cover more ground, visit two or three swimming spots, and stop for a longer lunch onshore. The price difference is roughly 40-60% more for a full day. If you are a family with young children, a half-day might be better because kids get tired and bored after six hours. If you are a group of adults who want to party and swim, go for the full day. The skipper will have a cooler with ice, so your drinks stay cold all day.

What to Pack for a Boat Day in Crete

You need a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen (factor 50, water-resistant), and a hat. The sun is strong from 11am to 4pm, and the reflection off the water burns you faster. A light long-sleeve shirt or a rash guard helps. Bring a dry bag for your phone and wallet, because splashes happen. Most boats have a small toilet and a cabin where you can change. If you plan to eat onshore, bring cash because some tavernas on remote beaches do not accept cards. The boat has a Bluetooth speaker, but bring your own playlist. Do not bring glass bottles; the skipper will provide plastic cups. A pair of water shoes is useful if you want to walk on pebble beaches. And a windbreaker for the afternoon, because the wind picks up and the boat ride back can be cool.

Boat Hire for Special Occasions in Crete

Birthday parties, anniversaries, and proposals are common on Crete boat charters. Many operators offer decoration packages, including banners, balloons, and a bottle of sparkling wine. For a proposal, the skipper can arrange a secluded cove, a sunset timing, and a photographer on a separate boat if you want. The cost for extras is around EUR 50-150, depending on what you ask. Some larger catamarans have a DJ setup and a sound system for parties. If you want a catered meal on board, the operator can arrange a Greek meze platter with grilled octopus, tzatziki, and fresh bread for around EUR 25 per person. Just tell us when you book, and we will pass the request to the skipper. No glass, no confetti that goes into the sea, because that harms marine life and the skipper will refuse.

Related guides

• Boat Rental Benalmadena Marina: Compare & Book Online
• Jet Ski Hire Marbella, Compare & Book Online
• Boat Hire Puerto Banus: Book Your Charter Today
• Yacht Hire Marbella: Book Your Dream Boat
• The Best Time to Charter a Boat in Marbella
• Starlite Boat Rental Marbella: Concert Transfer by Sea

Own a boat? How Much Can I Earn Renting My Boat?.