Souda Bay is a particularly picturesque, protected, beautiful, natural harbour and a place of strategic importance through the centuries.
The pirate ship “BLACK PEARL” departs daily at 09:30 from Souda Port for the pirate cruise around Souda Bay and returns to the same port at 15:00, from May to October.
Traveling through the clear blue waters of the bay and listening to pleasant music, the ship heads toward the northwestern side of the bay, where the steep slopes of the Akrotiri peninsula form stunning beaches.
One of the finest beaches in the area is Marathi, where the ship arrives after a short voyage and remains for two hours, giving passengers the opportunity to disembark and enjoy swimming at its beautiful beach.
The sandy shore of Marathi, combined with its shallow waters and natural protection from the winds due to its location, makes it ideal for families and children.
Continuing its journey through the crystal-clear waters of the bay, the ship passes by Souda Islet and the round Leon Islet located nearby.
Apart from the unparalleled beauty of the landscape, the famous Fortetsa, the renowned Venetian fortress built on the islet in 1571—one of Crete’s most important castles—offers an impressive sight.
Near a selected beach, depending on the weather, the ship will anchor for approximately 2 hours, allowing time for swimming, diving, and fun in the clear waters.
Passengers are provided with free water-sports equipment, such as life vests, boards, snorkel masks, flippers, balls, and more.
The ship’s self-service restaurant-bar remains open throughout the cruise, offering tasty meals, salads, wine, snacks, coffee, soft drinks, ice creams, and more.
On the return trip, the breathtaking view of the mountains of the Apokoronas Peninsula, towering above the bay, will captivate you.
At the top of one of these mountains, you will notice the ancient city of Aptera, one of the most significant city-states of western Crete in antiquity.
At Kalami Hill, you will see the historic Turkish Fortress Izzedin, built in 1870 and designated as a cultural heritage monument.
The marvelous journey aboard the impressive and comfortable BLACK PEARL, combined with the area’s incredible natural beauty, makes this cruise an exciting and unforgettable experience.
Cruise Schedule
Departure from Souda Port, Chania 09:30
Tour of Souda Bay towards Marathi 09:30–10:00
Arrival at Marathi Beach — Disembarkation 10:00–12:00
Departure from Marathi 12:15
Tour of Souda Bay and arrival near a selected beach 12:15–14:30
Swimming stop & lunch on board
Tour of the bay and return trip to Souda Port 14:30–15:00
Arrival at Souda Port 15:00