How to Rent a boat without a license in Crete

Updated: January 8, 2024

By PANOS BARDIS, Owner & Ceo of SEAZE THE DAY

Chartering A BOAT for a day, weekend or a week, is one of the most popular activities in Crete. However many people don’t know that they can rent a boat in Crete WITHOUT POSSESSING A  BOAT OPERATOR’S LICENSE. Continue reading this article in order to learn how you can rent a boat in Crete if you don’t have a license.What to expect and what you should have in mind before exploring the coast of Crete by yourself!

 

 

What Are The Requirements For Renting A  Small Boat In Crete?

Firstly, and most importantly, you don’t need a license to rent a boat with an engine of less than 30 hp in Greece! So if you know your way around, you can charter a small motorboat and enjoy maximum privacy. This way, you can avoid the cost of hiring a crew, thereby reducing the overall expense of your boat rental.

All that you need to do is:

1.Contact a boat rental company

2.Choose your boat.

3.Choose the date, departure time and the duration of the charter.

4.Next, you should pay a deposit to book your boat.(Most companies require you to pay 20-30% of the total cost of the boat rental)

5. Before renting the boat, you’ll get a briefing on its operation, anchoring, and emergency safety procedures.

6. Finally, you will have to sign a contract for the bareboat charter.

However, if you want to rent a motorboat with an engine larger than 30 hp, you need a valid powerboat license (RYA level 2 or ICC).

 

 

How Can I Find The Best Boat Rental Companies In Order To Rent A Boat Without A License In Crete?

The best way to rent a boat without  having a boat operator’s  license in Crete is to CONTACT A LOCAL BOAT RENTAL COMPANY.

You can manage that in the following ways:

–Google search with the keywords “rent a boat without a license near me” or “boat rental in Crete”. To be more specific, add the location where you will be staying such as Chania, Kolymbari, Ierapetra, Kissamos etc.

–Visit a local boat rental company near you to get immediate information about renting a boat without a license in Crete.

–Ask your hotel concierge to book for you directly or ask for recommendations about the best boat rental companies.

–Take a walk to the closest port near you,  find by yourself all the” Boats for Rent” companies in the area and speak directly to the owners or the employees of the companies.

Which Is The Best Season To Rent A Boat Without A License In Crete?

Some say the boat rental season in Crete starts with Easter, but it’s better to check with the city’s tourist office of the town where you want to rent a boat. If you plan to travel around Crete by boat, you should be aware that sea traffic around the island is at its busiest during  July and August (Crete’s high season), but rest assured that even during high season you will enjoy more in privacy by exploring the coast by boat than by traveling by car to any famous destinations in Crete.

 

 

What  Should I Have In Mind Before Renting A Boat Without A License In Crete?

Before renting a boat by yourself, you should have in mind the following:

First Critical Point – CHOICE OF BOAT RENTAL COMPANY

CHOOSE a reliable and experienced company that has been operating for quite some time and enjoys a good reputation.

Second Critical Point-WEATHER CONDITIONS

It is also very important to check the weather conditions from reliable websites, such as windy, poseidon, windfinder and meteo. In addition, also take into account the opinion and advice of the employees of the local boat rental company.

Third Critical Point-SAFETY

Finally, pay attention to the captain’s briefing regarding the boat safety. Be sure that the secondary engine works, and that you know how to use it before you start your trip. The boat should be equipped with lifejackets,  a First Aid kit, fire extinguishers, marine safety equipment, anchor ropes, e.t.c. A gps tracker is also a “must”, so you can be traced in case of an emergency. Be sure to provide your phone number to the rental company.

Fourth Critical Point-PRICE vs QUALITY

While looking into the different options for boat rentals, make sure to clarify with the companies the different charges. Choose companies that have their price list on their website. The prices may vary depending on season, destination and quality.

A small boat for rent usually costs 200-250 euros per day and 150-180 euros per half day in Crete. Depending on the payment policy of every company,  you will either have to pay an extra cost for the fuel, or you can agree upon a total price which includes fuel.

 

About “SEAze The Day” Boat Rental Company

There are many things to do in Crete, but visiting Crete’s coastline by private boat, is an experience people should have at least  once in a lifetime.

If you are looking for an unforgettable boat tour, then you should choose SEAze the Day Boat Rental Company! We offer quality boats and professional services!

We can help you decide on the itinerary that suits you best, so that your vacation will be full of pleasant surprises.

 

Where can I rent  a boat in Crete provided by SEAze The Day Boat Rental Company?

Our main office is based in Chania, one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. The office is open all year round, so come and visit us whenever  it is convenient.

You can also find us in Kolimbari, Kissamos of Crete.

Kolimbari is a small village with a picturesque traditional port where you can find cosy local fish taverns and a stunning sandy beach From there you can rent a boat without a lisence and visit beautiful, unspoiled beaches such as Menies, Chironisia, and many others that are not accessible by car.

We recommend  renting a small boat without a license from the port of Kolimbari to sail along the breathtaking  coast of Rodopou. Alternatively, you can choose to rent one of our skippered boats (RIBs)

What to expect from us

We work to ensure that you enjoy your holiday and have a memorable time on the water.

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, whether you’re looking for speed, excitement, or tranquility, our friendly and professional staff will be able to advise you on the best way to make the most of your holiday.  We will also instruct you in the use of the boats.

Lastly, we offer a complete service from the moment you arrive at our office until the last day of your holiday – we can assist you with any request or problem that might arise during your stay on Crete.

We offer a variety of different kinds and sizes of boats for rent according to your needs. You can rent small boats without a license and without a skipper in Kolimbari port, or a skippered RIB from Chania, Kolimbari, Kissamos and Ierapetra for a private trip to Balos, Menies or other famous destinations in Crete.

If you want to enjoy a wonderful stay on Crete while exploring the sea around the island, you can rent your boat here.