Heraklion: Preveli By Boat, Rethymno & Damnoni Secret Beaches

Discover the beauty of southern Crete on a full-day excursion to Preveli Palm Beach and the stunning coastline of Damnoni. Travel through scenic landscapes before boarding a boat to one of Crete’s most unique beaches, where golden sand meets a palm-lined river surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Enjoy free time to swim, relax, and explore. Continue to Damnoni Beach, with the chance to visit the nearby coves of Amoudi and Kleisidi. Admire the spectacular views of Kourtaliotiko Gorge along the way. This tour operates with two different itineraries depending on the day of departure: -Tuesdays: Includes free time in the charming old town of Rethymnon. -Thursdays & Saturdays: No Rethymnon stop, with extended beach time at Preveli, Damnoni, Amoudi, and Kleisidi. A perfect mix of beaches, nature, sightseeing, and relaxation—ideal for discovering Crete’s south coast in one unforgettable day.

1. 1

   Heraklion

   3 hours

   Morning Pickup We begin collecting participants from their designated pick-up points in the morning. Depending on your accommodation location, the drive to the first destination will take 2–4 hours.

2. 2

   Damnoni

   Pass by

   1st Stop: Damnoni Beach (arrival point / boat embarkation) Arrive at the beautiful beach of Damnoni, where you will board the boat heading to the famous Preveli Palm Beach.

3. 3

   Preveli Beach

   2.5 hours

   Boat Trip: 30 minutes 2nd Stop: Preveli Palm Beach (Duration: 2 hours | Tuesdays: 1 hour 30 minutes) Reach the world-renowned Preveli Beach, where golden sand meets a palm-lined river surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Enjoy free time to swim in the turquoise sea, relax on the beach, or explore the unique tropical scenery. Boat Trip: 30 minutes

4. 4

   Stop 4

   1.5 hours

   3rd Stop: Damnoni – Amoudi – Kleisidi Beaches (Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes | Tuesdays: 1 hour 10 minutes) Return to Damnoni Beach and enjoy free time for swimming, lunch, or exploring the nearby hidden coves of Amoudi and Kleisidi, all within walking distance. A perfect chance to experience some of the most beautiful beaches in southern Crete. Bus Transfer: 20 minutes

5. 5

   Kourtaliotiko Gorge

   40 min

   4th Stop: Kourtaliotiko Gorge (Duration: 10 minutes) Take in the spectacular views of the wild and rugged Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Enjoy a short photo stop to admire one of Crete’s most impressive natural landmarks. Bus Transfer: 30 minutes

6. 6

   Heraklion

   3 hours

   Embarkation in the buses from Damnoni region and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning. Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ. Bus Drive: 2–4 hours.

7. 7

   Rethymnon Old Town

   1.3 hours

   5th Stop: Rethymnon Old Town (Tuesdays only | Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes) On Tuesdays, enjoy free time in the charming old town of Rethymnon. Stroll through picturesque alleys, visit the old Venetian harbor, relax at a local café, or walk along the seaside promenade.

8. 8

   Heraklion

   2 hours

   Return to Resorts At the end of the excursion, board the bus for the return journey to your accommodation. Return times may vary depending on traffic and pick-up/drop-off locations.

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.