Parasailing on Rethymno Beach, Crete: Banana Boat Flight

Float over the Aegean while tethered to a moving boat, then descend back to the deck.

Parasailing on Rethymno Beach in Crete pairs you with an expert crew and a banana boat that tows you aloft on a parachute for 10 minutes of flight over the coastline and sea. Safety gear, the vessel and all equipment are included; an English or Greek-speaking guide accompanies you from the boat into the air and back. The starting time may shift by up to 30 minutes depending on weather or crowd levels for safety reasons.

The Experience

The banana boat is where the action starts. You'll board with the crew, get fitted into your harness and safety equipment, then feel the boat accelerate as the tow line pulls you skyward. Within 10 minutes you're floating, the wind and sun hitting you as the Aegean spreads below and the Rethymno coastline unfolds in front of you. The instructor stays with you throughout — from the boat before launch through the flight itself.

The descent is controlled and gentle; you'll settle back onto the boat to finish the ride. The whole experience runs about 10 minutes in the air, though weather or safety protocols can shift your start time by up to half an hour. The crew handles all the technical setup, so your job is to show up ready to strap in and let the parachute do the work.

Public transportation reaches the beach, and the crew speaks English or Greek. Not recommended if you have spinal injuries, cardiovascular concerns or are pregnant; otherwise it suits any fitness level. Food and drinks aren't part of the package, and private transport isn't included — plan your own way to Rethymno Beach or use the local options nearby.

What’s included

• Safety equipment and harness.
• banana boat and parachute.
• use of all gear needed for the flight.
• experienced crew in English or Greek throughout the activity.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Popeye Watersports

Is this one for you?The 10-minute flight means you're in the air long enough to feel the full experience without a major time commitment — ideal if you want the thrill of parasailing without blocking out your whole afternoon. The crew handles every technical step, so you show up and float; no prior water sports skill or training needed.

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Top questions

How long am I actually in the air parasailing at Rethymno Beach?

The flight lasts about 10 minutes from the moment the boat tows you aloft until you descend back to the deck. The crew handles the tow and the landing, so you float and take in the view.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day I book?

Your start time may shift by up to 30 minutes due to weather conditions or if the beach is too crowded for safety reasons. The crew makes the call to keep everyone secure.

Do I need to know how to swim or be in great shape to parasail?

Parasailing at Rethymno Beach suits all fitness levels. You don't swim — you're tethered to the boat the whole time. The crew handles the technical work; you just experience the flight.

What's included in the parasailing activity?

Safety gear, the banana boat, the parachute and all equipment are included, along with an experienced crew who guide you through the entire experience. They speak English or Greek.

Is food or drink provided, and how do I get to Rethymno Beach?

Food and drinks are not included in the parasailing activity. Public transportation options are available near the beach; private transport is not part of the package, so arrange your own way there.