If it's a hot day, head to Argiroupolis. There's lots of "history" here (probably not practical with the children) but the lower village is full of water (streams, waterfalls, tavernas with water features). It's a lot cooler than at the coast, you can have a very reasonable lunch in one of the tavernas and the boys will love the water!

Do not miss a trip on one of the the very authentic looking replica pirate ships that leaves from Rethymnon old port !!

Take the half day trip to Panormo; you get a look close up at some sea caves (nothing special) then an hour on the beach (or to look round the town) at Panormo, an old fishing village, for best value.

But it is the shp itself that is so great for the young ones ! The crew are happy to let the kids steer the ship (aided of course!) they even dress up as pirates on the way back and interact with the children.

About 18 euro per adult and about half that for kids,..... under a certain age, kids are free.

For a nice relaxing family day out there's also a waterpark called Limnopolis, just on the other side of Chania. Really cheap for admission also and there's nothing more relaxing that a few rounds on the lazy river!!!

Also DO NOT miss out on going down the south coast to Plakias and Frangokastello, may not be keen to drive as the roads are a bit scary but there are organised bus trips which go down there and it's well worth it, the scenery is amazing.

This replica pirate ship - is it easy to find out about? I have looked on the net - nothing...
Leah

Hi Leah

Just go down to the old harbour around 9.00am ...its not a big place ....you won't miss them.

There are 2 ships...'The Barbarossa' and the slightly smaller 'Captain Hook' Some more info ;

http://www.crete-connections.com/About_Crete.htm#Sail%20on%20a%20pirate%20ship

http://www.cretetravel.com/images/Rethymno/large/harbour_boatcafe.jpg

http://www.dreamstime.com/pirateship-image461062

Judy

Thanks Judy!