While the advertised terms are attractive, a closer examination reveals necessary caveats that potential customers should consider. The zero excess and no deposit model is highlighted prominently, yet the WUG coverage is explicitly excluded for off-road travel, which is a common activity in Crete. This distinction is crucial and must be understood before assuming full protection. Additionally, the fuel policy is stated as full to full, but the exact procedure for refueling and verification is not detailed in the summary text. For someone considering this company, it is advisable to review the full terms and conditions regarding vehicle categories and age restrictions, particularly for drivers under twenty-five or over seventy-five, as these groups may face different conditions. The lack of explicit pricing for these specific scenarios means that final costs should be verified directly with the team to avoid surprises.
Questions about Car Hire Crete
What is Car Hire Crete?
Car Hire Crete is a family-run car rental company operating in Crete since 1984, registered under EOT 1039E81. They offer hire cars from €22 per day with full insurance that includes zero excess and no credit card deposit. The company provides free hotel delivery in the Heraklion area and allows customers to book directly without going through a broker or call centre.
Where are the pick-up and drop-off locations?
Customers can pick up and drop off vehicles at Heraklion Airport, Chania Airport, Heraklion Port, and various towns across Crete such as Hersonissos, Malia, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos. The business operates from 07:00 to 23:00 at airport offices and has five city and resort offices including locations in Heraklion City Centre and Hersonissos. They also offer out-of-hours airport collection on request if called ahead.
How long has the company been operating and what is its size?
The company has been operating for 42 years, with the website stating they have been in Crete for 44 years. They are a second-generation family business and a member of the Greek Tourism Organisation. Their fleet consists of 440 vehicles across 6 locations in Crete.
How does the booking process work?
To get started, customers can reserve a car online or by phone/email, receive written confirmation, and pay in full at the rental desk when collecting the vehicle. No payment is taken at the time of reservation, and the main driver must be present at pick-up with their own licence and a valid form of ID. The booking process includes selecting a vehicle category, transmission, and seats from 40 models.
What is included in the quoted price?
The price includes VAT, CDW insurance, unlimited mileage, roadside assistance, and pick-up at specified airports or ports. Free hotel delivery is available from Heraklion to Malia, while delivery charges for other areas are shown in the quote before booking. Optional extras like baby seats or young driver surcharges for ages 21–23 may apply.
What are the driver age requirements and payment methods?
Drivers must be between 24 and 74 years old for the standard rate, though surcharges apply for those aged 21–23 and 75–85. The company accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and cash, with no credit card surcharge. Contactless and chip & PIN are accepted at all locations.
What insurance and excess terms apply?
Every hire includes Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, and Third-Party Liability to the legal minimum required in Greece, all with €0 excess. Full coverage (WUG) including glass, tyres, and underbody is included on paved (asphalt) roads, but off-road driving is excluded. The excess amount is €0.
What cancellation and additional driver policies are in place?
Free cancellation is available up to the time of collection, and the company offers free additional drivers. They also provide 24/7 roadside assistance and free cancellation policies. The only additions to the price are optional extras chosen by the customer.
What is the Trustburn rating and how do they handle inquiries?
The company has a Trustburn rating of 3.8 out of 5 from 4 reviews. They respond to inquiries within 2 hours, usually much faster, and offer WhatsApp support. The website states they reply in less than 2 hours.
What do reviewers praise about the service?
Some reviewers on Trustburn praise the zero excess and no credit card deposit policies, as well as the direct booking process without a broker. The company highlights its family-run nature and EOT licensing as key features. They also mention free hotel delivery and the ability to book directly.
How are the offices structured and what are their hours?
The company operates five offices including airport meet-and-greet services at Heraklion and Chania airports. They have city and resort offices in Heraklion, Hersonissos, and Stalida, with specific addresses and opening hours. Airport offices operate daily from 07:00 to 22:00, while city offices have different hours.
How does the pricing transparency work?
The website states that the price is what you pay at the counter with no surprises, and they do not add fuel surcharges or admin fees. They also offer a one-price policy with everything included. The only additions are optional extras like baby seats or young driver surcharges.
What vehicle categories and models are available?
The company provides a fleet of 40 models with options for economy, compact, SUV, automatic, minivan, and 7–9 seat vehicles. They also offer convertible and 9-seater options. The fleet is regularly updated to meet customer needs.
What are the legal and registration details?
The company is registered under EOT 1039E81 and is a trading name of NIKOLAOS CHONDROS AETXE. They are a family business that has been operating since 1984. The website also mentions they are a member of the Greek Tourism Organisation.
What are the key features that distinguish this company?
The company offers a free cancellation policy and a no deposit policy, which are highlighted as key features. They also provide a zero excess policy and a no credit card deposit policy. These features are designed to simplify the rental process for customers.
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4 Reviews
1 question · Jump to Q&ALove that they have offices at both airports and multiple resort locations. Getting the keys at Heraklion airport seemed super easy with the direct meet and greet. No waiting in long lines for us. The team at the counter was helpful and we got on the road fast. Perfect for exploring the island.
From the information available, Hire Cars Crete presents a compelling value proposition for visitors to the island. The claim of zero excess and no deposit is a strong differentiator, especially when compared to other providers that often block significant amounts on credit cards or charge hefty excess fees. The inclusion of free additional drivers and baby seats adds tangible value. The fleet size of 440 vehicles across six locations suggests substantial capacity, which should minimize wait times. However, the operational hours at city offices end earlier than at the airports, which could be restrictive for late arrivals unless airport collection is used. The offer of free hotel delivery anywhere in Crete is attractive, though the specific terms regarding drop-off locations should be confirmed. Overall, the service appears well-structured for tourists who prefer transparency over hidden fees.
Booking directly with the team at the airport feels much more personal than dealing with a generic call centre.
Questions & Answers
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About Car Hire Crete
Car Hire Crete is a family-run car rental company operating in Crete since 1984. It offers hire cars from €22 per day with full insurance that includes zero excess and no credit card deposit. The company provides free hotel delivery in the Heraklion area and allows customers to book directly without going through a broker or call centre. Pick-up and drop-off locations include Heraklion Airport, Chania Airport, Heraklion Port, and various towns across Crete such as Hersonissos, Malia, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos. The business operates from 07:00 to 23:00 and is registered under EOT 1039E81.
- Website
- caravelway.com
- Phone
- +306986648641
- [email protected]
- Categories
- Automotive
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