The best boat trips around Chania

Dec 2, 2024 | Crete

Chania, one of Crete's most beautiful regions, is known for its picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters and magnificent coastal scenery. Exploring Chania by sea is a unique experience, and there are a number of boat trips that will allow you to discover the hidden gems of this region. 

Whether you're looking for a family adventure, a romantic getaway or a day of snorkelling, there's no shortage of options. Here's a guide to the best boat trips around Chania.

Book with local operators: To support Chania's economy, explore the excursion options offered by local companies such as Chania Adventures and Sea Star Chania Cruises.

CONTENTS

1 - The bay of Balos and the island of Gramvousa

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One of the most popular boat trips around Chania is a visit to Balos Bay and the island of Gramvousa. This excursion takes you to heavenly beaches and landscapes that look straight out of a postcard.

Book here: Discover this boat trip around Chania with Balos Travel, a local agency that works with local boats and guides.

Discovering Balos Bay

Balos is famous for its white sand and turquoise waters. It is a unique lagoon where the sea changes colour depending on the angle of the sun. On your boat trip around Chania, you can relax on the beach, explore the lagoon on foot or simply enjoy the magnificent view from the boat.

Visit to the island of Gramvousa

Gramvousa is a historic island with a Venetian hilltop fort. After a short hike to the fort, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. It's also an excellent spot for swimming or snorkelling, making this boat trip around Chania a memorable experience. a must-see.

2 - Excursion to the island of Thodorou

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For those wishing to take a boat trip around Chania Shorter but just as exciting, a visit to the island of Thodorou is an excellent option. Located just a few kilometres off the coast of Chania, this island is a protected nature reserve.

More info and bookings : Consult Notos mare  for personalised cruise options around Thodorou.

History of the island of Thodorou

The island of Thodorou has a fascinating history, not least as a refuge for the wild kri-kri goats, a species endemic to Crete. On your boat trip around Chania, you'll have the chance to catch a glimpse of these rare animals and learn more about local wildlife conservation.

Snorkelling and relaxation

The waters around Thodorou are perfect for snorkelling. Visibility is excellent, and you can admire a wide variety of fish and other marine creatures. For those who prefer to relax, it's possible to enjoy the scenery while cruising leisurely around the island during your boat trip around Chania.

3 - Boat trip to Seitan Limania beach

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Seitan Limania is one of Crete's most impressive beaches, and getting there by boat is an adventure in itself. This boat trip around Chania.  offers you the chance to explore this hidden cove in a unique way.

Book your excursion : Go on an adventure with Chania Boat Trips, a company that works with local operators to offer boat trips around Chania.

Sailing to Seitan Limania

Accessing Seitan Limania by boat is a spectacular experience. You'll pass steep cliffs and secluded coves before arriving at this white sandy beach surrounded by impressive rock formations. The contrast between the rugged rocks and the azure waters is breathtaking, making this boat trip around Chania an unforgettable experience.  unforgettable.

On-site activities

Once there, you can swim in the crystal-clear waters, explore the cliffs or simply relax on the sand. Don't forget to bring your camera, as the views here are incredible!

4 - Sunset cruise in Chania

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If you're looking for a more romantic experience, a sunset cruise is a must on any boat trip around Chania. Chania is famous for its spectacular sunsets, and watching them from a boat is an unforgettable experience.

See cruise options : Book a romantic excursion for a memorable evening on your boat trip around Chania. Example: visit Check Yeti

A natural spectacle

The boat usually departs from the port of Chania and sails along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding mountains. As the sun sets, the sky turns shades of orange, pink and purple, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Dinner and music

Some sunset cruises offer dinner on board, accompanied by live music or a relaxing playlist. This is the perfect opportunity to savour Cretan dishes while enjoying the romantic atmosphere of the evening on this boat trip around Chania.

5 - Exploring the sea caves of Chania

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The coast of Chania is dotted with fascinating sea caves, and exploring them by boat or even padle is a unique adventure. These caves are often inaccessible by land, which makes this boat trip around Chania even more special.

Book your cave exploration : Opt for a visit with Chania Adventures for an authentic local experience and boat trip around Chania. 

Visit to the caves of Eleftherios Venizelos

The caves near Stavros, known as the Caves of Eleftherios Venizelos, are one of the highlights of this boat trip around Chania. These impressive geological formations are home to stalactites and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling.

Snorkelling and exploring

The sea caves of Chania offer ideal conditions for snorkelling. You can swim in clear waters, explore sea caves and observe the aquatic life that thrives in these protected ecosystems.

5 - Full-day boat trip around Chania to Falassarna beach

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Falassarna beach, to the west of Chania, is another must for boat trips around Chania.  This beach is famous for its golden sands and incredibly clear waters.

More info and booking : Take a cruise with Cretan Daily Cruises to discover Falassarna in a unique way during your boat trip around Chania.

Boat trip to Falassarna

A cruise to Falassarna is a relaxing way to discover Crete's west coast. Once there, you can swim, snorkel or simply relax on the beach.

Lunch on the boat

Most excursions include lunch on board, with Cretan specialities such as fresh salads, grilled fish and raki, the famous local brandy. It's a great way to sample the flavours of Crete while admiring the seascape.

6 - Practical tips for a boat trip around Chania

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  • Book in advance : Some excursions are very popular, especially in high season.
  • Bring sun cream : The Cretan sun can be intense, even at sea.
  • Bring your snorkelling equipment The waters of Chania are perfect for underwater exploration.

Conclusion

When you choose one of these boat trips around Chania, you'll have the chance to see all the sights.ou're guaranteed an unforgettable experience when you explore Crete from the sea. Prepare to be amazed by the spectacular scenery and discover the hidden treasures of this magnificent region.

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