Chania is a fantastic base for exploring Crete’s coast by boat. Its charming Old Port, historic Venetian harbor, and nearby islands make it ideal for both scenic daytime cruises and romantic sunset sails. Whether you’re after a relaxing day lounging on deck, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or discovering hidden coves, Chania offers something for every boat lover. We particularly love the full-day catamaran trips that combine comfort, delicious local food, and scenic views—like the Chania: All-inclusive Catamaran Trip to Agioi Theodoroi. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a true taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
If a quick escape is more your style, the Boat Trip to Lazaretta Island with Swim Stop offers a short, affordable trip with snorkeling and stunning views of the Venetian lighthouse. Or, for a private experience, the Private boat trip Chania – Thodorou – Lazaretta makes for a personal adventure tailored just for your group.
Below you’ll find a detailed look at each of the top cruises and boat tours available in Chania, along with practical advice to help you pick the right trip for your travel style and budget.
1. From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

At number one, this popular cruise offers a full 7 hours exploring Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. The tour includes a scenic ferry ride, exploration of the Venetian castle, and time for swimming in the lagoon’s emerald waters. The highlight is the opportunity to hike up to the Venetian castle for panoramic views of Balos. The cruise also features a large cave in the bay, believed to have been an ancient shipyard, adding a sense of history to the natural beauty. Reviewers praise the calm sea conditions, friendly staff, and the chance to see two stunning spots in one trip. The included lunch offers decent value, though bringing your own might enhance the experience. This tour suits travelers seeking a longer, immersive day on cretan waters with plenty of swimming and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a comprehensive day out with scenic views, history, and plenty of time to relax on one of Crete’s most famous beaches.
2. From Chania: Boat Trip to Lazaretta Island with Swim Stop

This 2-hour trip is perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of the sea. Starting from Chania, the boat passes the iconic Venetian lighthouse and heads to Lazaretta Island. The small island offers a peaceful setting for snorkeling and swimming, with clear waters and a sandy shore. The trip is guided and features a close pass of the Venetian harbor, making it a scenic yet relaxed outing. The reviews highlight the reasonable price ($19 per person) and the intimacy of the small group experience. It’s ideal for families or anyone craving a quick, tranquil escape with the chance to snorkel in unspoiled waters.
Bottom Line: A short, budget-friendly trip that delivers a peaceful swim and beautiful views—perfect for a half-day adventure.
3. Chania: Morning Catamaran Cruise with Premium Lunch & Drinks

For around $141, this luxurious 5-hour catamaran sets sail from Kolymvari towards the Agioi Theodoroi Islands. The vessel is spacious and comfortable, with all-inclusive food and drinks, including a Mediterranean-style lunch, seafood, wine, and beer. The tour includes snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboarding, making it a full-day of fun in the sun. The highlight is the scenic bay with transparent waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing on deck. Reviewed as “well-run” with “delicious food,” it’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, upscale experience with all amenities covered.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a mid-morning to early afternoon luxury escape with plenty of water activities and great food.
4. From Chania: Guided Tour to Loutro (Boat tickets Included)

This 10-hour tour combines a scenic drive, a private boat ride, and free time in the picturesque town of Loutro. The journey includes a stop at Imbros Gorge, then a boat from Sfakia to Loutro—often called the “mini-Santorini” for its white buildings and crystal waters. Reviewers emphasize the perfectly timed 4 hours in Loutro for swimming, relaxing, and lunch. The boat ride itself is an experience, with beautiful views and the chance to see remote coves. This tour is best suited for those who want a day of varied scenery and time to soak in the charm of Loutro.
Bottom Line: A full-day trip blending scenery, light hiking, and free time in one of Crete’s most photogenic villages.
5. Private boat trip Chania – Thodorou – Lazaretta (price per group)

If you’re after a truly personalized experience, this private 2.5-hour trip offers the chance to explore Chania’s waters with a local skipper. You’ll visit Thodorou Island, known for its goats, and Lazaretta Island, with options for snorkeling and swimming. The boat is exclusive for your group (up to 9 people), and snorkel gear is included. The reviews highlight the flexibility, attentive crew, and excellent value for a private outing. It’s great for families, small groups, or couples seeking privacy and a tailored itinerary.
Bottom Line: An intimate, flexible experience perfect for those wanting to customize their day on the water.
6. From Kissamos Port: Boat cruise to Balos lagoon

This shorter, 5-hour cruise emphasizes Balos Lagoon’s beauty, with a relaxing 3-hour stop for swimming and exploring. The boat ride includes views of a famous cave, believed to be an ancient shipyard. The water here is famously clear, ideal for snorkeling and soaking up the sun. Reviewers mention the calm conditions and friendly staff, making it a good choice for those who want a shorter, scenic trip focused on Balos.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a shorter day of sun and swimming at one of Crete’s most iconic beaches.
7. Chania: Self-Drive Boat and another with Skiper 7.50m

If you’re comfortable with boats and want control, this rental allows you to explore Chania’s coast at your pace. You can drive a small boat (up to 6 people) or opt for a boat with a skipper. It’s a flexible option, letting you choose between a few hours or a full day of sailing. The review highlights the freedom to explore islands like Theodorou and Lazareta freely. It’s best for confident boaters who want independence and a customizable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers who want to be their own captain and explore Crete’s waters at their own speed.
8. Chania Old Port: All-inclusive Catamaran Trip to Agioi Theodori

This full-day luxury cruise offers a blend of relaxation and fun, departing from Chania’s Old Port. The trip includes a delicious Mediterranean lunch, all drinks, and equipment for snorkeling, SUP, and inflatables. The scenic route takes you to Agioi Theodoroi Island, with plenty of swimming and sightseeing. The reviews appreciate the professional crew and the variety of activities onboard, making it a popular choice for those wanting a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience.
Bottom Line: A top pick for travelers seeking a luxurious, full-day sea adventure with excellent amenities and flexible options.
9. Chania: Private Day Catamaran Cruise with Swimming and Meal

This private 5-hour cruise is perfect for families or groups wanting exclusivity. Departing from Kolymvari, it features stops at Agioi Theodoroi islands, with swimming, snorkeling, and a Mediterranean meal included. The reviews note the attentive crew, the quality of the food, and the fun extras like inflatable flamingos. The private setting makes it a special, customizable adventure, ideal for celebrations or just a quiet day on the water.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, private escape for those who want to tailor their day and enjoy personalized service.
10. Chania Old Port: Luxury Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Wine

This 3.5-hour sunset cruise is a romantic way to experience Chania’s coastline. Departing from the historic Old Port, the elegant catamaran takes you to Agioi Theodoroi as the sun dips below the horizon. All drinks, including wine and soft drinks, are included, and the onboard amenities are designed for relaxation. Reviewers mention the stunning sunset views and attentive crew. It’s perfect for couples or anyone looking for a memorable evening at sea.
Bottom Line: An intimate, scenic cruise ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations.
11. Chania: Falasarna & Balos Cruise with Transfer & Boat Ticket

This 10-hour tour combines two popular destinations, Falasarna Beach and Balos Lagoon. The package includes pre-booked sunbeds, transfers via bus, and boat tickets—making logistics much easier. You get time for swimming, relaxing on the sand, and sightseeing. Reviews suggest this is a value-packed day, especially for those who want to visit multiple beaches with minimal hassle. The trip is well-organized and suits travelers eager to combine beach days with scenic boat rides.
Bottom Line: Great for beach lovers who want a full-day, hassle-free tour covering two of Crete’s top beaches.
12. Chania: Private Sailing Cruise with Snorkel, Lunch & Drinks

For those seeking a personalized sailing experience, this private cruise offers a full 7-hour day aboard a well-equipped boat. You’ll sail around the Gulf of Chania, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The onboard meal features traditional Cretan meze, fresh fruits, and drinks. The review praises the friendly crew and the opportunity to enjoy the city from a different perspective. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting an exclusive and relaxed day on the water.
Bottom Line: A tailored, private sailing day ideal for those who want flexibility and personalized service.
13. Chania: Sunset Tour by Private Boat

This 4-hour private sunset cruise offers a romantic escape along Chania’s coast. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the sunset over Lazaretta and Agioi Theodoroi islands. The reviews note how peaceful and beautiful the experience is, perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion. The private boat allows for an intimate experience, with options for swimming and sunset viewing. It’s best suited for those seeking a romantic, quiet evening.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for couples or small groups seeking a memorable, private sunset experience.
14. 5 hrs Sail in Chania: Sailing, Swimming, Lunch and Drinks

This 5-hour sail is a straightforward, well-reviewed option for those who want to enjoy the sea, a good meal, and some swimming without fuss. The boat departs from Ellis and features multiple stops—swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views, topped off with Greek cuisine and an open bar. The review describes it as “good value,” emphasizing the mix of sailing, fun, and relaxation. Suitable for groups who want a full but manageable day at sea.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a balanced experience of sailing, dining, and swimming in a shorter, easy-to-manage trip.
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour in Chania
Picking the right cruise depends on your budget, interests, and the kind of experience you seek. If you want a full-day, luxurious adventure, the All-inclusive Catamaran Trip to Agioi Theodoroi is hard to beat. For a shorter, budget-friendly outing, the Lazaretta Island Swim offers a quick escape with snorkeling. If privacy and customization matter, consider the Private Boat Trip.
Travelers interested in combining cultural sights with boat trips might prefer the Loutro Guided Tour, especially if you enjoy scenic drives and charming villages. For romance, the Sunset Private Cruise provides a peaceful, unforgettable evening.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular full-day excursions or private charters, to ensure availability during peak season or special occasions.
To sum it up, Chania offers a wide variety of cruise options for every taste and budget. From relaxed day trips to private luxury sails, each provides a different way to experience the beauty of Crete’s coast. For a family outing, a romantic sunset, or an active snorkeling adventure, you’ll find a boat tour that fits your style. As always, plan ahead and book early—these trips fill up fast, especially during the warm summer months. Whatever your choice, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable day on the sea in Crete.