Chania: Private Boat Tour to Menies with BBQ and Drinks

Discover the Unique Beach of Menies from Chania

The private boat tour to Menies in Crete offers an exciting four-hour experience starting from the Venetian port of Chania. For a straightforward price, you’ll enjoy a luxurious journey that combines crystal-clear waters, historical sites, and delicious food and drinks. This tour is perfect for those wanting an intimate, flexible outing with personalized guidance. While it is not suitable for individuals with motion sickness or over the age of 95, it caters well to adventurous spirits and lovers of scenic coastal spots.

The tour features a speedboat trip, visits to ancient ruins, and a BBQ on the beach, all wrapped up in a manageable four-hour window. The provider, Chania Boats Old Harbour, holds a solid 4.3-star rating, reflecting a reliable and enjoyable experience. The combination of historical exploration, water activities, and a tasty BBQ makes this outing a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.

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Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours from the Venetian port of Chania
• Starting Point: Akti Enoseos 8, Chania
• Highlights: Swimming, snorkeling, SUP board use, archaeological site visits, BBQ on Menies Beach
• Includes: Snacks, refreshments, beers, and soft drinks
• Provider Rating: 4.3 stars
• Group Type: Private, with live English-speaking guide

Departure and Meeting Details at Chania’s Old Harbour

The tour departs from Akti Enoseos 8, with the meeting point marked at RED BOATS, located at coordinates 35.51909637451172, 24.022817611694336. The experience starts with a speedboat ride that lasts approximately four hours, taking you from the busy Venetian port to the more secluded and scenic Menies Beach. The private setting means you avoid crowds, making for a more relaxed outing, especially suitable for groups seeking exclusivity.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point, offering a straightforward and convenient start and finish. This setup provides flexibility in planning your day while ensuring smooth logistics for all participants.

Exploring Menies Beach and Its Historical Importance

Menies Beach is renowned as one of the most beautiful in Chania, featuring crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are calm and inviting, and snorkel gear is provided to explore marine life beneath the surface. The SUP board available on the boat adds a playful element, allowing guests to paddle around at their leisure.

Menies is located on the site of Ancient Diktynn, a significant sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Vritomartis—a figure merged with Artemis—who drew followers during the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Visitors can see the ruins of an ancient Roman temple and an abandoned 9th-century monastery of Agios Georgios. These sites are accessible on foot during the stop, offering a glimpse into Crete’s historical layers.

The Roman Temple and 9th Century Monastery

The archaeological site at Menies offers a chance to walk among the ruins of the Roman temple, once a center of worship for goddess Vritomartis. Nearby, the abandoned monastery of Agios Georgios, dating back to the 9th century, provides a sense of the island’s spiritual history. While the tour focuses on the natural beauty, these ruins add an enriching dimension, connecting the landscape with its ancient past.

Guests do not need to prepare for extensive walking, as the history is accessible during the beach stop, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The site’s significance enhances the experience, especially for those interested in Crete’s mythological and archaeological background.

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Water Activities and the Beach BBQ Experience

The tour emphasizes water-based fun, offering swimming, snorkeling, and the use of the SUP board. The crystal-clear waters make for enjoyable snorkeling, with gear provided to help you explore marine life. The beach BBQ is a highlight, with the option to enjoy local snacks or a full barbecue right on the sand.

Along With the BBQ, soft drinks and beers are included throughout the trip, ensuring refreshment in the sun. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time to soak up the sun, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Boat Ride and the Secluded Menies Spot

The speedboat ride from Chania offers stunning views of the coastline and the open sea, setting the tone for the day’s adventure. The route takes you to Menies, which remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, making it a perfect spot for tranquility.

The private nature of this trip means you can enjoy the scenery and water activities at your own pace. The boat’s size and the crew’s professionalism ensure a smooth, comfortable journey, with plenty of space to relax and take in the sights.

The Guide and Personal Service on a Private Trip

This tour is led by a live English-speaking guide, who ensures that all guests receive personalized attention. The private group setting allows for tailored pacing, flexible stops, and a more intimate experience. The guides are knowledgeable about the local sites and history, enriching the visit to the archaeological ruins and providing context for the ancient Roman temple and monastery.

Expect friendly, attentive service that makes the entire day feel special and stress-free, ideal for travelers who prefer a more exclusive and customized outing.

Practicalities and Flexibility for Your Crete Day

The option to reserve and pay later offers flexibility if your travel plans shift. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind. The tour runs at various start times, so you can choose according to your schedule.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy water activities and exploring history, with a preference for private, guided tours. It’s not designed for people with motion sickness or older travelers over 95, but for most, the pace is comfortable and manageable.

Comparing This Tour with Similar Crete Experiences

While this tour focuses on Menies Beach and its archaeological sites, other options in Crete include beach day trips with hotel pickup, self-drive boat rentals, or e-bike city tours. Compared to these, the private boat with BBQ offers a more personalized and scenic experience, combining water fun, historical exploration, and a relaxed meal on the beach.

The 4.3-star rating reflects consistent satisfaction, especially for those valuing stunning views and flexible, private service. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a balance of adventure and tranquility, with the added bonus of exploring a site of ancient worship.

Final Thoughts on the Menies Private Boat Tour

This 4-hour private boat trip from Chania to Menies delivers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and water activities that appeal to curious and active travelers. The scenic ride, combined with snorkeling, SUP, and a beach BBQ, makes for a memorable day, particularly for those seeking exclusivity and tailored service.

While it doesn’t include extensive land-based sightseeing, the archaeological ruins add an enriching touch, and the stunning waters are ideal for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. The private group setting ensures comfort and flexibility, making it a worthwhile experience for those wanting a special day on Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes snacks, soft drinks, beers, water activities (snorkeling and SUP), and access to archaeological site visits.

Where does the tour start and end?
The departure and return point is Akti Enoseos 8 in Chania, at the RED BOATS meeting location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is designed for those who can handle boat rides and water activities. It’s not suitable for people over 95 or with motion sickness.

Can I cancel the tour reservation?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

How long is the boat ride?
The speedboat trip lasts approximately 4 hours, including the stop at Menies Beach for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the archaeological sites.

Is there an opportunity for guided historical commentary?
Yes, the tour includes a live English-speaking guide who shares insights about the Roman temple ruins and the ancient monastery.

Do I need to bring anything?
All water gear and refreshments are provided, but bringing sun protection and personal items is recommended. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, but not for those with mobility issues.

Would this tour suit someone looking for an active adventure?
Yes, the water activities and exploration make it ideal for those who enjoy engaging with the outdoors and history in a relaxed setting.

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