Notos half-day cruise

Discover the Notos Half-Day Cruise in Crete

The Notos half-day cruise offers a private sailing adventure in Crete’s Chania bay, perfect for those looking for a relaxing and personalized experience. Priced at $790 per group, it accommodates up to 6 guests, making it ideal for families, friends, or intimate groups. With a duration of 4 hours, this tour provides a balanced mix of scenic sailing, swimming, and enjoying refreshments on a comfortable vessel.

The tour departs from the Old Harbour of Chania, with flexible starting times based on availability. It is designed as a private experience, ensuring personalized attention from the skipper and a tailored journey. The trip includes two stops for swimming, water, soft drinks, wine, and fresh fruits, all included in the price, delivering excellent value for those seeking both comfort and exclusivity.

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How the Notos Cruise Starts and Where It Goes

The adventure begins at 10:00 AM from a wooden dock opposite the old custom house, now known as the theatre of Mikis Theodorakis. Once onboard, the boat sets sail into the Bay of Chania, immediately immersing guests in the tranquil beauty of the area. The departure time and location are straightforward, and the private nature of the trip means no large groups or crowds.

Within less than an hour, the tour reaches the crystal waters of Thodorou Island, part of a national park. This island is notable for being home to the endangered Kri Kri, a wild goat species unique to Crete. The pristine waters here are perfect for swimming, and the boat anchors nearby to allow guests to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

Exploring Thodorou Island’s Natural Beauty

Thodorou Island is a key highlight of the cruise, offering more than just a swimming opportunity. The endangered Kri Kri goats can often be sighted as the boat approaches, adding a touch of wildlife viewing to the experience. The crystal-clear waters invite relaxing swims, allowing visitors to cool off while taking in the scenic surroundings.

After some leisure time, the skipper smoothly sets sail again, heading toward the next stop. This island stop is about enjoying the tranquility of the natural environment, with the chance to see the local flora and fauna in their protected habitat.

Visiting Lazaretta Island for Underwater Views

Next, the cruise takes guests to Lazaretta Island, a small but charming location known for its beautiful underwater scenery. Here, swimmers are encouraged to explore the waters all the way to the island’s tiny sandy beach, which offers a peaceful spot for sunbathing or relaxing after a swim.

Lazaretta Island’s underwater visibility is highly praised, making it an excellent spot for swimming and appreciating Crete’s marine life. The water, wine, beer, soft drinks, and fruits are served onboard during the trip, ensuring guests stay refreshed and energized throughout the afternoon.

Refreshments and Relaxation on the Boat

Throughout the 4-hour journey, guests enjoy a selection of included beverages and fruits. The water, soft drinks, wine, and beer are served freely, making it easy to stay hydrated and enjoy some local flavors. The fruits add a fresh touch, perfect for a sunny day on the water.

The skipper and crew are attentive, providing a relaxed environment and ensuring all guests are comfortable. This focus on service contributes to the “very relaxing trip with great service” that many reviews highlight.

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Returning to Chania Old Harbour

At 14:00 PM, the boat anchors back at the Old Harbour, bringing the private cruise to an end. The return journey offers a chance to soak in the last views of the bay, with the option to chat with the crew or simply enjoy the peaceful sailing.

The private nature of the tour means that the trip concludes exactly at the start point, making logistics simple. There are no additional stops or delays, so the experience stays smooth and well-paced.

Logistics and What to Bring

The meeting point is at the wooden dock opposite the old custom house, a notable landmark near the Old Harbour of Chania. The tour is designed for a private group, with a skipper leading the way.

Guests should bring towels, sunscreen, and beachwear to maximize comfort during swimming. Since towels and sun cream are not included, packing these essentials ensures a smooth experience.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness, as it involves sailing on a boat suitable for swimming and outdoor activities. The 4-hour duration and the active stops make it best suited for guests in good health and comfortable with boat trips.

Flexibility and Booking Options

Booking is flexible with a “reserve now & pay later” option, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

In case of bad weather, the tour may be canceled, and the deposit returned, ensuring no financial risk for participants.

Final Thoughts on the Notos Half-Day Cruise

The Notos half-day cruise stands out for its private setting, carefully curated stops, and inclusive refreshments. It offers a relaxing way to explore the waters around Chania, with excellent attention to service and clear focus on guest comfort.

While it’s a bit pricier than group tours, the private experience and personalized attention provide good value. It suits travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible, and leisure-focused sailing adventure, especially those eager to see Thodorou and Lazaretta islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for guests in good health and comfortable on boats, and it is not explicitly tailored for children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Guests should bring towels, sunscreen, and beachwear for swimming and sunbathing.

Is food included?
The tour includes water, wine, soft drinks, fruits, and beverages, but no solid food or meals are provided.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, from 10:00 AM to 14:00 PM.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is at the wooden dock opposite the old custom house near the Old Harbour of Chania.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, if the weather does not permit sailing, the tour is canceled and a refund is issued.

What languages are the guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English, Greek, and German.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby