5 hrs Sail in Chania: sailing, swimming, lunch and drinks

Planning a day on the water in Crete? This half-day sailing tour offers a relaxing yet adventurous way to experience Chania’s coast, complete with swimming stops, a delicious Greek meal, and plenty of time to soak up the scenery. It’s a great way to escape the crowds, enjoy personalized service, and get a true taste of Crete’s maritime charm.

What makes this experience shine? First, the hands-on sailing instruction means you’re not just a passenger—you can learn a few tricks of the trade. Second, the crystal-clear waters of private coves are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering a peaceful retreat from busy tour boats. Third, the authentic Cretan cuisine served on board, paired with drinks, adds a delicious local touch to your day. The only consideration? It’s not ideal for those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues, as the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible.

This tour suits travelers seeking a mix of activity and relaxation, especially those eager to learn about sailing or indulge in authentic Greek flavors. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups who want a private, intimate experience on the sea, away from the more crowded group cruises.

Good To Know

• Personalized experience with a private group for up to four guests
• Hands-on sailing instruction suitable for beginners
• Private swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters
• Authentic Greek and Cretan cuisine with drinks included
• Flexible transportation options available upon request
• Scenic views of Chania’s Venetian fortress and White Mountains

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Chania Sailing Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This 5-hour sailing trip starts at Ellis 6 in Souda, just outside Chania. The crew emphasizes safety first, providing a briefing that prepares you for the day ahead. From there, the adventure really begins, with the boat setting sail towards the Venetian fortress, a historic landmark that’s close enough to touch. The boat cruise offers the first scenic view of Chania’s coast, with opportunities for quick photo stops that capture the fortress’s impressive walls and cannons.

One of the standout aspects is the flexible itinerary, which is largely dictated by the wind and weather. The crew’s responsiveness makes a big difference, as they’ll adjust the route to ensure the best possible experience. The first swimming stop is in a private, turquoise cove—an ideal spot to cool off after sailing and enjoy some snorkelling in calm, clear waters. Many reviewers appreciated the seclusion and tranquility of this spot, describing it as perfect for floating around and spotting marine life.

Sailing and Scenic Views

You’ll spend around an hour sailing in total, with opportunities to learn sailing techniques from the crew. This hands-on instruction is particularly praised for being accessible—even those who’ve never been on a boat before can quickly get the hang of the basics. The crew, especially the captain, is described as friendly and knowledgeable, making the sailing part both fun and educational.

Throughout the journey, the boat drifts past stunning views of the White Mountains, adding a dramatic backdrop to your day. The sail itself is a highlight, with many guests commenting on how relaxing it is to feel the wind and watch Crete’s coast slip by.

Lunch and Drinks

One of the most loved parts of this tour is the authentic Cretan lunch served in a lovely setting. The crew prepares a freshly cooked Greek and local Cretan cuisine, including Greek meatballs, local appetizers, Greek salad, olives, goat cheese, and fresh bread. The meal is complemented by an open bar featuring wine and beer, which guests say enhances the relaxed, celebratory vibe.

Guests also mention that the food is generous and well-prepared, with some noting the lunch as a highlight of the day. While the menu isn’t extensive, it offers enough variety to satisfy most appetites, especially after some swimming and sailing.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The second stop at a private lagoon or another small island includes more swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility, and many mention how peaceful and beautiful the marine environment is. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time, the calm waters are forgiving and inviting.

The crew’s local knowledge adds to the experience, as they point out interesting marine life and explain the significance of the area. Guests found this part of the trip both fun and educational, with plenty of time to relax in the water or just float and take in the scenery.

The Return Journey and Final Stops

The last leg involves a few quick photo stops to capture the stunning coastline and the boat cruise back towards Chania. Many reviewers appreciated the unhurried pace, which allowed time for photos, light snacks, or simply soaking up the last views of Crete’s coast.

The boat arrives back at Ellis 6 by around 15:00, leaving plenty of time for the afternoon to explore Chania.

What It’s Like on the Boat

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-equipped, with enough space for everyone to relax. The crew is attentive and creates a friendly, fun atmosphere, ensuring passengers feel safe and included in all activities. It’s worth noting that transportation from and back to your hotel can be arranged, which is a huge convenience if you’re staying outside Souda.

Guests repeatedly mention how personalized and attentive the service is, making for a more intimate experience than large group cruises. The small size—up to four people per booking—means tailored attention, especially if you want to learn more about sailing or local culture.

Price and Value

At $709 per group (up to four people), this experience offers good value for those looking for a private, all-inclusive day on the water. The quality of food, personalized instruction, and scenic stops justify the cost, especially for travelers wanting a more exclusive experience. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy sailing and authentic food, this could be a memorable and worthwhile splurge.

Practical Tips

• Bring your passport or ID, towel, and beachwear.
• Sunscreen and a hat are essential, as you’ll spend much of the time outdoors.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.
• Transportation can be arranged if needed, so check with the tour provider beforehand.
• Note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is best suited for travelers who want a private, flexible experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who enjoy being on the water, learning new skills, and tasting local cuisine. If you’re looking for a day that balances activity and downtime with stunning scenery, this tour hits all the right notes.

The Sum Up

This 5-hour sailing trip in Chania offers a fantastic way to explore Crete’s coastline, combining leisurely sailing with fun water stops, a delicious Greek meal, and personalized service. The opportunity to learn sailing basics, coupled with the chance to unwind in crystal waters, makes it a well-rounded experience. Its private group setting allows for a more intimate connection with the sea and local culture, making it perfect for those seeking a personalized adventure.

While it’s not suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility challenges or seasickness—it delivers great value for travelers wanting comfort, authentic cuisine, and scenic beauty in a shorter, manageable time frame. For anyone looking to indulge in Crete’s maritime charm in style, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Transportation from and back to your hotel can be arranged if requested, making pickup and drop-off convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, a towel, beachwear, sunscreen, and any personal snorkel gear if you prefer.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience is geared toward adults and children over a certain age, especially since it involves sailing and swimming in open waters. It’s best for those comfortable on boats.

Can I learn sailing during this trip?
Yes, the crew provides fun, hands-on sailing instruction, even for beginners, so you can try steering and learn some basics.

What’s the meal like?
You’ll enjoy a freshly cooked Greek and Cretan lunch, including Greek meatballs, local appetizers, salads, olives, goat cheese, and bread, with drinks like wine and beer.

Do I need prior sailing experience?
No, no prior experience is required. The crew is friendly and will guide you through the sailing activities.

Are there any limitations?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness; the boat isn’t adapted for mobility challenges.

This private sailing adventure in Chania is a fantastic way to see Crete from a different perspective, combining scenic beauty, local flavors, and hands-on fun. Whether you’re a water lover or simply want a relaxing day on the sea with a touch of adventure, this tour offers an experience worth remembering.

You can check if your dates are available here: