Boat tours in Chania cut straight to the heart of Crete’s maritime charm. The best outings combine intimate group sizes (10 or fewer passengers) with well-planned itineraries along the stunning coastline. I’m especially fond of the sunset cruises, which offer the perfect mix of relaxation and scenic beauty without the midday heat. The cooking-focused boat trips are another standout – they showcase authentic Cretan cuisine while you’re gliding past dramatic cliffs and hidden coves.
For active travelers, the Balos Lagoon excursions include snorkeling gear and plenty of swim stops at crystal-clear waters. Budget travelers will appreciate the simple pleasures of pedal boat rentals in the old harbor. When timing matters, reliable private transfers connect all key points – airport, cruise port, and city hotels.
Let’s explore the finest boat tours Chania has to offer.
Key Points
- Private boat trips in Chania offer personalized experiences for groups of 5-10, with options ranging from sunset cruises to cooking classes and coastal exploration.
- Boat tour packages in Chania typically include snorkeling gear, refreshments, and guided visits to popular destinations like Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Beach.
- Unique tour experiences in Chania include hands-on Cretan cuisine cooking classes, luxurious yacht cruises, and combination tours that combine sightseeing and transportation.
- Chania boat tours accommodate up to 20 travelers, with inclusions like snorkeling equipment, meals, and alcoholic beverages, along with experienced skippers and flexible cancellation policies.
- Accessibility and customer feedback are important factors, with some tours offering infant seats and receiving high satisfaction ratings, though crowding has been a mixed review.
Private Boat Trip Kissamos Balos (Price per Group – up to 10 People)
The Private Boat Trip Kissamos Balos offers a group of up to 10 people the opportunity to explore the stunning Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Beach in Chania, Greece.
Priced at $620.16 per group (up to 5 people), this highly-rated tour boasts 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.
The trip includes admission tickets, a stop at Balos Lagoon for 2 hours, and a visit to Gramvousa Beach for 1 hour. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the fortress at Gramvousa.
The tour provides bottled water and snorkeling equipment, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.
Customers praise the personalized service, refreshments, and the overall memorable family experiences.
Read our full review: Private Boat Trip Kissamos Balos (Price per Group – up to 10 People) Review
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Private Boat Trip Chania – Balos (Price Is per Group-Up to 9 People)
This private boat trip from Chania to the breathtaking Balos Lagoon accommodates up to 9 guests, offering a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region.
The highlights include the Gramvousa Fortress, the Balos Lagoon, and the beautiful beaches.
The tour provides snorkeling gear, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks. Experienced skippers handle the navigation, allowing guests to focus on sightseeing and enjoying the refreshments, which include local sandwiches, water, beer, wine, and sodas.
With a 5-star rating and a 100% recommendation rate, this boat trip is a must-try for those seeking a relaxing and memorable experience in Chania.
Read our full review: Private Boat Trip Chania – Balos (Price Is per Group-Up to 9 People) Review
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Boat Trip and Cooking Experience, Chania
Embarking on a captivating boat trip and cooking experience, visitors to Chania can savor the flavors of Crete while immersed in the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Priced at $994.39 for up to 7 people, this 5-star rated activity includes a boat trip and a hands-on cooking class featuring grilled fish or meat with a Cretan salad, plus fruits for dessert and alcoholic beverages.
The private tour departs from and returns to the SEAze The Day meeting point, with confirmation received within 48 hours of booking.
Infants are welcomed, but the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible. Guests can freely cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours before the start time.
Read our full review: Boat Trip and Cooking Experience, Chania Review
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Private Sunset Boat Trip in Chania, Crete (Price Is per Group)
Immersed in the stunning natural beauty of Chania, Crete, travelers can embark on a private sunset boat trip, priced at $513.23 for a group of up to 9 individuals.
This 5-star rated experience departs from SEAze The Day, Akti Enoseos, and returns to the same point. Guests can enjoy alcoholic beverages and snacks as they soak in the breathtaking views.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Private Sunset Boat Trip in Chania, Crete (Price Is per Group) Review
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Private Boat Trip Chania – Thodorou – Lazaretta (Price per Group-Up to 9 People)
Explore the stunning coastline of Chania, Crete, on a private boat trip that takes you to the islands of Thodorou and Lazaretta.
At just $556.00 for a group of up to 9 people, this tour is a fantastic value. Depart from Taverna Antigoni and enjoy the scenic views as you cruise through the crystal-clear waters.
The tour is highly recommended, with a 5.0 rating based on 12 reviews. While the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and infants are welcome to sit on laps.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, you can book now and pay later to secure your spot.
Read our full review: Private Boat Trip Chania – Thodorou – Lazaretta (Price per Group-Up to 9 People) Review
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Private Boat Trip Chania Seitan (Price per Group-Up to 9 People)
Departing from the SEAze The Day dock, this private boat trip takes passengers on an immersive journey along the stunning Chania Seitan coastline.
Priced at €770.00 for up to 9 people, the tour boasts a 4.8-star rating from 8 reviews. Passengers can enjoy alcoholic beverages, beers, soft drinks, and bottled water throughout the trip.
The private nature of the tour ensures that only your group will participate, and the experience is flexible, with a 24-hour cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including infants who must sit on laps.
Read our full review: Private Boat Trip Chania Seitan (Price per Group-Up to 9 People) Review
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Preveli Palm Beach Tour From Rethymno – by Private Boat
The Preveli Palm Beach Tour from Rethymno – by private boat transports travelers along the stunning Chania coastline, offering a chance to discover the renowned Preveli Palm Beach.
Priced from $29.94 per person, this tour accommodates a maximum of 50 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
Inclusions feature an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and a boat ticket costing €11 for adults and €7 for children.
Pickup is available from multiple locations, with an 8 AM start time.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are provided.
Though most travelers can participate, one review cited issues with the boat’s arrival, leading to a partial refund.
Read our full review: Preveli Palm Beach Tour From Rethymno – by Private Boat Review
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Full-Day Trip to Santorini Island by Boat From Rethymno With Transfer Your Hotel
For those seeking a deeper glimpse into the captivating island of Santorini, the Full-Day Trip to Santorini Island by Boat from Rethymno with Transfer to Your Hotel offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
Departing from Rethymno, the tour includes round-trip boat transfers and a 5.5-hour exploration of Santorini’s picturesque highlights, such as the iconic whitewashed houses of Oia.
Comfortable transportation and an expert guide ensure a seamless experience.
With an overall rating of 4.0 from 6 reviews, this tour is praised for its efficient organization and knowledgeable staff.
While some feedback notes crowded conditions in Oia, the tour remains a popular choice for travelers seeking to discover Santorini’s breathtaking landscapes.
Read our full review: Full-Day Trip to Santorini Island by Boat From Rethymno With Transfer Your Hotel Review
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Private Yacht Cruise in Rethymno
Rethymno’s Private Yacht Cruise offers travelers a chance to experience the stunning Cretan coastline from the comfort of a private vessel.
Priced at $2,031.13 for up to 10 people, this four-hour tour includes a fuel surcharge, beverages, snacks, and the use of snorkeling equipment.
Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise ship are provided. Participants must complete a health questionnaire and disclose any pre-existing medical conditions before diving.
Wheelchair-accessible transportation and infant seats are available.
With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this private yacht cruise is an ideal way to explore the Chania region.
Read our full review: Private Yacht Cruise in Rethymno Review
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Full-Day Trip to Santorini Island by Boat From Chania
Explore the stunning island of Santorini on a full-day boat trip from Chania. This guided tour includes round-trip transportation from Chania and a return boat ride from Rethymno port.
Discover Oia, known for its picturesque windmills and breathtaking views. The tour provides a multilingual guide and air-conditioned transportation on the island.
While food, drinks, and the optional volcano boat tour are excluded, the boat tickets are included. Accessibility is good, with surfaces being wheelchair-accessible and infant seats available.
However, the tour has received mixed reviews, with an overall rating of just 1.5 stars out of 5. Travelers should consider the lower ratings before booking this day trip.
Read our full review: Full-Day Trip to Santorini Island by Boat From Chania Review
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Lake Kournas Pedal Boat Tour With Transfer
Nestled in the picturesque region of Chania, the Lake Kournas Pedal Boat Tour with Transfer offers a delightful way to explore one of Greece’s natural wonders.
Priced from $128.31 per group of up to 2 people, this tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the option to rent either a Flamingo Pedal Boat or a Pedal Boat with Slide for 20 euros.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour starts at 10:00 am and is operated by TravelPath AllcreteTours.
Customers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and have the option to reserve now and pay later.
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Read our full review: Lake Kournas Pedal Boat Tour With Transfer Review
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The Cruise Ship Guest Beer Tour – Chania
The Cruise Ship Guest Beer Tour in Chania offers a delightful opportunity for visitors to enjoy the vibrant local beer culture.
This small-group walking tour takes participants on a journey through funky beer gardens, where they can sample a variety of Cretan craft beers and indulge in local cuisine.
Highlights include exploring iconic restaurants, delicatessen stores, and craft beer pubs, while learning about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
With a knowledgeable guide, travelers will enjoy a well-rounded experience, including a unique souvenir and private transportation.
Consistently praised by previous guests, this tour is a must-try for beer enthusiasts visiting Chania.
Read our full review: The Cruise Ship Guest Beer Tour – Chania Review
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Private Transfer – Chania Airport (CHQ) to Heraklion Cruise Port
For travelers seeking a seamless transfer from Chania Airport (CHQ) to the Heraklion Cruise Port, this private transportation service offers a convenient and reliable option.
The air-conditioned, private vehicle provides door-to-door service, with the flexibility to choose the preferred pickup time. Priced at $203.16 per person, the transfer includes 24/7 availability and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Accessibility is limited, but strollers and service animals are allowed. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and infant seats can be requested.
Travelers should confirm the pickup time with the local provider in advance to ensure a smooth start to their Cretan cruise adventure.
Read our full review: Private Transfer – Chania Airport (CHQ) to Heraklion Cruise Port Review
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Private Transfer From Chania City Hotels to Heraklion Cruise Port
Travelers seeking a stress-free commute from Chania city hotels to the Heraklion Cruise Port can opt for this private transfer service.
Featuring an air-conditioned vehicle, the transfer ensures a comfortable journey, with all fees and taxes included.
Pickup can be arranged from select hotels in Chania, with drop-off at the Heraklion Port Passenger Station.
The service operates 24/7, so travelers can coordinate the pickup time with the local provider.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the transfer accommodates strollers and service animals, making it suitable for most travelers.
Guests can conveniently reserve the service now and pay later, with a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Chania City Hotels to Heraklion Cruise Port Review
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Common Questions
Are Pets Allowed on the Boat Tours?
Whether pets are allowed on boat tours varies by company. Some may permit service animals or smaller pets, while others may prohibit them altogether. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator before booking to confirm their pet policy.
What Types of Food and Beverages Are Available on Board?
Boats typically offer a variety of snacks, light meals, and non-alcoholic beverages for passengers. Some may also have full-service bars serving alcoholic drinks. Travelers should check with the tour operator about specific food and drink options before booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Most boat tour and cruise operators allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on board. However, it’s best to check with the specific company beforehand, as some may have restrictions or offer on-board refreshments for purchase.
Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tours?
Most boat tours and cruises don’t have strict age or health restrictions, but some may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility issues. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific requirements before booking.
What Are the Cancellation and Refund Policies for the Boat Trips?
The cancellation and refund policies for the boat trips vary, but many operators offer flexible options. Customers should check the specific terms and conditions for the tour they’re interested in to understand the cancellation and refund policies.
The Sum Up
Chania offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that cater to different preferences. From private boat trips to Balos and Thodorou, to cooking experiences and sunset cruises, there’s something for all. Travelers can also enjoy pedal boat tours and brewery excursions. For those needing transportation, private transfers from Chania to Heraklion Cruise Port are available. With these options, visitors can explore Chania’s stunning coastline and islands in comfort and style.