Chania: Menies Beach & Chironisia Bay Cruise with Snorkeling

Chania: Menies Beach & Chironisia Bay Cruise with Snorkeling offers an inviting way to explore some of Crete’s most secluded spots. For just over $45, you’ll spend around four hours on a comfortable boat, cruising the turquoise waters from Kolymbari, with stops at two stunning beaches known for their clear waters and ancient ruins. You’ll snorkel over WWII wreckage, explore Roman and Byzantine remains, and enjoy some quality beach time — all guided by friendly, knowledgeable crew members.

What we love about this experience is the intimate feel — the boat isn’t overcrowded, giving you plenty of space to swim and relax. Plus, the stops at Menies Beach and Chironisia Bay are genuinely peaceful, rarely crowded, and accessible only by boat, which adds to their special charm. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and time to explore underwater relics makes it a hit for both history buffs and water lovers.

A possible consideration is the weather — since this tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions might mean a cancellation or rescheduling. Also, if you’re after a lively party vibe, this cruise leans more toward tranquil exploration than high-energy entertainment.

This cruise is perfect for travelers who value authentic scenery, historical intrigue, and quiet beaches. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, nature, and a relaxed pace. Reviewers consistently mention how the guide makes the trip enjoyable, so if you want good value and a chance to see Crete’s wild side, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Secluded Beaches: Menies Beach and Chironisia Bay are only accessible by boat, making them ideal for quiet relaxation.
• Historical Snorkeling: Explore WWII wreckage underwater while enjoying the clear, calm waters.
• Informative Guides: Friendly guides enhance the experience with local insights and assistance.
• Comfortable Trip: The boat is spacious, and the tour includes snorkeling gear and time for swimming.
• Flexible Options: Pickup from select hotels or meeting at Kolymbari port, with easy cancellation if needed.
• Good Value: At $45.17, this is an affordable way to combine sightseeing, history, and beach time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Accessibility
You can choose to meet the cruise at the port of Kolymbari or opt for hotel pickup if your accommodation is in north Chania. The meeting point is straightforward — look for the “Smile Cruises” boat with clear signage. This flexibility is appreciated, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of navigating to the port yourself.

The Itinerary & What You’ll Do
The tour begins with a brief safety talk and a scenic 40-minute cruise across the Rodopou Peninsula. This stretch alone offers lovely views of the rugged coastline, and it sets the tone for a relaxed, scenic experience.

Next, you arrive at Menies Beach, where you’ll have about 105 minutes to swim, snorkel, and explore. This spot is particularly special because it was once home to the ancient Diktynna temple, and you can see remnants of a Roman temple and a 9th-century monastery. If you’re into history, you’ll appreciate the stories the guide shares about this site.

Many reviews praise the crystal-clear waters and the underwater WWII wreckage, including cannons and carriages. Ronda mentions snorkeling for the first time and seeing cuttlefish, which highlights how accessible and fun snorkeling here can be, even for beginners. The water’s calmness and beauty make it ideal for underwater exploration.

After a boat cruise back along the coast, the tour proceeds to Chironisia Bay, a tiny, secluded cove accessible only by sea. Here, you’ll have around 40 minutes to swim, relax, and explore the caves with your snorkel gear. This quiet bay is a highlight because of its untouched nature and the chance to swim into small caves, which adds an adventurous touch.

The final cruise back to Kolymbari lasts around 30 minutes, giving you time to soak in the scenery one last time before returning to your starting point.

Why It Works for Travelers
This tour is quite popular with reviewers because of the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the spectacular scenery. Sarah notes that the snorkeling was “incredible,” and the water “so blue,” describing it as possibly the “best thing we did on Crete.” Darya highlights the crew’s kindness, especially in helping with snorkeling gear.

What You Need to Know
The tour lasts about four hours, with flexible start times. Be sure to bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and comfortable shoes for the walk to and from the beaches. The boat anchors just 6 meters from shore, meaning you’ll need to swim in shallow water to reach the beach — something to consider if you’re not comfortable in the water.

Pricing & Value
At just over $45 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It includes snorkeling equipment, guides, and the boat cruise. Food and drinks aren’t included but are available for purchase, so you might want to bring some snacks or a water bottle. The reviews suggest that the experience is well worth the price, especially considering the small group sizes and personalized attention.

Weather & Cancellation
Weather can be a limiting factor — tours are not conducted in poor weather conditions. The flexibility of cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is a good safety net, and the “reserve now, pay later” option gives you flexibility in planning.

Why This Tour Is Perfect For You

If you’re into authentic, peaceful beaches away from crowds, this cruise fits the bill. It’s ideal for snorkelers and history buffs eager to explore underwater WWII relics and ancient ruins. The relaxed pace and friendly guides make it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable half-day adventure. If you’re after a lively party atmosphere, you might want to look elsewhere, but for those seeking natural beauty, tranquility, and a touch of history, this is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the hotel pickup option, your transportation from certain north Chania hotels is included. Otherwise, you’ll meet the boat at Kolymbari port.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. Consider bringing some snacks or drinks if you prefer not to buy at the site.

How long are the snorkeling stops?
You get about 105 minutes at Menies Beach and 40 minutes at Chironisia Bay to snorkel, swim, or relax.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the price, and guides help with gear if needed.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour will not take place in poor weather conditions. You’ll be notified in advance, and cancellations are fully refundable if canceled due to weather.

How many people are usually on the boat?
While the exact size varies, reviews suggest the boats are small and intimate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I see shipwrecks underwater?
Yes, snorkeling at Menies Beach offers a chance to see WWII cannon bases and other relics beneath the water.

Are there options for hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from select hotels in north Chania, with details provided after booking.

How long before departure should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive early for safety briefing and boarding. Guides will inform you of the exact time if you have a pickup.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable swimming and snorkeling, this tour can be enjoyable for families.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise from Kolymbari offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, underwater history, and peaceful beaches. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to snorkel over WWII relics make it stand out. It’s a great way for travelers to escape the busier tourist spots and experience the quiet side of Crete’s coastline.

Perfect for water lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone craving authentic solitude, this tour balances relaxation with adventure. While weather-dependent, it’s a reliable choice for those looking to enjoy Crete’s clear waters and ancient ruins in a manageable, affordable package.

If you’re in Crete and want a memorable, authentic experience that combines scenery, history, and snorkeling, this cruise should be on your list. It’s a chance to see Crete from a different perspective — one that’s peaceful, scenic, and full of stories waiting beneath the waves.