Notos day sailing cruise

Notos Day Sailing Cruise in Crete: A Genuine Sea Adventure

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, scenic coves, and a peaceful day on the sea, the Notos Day Sailing Cruise offers just that. For around $903 per group (up to 4 people), you’ll set out from Chania’s Old Harbour on a private sailing trip that lasts about 7 hours. Led by a skilled skipper aboard the Notos, this experience promises a blend of swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the stunning Cretan coastline.

We love how intimate and flexible this experience feels — since it’s a private trip, your group sets the pace and chooses how much time to spend at each stop. The inclusion of light lunch, drinks, masks, and snorkels adds to the value, making this a hassle-free way to explore Crete’s waters.

One potential consideration is that you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point at the wooden pier, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or seasickness. This trip is perfect for travelers looking for a personalized, leisurely day at sea, away from crowded tours and noisy boats.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private Experience: Tailored to your group, with no strangers onboard.
• Stunning Stops: Maherida beach, Thodorou island, Lazaretta island.
• All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear — no surprises.
• Flexible Schedule: Duration is around 7 hours; check availability.
• Authentic Views: Enjoy untouched natural beauty, away from tourist crowds.
• Ideal for Relaxation: Perfect for couples, small groups, or families wanting a peaceful day.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Setting Sail from Chania’s Old Harbour

Your day begins around 10:00 AM, when you meet at the wooden pier in Chania’s historic Old Harbour. From here, the boat Notos, operated by a knowledgeable skipper, gently glides out into the bay. The harbor itself is a lively hub, but once you’re underway, the world softens into the gentle motion of sailing.

Maherida Beach: Hidden Gem of the Cretan Coast

Within less than an hour, you arrive at Maherida beach — a tiny, pristine cove with crystal-clear waters and a tiny, untouched shore. This spot is what many travelers call a “hidden gem,” largely because it’s protected from the wind and remains remarkably untouched by crowds. Here, you can switch into your snorkeling gear, dive into the inviting waters, and marvel at the underwater views.

We loved the way this beach feels like a secret — a quiet slice of paradise. One reviewer mentions, “Maherida with its tiny little shore… is a reminder of the sheer coastline beauty of Crete.” It’s perfect for a peaceful swim or just floating lazily in the calm waters.

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Thodorou Island: Home to Cretan Wild Goats

Next up, the cruise heads toward Thodorou island, an ecological sanctuary for the endangered Kri Kri wild goats. This island is a special sight — not just for its natural beauty but also for the chance to see these rare creatures from the boat or during a swim.

While you’re anchored here, you can swim and snorkel, taking in the underwater scenery. The captain often prepares a light snack, which is savored with wine or beer in the shade of the boat’s tent. This shared meal, combined with the relaxed atmosphere, makes for a wonderfully laid-back break.

Lazaretta Island: A Small Paradise

The final stop is Lazaretta Island, a tiny island with a charming sandy beach and clear waters. You’ll want to spend plenty of time swimming, snorkeling, and exploring this scenic spot. The underwater visibility here is often praised, with many snorkelers claiming you can see quite a bit beneath the surface.

The highlight? Swimming all the way to the island’s small sandy beach might become a favorite memory. It’s a perfect way to wind down the day, enjoying the last swim as the boat prepares to head back.

Returning to Chania’s Harbor

By around 5:00 PM, the boat anchors back at the Old Harbour, concluding your 7-hour private sailing adventure. You’ll leave with a sense of having experienced a genuine slice of Crete’s coastline — unspoiled, quiet, and beautifully scenic.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The cruise includes a skipper, fuel, a light lunch, masks, snorkels, water, soft drinks, wine, and beer. This setup offers excellent value, especially considering the private nature of the trip and the comprehensive onboard amenities.

Since no transfer is included, you’ll need to make your own arrangements to reach the boat moored at the pier. Travelers should bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for water activities. Remember, smoking indoors isn’t allowed, so plan accordingly if you’re a smoker.

The Experience: Pros & Cons

Pros:
– The privacy allows for a more relaxed, tailor-made experience.
– Multiple stops at beautiful, quiet beaches and islands provide ample swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
– The all-inclusive drinks and snacks make it easy to unwind without extra expenses.
– The stunning scenery and untouched coves give a real sense of Cretan coastal beauty.
– Flexible schedule, with the possibility to customize or extend your time at each stop (within the 7-hour window).

Cons:
– The trip is not suitable for people with mobility issues or seasickness.
– You need to organize your own transportation to and from the harbor.
– The price might seem high at first glance, but considering the private, all-inclusive nature, it offers good value for a personalized experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for small groups or couples seeking tranquility and personalized attention. It’s perfect for travelers who value authentic scenery, snorkeling, and a relaxing day on the water, away from crowded tours. If you’re interested in seeing endangered species like the Kri Kri goat or exploring the coastline accessible only by boat, this is an ideal choice.

It’s also a great experience for those who prefer to control their schedule and enjoy an intimate setting with friends or loved ones. For families with older children or teenagers comfortable in the water, it offers a memorable, scenic adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

How the Day Unfolds

From the moment you step aboard, the sense of calm and freedom begins to set in. The skipper, often a friendly local, shares interesting tidbits about the area and navigates smoothly across the bay. You’ll appreciate the peaceful pace — no rushing, just savoring each moment.

The stops at Maherida, Thodorou, and Lazaretta each have their unique charm. Maherida’s secluded waters make it feel like discovering a private paradise. Here, you can float, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat deck soaking in the sun and sea views. The underwater visibility is reportedly excellent, allowing for underwater exploration that’s both enjoyable and photo-worthy.

On Thodorou, the chance to spot the Kri Kri goats adds an intriguing element — a reminder of Crete’s wild, protected nature. While the goats may be shy, the island’s rugged beauty and the chance to snorkel in less disturbed waters make this a highlight for many.

Lazaretta offers the classic island experience — sandy beach, clear water, and a chance to swim all the way to the small shore. Many reviews mention that the underwater scenery here is especially picturesque, and the cut-to-the-chase approach to swimming and snorkeling suits travelers eager to make the most of their time.

Real Traveler Insights

Reviews describe the experience as “peaceful and intimate,” highlighting the stunning views and the convenience of having everything included. One reviewer noted: “We loved the way the captain prepared snacks and drinks; it made the trip feel very relaxed, like sailing with friends.” Others praise the quiet coves away from crowds, making this perfect for travelers craving tranquility.

The lack of a massive group and the personal attention from the skipper are big draws. Because it’s always private, you won’t have strangers crowding your view, which enhances the sense of personal discovery.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for water activities. Since no transfer is included, plan your arrival at the harbor accordingly. Consider the weather — calm days will make for the smoothest sailing and most enjoyable snorkeling.

The tour operates in the morning, with a start time around 10:00 AM (check availability), giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy each stop. The 7-hour duration is generous, providing enough time to relax, explore, and return at a comfortable pace.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, private day on the water in Crete with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying untouched scenery, this cruise delivers. The combination of stunning natural stops, all-inclusive drinks and food, and the personal touch makes it stand out among many boat trips.

While the price may seem high, it’s justified by the private, flexible nature of the experience and the high-quality amenities. The quiet coves and scenic islands provide a genuine escape from crowded tourist spots, giving you a chance to connect with Crete’s natural beauty at your own pace.

This trip suits travelers who are adventurous yet relaxed, eager to explore Crete’s coastline intimately and comfortably, without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you value privacy, scenic beauty, and a laid-back vibe, this sailing cruise is a solid choice for a memorable Crete adventure.

FAQ

Is this a group tour or private?
This experience is always private, meaning you won’t share the boat with strangers — perfect for a personalized day.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop and relax.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the skipper, fuel, a light lunch, masks, snorkels, water, soft drinks, wine, and beer.

Do I need to arrange transportation to the harbor?
Yes, transfer is not included, so you should organize your own way to the wooden pier in Chania.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and perhaps a camera to capture the scenic views.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are included as part of the experience.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, this trip is suitable for those comfortable in the water. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Is this experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

To sum it up, the Notos Day Sailing Cruise in Crete offers a chance to enjoy genuine natural beauty, privacy, and relaxation on a scenic boat trip. Its stops at Maherida, Thodorou, and Lazaretta provide a rich mix of calm waters, wildlife, and untouched beaches that many travelers find unforgettable. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, intimate adventure that combines comfort with authentic scenery, this tour provides excellent value, especially if you appreciate customizing your day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: