Chania is a top destination for anyone who loves being on the water. Thanks to its prime location on Crete’s northwest coast, it offers access to some of Greece’s most beautiful and accessible sailing spots. Whether you’re after a relaxing day with premium amenities or an intimate private cruise, Chania’s sailing options deliver. We particularly like the Morning Catamaran Cruise for its combination of comfort and scenic beauty, and the Private Day Catamaran for those seeking exclusivity and tailored experiences. The varying tours cater to different tastes—from family-friendly water activities to romantic sunset sails—making Chania a versatile sailing hub. For a taste of what’s on offer, check out the Chania: Morning Catamaran Cruise or explore other unique options throughout this list.
Quick Overview
This guide features 10 top sailing experiences in Chania, ranging from luxury half-day cruises with gourmet food onboard to full-day private charters. Some tours include snorkeling, paddleboarding, and even sunset drinks, while others focus on exclusive, tailored trips perfect for special occasions. Each offers something different—whether it’s family-friendly amenities, a romantic sunset, or a full-day adventure—so you can choose what best fits your style. Now, let’s dive into what makes each of these tours special.
1. Chania: Morning Catamaran Cruise with Premium Lunch & Drinks
Starting our list is the Morning Catamaran Cruise, a highly-rated (4.9/5 from 126 reviews) experience that combines comfort, scenic views, and delicious food. The tour begins from Kolymvari, sailing along the coast to the Agioi Theodoroi Islands—a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling in calm, inviting waters. The boat itself is a premium-class catamaran, meaning plenty of deck space for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze.
What makes this cruise stand out is the all-inclusive Mediterranean lunch, featuring seafood, meats, and local drinks, served while you soak up the view. Snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and fishing equipment are included, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned water enthusiasts. The route includes a photo stop at scenic Agioi Theodoroi and a leisurely 2.75-hour stay at the bay for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing at your own pace. This tour is perfect if you want a luxurious, all-in-one experience that combines good food, fun water activities, and stunning scenery. It’s also very flexible, with drop-off points around Chania and surrounding towns.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, comfortable choice for those wanting ease, great food, and water fun in a scenic setting.
2. Kolimvari: Sailing Cruise with Meal & Water Activities
Sailing along Crete’s coast, the Kolimvari Sailing Cruise offers an engaging combination of scenic sailing, swimming, and water sports for around $87 per person. Starting from Kolymvari, the tour takes you to Agioi Theodoroi island, a beautiful spot for snorkeling and relaxing in crystal-clear waters. This experience shines for its water activities, including stand-up paddleboarding and marine life viewing, which guests consistently praise as a highlight.
The itinerary includes a safety briefing, sightseeing along the coast, and about three hours on the island to explore and enjoy the marine environment. The crew is described as friendly and accommodating—perfect for families or groups who want fun on the water without fuss. Reviewers mention the plentiful, tasty food and the friendly crew as key positives, adding that the trip is “very relaxing” and “great value.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for water lovers on a budget who want a mix of sailing, snorkeling, and paddling with an all-inclusive meal.
3. Chania: Afternoon Catamaran trip – Dinner, Drinks & Sunset
At number 3, this Afternoon Catamaran Trip focuses on a romantic, scenic experience. The journey from Kolymvari to Agioi Theodoroi includes a Mediterranean dinner and a spectacular sunset. The dinner onboard features seafood and meat options, complemented by unlimited drinks—beer, wine, and soft drinks—making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The sunset sail is a true highlight, with guests often mentioning how memorable the colorful sky over the Aegean Sea is.
The crew is friendly and professional, dedicated to providing a personalized experience. Guests rave about the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to snorkel and paddleboard before the sun dips below the horizon. The trip lasts about 5 hours, with plenty of time to unwind, enjoy a delicious meal, and marvel at the stunning scenery. It’s perfect for couples or anyone wanting a combination of good food, scenic views, and a peaceful evening on the water.
Bottom Line: A superb choice for a romantic sunset or special occasion, offering a luxurious dinner and breathtaking views.
4. Chania Old Port: All-inclusive Catamaran Trip to Agioi Theodori
Sailing from the charming Old Venetian Port, this full-day cruise offers a deeper dive into Crete’s maritime lifestyle. For about $146, you’ll enjoy a luxurious catamaran ride with a full Mediterranean lunch, all-inclusive drinks, and all the gear you need for water activities. The itinerary includes a scenic sail, a photo stop at Agioi Theodoroi, and nearly four hours on the island for swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, or just relaxing in the sun.
Guests love the full-day format, which allows plenty of time to explore, eat well, and unwind. The crew provides snorkel gear, inflatables, and snacks, making it perfect for families or groups wanting a comprehensive experience. Reviewers highlight the quality of the lunch and the friendly service, describing it as “a true escape into the Mediterranean.” The large boat and the picturesque surroundings make this a comfortable, memorable day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a complete, all-inclusive day on the water with plenty of activities and excellent food.
5. Chania: Private Day Catamaran Cruise with Swimming and Meal
For those wanting exclusivity, the Private Day Catamaran Cruise is a standout. Costing around $2,033 for up to 10 people, this tailored experience combines luxury, privacy, and adventure. Starting from DanEri Yachts, the cruise takes you to Agioi Theodoroi, where you can snorkel, swim, or relax in stunningly clear waters.
The tour features a customized itinerary with a Mediterranean meal, unlimited drinks, and fun extras like inflatable flamingos and a quality sound system. The reviews emphasize the personalized service, with guests appreciating the crew’s attention to detail and efforts to make the day special. It’s ideal for celebrations, family gatherings, or anyone seeking a luxurious and private escape. The flexibility allows you to choose your preferred stops and activities, making it a truly bespoke adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups or families who want a private, high-end experience tailored to their preferences.
6. Chania Old Port: Luxury Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Wine
This luxury sunset cruise offers an intimate and elegant way to enjoy Crete’s evening. Departing from the Old Venetian Harbour, the 3.5-hour cruise includes all you need to unwind—unlimited wine, soft drinks, and a cozy deck to relax and watch the sunset. The boat is spacious and stylish, with amenities like SUP boards and snorkel gear included for a bit of fun before the sun goes down.
Guests praise the golden hour views and the friendly crew’s attentive service. The cruise stops at a scenic viewpoint where you can take photos of the glowing landscape, then sails back with a gorgeous sunset as the backdrop. It’s ideal for couples or anyone wanting a refined, memorable evening at sea in a tranquil setting.
Bottom Line: A refined, romantic option for a memorable sunset with drinks in hand and stunning views.
7. Chania: Private Sailing Cruise with Snorkel, Lunch & Drinks
This private sailing cruise offers a seven-hour immersion in Crete’s maritime charm. Starting from Chania, it’s tailored for those who want to explore in depth. The itinerary includes stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, with a freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch onboard. The boat is a comfortable sailing vessel where you can learn about sailing techniques or simply relax.
Guests have loved how the personalized service and the authentic Greek cuisine make the experience special. It’s suited for families, couples, or groups who want an exclusive, leisurely day on the water. The reviews mention the friendly hosts and good food as highlights, with some describing it as “unforgettable.” The longer duration provides ample time to enjoy the scenery and water activities.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those seeking a private, longer escape with authentic food and personalized service.
8. 5 hrs Sail in Chania: sailing, swimming, lunch and drinks
This small-group tour is about as hands-on as it gets. For $709 (up to 4 people), you’ll sail in Chania with a crew committed to making your experience memorable. The itinerary includes multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and scenic sailing, plus a Greek-style lunch and open bar. The tour emphasizes interactive sailing, where you may get to help with the sails if you wish.
Reviewers appreciate the personal attention and the chance to learn about sailing while enjoying the sea. The trip is perfect for couples or small groups who want to be actively involved in their day at sea. The flexible schedule and all-inclusive drinks make it a good value for a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want to participate and learn as they enjoy Crete’s waters.
$709 per group up to 4
9. Chania: Catamaran Experience to Marathi Beach
This 7-hour cruise to Marathi Beach combines luxury with exploration. The catamaran departs from Souda Port, taking you across the bay to swim, snorkel, and relax. Participants rave about the fresh Cretan lunch onboard and the chance to unwind in Marathi’s clear waters. The tour is suitable for those looking for a leisurely day with light water activities and stunning sea views.
The cruise passes through Souda Bay, revealing scenic landscapes and offering ample free time for swimming and sunbathing. The reviews highlight the comfortable boat and friendly crew, making it a popular choice for families or couples wanting a relaxed day on the water.
Bottom Line: A balanced tour combining scenic cruising, light water fun, and good food in a peaceful setting.
10. Notos Day Sailing Cruise
Rounding out our list is the Notos Day Sailing Cruise, a private option with a skipper-led sailing trip. Priced at around $903 for up to 4 people, it’s perfect for those wanting a fully customized experience. The light lunch included is an added bonus. This cruise offers the flexibility to tailor your route and stops, ideal for families or small groups looking for an exclusive day at sea.
The main appeal lies in private comfort and the ability to choose your own adventure, whether it’s relaxing, swimming, or anchoring at favorite spots. The reviews note the professional crew and the personalized service as major strengths, making it a premium but worthwhile option.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups or families wanting a tailored, private sailing experience.
$903 per group up to 4
How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience
When selecting a sailing trip in Chania, consider your budget, preferred level of activity, and whether you want a private or shared experience. For a luxurious, all-inclusive day with plenty of water activities, the All-inclusive Catamaran Trip or the Full-day Private Cruise are excellent choices. If you’re after a romantic sunset, the Luxury Sunset Cruise offers a more refined, peaceful experience.
Budget-conscious travelers or water sports enthusiasts might prefer the Sailing Cruise with Meal & Water Activities, which balances fun and affordability. For those who want complete privacy, the Private Day Catamaran or Notos Day Sailing offer personalized service, often at a premium.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill quickly. Think about your interests—do you want to snorkel, relax with a glass of wine, or celebrate a special event? Choosing the right experience will make your time in Chania truly memorable.
Chania offers a fantastic variety of sailing adventures, whether you’re after a luxurious day with gourmet food, a private getaway, or a scenic sunset cruise. With so many options, you’re sure to find a trip that matches your style and makes your Crete holiday unforgettable. Consider your preferences, plan ahead, and get ready to enjoy the best that the sea has to offer.