Private boat trip Chania – Thodorou – Lazaretta (price per group-up to 9 people)

A Private Boat Trip from Chania to Thodorou and Lazaretta Islands

When we think of Crete, we often picture ancient ruins and lively tavernas. But there’s a different side of island life that can only be truly appreciated from the water. This private boat trip from Chania offers just that: a personalized adventure exploring the coastline and islands that surround the city. For about $617 per group (up to 9 people), you’ll spend roughly 2.5 hours cruising from the Venetian Lighthouse, visiting Thodorou Island, famous for its goats, and Lazaretta Island, with its inviting sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the intimacy of a private tour—you and your party are the only passengers, which means flexibility and a personalized touch. Second, the chance to see some truly unique sights, like the wild goats on Thodorou and the underwater wreck of a WW2 German plane.

A quick note on considerations: while the trip is packed with sights and activities, the overall duration is relatively short. If you’re looking for a full day of exploration, you might want to consider longer tours or additional stops.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a mix of relaxation, wildlife spotting, and scenic views, especially if you enjoy snorkeling, local wildlife, and sunset moments. It suits families, couples, or small groups eager for a private experience with knowledgeable guides, as echoed in glowing reviews.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Private trip tailored for your group up to 9 people
• Wildlife & history: See wild goats, snorkel over a WW2 aircraft wreck, and learn local stories
• Flexible itinerary: Choose stops for swimming, snorkeling, or sightseeing at your pace
• Excellent value: All activities and snorkeling equipment included in the price
• Stunning scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views, quiet coves, and watching sunsets over the sea
• Highly rated: Consistently rated 5/5 by travelers who loved the guides and the experience

Exploring the Details: What to Expect

Starting Point and Overall Schedule

The adventure begins at the Venetian Lighthouse in Chania, a scenic spot that’s easy to find and offers fantastic views of the historic lighthouse and the old Venetian port. From there, the boat, operated by Seaze The Day, sets out into the waters of Crete, heading towards the first stop—Thodorou Island.

This is a particularly charming part of the trip. Thodorou is protected land, home only to wild goats and a dedicated guard. The highlight here isn’t just the wildlife, but also the feeling of being on a tiny, unspoiled island that seems to belong to another age. The stop lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to observe the goats, take photos, or simply soak in the tranquil scenery. No admission fees are charged, so it’s all about enjoying the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Lazaretta Island: The Swim Stop

Next, the boat heads to Lazaretta Island, a small, inviting spot near Chania with a sandy coastline perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The review mentions the water here as “incredible,” and many travelers have raved about swimming above and down to a WW2 German aircraft wreck, adding a dash of history to the marine adventure. The stop lasts around 30 minutes, which is enough for a quick dip, some snorkeling, and perhaps floating on the provided pool noodles.

Snorkeling gear is included at no extra cost—this is a major plus, making it easy to jump right into the water and explore. The shallow, clear waters and abundant marine life mean you’re likely to see interesting fish and possibly even a turtle, as one reviewer happily reports.

Authentic Experiences & What Travelers Love

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable and friendly guides. Many reviews mention how guides like Nicolas and Sotiris shared stories about the islands, kept everyone comfortable, and even brought fresh oysters and mussels on board to enjoy during the trip. That personal touch elevates the experience from a standard boat ride to a memorable outing.

The scenery is another standout. From the boat, you’ll witness stunning sea views, cliffs, and the chance to admire Crete’s rugged coastline. Watching the sunset over the water is described as “breathtaking,” making this a fantastic choice for a romantic evening or a family’s special outing.

Practical Considerations

The tour operates most days, with most travelers booking about 4 months in advance—testament to its popularity. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals or mobility issues, as long as they’re comfortable on a boat and in the water. The trip’s relatively short duration (around 2.5 hours) makes it accessible for kids and less patient travelers.

The price might seem steep at first glance, but considering it covers private use, snorkeling gear, and a personalized experience, many find it offers good value, especially given the rave reviews praising the crew and scenery. It’s also flexible; if the weather is poor, the trip can be rescheduled or refunded, providing peace of mind.

In-Depth: The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Venetian Lighthouse, Chania
This historic lighthouse marks the start of your adventure, offering scenic views of the old port and a chance to appreciate Chania’s maritime history. It’s a convenient and picturesque launchpad for your boat trip.

Stop 1: Agioi Theodoroi (Thodorou Island)
This stop is all about experiencing Crete’s wild side. As one reviewer described, “The island is inhabited only by goats and a guard,” and you’ll have a chance to observe these curious animals in their natural habitat. The island’s protected status adds to its charm—not commercialized or crowded, just authentic nature. It’s an ideal spot for photos and quiet reflection.

Stop 2: Lazaretta Island
A quick hop to Lazaretta offers the chance to jump into the inviting waters. The sandy beach is perfect for lounging, and the snorkeling opportunities are top-notch. A reviewer mentioned swimming “above and down to WW2 wreck,” which adds a touch of adventure and history. The calm, clear waters are especially suited for families or less experienced swimmers.

End of Tour: Return to Chania
After your swim, the boat heads back to the Venetian Lighthouse, completing a well-rounded, scenic trip filled with wildlife, history, and relaxation.

Authentic Experiences from Traveler Reviews

Reviewers repeatedly highlight how the guides enhanced the experience. For example, Nicolas, nicknamed “the best Captain,” was appreciated for his storytelling and attentiveness, making the trip educational as well as fun. Another reviewer mentioned, “The boat is accommodating and very relaxing,” emphasizing comfort and ease.

Many travelers loved the culinary touches—fresh oysters, mussels, and grilled chicken skewers—adding a gourmet element to a day on the water. Others appreciated how the crew worked with weather updates, delaying departures and adjusting plans to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

The snorkeling experience gets top marks, with many guests describing the marine life, caves, and even the German plane wreck as unforgettable sights. For families, the safety measures, such as ropes attached to the boat for reassurance, earned high praise.

The Value and Who It’s For

At just over $600 for a private group, the tour offers excellent value for those seeking exclusivity and tailored experiences. It’s not a mass tour; it’s a curated outing designed for comfort, intimacy, and discovery. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the flexibility to customize stops make it appealing to all kinds of travelers.

This trip is perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting a memorable day without the hassle of large tour buses. If you enjoy boat rides that combine wildlife, history, and beautiful scenery—and don’t mind short durations—you’ll find this experience well worth the price.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children who enjoy swimming and boat rides will love it. The trip’s short duration makes it manageable for younger kids.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge, so you can jump in and explore without extra fuss.

What should I wear or bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. A light jacket might be useful if it gets windy. Comfortable shoes for boarding are recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the trip. In case of bad weather, the trip can be rescheduled or refunded.

How long is the trip?
The total time is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including stops at Thodorou and Lazaretta.

Is the price per person or per group?
The listed price is per group of up to 9 people, making it a good deal for private, personalized time on the water.

Final thoughts

This private boat trip from Chania offers a fine blend of nature, history, and relaxation—perfect for those who want to see Crete from a different perspective without the crowds. The guides’ local knowledge and attentiveness shine through in the glowing reviews, making it clear this is more than just a scenic cruise—it’s a curated experience designed to create lasting memories.

Whether you’re a family looking for a safe, fun adventure, a couple seeking a romantic sunset, or a small group of friends eager for wildlife and snorkeling, this trip delivers. The combination of authentic wildlife sightings, historical surprises, and the sheer beauty of the waters surrounding Crete makes this a trip worth considering.

Enjoy the quiet coves, the playful goats, and the stunning sunset—an authentic slice of Crete’s coastline, made just for you.