Chania: Menies Beach & Chironisia Bay Cruise with Snorkeling

Chania: Menies Beach & Chironisia Bay Cruise with Snorkeling — A Detailed Look

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and craving a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun in the sun, this boat tour from Kolymbari could be just what you’re after. We’ve looked into this experience, and it’s clear that many visitors find it offers a solid combination of snorkeling, scenic views, and a relaxed pace — all for an accessible price.

What we really like about it? First, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters at two different spots that are hard to reach otherwise. Second, the chance to see some underwater WWII relics adds a cool historical twist to the adventure.

A possible consideration? The boat anchors just 6 meters from shore, so you’ll need to be comfortable swimming in shallow water if you want to explore the beaches fully. The trip tends to suit those who enjoy a laid-back, scenic cruise with some swimming and historical interest, rather than intense adventure or extensive hiking.

This tour works well for travelers who want an easy, affordable way to see the northern coast of Crete, with a focus on relaxing in secluded spots away from crowded beaches. It’s also a good pick if you’re interested in a small-group vibe and guided snorkeling — but not necessarily if you want a gourmet meal or a longer, more comprehensive excursion.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $45 per person, you get access to two beautiful beaches and snorkeling gear.
• Secluded Spots: Menies Beach and Chironisia Bay are both only accessible by boat, making the experience feel exclusive.
• Historical Underwater Interest: Snorkelers can see remnants of WWII cannons, adding a layer of curiosity.
• Relaxed Itinerary: The cruise moves at a gentle pace, giving plenty of time at each stop to swim, relax, or explore.
• Guided Experience: Guides are helpful and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall comfort and safety.
• Weather Dependent: The tour won’t run in poor weather, so flexibility is a good idea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

From the moment you meet at the port of Kolymbari, this tour feels like a breezy escape from the usual tourist spots. You have the option to meet directly on the boat or get picked up from select hotels in north Chania, which is a nice convenience if you’re staying nearby. The crew is friendly, and the safety briefing is quick but thorough — a plus for those new to boat trips.

The Cruise to Rodopou Peninsula

Once underway, you’ll enjoy about 40 minutes sailing along the coast of the Rodopou Peninsula. The views are part of what makes this trip enjoyable—rocky cliffs, the open sea stretching out on all sides, and glimpses of Crete’s rugged coastline. The boat itself is described as comfortable and spacious, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenery.

First Stop: Menies Beach

The highlight for many is Menies Beach, where you’ll get about 105 minutes of free time. This beach is on the site of ancient Diktynna, adding a layer of history to your swim. You’ll appreciate the crystal-clear waters—many reviews mention how perfect they are for snorkeling—and the fact that it’s only accessible by boat gives it a peaceful, almost untouched vibe.

While snorkeling here, you can look for the sunken cannons and WWII remnants that lie beneath the surface, adding a mini adventure to your swim. Reviewers mention seeing interesting underwater relics, which makes the activity even more engaging. The shallow anchor point means you’ll need to be comfortable swimming in waist-deep water if you want to explore the shoreline or underwater sights.

Second Stop: Chironisia Bay

Next, after a short cruise back along the coast, you arrive at Chironisia Bay, a tiny, secluded cove accessible only by boat. Here you’ll have about 40 minutes to swim, sunbathe, or explore small caves with your snorkeling gear. The bay’s small size and privacy make it a favorite for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Crete’s lesser-known beaches.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Return Trip

After enjoying the second snorkeling stop, you’ll cruise back along the coast for about 30 minutes, taking in the scenery and relaxing. The entire tour wraps up with a return to Kolymbari, with drop-offs at the original meeting point or at hotels if you opted for pickup.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Many reviews highlight the value for money — this is a four-hour adventure that offers meaningful time in the water, guided snorkeling, and scenic cruising. For just over $45, you’re getting a snapshot of Crete’s lesser-visited beaches, combined with a little history and a lot of relaxation.

The guides are frequently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness, and knowledge, which makes a big difference in creating a comfortable atmosphere. Several reviewers appreciate the small boat size, which results in fewer crowds and more personal attention.

Snorkeling and Underwater Sights

The underwater relics, especially the WWII cannons, add a fascinating element for snorkelers. Ronda shares that it was her first time seeing cuttlefish while snorkeling, and others have enjoyed the clarity and abundance of fish at both stops. The snorkeling equipment is provided, but one reviewer pointed out the importance of hygienic standards for gear, so bringing your own mask if you’re particular might be a good idea.

Food and Drinks

While the tour itself doesn’t include food or drinks, you can purchase snacks and beverages onboard. Some guests find this convenient, especially if they’re not planning to pack a picnic. The price-quality ratio is decent, but don’t expect a gourmet meal — this is more about the experience and scenery.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring your own essentials: Sunscreen, a towel, comfortable shoes for walking on the boat, and swimwear are must-haves.
• Expect shallow water swimming: The boat anchors only 6 meters from shore, so you need to be comfortable swimming in shallow water to access the beaches.
• Weather considerations: The trip is weather-dependent and won’t run in poor conditions, so keep an eye on the forecast.
• Timing: The boat departs at 10:15 or 14:30 from Kolymbari, with pickup times varying based on your hotel location.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic cruise with snorkel opportunities in peaceful beaches. It’s suitable for those who appreciate history and underwater relics, and who want a good value for their time and money. It’s less suited for travelers looking for a long day of adventure or gourmet dining but perfect for those craving a taste of Crete’s natural beauty without the fuss.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option that includes hotel pickup and drop-off from certain locations in north Chania, making it very convenient.

How long do we spend snorkeling at each stop?
You get approximately 105 minutes at Menies Beach and about 40 minutes at Chironisia Bay for swimming and snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. Bringing your own snorkeling mask is optional but may be beneficial.

Can I do this tour if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Since the boat anchors only 6 meters from shore, swimming in shallow water is necessary to access the beaches. If you’re comfortable in shallow water, you should be fine.

What kind of boat is used?
The boat is described as comfortable and spacious, suitable for small groups, providing a relaxed atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is canceled in poor weather conditions, so check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

In The Sum Up

This boat cruise from Kolymbari to Menies Beach and Chironisia Bay offers a relaxing way to enjoy some of Crete’s quieter beaches, with plenty of snorkeling and interesting historical sights. If you’re after a laid-back adventure with friendly guides and scenic views, it’s a solid choice.

Perfect for travelers who want to combine nature, history, and a splash of sea adventure without spending a fortune or committing to a full-day outing. It’s a wonderful way to cool off, explore underwater relics, and escape the crowds for a few hours — all in the comfort of a small group.

Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in need of a peaceful seaside escape, this tour gives you a genuine taste of Crete’s natural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: