Ligaria: Snorkeling trip with Motor Boat around Agia Pelagia

If you’re after a fun, straightforward way to see Crete’s underwater beauty, this snorkeling trip with a motorboat around Agia Pelagia is worth considering. It’s a relaxed experience, designed to be accessible whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a total beginner. And honestly, with clear instructions and a knowledgeable crew, it’s the kind of activity that pairs well with a sunny day, some calm waters, and a bit of adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines safety with fun—everyone gets a proper guide, good gear, and some insider tips to make the most of their time in the water. Plus, the small group size (limited to 10) makes the whole trip feel personal and more relaxed. On the flip side, some travelers might find that the experience doesn’t go very deep into the underwater scene — it’s more about enjoying the view and having fun than hardcore exploring.

This tour is perfect if you’re keen on a hassle-free way to try snorkeling, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who want a gentle intro to marine life. If you’re someone who appreciates good guidance and a safe environment, and you’re happy to spend a few hours on a boat exploring Crete’s waters, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: No experience needed, just a willingness to enjoy the water
• Professional guidance: Certified crew and safety instructions ensure peace of mind
• Small group setting: Limits to 10 travelers, making the experience more personal
• Two snorkeling spots: Offers a chance to see different marine environments
• Includes all necessary gear: Snorkeling equipment, lifejackets, and insurance are provided
• Flexible schedule: Multiple start times with easy booking options

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Snorkeling Adventure

This isn’t your typical long, complicated tour. Instead, it’s a straightforward, well-organized trip that prioritizes fun, safety, and ease. You’ll meet at the Eurodiving center in Ligaria, about 20 minutes from Heraklion, where the team prepares you for the outing with safety instructions and your gear. Once on board the motorboat, you’ll cruise around Agia Pelagia’s waters, stopping at different spots to snorkel.

The boat ride itself is comfortable and relatively short, with the entire trip lasting about three hours. During that time, you’ll visit two main snorkeling spots, both showcasing different aspects of Crete’s marine environment. The first stop usually takes you to a sheltered area, perfect for beginners or those who prefer calmer waters. The second spot offers a more open ocean experience, where the variety of fish and marine plants is often more abundant.

You’ll get the chance to learn snorkeling and skin diving techniques—surface swimming with fins and masks—though no prior experience is necessary. The crew offers a PADI snorkeling program, making sure everyone knows how to use the equipment safely and effectively. It’s a relaxing way to dip your toes into underwater exploration without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The snorkeling equipment is all provided, including masks, fins, and lifejackets, and the guide will be with you at all times to point out interesting sea creatures and ensure safety. The waters around Agia Pelagia are famously clear, which makes for excellent visibility—perfect for spotting fish, invertebrates, and marine plants. As one happy traveler put it, “Everyone should visit! Our captain was knowledgeable, safe, and most of all, very kind! We saw beautiful fish, invertebrates, marine plants, a private beach, and learned the history of the islands.”

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at the Eurodiving center in Ligaria, where you will meet your crew and get fitted with your snorkeling gear. The exact start time depends on your booking choice, but typically, the morning and afternoon slots are available.

Next, you’ll hop onto a small, comfortable motorboat for the cruise. The boat ride usually lasts about 45 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and get excited for what’s to come.

Your first stop is typically at a sheltered bay or calmer waters where you can ease into snorkeling, especially if you’re new to it. The crew will offer safety instructions and tips, ensuring you feel comfortable entering the water. Here, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of marine life, from colorful fish to marine plants.

After about an hour of exploring this spot, the boat will move to a more open ocean location—an environment with more sea life and different underwater features. This variation keeps the experience fresh and engaging, giving you a chance to see different habitats and marine creatures.

The trip then concludes with a return cruise back to Ligaria, with drop-offs at one of the 10 available locations, including Agia Pelagia, Hersonissos, Heraklion, and others. This flexibility makes it easier to plan your day without extra hassle.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides all the essentials—snorkeling gear, a professional guide, safety equipment, lifejackets, insurance, and the motorboat itself. These inclusions truly add value, especially considering the safety measures and the quality of gear provided. It means you won’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment or arranging extra safety measures.

However, there are some things you’ll need to bring yourself. Pack towels, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), and perhaps a snack or water if you want to stay comfortable. Drinks and food aren’t included, so plan accordingly.

It’s worth noting that alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the activity, which makes sense for safety reasons.

The Experience: Worth the Cost?

At $73 per person, this tour offers a solid value for a half-day adventure. When you consider the inclusion of expert guidance, safety gear, insurance, and the boat ride itself, it’s a hassle-free way for travelers to enjoy Crete’s waters without having to organize all the details themselves.

The small group size enhances the experience, making it easier to interact with your guide and get personalized attention. Plus, the fact that many reviewers mention the knowledgeable and kind crew makes a difference—it’s clear that safety and guest comfort are priorities here.

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Who is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling trip is ideal for beginners and casual water lovers. No prior experience is required, and the emphasis on safety makes it accessible even if you’re nervous about snorkeling. If you’re traveling with someone who’s never snorkeled before, you’ll find it particularly reassuring.

It’s also a good fit for those who want a relaxed, small-group experience rather than a large tour. If you’re after more in-depth underwater exploring, this might feel a little limited, but for a fun, introductory activity, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a practical choice for travelers wanting a safe, guided introduction to Crete’s marine environment. The professionalism of the crew, the quality of the gear, and the scenic boat ride all contribute to a worthwhile experience. It’s not overly complicated, and the focus on safety and ease makes it especially appealing for those new to snorkeling or looking for a light, relaxing activity.

For anyone who values knowledgeable guides, clear waters, and straightforward fun, this is a solid choice. It’s best suited for travelers who want a gentle, approachable adventure rather than an intense or technical dive. If you’re looking to see some of Crete’s sea life without too much fuss, this tour is likely to leave you with great memories—and maybe a few new underwater skills.

FAQs

Is prior snorkeling experience necessary?
No, you don’t need any experience. The crew provides safety instructions and guides you through the process, making it suitable for beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, and sunscreen. Food and drinks aren’t included, so pack any snacks or water you might want during the trip.

Are the snorkeling gear and safety equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment, lifejackets, and safety instructions are included in the tour price.

How long does the trip last?
The total duration is about 3 hours, including boat rides and snorkeling time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Eurodiving center in Ligaria and ends back at the same meeting point.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans change.

Is this suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the activity’s easy accessibility and safety measures make it suitable for anyone comfortable in the water.

What kind of marine life might I see?
You might see fish, invertebrates, and marine plants. One traveler even described a lionfish encounter as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’re dreaming of a fun, safe, and scenic way to enjoy Crete’s waters, this snorkeling motorboat trip around Agia Pelagia checks most boxes. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or just looking for a relaxed day out on the sea, it offers a nice blend of adventure and peace, all guided by friendly professionals.

You can check availability for your dates here: