Marathi: Private Boat Rental

Thinking about seeing Crete from a different perspective? A private boat rental like this one from Marathi Bay offers a chance to escape the crowds, discover secluded beaches, and enjoy a day tailored to your pace and interests. While it’s not a full-service tour with guides at every turn, it provides the freedom to explore some of Crete’s most beautiful spots on your own terms.

What caught our attention? First, the access to beaches and creeks only reachable by boat—these hidden gems are perfect for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking in the scenery. Second, the opportunity to learn and drive the boat yourself, adding a fun, hands-on element for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. One thing to consider: fuel, food, and drinks are extra, so you’ll need to bring some cash along.

This experience is ideal for those who love independence, small groups, and personalized adventures. If you’re comfortable with being on the water and want the flexibility to visit multiple spots without a schedule, this might be just what you’re looking for. It’s not necessarily suited for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, so keep that in mind.

Key Points

• Freedom to explore numerous beaches and creeks only accessible by boat.
• Opportunity to learn and potentially drive the boat yourself, making the experience interactive.
• Flexible duration from 4.5 to 10 hours, allowing for half or full-day adventures.
• Private group experience ensures a personalized day on the water.
• Additional costs for fuel, food, drinks, and insurance, so budget accordingly.
• No alcohol or drugs allowed, maintaining safety on board.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Marathi Private Boat Rental

If you decide to book this experience, you’re in for a memorable day tailored to your preferences. The operator, Notos Mare Marine Adventures, offers a straightforward process: you choose your duration—either a half or full day—and set out from Marathi Bay. The starting times are flexible, so you can plan around your Crete itinerary.

Once on board, you’ll be given a detailed briefing about the boat’s features and safety measures. The crew will also show you a local map highlighting the best spots to visit, including beaches like Seitan Limania, Kalami, and Kalyves. These areas are genuinely worth exploring, especially because they’re only accessible by boat, so you’ll be among a select few enjoying their tranquility.

Visiting Seitan Limania and other secret spots

The highlight for many is heading toward Seitan Limania, a narrow, dramatic cove famous for its turquoise waters and steep cliffs. It’s a relatively small beach, but the scenery makes it worth the visit. The tour also includes stops at Kalami and Kalyves, which are lovely sandy beaches perfect for a swim or just unwinding. You can also explore other locations like Almyrida, Kera, and almost the entire bay of Souda, depending on your preferences and the weather.

Customizing your itinerary

One of the biggest advantages is the freedom to choose where to go. If you’re interested in relaxing in a quiet creek, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or just cruising along the coast, this trip adapts to your desires. The detailed briefing helps avoid rocks and dangerous areas, so you can focus on enjoying yourself.

Learning to drive the boat

For the more adventurous, this is a fantastic chance to learn how to operate a boat. The crew provides a comprehensive demo, so even beginners can feel comfortable taking the wheel under supervision. It adds an extra layer of fun and a sense of accomplishment to the day.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $158 per group (up to 6 people) covers the boat rental itself. That’s a pretty fair deal for a private experience in such a scenic setting, especially since you’re on your own schedule. However, additional costs include fuel, insurance, food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and coolers. These extras can add up, so it’s worth bringing cash and planning for snacks and drinks.

The rental doesn’t come with snorkel gear or food, so if swimming and relaxing are your main goals, bring your own gear and some picnic supplies. The boat is your platform for the day—and it’s up to you how much you want to pack into it.

The Practicalities

The experience lasts between 4.5 and 10 hours, giving plenty of flexibility depending on how much you want to see and do. The boat departs from Marathi Bay, about a 25-minute drive from Chania city center, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.

What to bring

You’ll want to carry your passport or ID, swimwear, a towel, and some cash for extras. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes, sun protection, and perhaps a hat. It’s best to avoid alcohol and drugs on board for safety reasons.

Important considerations

• The experience requires at least two adults on the boat.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.
• No alcohol or drugs allowed onboard, emphasizing safety.
• Remember, fuel, food, and drinks are at your expense, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Feedback from Past Participants

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “Great activity, very friendly instructor, I highly recommend it.” This highlights the approachable nature of the crew and the overall positive vibe. The small size of the group ensures you aren’t overwhelmed, and the opportunity to customize your day makes it feel more like a personal adventure than a typical tour.

Others appreciated the guidance and tips provided, especially on where to find the best beaches and how to navigate safely around rocks. The detailed briefing and local map make it easier to plan your stops and avoid any rough patches.

Comparing Similar Experiences

If you’re exploring options, there are similar boat experiences around Crete, but this private rental stands out for its flexibility and intimate setting. For example, tours that are more structured might not give you the freedom to explore secluded creeks or drive the boat yourself. Some options like the “Rental Boat Kalyves” or “Boat Experience in Almyrida” might offer similar routes, but with less privacy and customization.

Who Should Consider This

If you value independent exploration, enjoy being on the water, and want to avoid crowded tour buses, this private boat rental could be perfect. It’s especially suitable for small groups or families who can handle the physical aspects of being on a boat and are comfortable with some basic navigation.

However, if you’re looking for a guided experience with a detailed commentary on Crete’s history or culture, this might not fulfill that need. Likewise, if you’re traveling with someone who can’t swim or has mobility issues, consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This private boat rental in Marathi Bay offers a chance to see Crete from a fresh perspective—away from busy beaches and tour groups. It’s about flexibility, discovery, and a bit of adventure. The ability to explore the hidden beaches and creeks only reachable by boat means you’ll truly feel like you’re discovering something special. Plus, the option to learn how to drive the boat adds a memorable hands-on element.

For those who value privacy and independence on their trips, this experience provides a relaxed, customizable day on the water. The reviews reflect its popularity for friendly guides and the overall fun of the experience. Just keep in mind the extra costs for fuel and supplies to make the most of your day.

If you’re ready to take control of your Crete adventure and enjoy the island’s beautiful coastline at your own pace, this private boat rental is a solid pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the boat rental last?
You can choose between a 4.5-hour half-day or up to a 10-hour full-day experience, depending on your schedule and interests.

Is it suitable for children?
The experience works best for adults or older children comfortable on boats. There’s no specific mention of children, so consider their comfort with water and boating.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear isn’t included in the rental, so bringing your own is recommended if you want to explore underwater spots.

What are the extra costs involved?
Fuel, optional insurance, food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and coolers aren’t included. Budget for these extras to fully enjoy your day.

Is it okay to drive the boat myself?
Yes, the crew provides a detailed briefing and demo, so beginners can learn and potentially drive the boat during your trip.

How close is the departure point to Chania?
It’s about a 25-minute drive from Chania city center, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Taking this private boat rental in Crete offers a unique way to connect with the island’s stunning coastline on your own terms. Whether you want to relax in quiet coves, learn to drive a boat, or explore hidden beaches, it promises a memorable, personalized day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: