Notos half-day cruise

If you’re looking to unwind and see some of Crete’s best waters without spending a whole day at sea, the Notos half-day cruise might just be what you need. This private sailing trip offers a relaxed yet enriching experience, perfect for those who want a taste of the island’s beautiful coastlines with the comfort of a small, personalized group.

What we particularly like about this tour is its private nature, meaning you won’t be stuck with strangers, and the two swimming stops give you ample chances to cool off and explore. Plus, the inclusion of water, drinks, and fruits makes for a refreshing, no-hidden-cost kind of outing. On the downside, it’s a shorter trip—just four hours—which might leave some craving more time on the water.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate comfort, personalized service, and a laid-back vibe. If you’re after a scenic, relaxing cruise with some swimming, and you’re okay with a bit of a price tag for exclusivity, this cruise could fit the bill. It’s also a good option for those who want flexibility in timing and a chance to avoid crowded group tours.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience on a sailing boat in Chania’s bay
• Two swim stops for enjoying the water and sightseeing
• All drinks and fruits included—no extra costs for refreshments
• End-to-end service with a knowledgeable skipper
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers or seasickness-prone individuals

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Notos Half-Day Cruise

When we imagine a perfect half-day escape from busy sightseeing, a private boat trip like this ticks many boxes. Starting from Chania’s Old Harbour, you’re soon leaving the hustle behind and heading into calmer waters, with the promise of a relaxed, personalized experience.

The Starting Point and Ease of Access

The meeting point is straightforward: a wooden dock opposite the old custom house, now the Mikis Theodorakis theatre. It’s a central spot in Chania’s Old Harbour, making it easy to reach whether you’re staying nearby or coming in from elsewhere in the town. The process is simple—just show up, and your private skipper will be ready to take you on your adventure.

The Journey Begins: Cruising to Thodorou Island

At around 10:00 AM, your boat, Notos, sets sail. The first stop is Thodorou Island, part of the national park, known for its endangered Kri Kri goats. We loved the way this stop combines scenery and wildlife—swimming in crystal-clear waters while gazing at a protected habitat. The waters here are famously clear, perfect for a quick dip or just floating around and soaking in the views.

The highlight of this section is the opportunity to see the wild goats while enjoying a swim. The boat anchors for a little over an hour, giving you plenty of time to relax, snorkel, or just float in the inviting water. As one reviewer said, “A very relaxing trip with great service,” and that pretty much sums up the vibe here.

Second Stop at Lazaretta Island

Next, the boat moves toward Lazaretta Island, another picturesque spot with inviting waters. Here, you can snorkel and see underwater life, or if you prefer, just bask in the sun on the boat deck. The tour highly recommends swimming all the way to the island’s small sandy beach, which is a lovely spot for some quiet time away from the boat.

This second swim adds variety to the trip, and the chance to explore underwater scenery is a big plus. The waters are calm and ideal for those who want a relaxed experience without the need for advanced snorkeling skills. The guide’s knowledge makes the experience richer, as they often point out features of interest in the water.

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Refreshments and Relaxation

Throughout the trip, water, wine, beer, soft drinks, and fruits are served. The fact that drinks and snacks are included in the price means you can sip your drinks without worrying about extra costs or having to bring your own. The guide’s attention to service is evident—nothing feels rushed, and you can simply unwind while taking in the views.

The Return and End of the Trip

By 2:00 PM, the boat anchors back at the Old Harbour, and your relaxing half-day adventure concludes. The ease of returning to the starting point makes it a convenient option for those with afternoon plans or simply wanting to maximize their time exploring Crete.

What Makes the Notos Cruise Stand Out?

The private nature of this tour is a big draw. You’re not sharing the boat with strangers, which means you can set your own pace and enjoy a more intimate experience. The two swim stops are thoughtfully spaced out, giving you time to relax, snorkel, or just float around.

Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making sure you get the most out of each stop—whether that’s spotting wildlife or understanding the marine environment. Reviewers have praised the service, calling it “great” and “relaxing,” which speaks to the quality of the hospitality onboard.

The included drinks and fruits add a touch of comfort, especially on a warm Crete day. You won’t need to worry about bringing your own refreshments, which simplifies planning.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $790 for a group of up to six, this tour prices out at just over $130 per person. While that’s not the cheapest option out there, the private experience and inclusions tend to justify the cost for many travelers. If you value exclusivity, personalized service, and the chance to swim in pristine waters, you’ll find this approach offers good value.

Keep in mind, it’s a short trip—just four hours—but that’s enough to get a taste of Crete’s stunning coastlines without feeling rushed. For those looking for a more extended adventure, other tours like full-day cruises or trips that include additional destinations might be better suited.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families who want a peaceful, private outing. If you’re after a scenic boat ride with opportunities to swim and snorkel, this fits well. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less crowded experience without sacrificing quality or service.

However, if you or your companions have mobility challenges or are prone to seasickness, this might not be the best fit, given the trip’s nature and possible boat movement. Always check the weather forecast, as bad weather can lead to cancellations or less enjoyable conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Notos half-day cruise offers a peaceful and intimate way to enjoy Crete’s waters, combining scenic stops with a personal touch. The knowledgeable guides, clean waters, and inclusive drinks make for a trip that feels both luxurious and laid-back. While it isn’t the cheapest option, the private aspect and quality of service could make it worth considering for those craving a quiet escape.

For anyone wanting a brief, relaxing escape on the water—enjoying swimming, wildlife, and scenic views—this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling as a small group and looking for a memorable, personalized experience without the crowds.

FAQs

Is this cruise private?
Yes, the tour is always private, meaning you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers.

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts about 4 hours, with departures and start times varying based on availability.

What is included in the price?
Water, wine, beer, soft drinks, and fruits are included, along with the skipper and fuel.

Are drinks and snacks extra?
No, they’re included in the price, so you can relax without worrying about additional costs.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended to make the most of your swim stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify, but given the nature of the trip, it likely suits older children rather than very young kids or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather doesn’t allow the trip, it gets canceled, and your deposit is refunded.

Where exactly do we meet?
At the wooden dock opposite the old custom house, now the Mikis Theodorakis theatre.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

If you love the idea of a quiet, scenic, and personalized sailing experience in Crete, the Notos half-day cruise could be your perfect match. It’s a relaxed way to see the coast, enjoy some swimming, and indulge in a few drinks—all with the comfort of a private boat and a knowledgeable crew.

You can check availability for your dates here: