Embark on an unforgettable sailing adventure through the stunning Cretan coastline with Chania’s full-day sailing cruise. Aboard a luxurious yacht, guests will savor a delightful array of local Mediterranean cuisine, sip on refreshing drinks, and enjoy the serene beauty of secluded coves and beaches. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to spotting vibrant marine life, this exclusive excursion promises an immersive experience that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the open sea or an opportunity to explore Crete’s natural wonders, this sailing cruise offers an unparalleled chance to discover the region’s captivating charm.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Crete.
Key Points
- Set out on a full-day luxury sailing cruise from the Akti Enoseos Chania dock, exploring the picturesque gulfs and islands around Machairida Bay and Thodorou Island.
- Enjoy a delightful array of local Mediterranean specialties, including freshly caught seafood, homemade salads, and traditional Cretan dishes, during the cruise.
- Experience the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the crystal-clear waters around Machairida Bay and Thodorou Island while snorkeling and spotting colorful marine life.
- Relax on the spacious deck area of the 12-meter luxury yacht, taking in the stunning views and soaking up the sun.
- Benefit from an experienced skipper who will guide the sailing experience and provide a comfortable and memorable adventure.
Sailing Yacht Specifications
The full-day sailing cruise aboard a 12-meter luxury yacht provides ample space and amenities for up to 6 participants to comfortably enjoy their time on the water.
This sleek and modern sailing vessel boasts a spacious deck area where guests can sunbathe, relax, and take in the stunning coastal views.
Inside, the yacht’s cabin offers a cozy and climate-controlled environment, complete with plush seating and a well-equipped galley for preparing the included lunch and refreshments.
The experienced skipper will expertly navigate the yacht, allowing participants to participate in the sailing experience under their guidance.
With its impressive size and thoughtful design, this luxury yacht ensures a truly memorable and comfortable sailing adventure around the beautiful island of Crete.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Crete
Itinerary and Destinations
This full-day sailing cruise showcases Crete’s stunning coastline, taking participants on a captivating journey to explore its picturesque gulfs and enchanting small islands.
After departing from the Akti Enoseos Chania dock, the experienced skipper will navigate the yacht to Machairida Bay, where guests can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters.
Following this, the cruise will continue to the captivating Thodorou Island, allowing visitors to disembark and wander the idyllic shores before returning to the yacht.
The highlights of this excursion include:
- Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Machairida Bay
- Explore the serene shores of Thodorou Island
- Sail on a luxurious 12-meter yacht under the guidance of an experienced skipper
- Indulge in a delicious lunch, complemented by refreshing drinks, while surrounded by Crete’s natural beauty.
Onboard Cuisine and Drinks
As guests step aboard the luxurious 12-meter yacht, they’ll be treated to a delightful array of culinary delights and refreshing beverages to complement their sailing experience.
A hearty lunch is served, featuring a selection of local Mediterranean specialties. Freshly caught seafood, homemade salads, and traditional Cretan dishes delight the palate.
To quench their thirst, guests can enjoy soft drinks, local wine, and cold beer. Throughout the day, the crew ensures a steady supply of fresh fruits and delectable desserts, allowing passengers to indulge and savor the flavors of the Greek islands.
This well-curated onboard menu elevates the overall sailing adventure, creating a truly memorable experience.
Snorkeling and Water Activities
During the sailing cruise, guests can enjoy the turquoise waters of Crete, exploring the underwater world through snorkeling. The crew provides high-quality snorkeling equipment, including masks, snorkels, and fins, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all participants.
Guests need only a basic swimming ability to join these captivating water activities and discover the vibrant marine life that thrives in the region’s pristine bays and coves.
The highlights of the snorkeling experience include:
- Exploring the crystal-clear waters around Machairida Bay and Thodorou Island.
- Spotting a variety of colorful fish, corals, and marine creatures in their natural habitats.
- Enjoying the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the secluded coves and hidden beaches.
- Experiencing the thrill of swimming alongside the 12-meter luxury sailing yacht.
Recommended Attire and Gear
Guests are recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that can easily dry, such as swimsuits, shorts, and t-shirts, as the sailing cruise involves substantial time spent on the water.
Plus, bringing a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is advisable to protect against the Mediterranean sun.
Closed-toe water shoes or sandals are also recommended to provide traction and protect the feet while boarding and moving around the yacht.
It’s important to note that any valuables or electronics should be secured or left behind, as the sailing environment can be unpredictable.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Crete
- Full-Day Land Rover Safari From Heraklion With Lunch
- Jeep Safari 4×4 Crete Real off Road Mountain Tracks With Lunch From Hersonissos
- Private Knossos Skip the Line Tour Inc. Lunch & Wine Tasting
- Crete: Trypiti Beach Off-Road South Tour W/ Lunch & Wine
- Southern Crete: Land Rover Safari With Lunch and Wine
- From Crete: Chrissi Island Yacht Cruise With Lunch
Meeting Point and Logistics
The sailing cruise departs from Akti Enoseos Chania, at Dock No2, with a start time of 10:30 AM and an estimated end time of 6:30 PM, providing a full-day excursion around Crete’s stunning coastline.
The group size is limited to 6 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Throughout the 7-hour journey, guests will have the opportunity to:
- Swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters of Crete.
- Visit the picturesque Machairida Bay and Thodorou Island.
- Sail on a luxurious 12-meter sailing yacht under the guidance of an experienced skipper.
- Enjoy a delicious lunch, along with soft drinks, wine, beer, fresh fruits, and dessert, all included in the cruise.
Group Size and Duration
The sailing cruise is limited to a group size of 6 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience throughout the 7-hour journey around Crete’s stunning coastline.
This full-day excursion departs at 10:30 AM and returns at 6:30 PM, giving guests ample time to fully enjoy the beauty of the island.
With a start and end point at the Akti Enoseos Chania (Dock No2), the cruise allows participants to maximize their time on the water, enjoying swimming, snorkeling, and sailing under the guidance of an experienced skipper.
The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more exclusive atmosphere, making this sailing adventure a truly memorable experience.
Swimming Ability Requirement
A basic swimming ability is typically required for participants to fully enjoy this sailing cruise, as guests will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters of Crete. This requirement ensures that everyone can safely and confidently explore the stunning coastal areas and small islands visited during the excursion.
While the waters are generally calm, having some swimming proficiency allows guests to make the most of the swimming and snorkeling activities planned throughout the day. The tour organizers recommend that participants be comfortable in the water and able to swim at least short distances, though no advanced swimming skills are necessary. This helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Practice your swimming skills before the trip.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and any other desired water gear.
Hydrate well and avoid heavy meals before the excursion.
Listen to the safety briefing provided by the experienced skipper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
While some cruises allow guests to bring their own food and drinks, this particular sailing excursion includes a full lunch, soft drinks, wine, and beer. Bringing outside items is generally not permitted on this cruise.
Is There an Option to Rent the Entire Yacht for a Private Group?
Yes, the cruise offers an option to rent the entire yacht for a private group. This allows for a more personalized sailing experience with flexibility over the itinerary and activities. Group size is limited to 6 participants.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Child-Friendly Policies?
The activity is generally suitable for all ages, though young children may require adult supervision. There are no specific age restrictions, and the group size is limited to 6 participants, allowing for a personalized experience.
Can I Request Specific Dietary Accommodations or Food Allergies?
Yes, you can request specific dietary accommodations or food allergies. The tour operator will work to accommodate any dietary needs or restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, with advance notice.
Is There a Cancellation Policy, and How Flexible Is the Booking?
The sailing cruise has a flexible booking policy, allowing participants to cancel or reschedule their trip with no penalties up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Specific dietary accommodations can be requested upon booking.
Recap
This full-day sailing cruise from Chania offers a luxurious and immersive experience exploring Crete’s stunning coastline.
Theres some good local Mediterranean cuisine, refreshing drinks, and opportunities to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Machairida Bay and Thodorou Island.
With a comfortable sailing yacht, knowledgeable crew, and secluded coves, this cruise provides a serene and unforgettable way to discover the natural beauty of Crete.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Lunch Experiences in Crete
- PIRATE BOAT 4.5h With Transfer & Lunch From Hersonissos CRETE
- Chania Morning Catamaran Cruise With Snorkeling and Lunch
- Hike Imbros Gorge & Explore Sfakia With Lunch
- Semi Private Wine Tour of 2 Wineries With Transfer and Lunch
- Luxury Sailing, Snorkel and Lunch Cruise Shared
- Chania Nature & Villages, White Mountains & Unique Cretan Lunch
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Crete
More Tour Reviews in Crete
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Crete we have recnetly reviewed
- 3 Best Shopping Tours In Crete
- 7 Best BBQ Experiences In Crete
- 7 Best Dining Experiences In Crete
- 9 Best Full-Day Tours In Crete
- 3 Best Jet-Ski Experiences In Crete
- 7 Best Dinner Tours In Crete
- 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Crete
- 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Crete
- 16 Best Food Tours In Crete
- Taste of Crete With Trikke Ride
- Travel Crete – Visit Knossos Palace (Semi Private – Shared Tour)
- 6 Hour Hiking in Psiloritis Mountain