Private boat trip Chania – Thodorou – Lazaretta (price per group-up to 9 people)

Exploring the Private Boat Trip from Chania to Thodorou and Lazaretta Islands

This private boat adventure offers a fantastic way to see some of Crete’s most captivating coastal sights in comfort and style. Operating out of Chania, the trip takes you to Thodorou Island, famous for its goats and protected status, then on to the inviting sands of Lazaretta Island for swimming and snorkeling. With a dedicated skipper and a close-knit group of up to nine people, you’re in for a personalized experience that combines scenic beauty, fun water activities, and some local charm.

One of the standout features of this tour is its private nature—that means no noisy crowds or hurried schedules. It’s all about enjoying your time on the water at your own pace. We also love the thoughtful touches like complimentary snorkeling equipment and the flexibility to customize your day in a relaxed setting. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is roughly 2.5 hours long, so it’s perfect for those wanting a taste of Crete’s maritime delights rather than a full-day excursion.

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a luxurious, personal adventure. It’s particularly suitable if you value knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. If you’re after a laid-back, memorable day on the sea with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting, this trip could be just the thing.

Key Points

• Private and Intimate: Only your group will be on the boat, ensuring a personal experience.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops at Thodorou and Lazaretta Islands allow for wildlife viewing, swimming, and snorkeling.
• Knowledgeable guides: The skipper explains the history and details of the islands, enriching your trip.
• Quality snorkeling gear: Complimentary equipment makes exploring underwater easy and accessible.
• Excellent value: For around $617 (per group of up to 9), you get nearly 2.5 hours of personalized boat time plus multiple fantastic stops.
• Highly rated: With a perfect 5-star rating from 14 reviews, this tour clearly resonates with travelers.

Why Choose this Private Boat Trip?

The journey begins at the Venetian Lighthouse in Chania, a picturesque spot that sets the tone for a scenic cruise. From there, your captain will take you on a leisurely ride to Agioi Theodoroi (Thodorou Island), a small, protected island known for its large population of wild goats. As you approach, you’ll notice the island is uninhabited by humans, with only goats and a guard living there, making it an intriguing stop for wildlife lovers.

Thodorou Island is a highlight because of its protected status and the chance to view goats in their natural habitat without the distraction of humans. The stop here typically lasts about an hour, giving you ample time to observe, take photos, or even relax on the boat while the guides share interesting tidbits about the island’s history and wildlife. Passengers often comment on how well the guides explain the local environment, adding an educational aspect to the trip.

Next, your boat heads to Lazaretta Island, a small island with a gorgeous sandy beach. This stop is especially popular because of the opportunity to jump into the inviting waters for a swim or snorkel. Reviewers frequently mention how the waters are “incredible” and the snorkeling gear makes exploring underwater life straightforward. Expect around 30 minutes here, which is enough time to cool off, enjoy the sun, and snap some photos of the stunning coastline.

The Experience in Detail

Departure and Setting Out

The tour departs from Defkalionos 14, Chania, a convenient location reachable by public transport or car. Once onboard, your skipper—who has received praise for their professionalism and friendliness—sets the tone with a warm welcome and a few safety notes. The boat itself is described as accommodating and relaxing, with enough space for comfort during the cruise.

Thodorou Island: Wildlife and Scenic Views

The journey to Thodorou takes around 30 minutes, giving you time to enjoy the scenery along Chania’s coast. The guide provides insights into the island’s history, flora, and fauna, including how it’s home to only goats and guards. Travelers often mention how this stop is “a protected island where only goats and a guard live there,” making it a unique wildlife sighting. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot, perfect for nature lovers who want a change from busy beaches.

Lazaretta Island: Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxation

After Thodorou, your boat heads to Lazaretta, a small island with a sandy beach that’s ideal for a quick swim. Reviewers frequently highlight how the waters are “absolutely stunning” and perfect for snorkeling. The provided equipment makes it easy to explore the underwater world, where you might see sea life, including turtles or even remnants of WW2 wrecks, as some experienced swimmers suggest.

The 30-minute stop here is enough to cool off, enjoy some snacks or drinks (offered on board), and soak in the scenery. Many reviews mention how relaxing and scenic this part of the trip is, with some guests noting how they would happily stay longer in this peaceful cove.

Returning and Final Moments

The return leg offers a chance to relax, take photos of the coastline, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. The trip wraps up back at the starting point, leaving guests with excellent memories of a well-paced, personal adventure on the water.

What Travelers Say

Travelers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer called Captain Nicolas “the best,” noting how he explained the islands’ history and shared local stories, making the trip more meaningful. Others appreciated the attention to safety and comfort, with mentions of how the crew responded to weather conditions by adjusting plans, ensuring everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

The value for money also gets high marks. For a price of around $617 for a group of up to nine, guests feel they received a personalized experience—with the flexibility to customize stops and enjoy high-quality amenities. The reviews often highlight the excellent food and drinks provided, especially during longer trips, though this particular tour is shorter, the reviews suggest that the crew tends to go above and beyond.

Many reviews also mention memorable moments like snorkeling over WW2 wrecks, watching a sunset, and spotting wild goats, making this trip seem like a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife watching.

Important Practicalities

The tour requires confirmation within 48 hours of booking, and it operates rain or shine—if weather conditions threaten safety, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The group size (up to 9 people) means you get plenty of space to relax, chat, or take photos without feeling crowded.

The duration of approximately 2.5 hours is ideal for a half-day escape, especially if you’re looking to fit in other activities later. The price per group is quite reasonable considering the private nature of the trip, especially when compared to larger group tours or shared boat trips.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private boat trip is best suited for small groups, families, or couples who want a personalized, relaxed experience on the waters around Crete. It’s perfect for those who enjoy wildlife and scenic views, and who appreciate having a knowledgeable skipper to enrich the experience. If you’re after a set schedule or a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit brief, but for a taste of Crete’s coastline, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This private boat trip from Chania to Thodorou and Lazaretta Islands offers an exceptional blend of nature, water activities, and personal service. The expert guides and comfortable boat make it a standout choice for anyone looking to explore Crete’s coastal waters without the hassle of large crowds or hectic schedules.

The opportunity to see wild goats, snorkel over WW2 wrecks, and relax on pristine beaches makes this experience genuinely memorable. Its high ratings and rave reviews reflect a consistent level of quality that many travelers find worth every euro, especially when traveling with friends or family.

If you value small-group intimacy, stunning scenery, and knowledgeable guides, this trip will serve you well. Whether you’re after wildlife, underwater adventures, or just a peaceful escape, this private boat tour is one you’ll likely cherish long after you return home.

FAQ

How long does the trip last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including stops, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, the services of a knowledgeable skipper, snorkeling equipment, and the exclusive use of the boat for your group. Food and drinks are generally not included but are often available on longer tours.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour. If you cancel earlier, you’ll receive a full refund.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Most travelers, including families with children, find this experience suitable, especially since it’s private, relaxed, and includes safety measures.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimsuits, towels, and waterproof camera gear. Some reviewers mention that the boat is well-equipped, but bringing personal essentials is always wise.

Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted, but it’s best to confirm ahead of time if you plan to bring a pet.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for full refund or alternative dates.

Is it possible to customize the stops?
While the itinerary is generally fixed, the private nature allows for some flexibility, especially if communicated in advance with the operator.

This boat trip is a fantastic way to enjoy the Crete coast in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a snorkeler, or simply after a scenic cruise, it’s a memorable way to see part of what makes Crete special.