Chania: Menies Beach & Chironisia Bay Cruise with Snorkeling

Exploring Crete’s Hidden Coastal Gems: Menies Beach & Chironisia Bay Cruise with Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring some of Crete’s lesser-known beaches, this boat cruise from Kolymbari offers a fantastic way to see the island’s natural beauty. You’ll get to visit two secluded spots—Menies Beach and Chironisia Bay—both accessible only by boat, with plenty of chances to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. It’s a compact four-hour journey that balances sightseeing, underwater discovery, and relaxation.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines a scenic cruise with immersive underwater fun. The chance to explore WWII relics submerged just off Menies Beach is a rare treat, and the stops at remote beaches mean fewer crowds and more authentic, peaceful moments. However, it’s worth noting that the boat anchors about six meters from shore, so swimmers will need to be comfortable in shallow water to reach the beaches.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, history buffs interested in WWII relics, or anyone seeking a laid-back day away from busier tourist spots. If you’re after a balance of adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural insights, this cruise will likely tick a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Secluded beaches accessible only by boat provide a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots
• Underwater exploration includes snorkeling around WWII sunken artifacts and small caves
• Rich history at Menies Beach, home to ancient Diktynna and Roman ruins, offers a cultural layer to the trip
• Value for money is high, with included snorkeling gear, guide, and hotel pickup options
• Flexible options allow for pickup from select hotels or meeting directly at Kolymbari harbor
• Informative guides enhance the experience, with reviews highlighting friendly, knowledgeable crew members

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The tour usually begins at the port of Kolymbari, where you’ll meet the “Smile Cruises” boat. If you choose the hotel pickup option, expect to be collected from select locations in north Chania—this convenience makes the day more relaxed. Once aboard, the crew provides a quick safety briefing, setting the tone for a smooth sailing adventure.

Cruising the Rodopou Peninsula

The first leg of the journey takes you around the Rodopou Peninsula, a scenic 40-minute cruise that offers sweeping views of rugged coastlines, rocky promontories, and the turquoise sea. Guests often comment on how calming and picturesque this stretch is, with some noting the peacefulness of the boat ride itself as a highlight.

Menies Beach: Ancient History and WWII Relics

The first major stop is Menies Beach, where you’ll have about 105 minutes of free time. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the pebble beach, which is only accessible by boat. What makes Menies special is its historical context—it’s the site of ancient Diktynna, home to an important goddess temple, and you’ll find remains of a Roman temple and a 9th-century monastery nearby.

Snorkeling here is particularly rewarding. Reviewers have enjoyed exploring the waters, which hide remnants of WWII cannons and carriages. One guest noted, “We had enough time at both snorkeling spots to see what there was to see,” and mentioned how the water was “incredible” and “blue,” making underwater exploration a real highlight of the trip.

Chironisia Bay: Hidden Caves and Secluded Beauty

After a short boat cruise, the second snorkeling stop is Chironisia Bay, accessible only from the sea. The bay’s calm waters and small caves are perfect for snorkeling adventures. Expect about 40 minutes of free time here, during which many guests enjoy plunging into the deep blue, exploring caves, or just soaking up the sun.

From reviews, we note that some found the snorkeling gear to be generally good, and others appreciated the chance to dive into a quiet, untouched spot away from crowds. The shallow anchor distance means you may need to swim in shallow water to reach the beach, so comfortable swimming skills are recommended.

Returning and Drop-off

The boat heads back along the coast of the Rodopou Peninsula, with cruise durations of around 30 minutes. The journey back is a great time to reflect on the day, enjoy the views, and maybe snap some final photos of the rugged coastlines.

Drop-offs are available at over 40 locations, including popular hotels and resorts in Chania, making it convenient to continue your Crete adventure without hassle.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Snorkeling and WWII Relics

Many travelers rave about the snorkeling opportunities, appreciating the chance to see sunken cannons and WWII relics just off Menies Beach. As one reviewer put it, “Very fun. First time to see cuttlefish while snorkeling,” highlighting the underwater surprises waiting beneath the surface.

Ancient Sites and Cultural Insights

Menies Beach isn’t just about the water. It’s a site with significant history—on land, you’ll find remnants of ancient Diktynna and Roman temples, which add an educational touch to the relaxing environment. Guides seem to be quite knowledgeable, sharing insights that enrich the experience, as noted by reviews praising friendly and informative crew members like Maria.

Authentic and Quiet Beaches

Unlike the crowded tourist beaches, Menies and Chironisia Bay offer peaceful escapes. Only accessible by boat, these beaches promise solitude and natural beauty—perfect for travelers seeking a break from the busier parts of Crete.

Value for Money

At around $45 per person, including snorkeling gear, a guide, and optional hotel pickup, the cost is quite reasonable given the length, variety, and quality of experiences provided. Guests often mention how the price reflects good value, especially with the included commentary and scenic cruising.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The tour’s anchor being six meters from shore means you need to be comfortable swimming in shallow water to reach the beaches. Reviewers also mention bringing swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and shoes suitable for pebble beaches. The small boat size ensures a cozy, personal atmosphere, but it’s advisable to book in advance as spots can fill up.

Weather conditions can impact the tour—poor weather may cause cancellations, so keep an eye on the forecast. Also, note that food and drinks are available for purchase once on board, but are not included in the price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Adventure Seekers: Those who love snorkeling and underwater exploration will find plenty to enjoy here, especially with WWII relics to discover.
• History Buffs: The mix of ancient sites and WWII relics makes this a fascinating trip for anyone interested in Crete’s layered past.
• Relaxation Lovers: The secluded beaches promise quiet moments and a break from the crowds, perfect for unwinding.
• Budget-Conscious Travelers: With a reasonable price that covers boat, snorkeling gear, and guides, it offers excellent value for a half-day adventure.

The Sum Up

This cruise from Kolymbari offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic sailing, historical sites, and underwater discovery—all at a great price. The peaceful beaches, away from the bustle of tourist-heavy spots, provide a perfect setting for relaxation, while the snorkeling opportunities allow for memorable encounters with Crete’s underwater life and WWII relics.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a snorkeler, or simply someone looking for a unique way to see Crete’s northern coastline, this trip delivers a lot of value in a short span. The friendly guides, stunning scenery, and authentic beaches make it a worthwhile addition to your Crete itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The entire tour lasts about 4 hours, including cruising, stops, and snorkeling. Check the specific start times when booking.

Can I join without hotel pickup?
Yes, you can meet directly at the port of Kolymbari—look for the “Smile Cruises” boat.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. The beaches are pebbly, so shoes may be helpful.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided for all participants.

Are the beaches suitable for children?
While the beaches and water are generally calm, swimming in shallow water is required to reach the beaches, so children should be comfortable swimmers.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled if weather conditions are poor, so check the forecast and your email for updates.

Does the tour include food?
Food and drinks are available for purchase on board but are not included in the ticket price.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat is small and intimate, ensuring a more personal experience—perfect for those who prefer avoiding large groups.

Is there assistance with booking or language support?
Yes, guides speak English and Greek, and booking flexibility is available with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This boat cruise blends natural beauty, history, and underwater fun into a memorable four-hour adventure—ideal for those who want authenticity and value from their Crete escape.