Ligaria: Snorkeling trip with Motor Boat around Agia Pelagia

If you’re dreaming of exploring Crete’s crystal-clear waters while staying close to the coast, the Ligaria snorkeling trip is an excellent choice. This adventure takes you on a 3-hour motorboat journey around Agia Pelagia, offering a blend of relaxation, fun, and educational insights — all with a knowledgeable crew that prioritizes safety and comfort. With prices around $73 per person, it’s a worthwhile way to discover marine life without needing prior experience or equipment of your own.

One of the best aspects of this tour is the guided instruction. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or have some experience, the team helps you learn techniques like skin diving and surface swimming, making the activity accessible for everyone. The small-group setting, capped at ten travelers, ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere — no crowded boat rides here.

A potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so you’ll want to bring your own towels, sun protection, and possibly a snack. Also, it’s primarily a water-focused experience, so if you’re looking for cultural or historical insights, you might need to look elsewhere. But if your goal is to soak up the sun and explore marine life, this trip hits the mark, especially suited for families, friends, or solo travelers keen on easy, guided adventure.

Who would love this? Anyone who enjoys water activities, wants a safe yet authentic snorkeling experience, or is simply curious about the underwater world of Crete will find this tour rewarding. It’s particularly perfect for those wanting a hassle-free day with a small group, expert guidance, and plenty of opportunities to snorkel at different spots.

Key Points

• Inclusive and beginner-friendly: No prior experience needed, equipment provided, and safety instructions included.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized guidance and a relaxed vibe.
• Educational aspect: Learn snorkeling, skin diving, and surface swimming techniques, with a PADI snorkeling program available.
• Authentic marine encounters: Experience the vibrant marine life with the guidance of a professional crew.
• Flexible schedule: Tours run in the morning or afternoon, with easy cancellation options.
• Convenient locations: Multiple drop-off points make it easy to include in your Crete itinerary.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at the Eurodiving center in Ligaria, roughly 20 minutes drive from Heraklion. The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour offers pick-up options depending on your selected package. From here, guests hop into a comfortable van that takes them on a scenic 45-minute journey to the boat embarkation point. This scenic drive is a great way to settle in and get excited for what’s ahead, offering glimpses of Crete’s lush coastline.

The Boat and Crew

Once on board, you’ll be greeted by a certified professional crew experienced in marine safety and guiding. The boat itself is a motor vessel designed for comfort and stability, with plenty of space to relax or prepare your gear. The crew, including guides like the highly praised captain in reviews, is known for being knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious. They provide lifejackets, insurance, and safety instructions, so no need to worry if you’re new to snorkeling.

The Stops and Snorkeling Spots

The tour features multiple stops at diverse locations, with some areas offering calm, sheltered waters, and others more exposed to the open ocean. This variety allows you to experience different underwater environments, observe marine life, and enjoy the contrast between tranquil bays and more dynamic sea spots.

• Spot 1: The initial departure point acts as the starting line, where the crew provides safety briefing and gear fitting.
• Spot 2 & 3: The boat then visits two carefully selected snorkeling spots, known for their vibrant marine life, including fish, invertebrates, and marine plants. The staff will assist with equipment and offer snorkeling tips.
• Multiple Drop-Off Locations: The tour ends with drop-offs at popular beaches or towns, including Agia Pelagia, Heraklion, and others, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The highlight, of course, is exploring beneath the surface. The crew ensures everyone is comfortable, and the experience guide stays close, sharing insights about the marine environment. The marine life around Agia Pelagia is abundant, offering opportunities to see colorful fish, invertebrates, and underwater plants. One review mentions seeing a lionfish in the wild, which is a rare and memorable sight.

Learning and Safety

The tour is designed to be educational, with a PADI snorkeling program available for those interested in more formal instruction. Even beginners can quickly pick up basic techniques, thanks to the clear guidance from the crew. The emphasis on safety — with lifejackets, insurance, and professional crew — gives peace of mind, especially for families or first-time snorkelers.

Duration and Flexibility

The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, with start times varying depending on availability. This makes it easy to slot into a busy Crete itinerary, whether in the morning to enjoy the rest of your day or in the afternoon for a relaxed sunset vibe. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of time to ask questions and enjoy the surroundings.

What’s Not Included

Remember that towels, food, and drinks are not part of the package, so bring your essentials. Sunscreen is a must, as the Mediterranean sun can be intense, and no alcohol or drugs are permitted, ensuring everyone stays safe and alert during the activity.

Authentic Feedback and Tips

Rachel’s review echoes the sentiment many travelers share: “Everyone should visit! Our captain was knowledgeable, safe, and very kind.” She describes seeing beautiful marine life and learning about the islands’ history, highlighting the educational aspect of the tour. Her emphasis on the friendly and professional crew underscores the importance of good guides for a memorable experience.

Many travelers note the value of the small group size, which allows for personalized assistance and a less rushed exploration. The safety focus is also a major plus, with reviews praising the crew’s attentiveness and expertise.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Dress in lightweight clothing, bring sun protection, and don’t forget your towel.
• Arrive on time at the Eurodiving center for a smooth start.
• Consider booking in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time.
• If you’re prone to sunburn, apply sunscreen generously before the tour and reapply as needed.
• Bring a camera or waterproof device to capture underwater sights.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

For anyone craving a straightforward, enjoyable introduction to snorkeling in Crete, this trip delivers. You’re in safe hands with a professional crew, and the focus on learning makes it accessible to novices. The small-group vibe means more personalized attention, and the varied spots ensure you won’t get bored.

If you value authentic marine encounters and wish to learn about the local waters without the hassle of organizing your own gear or guide, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, fun, and educational adventure on the water.

However, if your idea of a day out involves cultural visits, food, or extensive beach lounging, you might want to supplement this experience rather than make it your sole activity. Also, bear in mind you’ll need to bring your essentials, and there’s no food included, so plan accordingly.

This trip is a fantastic way to experience Crete’s marine beauty with safety, expert guidance, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s an accessible adventure that can leave you with wonderful memories of your time in Greece’s most stunning waters.

FAQ

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear is included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Do I need prior experience to join? No, the tour is suitable for everyone, even complete beginners. The crew provides safety instructions and guidance.

What should I bring with me? Remember to pack sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, and sunscreen. It’s also wise to bring a waterproof camera or phone protector.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is suitable for all ages, provided you can swim and are comfortable in the water.

What is the duration of the tour? The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation and snorkeling time.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at the Eurodiving center in Ligaria and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Are food and drinks included? No, you’ll need to bring your own snacks and beverages if desired.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 10 participants, offering a small-group experience.

How do I cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your plans.

Can I reserve and pay later? Yes, you can book now and pay later, which helps keep your travel schedule flexible.

To sum it up, the Ligaria snorkeling trip with a motor boat around Agia Pelagia offers a safe, guided, and accessible way to explore Crete’s underwater world. With expert guides, a small, friendly group, and the chance to see marine life up close, it’s an activity that suits travelers of all experience levels. Whether you’re after a relaxing day at sea or want to learn new skills, this tour provides an authentic, fun-filled glimpse into Crete’s marine beauty.