Menies Beach & Chironisia Bay Cruise with Snorkeling

Highlights

• Cruise along the Akrotiri peninsula from the Chania area toward the secluded bay of Menies Beach.
• Swim and snorkel in clear water with rocky cliffs, pebbles, and simple underwater views away from crowds.
• Stop at Chironisia Bay or a similar cove for another swim, with time to float, relax, and take photos from the boat.
• See parts of the coastline that are harder to reach by road while staying on a comfortable small group boat.
• Enjoy a short, manageable outing that fits easily around mornings or afternoons in Chania Old Town.
• Benefit from basic snorkeling gear on board and a straightforward explanation of the plan before you leave port.

Tour Overview

This half day cruise is designed for guests who want to explore quieter bays near Chania without spending the entire day at sea. You will meet at a small port area outside the center, where your crew will give a short introduction to the route, stops, and simple safety points for the trip.

After leaving the harbor, the boat follows the coastline of the Akrotiri peninsula toward Menies Beach. As you travel, you can sit in the sun or shade, look back at the distant outline of Chania, and watch the cliffs and rock formations change shape as you move further along the shore.

On arrival in the Menies area, the boat usually anchors in a sheltered spot so you can swim directly from the ladder, float near the boat, or use the snorkeling equipment to look for fish and interesting rocks under the surface. A second stop in or near Chironisia Bay gives you another chance to swim and relax in different surroundings before you cruise back toward the port.

Typical Itinerary

1. Meeting at the small port - Arrive at the departure point near Chania at the confirmed time, check in with the crew, and step on board the boat.
2. Safety and route briefing - Listen to a simple explanation of safety basics, how the boat day will run, and which bays you are likely to visit depending on conditions.
3. Cruise along the Akrotiri coastline - Head out from the harbor and follow the rugged coast, with time to sit back, take photos, and enjoy the sea breeze.
4. First stop at Menies Beach area - Anchor in a quiet bay near Menies, use the ladder to get into the sea, and swim or snorkel around the boat at your own pace.
5. Time to relax and explore - Spend a short while floating in the water, resting on deck, or taking in the shapes of the cliffs and pebbled shoreline around you.
6. Second swim stop near Chironisia Bay - Move to another nearby cove such as Chironisia Bay, where you can enjoy a different view and another chance to swim or snorkel.
7. Return cruise toward Chania - Climb back on board for the relaxed ride back along the coast, with one last look at the peninsula and open sea.
8. Disembark at the port - Arrive back at the starting point, step off the boat, and continue your day in the Chania area at your own pace.

Exact timings, order of swim stops, and the specific bays visited can change with sea conditions, wind, and local regulations. The crew will adjust the route on the day to keep the experience safe and comfortable for everyone on board.

What's Included

• Half day small group boat cruise from a port near Chania.
• Two main swim and snorkeling stops when sea conditions allow.
• Use of basic snorkeling equipment on board, subject to availability.
• Life jackets and simple safety equipment for use on the boat.
• Short safety briefing and clear instructions before swimming.

Not Included

• Hotel pickup and drop off; you will need to reach the departure point on your own.
• Meals and most drinks; bring your own water and snacks unless told otherwise in your confirmation.
• Beach towels, personal snorkel masks, fins, or swimwear.
• Travel insurance, medical cover, or any personal costs during the cruise.
• Tips for the crew, which are optional and left to your judgment.

Accessibility & Practical Info

• This experience is not recommended for guests with serious mobility challenges, as you will need to step between pier and boat and use ladders to enter and exit the sea.
• You will be boarding and swimming from a small or medium sized vessel, so balance is important when moving around the deck.
• Bring comfortable swimwear, a towel, and an extra layer in case the wind is cooler on the open water.
• Use high factor sunscreen and consider a hat and sunglasses, as there is strong sun reflection from the water.
• Alcohol and drugs are not allowed before or during the cruise.
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times both on the boat and in the water.
• The meeting point and exact port details will be shared with your booking confirmation; plan a little extra time to find parking if you are driving.
• Wind and wave conditions around the Akrotiri peninsula can change during the day; routes and swim times may be adjusted for safety.