Snorkeling in Chania

Chania, which is a small town on the island of Crete in Greece, is a popular destination for going on a snorkeling tour. This ancient Venetian port town dates back to the 14th century and has a rich and interesting history.

The narrow streets and small restaurants on the waterfront offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Athens. In addition to the many snorkeling excursions, there are also plenty of other tours to choose from in Chania. Make the most of your time there and spend a few days in the area.

What are the best snorkeling tours in Chania?

If you want to go snorkeling in and around Chania, you should consider joining a guided tour. There is a wide selection of excursions with different itineraries and price points.

Some involve kayaking or stand-up paddling along the coast, or you could take a small speedboat to the best snorkeling locations.

Boat trip with guided snorkeling and stand-up paddling

Take a break and explore the breathtaking underwater world of Crete. Guided boat tours in Chania take care of everything. No need to worry about planning.

Stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling equipment, as well as inflatable toys are provided, and you will even be picked up from your accommodation and brought back at the end of the tour.

After a short safety briefing, you will take the speed boat to a secluded beach where you can snorkel and explore the underwater world. Furthermore, the nearby caves are explored, where you’ll encounter many different types of fish.

After a refreshing fruit snack and some cold water, you will return to the mainland, from where you will be brought back to your hotel. As a bonus, photos and videos will be taken during the tour for each participant to enjoy afterward.

Sea kayak and snorkel tours in West Crete

Marvel at the coast and imposing cliffs of Crete with a guided kayak tour. Here you can explore small caves, discover shipwrecks and see numerous fish underwater. The tour operator provides the kayaks, life vests and snorkeling equipment, and a professional guide will accompany you during your trip.

After the group is complete, there is a short safety briefing with an explanation of the route and destinations of the snorkeling tour. Be prepared to do some rowing as you glide along the smooth waters in a sea kayak.

The tour guide will lead the group through different types of caves. Some can be explored by kayak, while others are only accessible when swimming. You’ll get the chance to snorkel several times, keeping an eye out for beautiful coral and colorful fish.

This part of Crete is known for its underwater rock formations so if you have an action camera, make sure to bring it.

Snorkeling and freediving experience

The snorkeling and freediving experience tour in Chania takes its groups to different caves on the coast of the island of Crete. Tour participants can explore the underwater world at their own pace and dive through the various cave formations.

The tour guide will give some tips at the beginning of the snorkeling excursion on how to improve your breathing to stay underwater longer. While this is not a full freediving course, it’s a great way to be introduced to the sport and gain some valuable tips on breathing techniques.

After visiting the last dive site, some snacks and water are provided.

How much do snorkeling tours in Chania cost?

Snorkeling trips in Chania by boat can cost as little as €60 per person. However, some tour operators can also charge €85 for similar tours, sometimes including an extra snorkeling spot or two.

The snorkeling trips by kayak cost around €70 per person, and the standup paddleboard trips cost between €45 and €60 per person, depending on the length of the tour.

Snorkeling and freediving tours in Chania can cost up to €550 for a group of eight people.

What is included in a snorkeling tour in Chania?

Some snorkeling trips in Chania provide a hotel pickup and drop-off service for their guests. If not, this is usually negotiable for a small extra charge. Of course, life jackets are provided on the boat and kayak tours for safety purposes.

Depending on the tour and length, sometimes snacks such as fresh fruit or chips and water are included in the price of the tour. Ask your operator before you go to determine whether you need to pack food for the tour or if there is something available for purchase.

Some snorkeling trips in Chania take pictures of the group throughout the day, which are then made available to the participants free of charge. This is an excellent option for those who do not have an action camera with them or are reluctant to take their own camera on a boat trip.

Where do snorkeling tours in Chania start?

Most snorkeling tours in Chania start at the tour operator's office, where the safety briefing also takes place. If the tour includes a pick-up and drop-off service, the trip will begin right at the waterfront.

If the tour starts at the operator's office, you will be brought back there at the end of the tour. Make sure to organize transport to your accommodation or contact your guide to ask whether they offer a shuttle service.

How long do snorkeling tours in Chania last?

Snorkeling tours with a paddle board usually last two hours. For the kayak tours, you can expect a length of about three hours, depending on the route.

Snorkeling tours conducted by boat can last from two to four hours, depending on the route and weather conditions.

When is the best time for a snorkeling tour in Chania?

Greece's weather is pleasantly warm from April to October. Starting from April, temperatures increase gradually, as the weather becomes hotter and hotter from month to month.

July and August tend to have the highest temperatures and the sun will be at its strongest. After September, it slowly starts to cool down, and the water temperature of the ocean might start feeling cold.

Try to avoid going on a snorkeling tour during the midday heat in summer. It’s best to start early in the morning. However, if you’re visiting during fall or spring, the water might still be quite cold, which is why you might need some sun to warm up.

Is it safe to take a snorkeling tour in Chania?

It is generally safe to participate in a snorkeling excursion in Chania. Before each tour, there is always a safety briefing so that each participant knows how to behave in case of an emergency. For boat and kayak tours, it is mandatory to wear a life vest.

However, if you have health problems or limited mobility, participating in a snorkeling tour in Chania might not be advisable or even possible. Consult your tour operator before booking if you have concerns.

Are children allowed on a snorkeling tour in Chania?

Unfortunately, most snorkeling tours are not suitable for taking small children under the age of 5. Children 5 years old and above can join snorkeling trips, although you should consult your guide for kayaking or stand-up paddling tours.

Children’s life jackets are provided, and, if a child is too young to snorkel, they always have the option of staying on the boat.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Tours may be canceled for safety reasons in case of rain, storms or thunderstorms. The tour operator will inform you if this is the case. In some cases, you may be able to reschedule for another day or obtain a refund if you prefer.

This is applicable to extreme cases of bad weather. Generally, tours take place even if it is cloudy or if there is light rain.

Travel tips

• Bring sunscreen as you will be exposed to the sun most of the time during the day. A hat or even a long sleeve swim shirt can also be helpful to protect you from sunburn.
• Bring your action cam to capture the breathtaking underwater world in Chania. The guides might have one with them, but if you want specific shots, you’ll be better off with your own.
• The wind can be strong close to Chania, and you might feel cold after swimming. Bring a towel and an extra shirt to keep you warm.
• Book your tour in advance to reserve your spot. Especially during the high season, some tours are sold out weeks in advance.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, pack some medication. Generally, the waves are manageable in this area, but some parts can still be rough.
• You can store some of your valuables or backpacks in the office of the tour operator. They usually provide lockers. Just keep in mind that you are responsible for your own belongings should something be stolen or damaged. It’s best to leave important items at home.
• It is usually worth booking a private tour if you are a group of six or more people. The price will be similar, but you’ll have a much more memorable experience.