WELCOME TO THE MAGICAL WORLD OF SAILING!!!:-)
DAILY SAILING CRUISES
COMFORT – RELIABILITY – ECONOMY FARE
Do you want a day away from crowds on crystal clear waters?
Our trip will start for the departure port of Souda. And together we will feel the most beautiful sailing experience. Always depending on wind direction we sail alongside the coast with a fort view high up on the hill and a prison fort below it, with the White mountains scenery with the outstanding hillside view of Kalami area, past a small uninhabited island with a fort, with its cannon ports, where the Venetians kept the pirates out of the bay. Some of the destinations that we will visit is Mpali, Panormos, Loutraki-Marathi-Seitan limania- Obrosgialos-Water caves-Brascos-Karavotopos.
In our trip you will have time to relax onboard and tanning and to swimming or snorkeling. As our priority is to offer you the best we offer you meal and drinks on board Upon request and with extra fee we handle special events like wedding.
Send us your booking request or any question you may have through.
And let the adventure begin!
We wish you to spend a beautiful time on the sailing boat, with good mood, appetite and imagination.
And always have nice memories.
Good dives to have.
Happy Summer!
With appreciation.
Skipper – Giannis
Start your trip to Elafonissi Beach with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Chania. Then, sit back and enjoy the views as you make your way towards the southwestern part of the island.
Once you arrive at your destination, you get to choose how to spend your free time here. Lie back and soak up the sun on the beach or go for a walk and admire the rare flowers that grow in the sand dunes.
Explore the lagoon that connects the tiny islet to dry land and take advantage of the SUP board and snorkeling equipment included in your day trip. (SUP is available from May the 1st).And if you’re feeling parched, enjoy some of the complimentary water, juice, and fresh fruit provided.
Finally, once your day at the beach comes to an end, hop back aboard your private vehicle for a comfortable return journey to your accommodation in Chania.
We are an authorized company employing professional drivers for your safety and comfort. We primarily handle transfers to and from the airport, but we also cater to private excursions and transportation for weddings or other events. Our drivers are trained to serve you with professional courtesy. Our mission is to provide discreet, quality transportation with a driver at competitive prices, managing all requests with a high level of responsibility and responsiveness, whether it’s a simple transfer from the airport/port or a multi-day exclusive VIP transfer. Upon your arrival at the airports or ports of Crete, our driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals exit to offer you cool and refreshing water. They will escort you to the vehicle and provide you with wet wipes. You can then sit comfortably and enjoy the journey to the hotel. Our vehicle is equipped with USB and Type-C ports, as well as free Wi-Fi.
We are an authorized company employing professional drivers for your safety and comfort. We primarily handle transfers to and from the airport, but we also cater to private excursions and transportation for weddings or other events. Our drivers are trained to serve you with professional courtesy. Our mission is to provide discreet, quality transportation with a driver at competitive prices, managing all requests with a high level of responsibility and responsiveness, whether it’s a simple transfer from the airport/port or a multi-day exclusive VIP transfer. Upon your arrival at the airports or ports of Crete, our driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals exit to offer you cool and refreshing water. They will escort you to the vehicle and provide you with wet wipes. You can then sit comfortably and enjoy the journey to the hotel. Our vehicle is equipped with USB and Type-C ports, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Seitan Limania beach (which translates to “satan harbours”), is situated 22km northeast of Chania and 2km east of the village of Chordaki. This intriguing location is on the eastern side of Akrotiri Cape. Named Seitan Limania due to the untamed landscape, steep cliffs, and powerful sea currents perceived as dangerous, it features three parallel, narrow, well-sheltered coves.
The northern cove is home to the breathtaking Stefanou beach, with its deep, azure waters. The beach is decorated with fine pebbles and sand, carried from a nearby quarry through the Diplohahalo canyon. To the right and left of the cove, towering marble rocks stand guard, protecting the beach from inclement weather. Its reputation has grown quickly since 2010 when an asphalt road made it more accessible; during peak season, it can get crowded, so arriving early is advised.
The road leading to Seitan Limania beach is a bit curvy and steep, but it should not be a problem for those who have driven on mountain roads before. The road has been recently paved, and during the drive, one can enjoy the natural beauty of Crete. The asphalt road descends abruptly and ends at a parking area near the beach. It is essential to put the handbrake on when parking the car and use stones to secure the tires.
To reach the beach, park the car near the church of Agios Spyridon and walk for 10-15 minutes down the path. Wearing trainers is recommended as the path can be slippery, and flip-flops should be avoided.
Seitan Limania beach does not have any amenities, which is why it is not crowded, but it is essential to bring water (at least a litre per person), sunscreen, towels, food, drinks, and entertainment such as headphones or a book.
The beach is magnificent, with soft sand and crystal clear blue waters, and one can also encounter friendly goats.
Situated 17km east of Chania and 5km east of the Creta Naval Base in Souda Bay, Marathi beach can be found on the southeastern coast of Akrotiri. The beach is a well-known resort in the Chania area, drawing a large number of visitors each summer, particularly families and the elderly.
Marathi boasts two exquisite sandy beaches with shallow, calm waters, perfect for children. These beaches are well-shielded from wind due to their southern orientation and offer a stunning view of the Drapanos Cape and the White Mountains. A small pier, which serves as a harbor for fishing boats and small ferries, separates the two beaches. The area is well-equipped with all essential amenities for a comfortable visit.
Opposite Marathi beach, about 500m away, lies the small island known as either Marathi or Palia Souda (Paleosouda). One can swim to reach the island, which is home to a small pine forest. Its western coast is steep, making it a popular destination for scuba divers.
Venturing northwards along the beach road, you will stumble upon the ruins of the Roman town known as Minoa, believed to have been a seaport city of Aptera. The archaeological site, also referred to as the Small Palace of Minos (although it doesn’t date back to the Minoan Times), reveals remnants of buildings and baths likely related to an ancient harbor, military facilities, and a mansion. Notably, a semicircular wall can still be seen on the beach.
Heading northwest from here, after passing a section of the beach frequented by ducks, we come upon the church of St. Spyridon. This spot offers a beautiful seascape perfect for wedding or christening ceremonies.
In contrast, if we head southwest from the port, we reach the end of the harbor’s pebbly beach known as Sosorides. This beach is a local favorite, known for its serene, unfussy atmosphere. Sosorides can be accessed via a paved road that begins a few meters before Marathi when approaching from Chania.
Katholiko Bay, nestled in northwest Crete, is just a 30-minute drive from Chania. This captivating destination promises an adventurous hike that showcases numerous caves, a historic abandoned monastery, a stunning Avlaki gorge, and finally culminates at the picturesque Katholiko Bay. This beach once served as a port for the Katholiko Monastery, where monks used to dock and mend their boats. Its strategic location also made it a prime target for pirate invasions, leading to the monastery’s abandonment in the 16th century.
To embark on this adventure, start at the Gouverneto Monastery. A 30-minute trek will lead you to the deserted Katholiko Monastery. Venture below the bridge, traverse the Avlaki gorge, and in another 20 minutes, the mesmerizing beach awaits. While it’s a rocky haven devoid of sand, the crystalline waters more than compensate. With towering cliffs enclosing the beach, it’s an ideal spot for cliff-diving enthusiasts. Note that the area lacks shade, but there’s a quaint cave on the mountainside for some respite.
The coastal retreat of Loutraki can be found 16km to the east of the city of Chania, nestled near the American military base in Souda. Loutraki, along with the nearby Marathi, are the two primary tourist hotspots in the eastern region of Akrotiri.
Loutraki boasts a tranquil beach with fine, soft sand and crystal clear, shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for children. The beach is well-maintained and equipped with all the standard tourist facilities, all under the cool shade provided by the trees along the beach. Visitors can hire umbrellas, dine in local taverns, rent rooms for their stay, and partake in a variety of water sports.
Additionally, there is a large parking area available for visitors, which is shaded by tall eucalyptus trees.
Aptera is a highly significant archaeological site in West Crete. Established in the 8th century BC, the ancient city of Aptera was strategically located to control Souda Bay and prospered during the Hellenistic period. However, it was abandoned during the Arab years due to pirate attacks. The city relied on the ports of Marathi and Kalives, which made Aptera one of Crete’s most important commercial centers, if not the most important one.
Tradition has it that the city was named after the Sirens who lost their wings in a musical contest against the muses, rendering them wingless (aptera in Greek). However, it seems that the name actually comes from Aptera Artemis (wingless Artemis), who was worshipped in the area, as evidenced by the city’s coins.
Aptera was fortified with a strong wall, of which a large part (4km) still stands today. Within the city, one can find a sanctuary from the 5th-4th century BC, enormous Roman vaulted cisterns, a carved-in-ground theater, a “parliament,” and a nearby necropolis. Various artifacts have been discovered, including vases, coins, figurines, inscriptions, and sculptures.
The city of Aptera was renowned for its skilled archers who served as mercenaries in various areas outside Crete, bringing wealth back to their homeland. The valuable silver they introduced enabled the city to mint its own coins. These intricate coins typically featured the goddess Artemis on one side and the city’s founder King Apteras on the other. Other designs depicted Apollo or Hera and a torch, bee, or bow.
Aptera is situated 13 km from Chania and is most conveniently reached by car, as there are no direct public buses to the site. Alternatively, you could take any bus heading towards Rethymno or Heraklion and get off at the crossroads leading to Aptera. However, keep in mind that this option requires a 45-minute uphill walk to reach the archaeological site.
South of the archaeological site of Aptera and near the village Stylos, at position Azogires, we come across the domed tomb of Stylos that was discovered in 1961, having already been looted, by archaeologists Nikolaos Platon and Kostas Davaras. This impressive tomb belonged to a local lord and features a circular stone chamber and a long, road corridor (20.80 m long).
The relieving triangle above the entrance housed 12 cups from the Hellenistic period, a detail that verifies that ceremonies were conducted there. Similar Hellenistic pottery was also discovered in the corridor.
The Agia Triada of Tzagarolon Monastery is among the most opulent and stunning monasteries in Crete. Located near Chania Airport, it sits on the Tzobomylos area of Cape Melecha and at the base of Mount Stavros. Chania is a mere 15km away.
The monastery was established by Venetian noblemen Jeremiah and Lawrence Tzagarolo. Jeremiah, a renowned scholar and friend of the Patriarch of Alexandria, Meletios Pigas, had an extensive education. He was even considered for the role of Patriarch of Constantinople. Influenced by Italian architect Sebastiano Serlio from Verona, Jeremiah designed and constructed the monastery complex.
Nowadays, the monastery houses a small museum showcasing various paintings and icons. The most notable pieces include a 12th-century altar covering, icons of St. John the Theologian (16th century), St. Nicholas (17th century), and the works of painter Skordilis: the Enthroned Christ, Living Spring, and the Second Coming (1635-1645).
Despite its storied history, the monastery still plays a significant role in the religious and economic life of Crete. As a Stavropegic institution, it falls under the direct management of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Visitors can experience a beautifully preserved and lively monastery that produces and exports organic products such as olive oil, wine, honey, vinegar, and high-quality olive oil soap.
The Gouverneto or Gderneto Monastery can be found 19km east of Chania, on the northern side of Cape Akrotiri of Chania, near the Agia Triada Tzagarolon Monastery. To reach it, follow the signs from Agia Triada.
Perched on a rocky site at an altitude of 260m, close to the entrance of the Avlaki gorge, the monastery features fortress architecture and four towers with bastions guarding its corners. Built before 1537, as evidenced by an inscription at the fortress entrance, Gouverneto Monastery is one of the oldest in Crete. It is thought to have been founded by hermits and monks from the nearby seaside Katholiko Monastery, who may have constructed the new monastery atop an existing ancient temple to protect themselves from pirate attacks.
Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the monastery is also known as Kyria ton Agelon (Lady of the Angels Monastery). Its church has a cruciform shape with a dome, and the entrance is adorned with relief representations of monsters. Construction began during the Venetian Era but was only completed 2.5 centuries later due to the Turkish invasion of Crete and subsequent ban on building Christian temples.
Surrounding the church, which is situated in the center of the courtyard, are the other buildings of the complex. These include 50 monk cells on two floors, a dining room, a small museum, and more. Additionally, two chapels dedicated to Agii Deka (Saints Ten) and Saint John the Hermit can be found next to the church.
St. John the Hermit, who lived in a cave in the adjacent Avlaki gorge, is considered the founder of the monastery. A stone-paved trail leads down to the sea through the gorge, and after a 20-minute descent, you’ll encounter the Arkoudospilio Cave, followed by the ruined Katholiko Monastery and the cavernous church of St. John, where the hermit resided. After another 10 minutes, the gorge concludes at a narrow, rocky fjord with green waters.
Visitors can explore the monastery on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (9:00 to 12:00 and 17:00 to 19:00) and on weekends (9:00 to 11:00 and 17:00 to 20:00). Please ensure you are dressed appropriately, as shorts, swimwear, and similar attire are not permitted.
The Monastery of St. John the Baptist, located in the Korakies area of Akrotiri near Chania’s airport, is a historic yet relatively unknown convent in Chania.
Throughout its history, the monastery has been destroyed multiple times by various conquerors of Crete, resulting in the loss of valuable documents that could have helped determine the exact date of its foundation. However, it is believed to have been initially established before the Fall of Constantinople (1453) in the coastal region of Agia Kyriaki, within Chania’s Halepa suburb. Due to the continuous pirate raids by the Arabs, the nuns relocated to a safer location on St. Matthew’s hill, and eventually moved to their present location.
Enclosed by a tall wall, the monastery’s main entrance is relatively modest compared to other monasteries in Akrotiri. Within the lush grounds, visitors can find the two-aisled church of St. John the Baptist (celebrated on August 29) and St. George (April 23), accompanied by simple cells and other monastery buildings. The monastery’s icons have been painted by the nuns, and the small chapels of St. Andrew the Cretan and Panagia Portaitissa can also be found on the premises.
In the past, a notable Housekeeping School operated within the monastery, in the present-day museum location. The school quickly gained an outstanding reputation across the island, with the nuns even sewing the wedding dress of Greek Queen Olga in 1867.
Located at Tria Kamarakia, near the Rethymnon-Chania highway, the Holy Cross “St. Raphael” Foundation is a quaint, informal monastery with a primary focus on charity work. Its main temple is a three-aisled basilica dedicated to the Neomartyrs (Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene), the Holy Cross, and Saint Ephrem.
No results available
No results available
Located at the farthest point of Akrotiri Cape lies the Diplochachalo Gorge. This gorge is situated near the village of Chordaki, en route to the renowned Stefanou or Seitan Limania beach. The gorge is a compact, breathtaking, and purely technical canyon featuring six descents, two of which are quite tall. It begins just beneath the quarry that stands out in the area. The gorge’s brief route, apart from the descents, forms dramatic rock shelters and formations with steep slopes. At the centre of the tallest waterfall, which stands at 38m, resides a beautiful cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, stretching around 20 meters deep. The gorge’s exit leads directly to the sandy shores of Stefanou Beach.
The Avlaki Gorge, nestled in Arkoudovounia near the Gouverneto Monastery, just 16km east of Chania city, stands as one of Crete’s most significant canyons with a rich religious history. This secluded area provided refuge for numerous monks and hermits in its caves, and also houses the ancient, abandoned Katholiko Monastery, making it known as the Katholiko Gorge as well. Although the gorge isn’t entirely accessible, a marked trail from the Gouverneto Monastery offers a scenic but steep descent towards Katholiko. On the journey, you’ll encounter the Cave Arkoudiotissa and the ancient temple of Artemis after a 10-minute walk, followed by a further 10 minutes to the deserted Katholiko Monastery and the cave of Saint John the Hermit.
Walking for another 15-25 minutes along the riverbed from the monastery will bring you to the Katholiko Bay, passing by caves where hermits once resided. The gorge’s exit reveals a slender, rocky fjord with deep blue waters, a small Venetian well, a tiny harbour used by monks, and a quarry that provided construction materials for the monastery. The area also features a rock formation resembling a boat, said to be a pirate ship turned to stone by a monastery abbot’s curse.
The Diktamos Canyon, nestled within the White Mountains, commences 21km to the east of Chania, near the Katochori village at an elevation of 300m. It concludes 8km further east, at the Faragi village, situated at a height of 40m and in close proximity to the Stylos village in the Apokoronas province. Consequently, it is also referred to as the Katechori Gorge or Stylos Gorge. The canyon’s stream serves as the primary tributary of the Kiliaris River, gathering water from the northern slopes of the Mavri peak and discharging it onto the Kalives beach.
Navigating through the canyon can be challenging, with certain areas requiring extra caution and approximately 3 hours to traverse. The canyon is a stunning, verdant landscape filled with towering trees and steep inclines, home to dittany or diktamos, a herb endemic to Crete. In Stylos, you have the opportunity to explore the ancient church of Apostle John (Agios Ioannis Theologos), refresh yourself at the local springs, and replenish your energy at the village’s taverns.
The Cyclamen Gorge, also known as Agios Georgios Gorge or Gorge Vandes, is nestled on the northern slopes of the White Mountains. Its starting point is the Aletrouvari settlement, situated at an altitude of 300m, and it extends east of Agios Georgios village, ultimately ending at the village of Vandes, which is at an elevation of 50m. The stream that runs through this gorge gathers water from the Drakona area, resulting in the formation of quaint, small ponds at certain spots.
However, this route is not recommended for novice hikers as it requires approximately 2 hours to traverse from Aletrouvari or about 1 hour from Agios Georgios. As visitors journey through this route, they will encounter a diverse landscape that changes along the river, all under the cool shade of towering plane trees and cypresses.
Set in Khordhákion, 6.1 km from The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada and 15 km from House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos, Villa of Light Heart offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony and free private parking.
The holiday home has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Archaeological Museum of Chania is 15 km from the holiday home, while Saint Anargyri Church is 17 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 2 km from Villa of Light Heart.
Boasting mountain views, Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 4 features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 2.1 km from Loutraki Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, ping-pong, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The holiday home offers a picnic area. A outdoor play equipment is also available at Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 4, while guests can also relax in the garden.
The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 8.2 km from the accommodation, while House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos is 15 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 4 km from Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 4.
from
€119
/night
Boasting mountain views, Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 3 offers accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 2.1 km from Loutraki Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, ping-pong, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The villa offers a picnic area. A outdoor play equipment is also available at Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 3, while guests can also relax in the garden.
The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 8.2 km from the accommodation, while House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos is 15 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 4 km from Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 3.
from
€119
/night
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Villa Palena is located in Chania Town. This property offers access to a balcony, pool at the pool table, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa is equipped with 7 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with pool views.
The wellness area at the villa is comprised of a sauna, a hot tub and a hammam. Guests at Villa Palena can enjoy table tennis on site, or cycling in the surroundings.
Loutraki Beach is 1.4 km from the accommodation, while The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 7.6 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 4 km from Villa Palena.
from
€115
/night
Connect with thousands of Crete visitors and boost your bookings.
© All rights reserved. Crete Locals
