Classic Sail Yacht 40feet long*
Full Day PRIVATE Cruise out of the old venetian harbor of Chania
Check in: 10am
Check out: 5pm
Description: A Sailing cruise around the gulf of Chania will give your vacations a different view of the city! We set sails every morning at 10am in the Old Venetian Harbour of Chania making a cruise around the gulf of Chania. We will make two stops, anchoring for swimming and relaxation, one at the nearby island of Ag.Theodori which is a protected area of “Natura” as it hosts many birds as well as the wild Cretan goat named “KRI-KRI”, and the second stop will be in a secluded beach named “Maherida” and has beautiful turquoise waters. During the stops we will offer you traditional Cretan snacks, season fruits, drinks from the open bar and of course lunch that will be prepared onboard. snorkelling equipment will be provided as well to those who wish to explore the seabed!!! At about 5pm we will be back to the old Venetian port for disembarkation!!!
Destination: Sailing around the gulf of Chania making stops for swimming and relaxation, anchoring at Maherida bay and the nearby island of Ag.Theodori.
Icluded: snacks (Cretan traditional dakos), fruits, drinks (soft drinks, beverages, wine and bottled water) and lunch onboard (home-made cooked, based on the local Mediterranean cuisine)
Must have: Have with you, your swimsuits, sea towels and your very best mood. Leave the rest to us!!!
*Maximum participation 8people
Make the most of your time in Chania and discover the wonders of the Old City on this Segway tour through the Kasteli and Splantzia districts. Meet your friendly guide at the local partner’s office and get kitted out with the necessary Segway gear then set out onto the charming streets of Chania where adventure awaits.
Head into the Eastern part of Chania’s Old City and discover the remainders of the Ottoman rule as you explore the Turkish neighborhoods here. Glide along traditional cobble streets and narrow alleys while learning about the fascinating history of the districts throughout the ages. Along the way, see the most iconic sights and landmarks, including the impressive Venetian walls and Koum Kapi.
Live a unique experience of the city of Chania. Floating by the Lighthouse and the beautiful buildings of the harbour, Giali Tzami and the old shipyards. Our meeting point is the beach called Honolulu and there is a bus stop right above it. We will start paddling after a small introduction to sea kayaking. The part of the city where the local tanneries used to be called Tambakaria is our first stop and from there we will kayak to Koum Kapi, and enter the Venetian port. From the lighthouse we will continue to Lazareto island for a small stop fro swimming.
Chania is by far the most beautiful prefecture of Crete and surely one of the most beautiful areas in Greece. The coastline is a gem for the area from its rugged and colourful rock formations until the gold sand beaches. On a kayak you are the lucky one to explore the remote areas and the famous spots and beaches escaping traffic, queues and crowds. Chania city can be full of surprises wether wondering around the old city alleys or having drinks with the famous Chania lighthouse (Faros).
Explore Chania’s Rich History and Vibrant Culture on Two Wheels
Dive into the heart of Chania with an e-bike city tour that combines the ease of electric biking with the depth of cultural exploration. Starting from the Old Market, this tour takes you through historic sites, beautiful beachfront areas, and introduces you to the local flavors and traditions of Crete. It’s the perfect way to see the city’s highlights while enjoying the freedom and fun of riding an e-bike.
This e-bike tour is an ideal way to experience the historical richness, cultural depth, and natural beauty of Chania. It offers a unique perspective on the city, combining leisure and learning in an eco-friendly adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises a new and exciting way to explore Chania.
Agios Onoufrios, a serene seaside village located 8km north of Chania and close to Kounoupidiana, is a hidden gem worth visiting.
The beach of Agios Onoufrios is quiet and sandy, and well protected from the winds, as it is located in a deep bay, along with a picturesque small port. Although not well-organized, it’s a popular spot for locals who come for the picturesque landscape and traditional taverns. The only downside is the fuel tanks located northwest of the beach, which break the peaceful atmosphere.
Despite this, the beach is equipped with sunbeds, parasols, showers, changing rooms, and a lifeguard service. For sports enthusiasts, there are two volleyball courts available. Overall, Agios Onoufrios is a great destination for those looking for a quiet beach away from the crowds.
The seaside village of Kalathas is located 12km northeast of Chania city, in a natural bay at Cape Akrotiri, which is open to the north winds. Current Kalathas is a relatively new village, which has been inhabited by residents of Chania who wanted to live away from the city centre.
The beach in front of the village is beautiful, with fine sand and shallow crystal clear water. Opposite Kalathas, there is a small island which you can easily reach by swimming.
The beach is very well organized with umbrellas, water sports, restaurants, hotels, lifeguards, mini markets, etc.
West of the main bay, beyond the rocky end, there is a secluded sandy bay. This is not organized and is ideal for those who do not like crowded places.
Tip: If you continue towards the far right of the beach, you will find a rather remote beach with usually hardly any people should you wish to avoid the crowded part of the beach.
Tersanas is a charming coastal village situated 13km northeast of Chania, tucked away in a small cove on the west side of Cape Akrotiri. While it serves as the harbour for the neighbouring village of Chorafakia, Tersanas is a well-developed area and a popular holiday destination.
The beach at Tersanas is nestled within a natural harbour that faces southwest. With its white, fine sand and crystal-clear shallow waters, it’s a small beach that can get crowded, especially on weekends. Visitors can take advantage of the available sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and snack bars. Its calm waters and proximity to tourist facilities make it perfect for families, and there are buses from Chania that stop at Tersanas.
Macherida, a small beach, is situated 14km northeast of Chania and 1km west of Chorafakia village, in close proximity to Tersanas. Its name is derived from the Greek word “machairi” meaning “knife,” inspired by the knife-like appearance of a rocky cape at its northern end. Another theory suggests it was named after the Gladiolis italics flower, known as “macherida” in Greek.
The bay, facing southwest, is typically calm. At the heart of the bay lies a beautiful beach with white sand and turquoise water, enclosed by sharp rocks. The water clarity here is exceptional due to the sea currents that frequently change direction, sweeping away any rubbish. While the beach isn’t developed, there has been some residential construction in the vicinity in recent years. Macherida beach, with its seclusion, is a popular spot for nudists and is one of the preferred beaches for the gay community in Chania.
The surrounding coastline serves as a unique habitat for various wild species. Close to the main road, amidst the rocks, is the Macherida pond that resembles a crater with saltwater springs. This provides a sanctuary for water snakes, turtles, and seagulls. The city bus route to Stavros passes through Tersanas and runs close to Macherida beach.
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 Minoan settlement situated near the village of Nerokouros in the suburbs of Chania was unearthed in 1977. A Minoan villa, constructed according to palatial standards (such as tiled floors, polythyron, and two floors) was discovered at this location. The villa is believed to date back to around 1600 BC.
Another, less remarkable house was found 300 meters to the east, featuring two storage rooms and a tiled floor. Besides the Minoan sites, various other antiquities spanning from the Minoan era to the Early Christian years have been excavated in the broader area of Nerokouros.
The Minoan Kydonia was established at the present site of the old town of Chania. Kydonia was likely the third largest town of Minoan Crete. A flourishing craft industry developed here, and the town became wealthy through maritime trade, which was facilitated by its location. In fact, ancient writers referred to Kydonia as the mother of the Cretan towns.
There are two versions of the origin of the name. One version attributes it to Kydon, the mythical son of Minos and the nymph Akakkalida. The other version suggests it comes from an old name for Crete (Chthonia).
Most remnants have been identified on the Kastelli hill above the old Venetian port. Plates of Linear A and Linear B have also been discovered. The remaining traces, such as the palace of Kydonia, are situated beneath the modern city of Chania and have not been excavated.
The city has continued to develop up until today, incorporating elements from all periods of the island’s history. So far, excavations have uncovered Minoan tombs, Mycenaean buildings, small palaces with frescoes, numerous vases, Roman statues, Hellenistic mosaics, and more.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Set in Agios Onoufrios in the Crete region with Agios Onoufrios Beach nearby, OLISEA APTS offers accommodation with free private parking.
Featuring free WiFi, the units have a washing machine and a flat-screen TV. There is a fully equipped kitchen and a private bathroom.
The apartment has a garden and sun terrace.
House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos is 7.4 km from OLISEA APTS, while Archaeological Museum of Chania is 7.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 9 km from the accommodation.
from
€189
/night
Set in Agios Onoufrios and only 700 metres from Agios Onoufrios Beach, Pandis Palace offers accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. This villa provides air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace.
Featuring a PS4, the villa has a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a living room with a seating area and a dining area, 6 bedrooms, and 6 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a hot tub. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, game console and DVD player, as well as an iPod docking station and a CD player are featured.
At the villa guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Pandis Palace.
House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos is 6.9 km from the accommodation, while Archaeological Museum of Chania is 7.2 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 9 km from Pandis Palace, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€75
/night
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, Elixsea Villa – Unlimited view of the Blue sea is set in Kounoupidhianá. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a bath. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.
The reception at the villa can provide tips on the area.
Elixsea Villa – Unlimited view of the Blue sea offers a picnic area. Guests can also relax in the garden or in the shared lounge area.
Agios Onoufrios Beach is 800 metres from the accommodation, while House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos is 7.4 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 9 km from Elixsea Villa – Unlimited view of the Blue sea, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€512
/night
Boasting mountain views, Vista Residence offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 1.3 km from Agios Onoufrios Beach. This villa has a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa is fitted with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the villa, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos is 7.6 km from Vista Residence, while Archaeological Museum of Chania is 7.9 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 9 km from the accommodation.
from
€483
/night
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