Crete: Guided Boat & Snorkeling Trip with Blue Cave & Pickup

Summary

Boat ride to Blue Cave snorkeling spots near Marathi Beach

You’ll glide along Crete’s Akrotiri coast by boat with pickup included, snorkel inside the glowing Blue Cave with a local guide, and relax at peaceful Marathi Beach. Expect calm seas, friendly stories from your guide, all equipment provided—and moments that stick with you long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the boat just outside Chania, shoes off and sunscreen half-rubbed in. The captain—Yiannis, who had that calm way Cretans have—gave us a nod as we pushed off toward the Akrotiri Peninsula. The sea was that clear blue you see in postcards but never quite believe until you're squinting at it for real. I could smell salt and something herbal—maybe sage from the cliffs? We passed little bays like Kalathas and Machairida, barely a soul around except a fisherman waving from his tiny boat. Our guide Maria pointed out an old fort on a rocky islet; she said it was built to keep pirates out. I tried to imagine pirates here but got distracted by the sun flickering on the water.

The main event was the Blue Cave. I’m not sure what I expected—a hole in a rock, maybe—but when we drifted inside (Maria checked the waves first), the light changed completely. Everything went this wild electric blue, bouncing off the stone walls and making our faces look almost cartoonish underwater. Maria handed me my snorkel mask and said “Don’t worry if you’re new,” which helped since I always get nervous about breathing through those tubes. The water was cold at first but then perfect, and there were these tiny silver fish darting everywhere. At one point I just floated there, listening to my own breathing echo against stone, thinking how weirdly peaceful it felt.

Afterwards we anchored near Marathi Beach—the kind of place where time feels slow even if you’re checking your watch. Some people swam again or just lay back on deck with their feet dangling overboard. There were snacks (I ate too many olives) and bottled water, which tasted better than usual after saltwater swimming. On the way back through Souda Bay, Maria told stories about naval battles and pointed out more little islands—she really knew her stuff, though she laughed when she forgot an English word for “anchor.”

I still think about that blue light inside the cave sometimes—it’s hard to explain unless you’ve been there. If you want a day trip from Chania that feels both easygoing and kind of magical (and includes pickup so you don’t have to stress about buses), this Crete snorkeling tour is honestly worth it—even if you’re not much of a swimmer.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat trip and snorkeling in Crete

• Depart from Chania area
• Cruise along Akrotiri Peninsula coastline
• Pass scenic bays Kalathas and Machairida
• Stop for swimming and guided snorkeling
• Visit the Blue Cave with guide
• Relax on deck and enjoy scenery
• Anchor near Marathi area for snorkeling
• Explore underwater marine life or relax
• Drive through Souda Bay with panoramic views
• Pass historic islets and military forts

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Crete snorkeling tour?

Yes, free pickup is included from Chania area hotels or nearby locations.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?

No experience needed—the guided snorkeling is suitable for beginners.

Where does the boat trip start?

The tour departs from the Chania area along Crete’s north coast.

What are the main stops during the tour?

You’ll visit Akrotiri Peninsula bays, snorkel at Blue Cave, and anchor near Marathi Beach.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes—all necessary snorkeling gear is included in your booking.

Are snacks or drinks included?

A light snack and bottled water are provided during the trip.

How long do we spend at each location?

You’ll have relaxed time for swimming and snorkeling at each stop; timing may vary based on conditions.

Can kids join this boat & snorkeling tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels; families are welcome.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Chania or nearby areas, all entrance fees and taxes covered up front, use of full snorkeling equipment with certification guidance if needed, hands-on support from a professional dive master plus a seasoned captain at the helm, as well as light snacks and bottled water while you relax between swims before heading back along Souda Bay in the afternoon.