RIB Boat Adventure Sfakia to Gavdos with Notosmare - Chania

RIB Boat Adventure Sfakia to Gavdos with Notosmare

Chaniamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

6–8 hours

Fitness Level

Guests should have average fitness; able to embark and disembark from a fast RIB and manage short hikes on uneven terrain.

Overview

Take a high-powered RIB boat from Sfakia to Gavdos island with Notosmare Marine Adventures. Swim in pristine waters, enjoy a natural clay spa, and savor authentic Cretan fare on this unforgettable full-day journey.

Details

Situated on the rugged southern coast of Crete, near the small port village of Sfakia, Notosmare Marine Adventures offers a striking maritime journey to Gavdos island—the southernmost point of Greece. This full-day RIB boat trip harnesses the power of a 300hp engine for a swift yet intimate crossing across the Libyan Sea. The sharp cliffs and arid landscapes surrounding Sfakia give way to Gavdos' unique charm: a remote island of crystalline waters, wild beaches, and sparse but welcoming villages.

The highlight of the trip is the chance to immerse yourself in ultra-clear water bays accessible only by boat. Guests often take a dip in turquoise coves with visibility that reveals schools of vibrant Mediterranean fish. A natural clay and sand spa offers an unexpectedly therapeutic moment; locals cherish this as a rejuvenating tradition. The day continues with a leisurely lunch served at a seaside taverna, where regional Cretan dishes highlight fresh seafood and locally grown herbs.

Notosmare is distinctive for combining rugged seafaring with local cultural encounters, offering an authentic perspective of Crete's lesser-traveled southern coast and the isolated Gavdos island beyond. The experience suits those seeking a dynamic maritime adventure blending speed, nature, and cultural immersion off the beaten path.

This crossing is not just a boat ride—it’s a voyage into one of the Mediterranean’s lesser known natural outposts. The range of activities from swimming and spa treatments to village strolls make it a standout in the Chania area’s outdoor offerings. Whether you’re drawn by the island’s thinly populated beaches or the kinetic thrill of an exposed sea journey, Notosmare Marine Adventures frames Crete’s coastline in a unique, compelling way.

Adventure Tips

Wear Water Shoes

Rocky beaches and clay spa areas can be rough underfoot—wear sturdy water shoes for swimming and shore access.

Bring Sun Protection

This open-sea trip exposes you to full sun; pack sunscreen and a hat to avoid sunburn during stops and boat time.

Check Sea Conditions

Wind and waves affect comfort and safety; confirm weather and sea state before booking your trip from Sfakia.

Hydrate Well

Full-day trips require sufficient hydration—carry water bottles, especially on warm summer days amid salt spray.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Small fishing coves on Gavdos offering quiet, sandy beaches away from the main villages
  • Clay-rich mud flats near the shore, perfect for natural spa treatments

Wildlife

  • Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)
  • Mediterranean monk seals, occasionally sighted along remote beaches

History

Gavdos has a rich history as a remote outpost, with ancient references dating to Roman times and modern-day status as Greece's southernmost inhabited island.

Conservation

Notosmare Marine Adventures supports sustainable tourism by limiting group sizes and educating visitors about the fragile marine ecosystem around Gavdos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
late morning
early afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • From the bow of the RIB boat looking back toward Sfakia’s rocky cliffs
  • Secluded beaches on Gavdos with expansive sea views
  • Village lanes of Gavdos, capturing traditional island architecture

What to Photograph

seascapes
wild beaches
local village life

Recommended Gear

Water shoes

Essential

Protect your feet when entering and exiting rocky beaches and natural spa spots.

summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Essential for protection against intense Mediterranean sun exposure on open water.

summer specific

Light waterproof jacket

Useful for wind protection during early spring trips across the sea.

spring specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated throughout the full-day boat adventure.

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