Set off from Sfakia aboard Notosmare’s powerful RIB boat and spend a day cruising to the secluded beaches and hidden coves of Gavdos Island, the southern edge of Crete’s wild coastline.
Set off from Sfakia aboard Notosmare’s powerful RIB boat and spend a day cruising to the secluded beaches and hidden coves of Gavdos Island, the southern edge of Crete’s wild coastline.
Book with Notosmare Marine Adventures
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Notosmare Marine Adventures · Chania, Crete
Crete’s rugged southern coastlines, where crystal-clear waters meet steep cliffs and secret coves, offer a playground for seekers of fresh perspective and oceanborne thrills. From the harbor in Sfakia, just east of Chania, Notosmare Marine Adventures commands a powerful 300hp RIB boat built for speed and comfort. Their 12-meter Skipper 4u RIB carries up to 11 passengers, inviting groups to spend full days skimming across the Mediterranean to uncover the wild beauty of Gavdos Island—the southernmost point of Greece.
This trip stands out in Crete’s outdoor scene not only for the motorized freedom it offers but also for the remarkable destinations it unlocks. Gavdos, with its moonlit dunes and turquoise beaches less touched by mass tourism, reveals a side of Crete’s maritime landscape that feels untouched and expansive. Along the way, guests navigate a series of hidden coves accessible only by boat, each offering swimming, snorkeling, or quiet beachcombing away from crowds.
Navigated by an experienced skipper, the journey balances exhilaration with safety. Notosmare’s local knowledge means guests also glimpse iconic limestone cliffs, sea caves, and the unique flora clinging to the crests of Crete’s craggy coastline. The RIB’s nimble design cuts through waves effortlessly, making it an ideal vessel for these diverse and often rugged coastal conditions.
In the context of Crete’s many outdoor offerings—be it hiking the Samaria Gorge or discovering mountain villages—Notosmare provides a completely different angle. It’s an invitation to see this ancient island from the sea, accessing remote corners and creating memories fueled by salt spray, open skies, and the pulse of a 300hp engine pushing forward into the blue.
easy.
7–8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels as the boat handles all movement; minimal physical exertion required.
The full-day excursion typically lasts between 7 and 8 hours, including travel and time on Gavdos Island.
No experience is needed as a skilled skipper manages the boat and navigates the route.
Yes, stops at hidden coves provide excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters.
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, and optional snorkeling gear for a comfortable and enjoyable day.
Yes, the RIB boat has safety features and seating for up to 11 passengers, making it family-friendly with proper supervision.
Sfakia is accessible by car or local bus from Chania, about 1.5 hours east along the coast.
Gavdos has a rich history as an ancient refuge and is mentioned in Greek mythology as a remote island where Odysseus took shelter.
Notosmare Marine Adventures emphasizes responsible tourism by minimizing environmental impact, respecting protected marine zones, and educating guests about local ecosystems.
Notosmare Marine Adventures is a boat tour operator based in Marathi, Crete, offering a wide range of day trips, private charters and rentals. The company operates from Marathi and runs departures that also originate from Chania, Kolymvari and Sfakia, serving popular destinations such as Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa, Seitan Limani, Gavdos, Menies and Elafonisi. Boats in the fleet named in listings include Saxdor, Axopar, Marvel, RIBs and larger yachts including Bavaria and catamarans, providing options for small groups, families and private charters. Tour formats range from half‑day to full‑day nine‑hour excursions, sunset cruises and specialised routes like Chania to Santorini or Sfakia to Gavdos. Many advertised trips reference complimentary drinks, light snacks or fresh fruit, and several listings specify skipper‑included services or bareboat rental choices. Notosmare offers private boat trips, fishing trips, rentals with and without a licence requirement and a selection of high‑powered RIB and outboard models. The variety of vessel sizes and trip styles supports activities such as swimming in turquoise waters, visiting historic sites like Gramvousa castle and exploring secluded coves accessible only by sea. Booking options cover private charters, shared tours and tailored itineraries. Trip descriptions emphasize picturesque coastlines, hidden beaches and opportunities to relax while sightseeing. With a broad fleet, multiple departure points and both crewed and bareboat offerings, Notosmare Marine Adventures provides practical choices for travelers seeking marine excursions around western Crete. Seasonal availability applies; bookings are offered for sunrise departures, sunset cruises, family outings, fishing trips and custom itineraries for varying group sizes, locally.
Book with Notosmare Marine Adventures