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Discover Crete’s standout beaches on a full-day boat trip with Notosmare Marine Adventures. Swim in the turquoise waters of Seitan Limania and Balos Lagoon, then uncover the hidden Menies cove tied to ancient mythology.
Discover Crete’s standout beaches on a full-day boat trip with Notosmare Marine Adventures. Swim in the turquoise waters of Seitan Limania and Balos Lagoon, then uncover the hidden Menies cove tied to ancient mythology.
Book with Notosmare Marine Adventures
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Notosmare Marine Adventures · Marathi
Set along the northwestern coast of Crete, the full-day journey from Marathi Bay to Balos Lagoon and Seitan Limania offers an unmatched dive into some of the island’s most spectacular seaside landscapes. Operated by Notosmare Marine Adventures, this trip invites travelers to experience three exceptional Mediterranean coastal gems by boat—each with distinct character and pristine natural beauty.
The day kicks off at Seitan Limania, a narrow cove fringed by steep cliffs that drop sharply into startlingly blue waters. The beach’s isolated nature keeps crowds minimal, letting visitors appreciate the clarity and calm of this secretive inlet. From here, the route curves west to Balos Lagoon, renowned for its shallow, turquoise waters and pink-tinged sand—a remarkable feature shaped by crushed shells and coral fragments. Balos sits on Gramvousa Peninsula’s tip, an area protected under the Natura 2000 program due to its fragile ecosystem.
Following time to swim and wander Balos’ shoreline, the journey continues to the lesser-known Menies cove on Rodopou Peninsula’s northeastern shore. Rich with history, Menies lies near the ancient temple site of Diktynna, honoring the local goddess Vritomartis, linked to Artemis. Pebbly beaches here invite a refreshing dip in calm waters away from typical tourist paths.
Notosmare Marine Adventures delivers this itinerary with small groups capped at eleven guests, ensuring an intimate and flexible experience. The crew provides snorkeling gear, light snacks, and soft drinks for comfort while emphasizing environmental stewardship—visits leave only footprints on these protected beaches. Whether you’re drawn to geology, history, or pure sea-swimming joy, this trip captures Crete’s multifaceted coastal allure in a single day.
For visitors basing themselves near the bustling city of Chania, this maritime excursion is an essential escape, revealing quiet coves and storied sands beyond the usual routes.
easy.
8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves boat travel and light swimming
The group meets at Marathi Bay, where boarding begins for the full-day tour.
Light cold snacks and soft drinks are provided, but bringing additional food is advisable for longer days.
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included to enhance your experience at the swimming stops.
Guests from 1 to 85 years old can join, accommodating families and all adventure levels.
Seitan Limania and Menies remain relatively uncrowded due to limited access, while Balos Lagoon can attract more visitors, especially in peak season.
Accessibility details are not specified, but boat boarding and uneven terrain may limit options for some guests.
Menies cove is near ancient Diktynna, a temple dedicated to the goddess Vritomartis, linked locally to Artemis worship.
The area is protected under Natura 2000 guidelines, with operators committed to preserving its fragile marine and coastal environment.
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