The Best Boat Rentals in Chania

Plan on roughly €250–€400 for a full day on a small license‑free motorboat, €70–€120 per hour for quicker RIBs on short coastal trips, €600–€1,200 for a private day tour on a captained speedboat or RIB, €600–€1,200 for a private sailing day trip (often with lunch and drinks), and from about €1,200–€2,500+ for larger motor yachts depending on size and route. Many charters include a skipper (if captained), basic refreshments, snorkeling gear, and fuel for set itineraries; fuel may be metered separately on custom routes. Exact inclusions are shown on each listing, so check what’s covered before you book.

You’ll find license‑free 30 hp motorboats for easy coastal exploring, faster RIBs and speedboats for hopping to coves and islets, classic monohull sailboats and modern catamarans for relaxed sailing days, and mid‑size to luxury motor yachts for groups and celebrations. There are also glass‑bottom sightseeing boats for short harbor and islet cruises.

If you don’t hold a recognized boating license or simply want a stress‑free day, book a captained charter—your skipper handles navigation, moorings, and weather calls. Confident boaters can rent small 30 hp boats without a license for nearby spots in settled conditions, but for longer runs (for example toward Menies, Balos, or around the Rodopou Peninsula), a professional skipper is the easier, safer choice.

Popular departure points include the Old Venetian Harbor in Chania Town, Kolymbari Port on the Rodopou side for Menies, Gramvousa, and Balos routes, Marathi’s small marina on Akrotiri for Seitan Limania and sheltered bays, and Souda Bay marinas for sailing days in protected waters. Your booking will confirm the exact pier and check‑in spot.

Short cruises circle the Venetian lighthouse and harbor walls, then head to Lazaretta Islet for snorkeling and to Agioi Theodoroi (Thodorou) where you can often spot the protected kri‑kri goats on the cliffs and swim over clear reefs and a WWII wreck site. Full‑ or half‑day trips continue to Menies and the caves of the Rodopou Peninsula, Seitan Limania’s fjord‑like inlet on Akrotiri, or—on longer outings—Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa’s castle island.

In Greece, you may operate a small motorboat up to 30 hp without a license; anything more powerful, as well as bareboat sailboats and larger craft, requires a recognized license (such as an ICC or national equivalent). If you don’t have one, simply book a captained charter—no license needed.

Yes—families are welcome. Boats carry life jackets, including child sizes, and most provide a swim ladder, shaded area, and snorkeling masks. Let your captain know the ages and sizes of children in advance so the right safety gear is ready. For little ones, mornings with calmer seas and sheltered bays like Lazaretta, Agioi Apostoloi, or Marathi are ideal.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, sandwiches, and drinks, and many include water, soft drinks, fruit, or light bites. Some trips offer full lunches or can arrange catering on request. Pack easy, non‑messy items, avoid glass when possible, and ask about cooler space when you book.

Some boats accept dogs, especially on private charters, while others do not. Always ask the owner in advance and mention your pet’s size. Bring a leash, a towel, freshwater, and plan for a quick rinse after swimming. A small cleaning fee may apply on certain vessels.

From mid‑May to mid‑September, the northerly Meltemi winds can pick up in the afternoons, so morning departures are usually calmer. Captains monitor conditions and will adjust the route to sheltered bays or reschedule if winds or seas are unsafe. If a captain cancels for weather, you’ll typically be offered a new time or a refund per the listing’s policy.

Absolutely. Captained RIBs and mid‑size yachts are perfect for 8–12 guests; larger motor yachts can host bigger groups. Many crews can add extras like a cake, sparkling wine, decorations, or a sunset timing. Share your headcount, vibe, and preferred swim stops, and your captain will tailor the day.

Peak boating runs June through September, with the warmest sea in July–September. May and October bring lighter crowds and pleasant water temperatures, while winter is off‑season and weather‑dependent. In Greece, August 15 (Assumption Day) and late‑July/early‑August are especially busy. U.S. holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day don’t affect local operations, but they can increase overall travel demand, so book early if you’re visiting then. For calmer seas and easier parking, choose weekdays and morning departures; sunset cruises are great for harbor and nearby islets.

Yes—many private boats run to Balos and Gramvousa from Kolymbari Port, and some offer departures from Chania’s Old Harbor when conditions allow. It’s a longer, weather‑sensitive route with fuel/time considerations, so expect full‑day pricing. If winds are up, skippers may suggest superb alternatives like Menies, Chironisia caves, or Theodorou–Lazaretta for a smoother day.