Frequently Asked Questions

What types of private boat trips do you offer in Chania?

We offer a wide range of private boat trips in Chania, including half‑day and full‑day cruises to Balos Beach, Gramvousa Island, Theodorou, Menies, Lazaretta, and Seitan Limania, as well as sunset and custom itineraries. You can choose between speedboats, RIBs, small yachts, and larger boats depending on your group size, budget, and preferred destination.

 Do I need a boating license to book with Chania Private Boats?

For our standard private boat trips with a professional skipper, you do not need any boating license or previous experience. If you are interested in bareboat/self‑drive rentals, these do require only a valid driver's license, no skippers license is necessary. 

How long are the trips and what is the typical schedule?

The boat trips range from short 2 ( sunset cruise ), half-day to 3–4 hour cruises, full‑day experiences of 6–8 hours, with morning, afternoon, and sunset options. Exact departure and return times depend on the destination and season, and will be clearly confirmed in your booking details.

What is included in the price of a private boat trip?

Typically, the price includes the boat, professional skipper, basic fuel allowance for the planned route, safety equipment, and standard cleaning/port fees. Many trips also include traditional Greek meal and drinks, and some boats offer snacks or light meals—your specific inclusions will be listed clearly in your quote. You can always amend the menu based on the allergies, preferences, or order catering services if this is a party.

Can we customize our itinerary?

Yes, most of our trips are fully customizable within the limits of safety, sea conditions, and time. You can tell us your preferred destinations, type of experience (swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing, relaxing), and timing, and we will propose 2–3 tailored options to choose from.

What deposit is required and when is the balance due?

Typically, a 15% deposit is required to secure the boat, with the remaining balance payable closer to the trip date or on the day of departure before boarding, depending on the boat owner’s policy. Exact deposit percentages and payment timelines are clearly stated in your booking confirmation.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of our trip?

Safety always comes first. If the captain or port authorities decide that weather or sea conditions are unsafe, we will offer to reschedule your trip or provide a full refund if rescheduling is not possible. We monitor forecasts closely and will keep you informed in the days leading up to your cruise.

Are snorkeling or swimming equipment / SUPs provided?

Most boats include basic snorkeling masks, SUPs and equipment for you to use at swimming stops, especially around clear‑water spots like Balos, Gramvousa, and Theodorou. If you have your own gear or special requirements (e.g., children’s sizes), we recommend bringing it along for the best fit

Are there toilets and shade on the boats?

Many of our larger boats and yachts have toilets and indoor or shaded seating areas, while smaller speedboats and RIBs typically offer sunshade canopies but may not have a toilet on board. Tell us your comfort needs, and we will recommend boats with the facilities that matter most to you. If some facilities are not available on board, they would be available on the beaches when we dock.

Can you arrange special events such as proposals, birthdays, or hen/stag parties?

Yes, private boats are ideal for special occasions such as romantic proposals, birthdays, anniversaries, or hen and stag parties. We can help with decorations, cakes, champagne, photographers, and custom routes to make your event truly memorable on the water.

What is your cancellation policy and what happens if the weather changes?

Our cancellation policy is clearly outlined at the time of booking and usually allows free cancellation within 30-day period before departure; after that window, partial or full charges may apply depending on how close it is to your trip date. If the captain or port authorities decide that weather or sea conditions are unsafe, we will offer to reschedule your trip to another available date or provide a refund according to our terms, as safety always comes first.

How many people can join a private boat trip?

Our fleet includes boats suitable for couples, families, and larger groups, typically ranging from 2 up to around 100 guests per boat, depending on the vessel. For bigger groups, we can arrange multiple boats or larger vessels to ensure everyone travels comfortably and safely.

What destinations can we visit on a private boat trip?

Popular destinations include Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa Island, Theodorou Island, Menies, Lazaretta, and Seitan Limania, all reachable by private boat from Chania region ports. We can also customize routes to quieter bays and hidden coves accessible only by boat, depending on sea conditions and trip duration

From which ports do the boats depart?

Most private trips depart from Chania Old Venetian Harbor or nearby marinas in the Chania region, depending on the route and boat type. For certain destinations such as Balos and Gramvousa, departures can also be arranged from closer harbors such as Kissamos or Kolymbari Port to reduce travel time on the water.

What is not included in the price?

Extras that may not be included are additional fuel if you choose to extend the route, special catering, alcoholic drinks, hotel transfers, and optional add‑ons such as photographers or specific food choices. Any extra costs are discussed in advance so you know exactly what to expect before confirming your booking.

How do I make a booking?

You can send us an inquiry through our website contact form, email, or phone/WhatsApp with your preferred dates, group size, and destination. We will then send you detailed options and prices; once you choose the boat and itinerary, we confirm your reservation after receiving the agreed deposit

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary slightly by boat and season, but generally you may cancel free of charge within a certain period before the trip, and weather‑related cancellations decided by the captain are fully refundable or rescheduled. All conditions are explained in writing during booking so there are no surprises

Are children and elderly guests welcome on board?

Yes, families with children and elderly guests are very welcome, and many of our boats and routes are chosen with comfort and safety in mind. Normally, these would be a shade/ cabin and a WC. Please let us know if you are traveling with very young children, elderly guests, or anyone with mobility issues so we can suggest the most suitable boats and boarding points

Can we bring our own food and drinks?

In most cases, you are welcome to bring your own snacks, meals, and drinks on board, including a reasonable amount of alcohol, as long as it is consumed responsibly and allowed by the specific boat owner. If you prefer, we can also help arrange catering or suggest boats that already include food and drinks in the package.

Is travel insurance or boat insurance included?

All boats operating with us are required to carry the legally mandated boat insurance and safety equipment. However, we strongly recommend that you also have your own travel insurance to cover personal belongings, medical issues, and trip cancellations beyond our control.

Why should we book with Chania Private Boats ( charter broker ) instead of going directly to a boat owner?

Chania Private Boats offers the largest selection of hand‑picked local boats in the Chania region, giving you more choice and impartial advice from one trusted platform. We work only with vetted, reliable partners, provide 2–3 tailored options per inquiry, and support you before, during, and after your trip, so your experience is smooth, safe, and carefree.

Is there safety equipment on board the boats?

Yes, all boats we work with carry the legally required safety equipment, including life jackets, signaling devices, and other mandatory gear checked regularly according to Greek maritime regulations. Your skipper will also give a short safety briefing before departure so everyone on board knows where the equipment is located and what to do in case of an emergency.