Perfect Day in Crete: Private Yacht Tour, Zeus’s Island & Hidden Coves
Nov 9, 2025
Crete was the grand finale of our Virgin Voyages cruise—and we were determined to go out with a bang. As our last stop before heading home, Will and I wanted something private, relaxed, and unforgettable. So, we booked a private boat tour with Chania Boat Tours, and it turned out to be one of the most peaceful and rewarding days of our entire trip.
TL;DR? Check this out:
🚕 Getting to the Port of Chania
Crete is huge (like, shockingly huge for an island), so planning ahead matters. We took an easy taxi ride from the Virgin Voyages port to the Venetian harbor in Chania—no pre-booking necessary, taxis were everywhere and super simple to grab.
📝 Pro tip: Crete has snow-capped mountains in winter (yes, skiing!) and was believed by the Ancient Greeks to be the birthplace of Zeus himself. You could easily spend a full week here exploring inland villages, beaches, and historic ruins. One day? We made it count on the water.
⛵ Private Boat Day with Chania Boat Tours
At 10 AM sharp, we met our crew and hopped aboard a sleek boat for a 5-hour adventure through Crete’s northwestern coast. Our two captains were laid-back, knowledgeable, and totally chill about letting us design our day as we liked.
We cruised out to:
🐐 Theodorou Island
This uninhabited islet is known for its wild goats (we saw dozens!) and is protected as a nature reserve. Legend says the island once saved Cretans during wartime, shaped like a sleeping beast to protect the coast. Today, it’s mostly home to kri-kri goats—and one solitary herder who tends to them.
🌊 We dropped anchor and jumped into the turquoise water for a swim. No crowds, no stress—just bliss.
⛪ Lazareta Island
Our next stop was Lazareta, a tiny island with a deep history. It once served as a quarantine island and is home to a small chapel nestled among the rocks. We swam up to it from the boat, soaking in the quiet, spiritual vibe.
🍽️ After our swim, the captains laid out a delicious charcuterie board: crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, olives, Greek feta, fresh bread, two types of cheese, carrots, and local beer. I could have eaten this every day.
🚶♀️ Exploring Chania’s Old Town
After docking back at the harbor, we strolled through the cobblestone streets of Chania. This city has serious Venetian vibes—colorful buildings, open-air cafés, boutique shops, and street musicians playing under ivy-covered archways.
We eventually found the shared Virgin Voyages meeting point (look this up in advance—it’s about a 15-20 min walk) and took the shared bus back to the ship. But if you’re staying in Crete longer? Please do yourself a favor and book a few nights here. It's vibrant, charming, and packed with culture and coastal beauty.
📌 Is Crete a Good Stop on a Cruise Itinerary?
Absolutely! Whether you’re into mythology, beaches, food, or culture, Crete has something for everyone. And a private boat tour? 100% the right call for a final cruise day.
❓FAQ
Can I book a private boat tour in Crete?
Yes! Several companies offer small group and private yacht tours from the Port of Chania. We booked ours through Chania Boat Tours and it was seamless.
Is Crete worth visiting outside of a cruise?
Definitely. Crete is massive—you could easily spend a week exploring the island’s beaches, mountain villages, wineries, and archaeological sites like Knossos. It’s also a great jumping-off point to hop to Santorini, Paros, or Mykonos via ferry or regional flights.
Where was Zeus born?
According to Greek mythology, Zeus was born in a cave on Mount Ida in Crete. This makes Crete the cradle of one of the most powerful Olympian gods—no big deal 😉
What is the Sea of Crete and why is it considered magical?
The Sea of Crete (or Kritiko Pelagos in Greek) is the northernmost part of the Aegean Sea, nestled between mainland Greece and the island of Crete. Known for its crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and mythological significance, this sea has enchanted travelers for centuries.
Legends say that Zeus himself was born in Crete, and some locals believe the Sea of Crete holds the energy of the gods; calm yet powerful, vast yet intimate. Whether you’re swimming, sailing, or just gazing at the horizon, there’s a mystique to this body of water that feels timeless and sacred. Maybe it’s the contrast between the rugged Cretan mountains and the deep blue sea, or maybe it’s the centuries of stories whispered through the waves, but it leaves an impression on your soul.
