CHANIA BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Be Your Own Captain: A 30hp, 5.5m Run from Bay Marathi
Self-drive rentals from Chora Sfakion let license-free skippers pilot a 30hp, 5.5m boat for a half- or full-day on Cretan waters — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
Be Your Own Captain: A 30hp, 5.5m Run from Bay Marathi.
Set out from Bay Marathi and take the helm of a compact, easy-to-drive 5.5m boat powered by a 30hp Mercury engine. The rental is pitched at people who want to skipper themselves without a motorboat license, with clear briefings and support provided so you can explore the Cretan sea on a half- or full-day basis.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Self-skipper freedom from Marathi
Renters pilot their own craft from Chora Sfakion (Marathi), with simple handling and on-site briefing so you can confidently run short coastal hops or lazier day cruises.
Comfort-minded small cruiser
The 5.5m boat is fitted with a sunroof/sunshade for protection from the Cretan sun and is described as easy to drive — a practical platform for up to a small group.
Half- or full-day options with support
Bookings are available as half-day or full-day rentals, and the operator provides briefings plus ongoing support so renters have help if they need it.
What the day feels like
What it Feels Like at the Helm
You step aboard a compact 5.5m craft, get a short briefing, and head out under your own steam — simple controls, a sunroof for shade, and shore-based support let you focus on piloting and short explorations rather than complex systems.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Half-day and all-day options are offered (half day ≈ 4.5 hours; full day ≈ 10 hours). Pick-up availability: all-day bookings available from 09:00; half-day departures at 09:30 or 15:00. Drop-off: all-day returns at sunset; half-day returns at 14:00 or 20:00.
Pack sun protection, snacks and drinks, and some warm clothing for cooler sea conditions or evening returns.
Optional additional insurance is available to cover damage over €400 for an extra €15 per day.
Charter base: Chora Sfakion, Marathi. Boat length is 5.5m, powered by a Mercury 4-stroke 30hp engine using unleaded fuel; boats have a sunshade and were built in 2008.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need a motorboat license to rent?
No — the 30hp boats are described as ideal for renters without a motorboat license; the operator provides the necessary briefing and information upon rental.
How long is a half-day or full-day rental?
Half-day rentals are approximately 4.5 hours; full-day rentals are approximately 10 hours.
What are the pickup and drop-off times?
All-day bookings are available from 09:00 with drop-off at sunset. Half-day bookings depart at 09:30 or 15:00 with drop-off at either 14:00 or 20:00, depending on the slot.
Is insurance available?
Yes — optional additional insurance can be purchased to cover damage above €400 for €15 per day.
How many people can be aboard?
Marketing notes indicate the boats accommodate up to 4 passengers; the listed maximum authorized onboard capacity is 6 persons — confirm limits with the operator when booking.
Is there shade on board?
Yes — a sunroof / sunshade is available on the boats for protection from the sun.
What is the engine and fuel type?
The boats use a Mercury 4-stroke 30hp engine that runs on unleaded fuel.