Along Gavdos’ Hidden Edges: Marvel 250hp from Bay Marathi

CHANIA BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Along Gavdos’ Hidden Edges: Marvel 250hp from Bay Marathi

A RIB charter out of Chania that runs half-day (4.5 hr) and full-day (10 hr) cruises to Gavdos and the south-coast coves—the essential practical guide for planning the outing.

Along Gavdos’ Hidden Edges: Marvel 250hp from Bay Marathi.

Duration
Half Day - 4.5 Hours • All Day - 10 Hours
Location
Chania
Operator
Notosmare Marine Adventures
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set off from Marathi (Chora Sfakion) and follow Crete’s southern coastline aboard a stable, close-to-shore RIB. The Marvel 250hp offers a compact, spacious platform ideal for exploring Gavdos: pristine beaches, hidden coves and long coastal runs. Operators offer flexible half-day and all-day options so you can tailor the outing to a morning exploration or a full day island circuit.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE BOAT

A stable, close-to-shore RIB powered by 250hp

The charter is built around a roomy RIB designed to get you close to shore while delivering a stable ride for short landings and sheltered anchoring—an efficient platform for beach hops and cove entry.

THE ISLAND

Gavdos: beaches, coves and quiet coastlines

The trip’s primary draw is Gavdos: isolated beaches and secret coves on Crete’s south coast that are best reached by small boat. Expect long sandy bays and tucked-away anchorages for a swim or a shore walk.

THE TIMING

Half‑day or full‑day—choose your scope

The operator runs both a half-day option and a full-day charter, allowing either a focused coastal loop or an extended island exploration depending on how much sea time you want.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

You board at Marathi and, within minutes, the shore line recedes into a succession of headlands and small bays. The RIB’s shallow draft and power let you swing in close to beaches, drop anchor in a quiet cove and return to the boat for a swim or picnic. Half‑day departures focus on nearby coves; a full‑day stretches out to Gavdos for long coastline runs and multiple landings.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing suits—and who should think twice.

1
Small groups and couplesWell suited: the charter platform is sized for small groups; verify maximum authorized onboard capacity (10) with the operator when booking.
2
Independent day trippersGood match for travelers who want flexible, self-directed beach hops and short landings rather than a large, scheduled ferry experience.
3
Families with childrenPossible with care: confirm seating and safety arrangements ahead of time and note the operator’s stated capacity when planning group size.
4
Those prone to seasicknessExercise caution: although the RIB is described as stable, small-boat motions occur—plan accordingly and check capacity and boarding details with the operator.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Half Day option runs approximately 4.5 hours; the All Day option runs approximately 10 hours. Pick-up and drop-off times vary by option—confirm at booking.

What to Bring

Sun protection, snacks and drinks, and warm clothing for sea breezes or evening returns are recommended.

Logistics & pickup

Charter place is Marathi (Chora Sfakion); briefing sessions are scheduled in the morning—confirm exact pickup times when you reserve.

Boat & safety

The vessel is powered by a 250hp Yamaha four-stroke engine; optional additional insurance is available for damage coverage above the stated excess—confirm terms with the operator.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long are the trip options?

Half Day is approximately 4.5 hours; All Day is approximately 10 hours.

Where does the charter depart from?

Charter place is Marathi (Chora Sfakion).

How many people can be on board?

Maximum authorized onboard capacity is 10 persons.

What are typical pick-up and drop-off times?

Pick-up times: All Day available as of 09:00; Half Day at 09:30 or 15:00. Drop-off: All Day at sunset; Half Day at 14:00 or 20:00. Briefing sessions occur at 09:30 and 10:30.

Is there insurance available?

Optional additional insurance is available: the boat is insured for damage over €800 at a cost of €25/day.

What are the boat’s specifications?

The boat length is listed as 10m, built in 2008, and powered by a 250hp Yamaha four-stroke engine (unleaded).

Is there sun protection aboard?

Yes—sunshade is available on board.