Adventure brief
Hire Compass 2
Skip the paperwork and get out on Crete’s clear water: Hire Compass 2 is a compact, easy-to-drive boat for up to five people with no license required. Perfect for family island hops, sheltered coves, and full-day cruises from Platanias.
On the north shore of Crete, in the lively coastal town of Platanias, Hire Compass 2 from Mojo Water Sports turns a simple day at sea into a small-scale maritime escape. The Compass 165cc, pushed by a steady 30HP outboard, is built to carry up to five people in comfort and without the fuss of a boating license—an ideal choice for families, first-time skippers, and anyone who wants to trade sand and traffic for open water. Boarding at Mojo Water Sports in Platanias, you’ll find a practical layout: cushioned seating with under-seat storage, an ergonomic console with straightforward controls, a bimini top for shade, and a swim ladder for easy sea access.
A portable cooler with ice comes with the rental, so it’s effortless to pack picnic supplies for a full-day cruise. Safety gear is included—life jackets and a first-aid kit—while fuel is charged separately, letting you plan a half-day hop to a nearby cove or an eight-hour circuit that reaches isolated beaches and snorkeling spots. This stretch of Crete is known for its limestone coves, clear turquoise bays, and Posidonia seagrass meadows that nurture small fish and occasionally attract loggerhead sea turtles.
From the boat you can glide past rocky headlands, drop anchor in a quiet bay to swim or snorkel, and peer into wave-swept caves and pebble beaches that larger vessels can’t reach. The modest power of the 30HP engine strikes a balance: enough thrust to cover distance without scaring off the calm of the coastline. Hire Compass 2 stands out here because it removes barriers.
No license requirement opens coastal exploration to a broad audience while the boat’s compact size affords intimacy and maneuverability. Local operators at Mojo Water Sports bring island know-how—directions to sheltered anchorages, tips on currents, and a sense of the safest routes around seasonal traffic—making this a reliable way to experience of Crete’s maritime edge. Practical notes: rentals are offered in full-day blocks (an eight-hour option is standard), fuel is extra, and group sizes are capped by the five-passenger limit.
Whether you aim to island-hop with friends, anchor for snorkeling off a secluded shore, or simply enjoy a slow coastal cruise, Hire Compass 2 is a low-friction ticket to the sea around Platanias—the kind of outing that converts curious travelers into repeat visitors. Book through Mojo Water Sports at the Mojo Water Sports meeting point in Platanias; check-in includes a quick orientation and safety briefing so even novice helms feel confident. The operator recommends morning departures to beat sea breezes and to visit nearby Agia Marina and the quieter inlets west of town.
Ages 18+ for renters ensures responsible handling, and guests should anchor carefully to avoid damaging Posidonia meadows. Pack reef-safe sunscreen.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Fuel planessential
Fuel is not included—estimate fuel needs before you leave and top up in port to avoid running short mid-trip.
- 02Morning departuresinfo
Leave early when winds are light and sea conditions are calmer for a smoother cruise and better snorkeling visibility.
- 03Protect Posidoniaessential
Anchor in sand patches, not on seagrass meadows, to avoid damaging underwater habitats.
- 04Bring ID and paymentwarning
Renter must be 18+; bring ID and a card for fuel and any extras at check-in.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin while minimizing harm to marine life and Posidonia meadows.
summerEssentialSnorkel mask and fins
Lightweight gear lets you explore shallow bays and seagrass meadows when anchored.
summerLight wind shell
A thin jacket helps on cool mornings or when the sea breeze picks up.
springWater shoes
Protects feet on rocky shore landings and while climbing in and out on pebbled beaches.
summerLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Small pebble coves west of Platanias ideal for quiet anchoring, The shallow bays off Agia Marina for calm snorkeling and clear water
Local fauna
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), Mediterranean shearwater and small coastal fish around Posidonia beds
Historic heritage
Platanias sits near Chania, a region with Venetian-era maritime history reflected in the nearby old harbor and coastal trade routes.
Mindful exploration
Avoid anchoring on Posidonia seagrass, use reef-safe sunscreens, and follow local guidance to minimize impact on marine habitats.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From the bow while cruising past limestone headlands, Anchored in a shallow bay looking back at the shoreline village, Standing on the swim ladder for underwater shots near Posidonia meadows
- Subjects
- Coastal seascapes and limestone coves, Underwater snorkeling scenes, Local village coastline and small tavernas
- Best times
- Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need a license to rent Hire Compass 2?
No license is required for this boat; renters must be 18 or older and will receive a safety orientation at check-in.
How many people can the boat carry?
The Compass 165cc is rated for up to five passengers including the renter/operator.
Is fuel included in the price?
Fuel is not included and is charged separately—confirm fuel rates and estimated consumption before departure.
Can I swim and snorkel from the boat?
Yes—the boat has a swim ladder and is ideal for stopping at coves for swimming and snorkeling.
Where do I meet for the rental?
Meet at Mojo Water Sports in Platanias for check-in and a brief orientation before launch.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes—life jackets and basic safety gear are provided as part of the rental package.