Short Lazaretta Trip, Swim Stop

Short Lazaretta Trip, Swim Stop, 2 hours, rated 4.9 across 741 traveller reviews.

Overview

This two-hour trip boards a traditional wooden boat called Ferryman in Chania's old Venetian harbour and heads west past the lighthouse to Lazaretta, a small island you can only reach by swimming. The boat crosses the whole port on the way out, which the operator pitches as a good photo opportunity, and passes close to the Venetian lighthouse before anchoring off the island.

Once there, the stop lasts about an hour and a half. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and reviewers repeatedly mention plenty of fish around the island. Swimmers can explore the shoreline; anyone who prefers to stay dry gets a glass of wine on board and the view. Before departure the crew explains the island's history, including its earlier role as a quarantine and leper island tied to the old harbour.

The return leg gives a panoramic look at Chania and the lighthouse from the water. It suits families with children, as one reviewer with three kids aged three to nine confirmed, and works well as a compact activity that fits into a day. Towels, food and transportation are not included, and you make your own way to the meeting point.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at the old harbourFind the white wooden boat Ferryman near Porto Veneziano hotel, in front of Taverna Neoria. It is described as the only traditional wooden boat in the old harbour.
2. Cruise the Venetian harbourThe boat crosses the whole port, a chance for photos, then passes close to the Chania lighthouse heading west.
3. Swim stop at LazarettaRoughly an hour and a half off the island. Swim or snorkel ashore, or stay on board with a glass of wine. The crew explains the island's history, including its quarantine and leper island past.
4. Return to ChaniaThe ride back offers a panoramic seaside view of Chania and the lighthouse, with more photo opportunities.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help you plan this trip, from what to wear to how the swim stop works.

• Getting there. There is no pickup or transportation included. The meeting point is in front of Taverna Neoria, near the Porto Veneziano hotel, where you look for the white boat named Ferryman.
• What to bring. Bring swimwear, a change of clothes and a towel, since towels are not provided. Masks and pool noodles are supplied, according to the listing and one reviewer's account.
• Swimming requirement. The island is accessible only by swimming, so some confidence in the water is needed to go ashore. One reviewer who is afraid of water said the attentive crew made the experience comfortable anyway.
• Group feel. Reviewers often describe a relaxed, family-friendly couple of hours with friendly guides who share history and marine life facts. Several mention the crew as a highlight of the trip.
• On board. A glass of wine is included, and one reviewer noted the boat has a toilet and a changing room. Food is not included, so eat beforehand if you want more than a drink.
• Footwear and bags. High-heeled shoes, oversize luggage and large bags are not allowed on the boat. Travel light with just what you need for swimming and photos.

Common issues. Some travelers feel the swim stop could be longer to allow more snorkeling and island time, while others found the length just right for a short outing. One reviewer reported not seeing many fish, so marine sightings can vary even though most mention plenty. Fish counts aside, the trip runs about an hour and a half at the island within a two-hour total, which is short by design. No transportation is provided, and towels and food are not included.

Common Questions