Explore Thodorou & Lazareta Islands by Boat

Thodorou Island (Agioi Theodoroi) – Wild Nature, History, and a Protected Sanctuary

Thodorou Island, located just off the coast of Platanias, is a place of both ecological significance and historical interest. This small, uninhabited island is part of the Natura 2000 protected network and serves as a safe haven for the endangered Cretan wild goat (kri-kri), a species found only in select parts of Crete.

The island’s coastline is rugged and dramatic, with steep cliffs and clear, deep waters that surround a landscape of untouched vegetation. Access to the island is strictly prohibited, but visitors can admire its natural beauty and tranquility from a private boat.

On the western side of the island stand the ruins of a Venetian fortress, built in the 16th century to guard the bay of Chania from pirates and enemy fleets — a reminder of Crete’s strategic importance through the centuries.

One of the most fascinating features of Thodorou lies beneath the surface: the underwater remains of a German World War II aircraft. The plane was shot down during the Battle of Crete in 1941, and its wreckage still rests near the island’s shoreline. This site is of particular interest to divers and military history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into one of the most dramatic chapters of the island’s past.

Thodorou is a unique destination where wildlife protection, natural beauty, and wartime history converge — a truly special stop on any private cruise along Crete’s northern coast.

Lazareta – History, Serenity, and Swimming in Crystal Waters

Lazareta is a small, quiet islet located just off Chania’s Old Port — an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful spot to swim in crystal-clear waters and snorkel along a rocky, intriguing seabed.

The island takes its name from its historical use as a quarantine station during the Venetian and Ottoman periods, where individuals with infectious diseases were isolated before entering the city of Chania. Despite its past, Lazareta today is a tranquil and unspoiled haven — perfect for a relaxing boat stop, sunbathing, and swimming away from the crowds.

Why Visit Thodorou & Lazareta by Private Boat:

• Total tranquility and privacy just minutes from Chania
• Ideal stops for swimming, snorkeling, and photography
• Stunning views of rare wildlife and protected natural landscapes
• A short and pleasant trip, perfect for couples and families
• Easily combined with a visit to Chania’s Old Harbor or a sunset cruise

If you’re looking for a nearby, peaceful, and authentic sea experience with both cultural depth and natural charm, these two islets offer the perfect private getaway.

Chania Old Venetian Harbor – A Living Museum by the Sea

The Old Venetian Harbor of Chania is one of Crete’s most iconic and picturesque landmarks. Built by the Venetians in the 14th century, it is a living historical setting where architecture, tradition, and the sea coexist in perfect harmony. From the deck of a private boat, this harbor reveals itself in a new light — calm, panoramic, and deeply romantic.

As you sail into the port, the imposing Venetian Lighthouse greets you at the entrance — one of the oldest functioning lighthouses in the world. Along the waterfront, you’ll see the Arsenals (historic shipyards) and well-preserved stone buildings that reflect Chania’s maritime legacy.

Surrounding the harbor, the Old Town unfolds like a colorful stage set — with domes, neoclassical facades, and charming cafés and taverns lining the promenade. As the sun begins to set, the golden hour paints the water and the buildings with soft shades of amber and ochre, offering a perfect backdrop for photos or a glass of wine on board.

Ideal for:

• A romantic afternoon or sunset cruise
• Sightseeing and photography from the water
• Starting or ending your private boat tour
• Pairing with nearby islets like Lazareta, Thodorou, or Marathi

Chania Old Harbor is more than a departure point — it’s an experience in itself. A timeless place where history and sea meet in a moment of beauty and peace.