Exploring the Rich History of Crete with Family

A Day on the Water

Today, we traded ancient ruins for shimmering waves and historical texts for the salty air of the Cretan Sea. It was a day dedicated to exploring the southern coast of Crete by boat, a welcome change of pace that allowed us to soak in the island's natural beauty from a different perspective. With Hans-Peter and Sophia by my side, I was eager to uncover the hidden coves and turquoise waters that this part of Crete had to offer.

Our day began in the charming harbor of Agia Galini. After a delightful breakfast at Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine, where we savored traditional Cretan pastries and strong Greek coffee, we made our way to the port. The air was buzzing with anticipation as various tour boats prepared for their daily excursions. We chose a smaller, family-run boat, hoping for a more intimate and authentic experience. As we boarded, the friendly captain greeted us with a warm smile and a promise of adventure.


Experience the serene beauty of Agia Galini with daily boat cruises, exploring hidden gems and enjoying the charm of Crete's coast.

Setting sail, the coastline unfolded before us in a breathtaking panorama. Rugged cliffs plunged into the azure sea, creating secluded coves and hidden beaches that seemed straight out of a postcard. The January sun, though mild, cast a golden glow on the landscape, enhancing the natural beauty of Crete. Sophia, ever the curious explorer, was captivated by the seagulls soaring overhead, their calls echoing across the water.

Our first stop was the famed Kalypso Beach, a unique spot known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The beach itself is small, more of a cove nestled between the rocks, but the snorkeling here was incredible. Hans-Peter and Sophia were eager to jump in, while I, after a moment's hesitation, decided to join them, despite forgetting my swimsuit. The water was surprisingly refreshing, and we spent a blissful hour exploring the underwater world. Schools of colorful fish darted around us, and the rocky seabed provided a fascinating landscape to discover. Even in January, the sea teemed with life, a testament to Crete's rich marine ecosystem.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Kalypso Beach, Greece's hidden gem, where sun-soaked sands and crystal-clear waters await your arrival.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

Back on board, the captain shared stories of local legends and pirate lore, adding a touch of history to our maritime adventure. He pointed out various landmarks along the coast, each with its own unique tale to tell. It was fascinating to learn about the island's past from someone who had spent his entire life sailing these waters.

As the morning progressed, we sailed further along the coast, discovering hidden coves and secluded beaches that were inaccessible by land. The captain expertly navigated the boat through narrow passages and around rocky outcrops, revealing the untouched beauty of the southern Cretan coastline. We stopped at a particularly picturesque cove for lunch, where the crew prepared a delicious meal of fresh seafood and local delicacies. The flavors of Crete, enhanced by the sea air and the stunning surroundings, were simply divine.

After lunch, we continued our journey, making our way back towards Agia Galini. The sun began to dip towards the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The sea mirrored the colors above, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that left us speechless. Sophia, tired from a day of swimming and exploring, snuggled up next to me, her eyes wide with wonder.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a detour to Authentic Creta, a local shop I had read about. I wanted to find some authentic Cretan products to bring back home as souvenirs. The shop was a treasure trove of local crafts, olive oils, and herbal teas. I picked up some thyme honey and a beautifully crafted ceramic bowl, reminders of our Cretan adventure.


Explore Authentic Creta: Your go-to souvenir store for unique gifts, local crafts, and Cretan delicacies in Limenas Chersonisou.

For dinner, we had planned to visit TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA, but after a long day at sea, we decided to stay closer to Agia Galini. We opted for Salis, where we enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Cretan dishes. The food was hearty and flavorful, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover exceptional dining at Salis in Chania - where modern European cuisine meets authentic Greek flavors amid stunning waterfront views.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Damnoni Beach and Preveli Beach, two more of Crete's coastal gems. Sophia is especially excited to see the palm trees at Preveli, a unique landscape that blends tropical and Mediterranean elements. I am looking forward to more beach exploration and soaking up the sun. We might even stop by KonDimAr Cocktail Bar in the evening for a refreshing drink.

Reflecting on our day at sea, I am reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences and seeking out hidden gems. Crete has so much to offer beyond its ancient ruins and historical sites. From its stunning coastline to its vibrant marine life, this island is a treasure trove of natural beauty waiting to be discovered. And as we continue our journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As I sit here writing, the gentle sound of the waves still echoes in my ears. Today was a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in the pages of history books, but in the embrace of the open sea. I am excited for what tomorrow brings, and I am grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Crete with my loved ones. The simple act of sailing and experiencing the open sea, is a great way to open your mind.