Embark on an exhilarating journey to Thodorou Island and Lazareta, where the crystal-clear waters of Crete beckon. This half-day tour promises an unforgettable experience, from a thrilling speedboat ride to snorkeling amid diverse marine life and exploring a WWII wreck. Discover the serene beauty of Lazareta’s historic site, once a quarantine station, while enjoying the deep blue waters and rich cultural heritage. With personalized service and breathtaking scenery, this excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression. Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that await on this voyage.
Good To Know
- Explore the natural wonders of Thodorou Island, including the WWII plane wreck and the rare Kri Kri Cretan goats.
- Discover the historic Venetian-era Lazareta site, a former quarantine station with tranquil deep blue waters.
- Partake in snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing activities during the 6-hour sea quest.
- Enjoy a personalized experience with a small group and an experienced skipper guide.
- Convenient hotel pickup from Platanias and complimentary refreshments and snorkeling gear are included.
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Tour Overview
This half-day sea quest offers travelers a chance to explore Thodorou Island and Lazareta.
The 6-hour activity is priced at $833.88 per group, accommodating up to 8 participants.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book your spot without immediate payment.
The speedboat journey takes 30 minutes to Thodorou Island, 45 minutes for sightseeing and swimming, 30 minutes to Lazareta, and 1 hour back to Platanias.
Snorkeling, swimming, sightseeing, and exploring marine life and WWII wreckage are some of the highlights.
Refreshments, snorkeling gear, and an experienced skipper are included, providing a personalized adventure to Crete’s hidden beaches and caves.
Itinerary Highlights
The speedboat journey from Platanias takes 30 minutes to reach Thodorou Island, where travelers can spend 45 minutes sightseeing and swimming. After, the boat continues for 30 minutes to the historic Lazareta site. Here, guests can explore the tranquil deep blue waters and learn about the quarantine station’s Venetian past. Throughout the excursion, participants can engage in snorkeling, observe marine life, and capture photos at scenic stops.
| Transportation | Duration |
|---|---|
| Platanias to Thodorou Island | 30 minutes |
| Sightseeing and swimming at Thodorou Island | 45 minutes |
| Thodorou Island to Lazareta | 30 minutes |
| Lazareta to Platanias | 1 hour |
Theodorou Island
Theodorou Island is home to the rare Kri Kri Cretan goats, a unique species found only in this part of the Mediterranean. Participants will have the opportunity to see these intriguing creatures in their natural habitat.
Plus, the island features a WWII plane wreck that’s perfect for exploration. Snorkelers can discover the diverse marine life that thrives in the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Visitors will enjoy sightseeing and photo stops throughout the island, taking in the breathtaking natural scenery. Theodorou Island offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich history and ecology, making it a must-see destination during the tour.
Lazareta
After exploring the natural wonders of Theodorou Island, the tour continues to Lazareta, a historically significant site from the Venetian period.
This tranquil location was once a quarantine station, where ships and their passengers were isolated to prevent the spread of disease. Visitors can now enjoy the deep blue waters and relax in this peaceful setting.
The site offers:
- Insight into Crete’s storied history under Venetian rule
- Opportunities to discover the island’s rich cultural heritage
- Serene surroundings perfect for unwinding and taking in the natural beauty
The tour provides a chance to fully take in Crete’s captivating past and present, creating a well-rounded and enriching experience.
Included Amenities
Refreshments, including water, soft drinks, fruits, and a light lunch, are provided to sustain participants throughout the voyage. Plus, all necessary snorkeling equipment is included, allowing guests to explore the vibrant underwater world comfortably and safely.
| Included Amenities | Description |
|---|---|
| Refreshments | Water, soft drinks, fruits, light lunch |
| Snorkeling Gear | Masks, snorkels, fins |
| Experienced Skipper | Guides the boat and narrates the tour |
| Pickup Service | Available from hotels in Platanias |
| Small Group Size | Personalized experience (up to 8 participants) |
The experienced skipper leads the tour, providing knowledgeable commentary and ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
Booking Information
Flexibility in scheduling is a hallmark of this tour, as guests can check availability and select preferred starting times.
Pickup is offered from hotels in Platanias, making the experience convenient.
This private group tour offers a personalized adventure, allowing guests to explore Crete’s hidden beaches and caves at their own pace.
- Check availability for desired start times
- Pickup from hotels in Platanias included
- Private group experience for a tailored journey
Book now to embark on an unforgettable voyage to Thodorou Island and Lazareta, where you’ll discover the natural wonders and historical significance of these captivating destinations.
Getting to Platanias
Reaching the tour’s starting point in Platanias is straightforward. Situated along Crete’s northern coast, the town is easily accessible by various transportation options. For those driving, the well-maintained road network ensures a smooth journey. Alternatively, public buses connect Platanias to major cities, offering a convenient alternative.
| Transportation | Time | Cost | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Vehicle | 1-2 hours | Varies | High |
| Public Bus | 1-2 hours | €5-€10 | Moderate |
| Taxi | 30-60 minutes | €50-€80 | High |
| Rental Car | 1-2 hours | Varies | High |
With these options, guests can seamlessly reach the starting point, setting the stage for an unforgettable voyage to Thodorou Island and Lazareta.
Exploring Crete’s Wonders
With transportation to the starting point in Platanias secured, adventurers can now look forward to exploring Crete’s wonders.
The half-day sea quest promises a remarkable journey, offering:
- A visit to the stunning Thodorou Island, home to the rare Kri Kri Cretan goats and a WWII plane wreck for exploration
- A stop at the historically significant Lazareta, a tranquil quarantine station from the Venetian period with deep blue waters for relaxation
- Opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, sightseeing, and capturing breathtaking photos of the island’s marine life and natural beauty.
Equipped with refreshments, snorkeling gear, and an experienced skipper, this private group adventure is a chance to take in Crete’s hidden gems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
There’s no minimum number of participants required for this tour. It’s a private group experience, so you can book for as few as 1 person up to a maximum of 8.
Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Participants can bring their own snorkeling equipment if they prefer. However, the tour provides snorkeling gear as part of the included amenities, so there’s no need to bring your own unless you have a specific preference.
Are There Any Restrictions on What We Can Bring?
Participants may bring their own snorkeling equipment, but the tour provides complimentary gear. There are no other restrictions on what guests can bring, allowing for a flexible and personalized experience.
Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price doesn’t include gratuity. Guests are expected to tip the skipper and crew at their discretion based on the quality of service provided during the half-day sea quest experience.
How Reliable Is the Tour Operator’s Safety Record?
The tour operator has an excellent safety record, with experienced skippers and well-maintained equipment. They prioritize guest safety and follow all local regulations to provide a secure and enjoyable experience.
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The Sum Up
This captivating voyage to Thodorou Island and Lazareta offers an unforgettable adventure. Explore the crystal-clear waters of Crete, dive into the diverse marine life, and discover the historical significance of these stunning locations. With personalized service and breathtaking scenery, this excursion promises to create lasting memories. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about Crete’s natural and cultural wonders.