Set out on a captivating voyage that transports you to the storied shores of Spinalonga Island, where the shadows of its past as a leper colony linger. Bask in the breathtaking Aegean vistas as you explore the charming towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, enjoying their rich cultural tapestry. But the true highlight awaits at Kolokytha Beach, where a tantalizing BBQ feast promises to delight your senses and leave you craving for more of this captivating Heraklion adventure.
Key Points
- Comprehensive boat tour and BBQ experience covering Spinalonga Island, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda in Crete.
- Highlights include visiting the historical Spinalonga Island, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying a mouthwatering BBQ lunch.
- Explore the charming towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, with opportunities to discover local markets, handicrafts, and authentic Cretan cuisine.
- Scenic transportation with pickup service from select resorts and guided exploration of Spinalonga Island.
- Package includes liability insurance and shopping opportunities in the visited towns.
Tour Overview
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Crete, this comprehensive boat tour and BBQ experience offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the island’s rich history and natural wonders.
From the awe-inspiring Spinalonga Island, steeped in centuries of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek influences, to the picturesque Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, guests embark on a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, culture, and sumptuous local cuisine.
Exploring hidden coves, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and indulging in a mouthwatering BBQ lunch, this tour promises an unforgettable day of adventure, relaxation, and discovery in the heart of the Mediterranean.
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Spinalonga Island Highlights
Towering majestically off the coast of Crete, the island of Spinalonga captivates visitors with its centuries-old history and strategic importance.
Once a leper colony, the island’s crumbling fortifications and labyrinthine alleyways transport you back in time. Explore the haunting ruins, imagining the plight of those who lived in isolation here.
Wander through the preserved architecture, including the Venetian mansions and Byzantine churches, marveling at the island’s multicultural heritage.
Spinalonga’s dramatic setting and evocative past make it a must-see destination, offering a glimpse into Crete’s rich and turbulent history.
Kolokytha Beach and BBQ Lunch
After exploring the historical splendor of Spinalonga, the tour whisks visitors to the captivating Kolokytha Beach, where they’ll indulge in a delectable BBQ lunch amidst the stunning Cretan scenery.
Nestled along the serene coastline, Kolokytha’s pristine sands and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing respite. Guests savor a mouthwatering spread of grilled pork, delectable vegetarian options, fresh salad, and crusty bread, all accompanied by refreshing beverages.
As they dine, they’re treated to panoramic vistas of the sparkling Aegean Sea and the rugged Cretan landscape. It’s a true taste of Crete’s natural beauty and culinary delights.
Exploring Agios Nikolaos and Elounda
Moving on from the idyllic respite at Kolokytha Beach, the tour now escorts visitors to the charming towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda.
The narrow streets of Agios Nikolaos are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can stroll along the lively harbor, admiring the yachts and traditional fishing boats.
Elounda, a picturesque seaside village, offers stunning views of the Mirabello Gulf. Guests have the opportunity to explore the local markets, browse for handicrafts, and sample authentic Cretan cuisine in the waterfront tavernas.
This scenic interlude provides a delightful contrast to the historical significance of Spinalonga.
More Great Tours NearbyTransportation and Pickup Details
For the convenience of guests, pickup is available from select resorts in the area, including Agia Pelagia, Lygaria, and Fodele.
The specific pickup details are provided via email, ensuring a seamless start to the tour.
Comfortable bus and water transport take visitors on a scenic journey, with 110 minutes to Kolokytha Beach, 20 minutes by boat to Spinalonga, and an hour in Agios Nikolaos.
This comprehensive transportation plan allows guests to fully enjoy the tour’s highlights, from the historical island to the charming seaside towns, without worrying about the logistics.
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Inclusions and Costs
The tour package includes a guided exploration of the captivating Spinalonga Island, where guests can enjoy its rich history and diverse cultural influences.
Complementing the island visit is a BBQ lunch at the stunning Kolokytha Beach, offering a tempting spread of pork, vegetarian options, fresh salad, bread, fruit, and a refreshing drink.
Pickup and drop-off services, as well as liability insurance, further enhance the convenience and peace of mind.
Visitors can also enjoy exploring the charming towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, with ample opportunities for shopping and sightseeing.
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Guided tour of Spinalonga Island
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BBQ lunch at Kolokytha Beach
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Liability insurance
Customer Feedback and Ratings
How do previous customers rate this boat tour and BBQ experience in Crete? According to reviews, the Heraklion tour earns an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 57 evaluations. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating historical narratives. Many highlight the stunning natural beauty of the destinations and the enjoyment of the day’s activities. One reviewer calls it a "worthwhile excursion with memorable experiences". The tour’s offerings in multiple languages also accommodate diverse travellers. The table below provides a visual summary of the key customer feedback:
| Reviewer | Nationality | Rating |
|———-|————-|——–|
| Andy | UK | Informative guides and interesting stories |
| Eirini | Greece | Beautiful locations and enjoyable tour |
| Pana | UK | Worthwhile excursion with memorable experiences |
Tour Languages Available
According to the information provided, the boat tour and BBQ experience in Crete offers guided tours in a variety of languages to accommodate diverse travelers.
The languages available include:
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English
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French
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German
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Polish
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Russian
This multilingual approach ensures that visitors from around the world can fully enjoy the rich history and captivating scenery of Spinalonga Island, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda.
Whether you’re an English-speaker, a Francophone, or a Slavic language enthusiast, you’ll be able to explore these enchanting destinations with the guidance of knowledgeable, multilingual tour leaders.
Things To Know
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Unfortunately, guests aren’t allowed to bring their own food and drinks on this tour. The BBQ lunch and beverages are included, providing a delicious and convenient dining experience as part of the excursion.
Is There a Discount for Groups or Families?
The tour operator doesn’t offer specific group or family discounts, but they’re happy to accommodate larger parties. Guests can save by booking early and taking advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?
While the tour’s itinerary is fixed, you can customize your experience by requesting special dietary needs or highlighting sites of particular interest. The friendly staff will do their best to accommodate your preferences and ensure you have an unforgettable day.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour provider offers flexible options to extend the duration, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their preferences. Guests can inquire about adding extra time for more sightseeing, shopping, or relaxation along the route.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?
Children under 18 can enjoy the tour for free, while students and EU citizens over 65 get a discounted rate. The tour welcomes all ages, making it a great family-friendly experience to explore the historic Spinalonga Island and the scenic Cretan coastline.
Sum Up
Set out on a captivating journey through Heraklion’s rich history and natural beauty. Explore the haunting Spinalonga Island, savor a mouthwatering BBQ lunch at Kolokytha Beach, and discover the charming towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. This tour seamlessly blends culture, gastronomy, and stunning Aegean vistas, creating an unforgettable experience that will leave you enchanted with the wonders of this remarkable region.
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