Crete: Spinalonga Boat Tour With BBQ & Agios Nikolaos

Crete’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes are on full display in the Spinalonga Boat Tour. Visitors will sail to serene beaches, explore a historic island, and savor delectable Greek cuisine. While the tour’s packed itinerary promises a memorable day, the true allure lies in the opportunity to take in Crete’s captivating essence. Whether you’re a history buff, beach enthusiast, or simply seeking an authentic Mediterranean experience, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This 11-hour excursion from Elounda offers a guided tour of Spinalonga Island, a BBQ feast, and free time to explore the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.
• The tour includes a scenic boat ride, opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at Kolokitha Beach, and a hearty Greek-style BBQ with local dishes and wine.
• Visitors can explore the historical remnants and rich heritage of Spinalonga Island, including its past as a Venetian fortress and a leper colony.
• The tour provides free time to stroll through the picturesque streets of Agios Nikolaos, with its quaint boutiques, cafes, and galleries overlooking the scenic harbor.
• The tour is priced from $38.23 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Crete: Spinalonga Boat Tour offers an 11-hour excursion that takes visitors on a journey through the island’s captivating history and natural beauty.

Priced from $38.23 per person, this multilingual tour includes a BBQ feast, guided exploration of Spinalonga Island, and leisure time in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.

Enjoy a BBQ feast, guided tour of Spinalonga Island, and leisure time in Agios Nikolaos, all for $38.23 per person.

Travelers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scenic boat rides during the day.

With convenient pickup options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Crete’s rich cultural heritage.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Sailing from Elounda to the picturesque Kolokitha Beach kickstarts this immersive tour. Passengers can swim, snorkel, and feast on a BBQ spread featuring pork chops, Greek salad, feta cheese, bread, local wine, and seasonal fruit as they take in the scenic 95-minute boat ride.

| Activity | Location | Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Swimming, snorkeling | Kolokitha Beach | – |

| BBQ feast | Kolokitha Beach | – |

| Guided tour | Spinalonga Island | – |

| Free time | Agios Nikolaos | – |

The tour then ventures to the historically significant Spinalonga Island for a guided exploration, uncovering its storied past with remnants from pirates, Venetians, and Turks. Finally, the tour stops in Agios Nikolaos, where visitors can admire Lake Voulismeni and enjoy free time for shopping and sightseeing.

Kolokitha Beach Experience

Before disembarking at Kolokitha Beach, passengers eagerly anticipate the chance to swim, snorkel, and indulge in a mouthwatering BBQ feast.

The itinerary includes:

• A scenic 95-minute boat ride with stunning views.

• Refreshing dips in the azure waters for swimming and snorkeling.

• A hearty Greek-style BBQ with pork chops, salad, feta, bread, local wine, and seasonal fruit.

• Time to soak up the sun and relax on the picturesque beach.

This quintessential Cretan experience allows travelers to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and culinary delights.

Exploring Spinalonga Island

Leaving the sun-kissed shores of Kolokitha behind, the tour takes visitors on an illuminating journey to the captivating Spinalonga Island.

Steeped in history, the island is notable for its remarkable remnants from the eras of pirates, Venetians, and Turks. On a guided tour, travelers will explore the island’s wealth of historical significance, uncovering its intriguing past.

An additional fee of €8 grants access to the island, with discounts available. Visitors can enjoy the island’s rich heritage, gaining a deeper understanding of Crete’s captivating history and culture.

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Discovering the Charm of Agios Nikolaos

After exploring the historical wonders of Spinalonga Island, the tour takes visitors on a delightful excursion to the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.

This picturesque coastal town boasts:

• A stunning lake, Voulismeni, known for its mysterious depth

• Quaint streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and galleries

• Scenic views of the harbor and surrounding hills

• A lively atmosphere perfect for shopping, dining, and simply soaking in the local ambiance

With free time to wander and discover Agios Nikolaos’ charms, the tour provides a well-rounded experience that combines history, natural beauty, and the vibrant local culture of Crete.

Transportation Arrangements

The tour provides convenient transportation options to ensure a seamless experience.

Guests can choose from 55 pickup locations, ranging from hotels and resorts in Agia Pelagia to Sissi. The transportation includes an air-conditioned luxury bus for the land transfers, which total 2 hours.

For the boat excursions, visitors will sail from Elounda to Kolokitha Beach and then to Spinalonga Island, with water transport times of 40 minutes and 25 minutes, respectively. The return trip from Spinalonga to Agios Nikolaos takes just 15 minutes.

All transportation is covered as part of the tour package.

Included Services and Amenities

The tour includes a suite of valuable services to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers can expect:

• A professional multilingual guide to provide historical context and insider knowledge.

• Comfortable, air-conditioned bus transfers to and from the various sites.

• Complimentary pickup service from conveniently located hotels and resorts.

• Liability insurance coverage provided by GENERALI, ensuring peace of mind.

While tips and individual expenses aren’t included, the package delivers exceptional value, allowing guests to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Crete without logistical hassles.

Important Information and Discounts

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to protect themselves during the outdoor activities.

The tour offers discounts for certain groups – seniors (65+) from EU countries and those under 25 from non-EU countries can get €4 off the entrance fee. EU members under 25 also receive free entry with valid ID. These discounts help make the experience more accessible.

Based on 5 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5, indicating a positive customer experience.

Things To Know

Is Lunch Included in the Tour Package?

The tour package includes a BBQ feast with pork chops, Greek salad, feta cheese, bread, local wine, and seasonal fruit, so lunch is definitely included for participants.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages on the Boat?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and beverages on the boat. The tour includes a BBQ feast, but there’s no restriction on bringing additional food and drinks if you’d prefer to pack your own. Just be mindful of any tour policies.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t require a minimum number of participants. It’s an open tour that runs regularly, so you can join regardless of group size. Just book your spot and enjoy the adventure!

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

There’s no mention of a private tour option. The tour seems to be a group activity, though you could inquire with the provider about arranging a private tour for an additional fee if that’s your preference.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned in the Overview?

The overview doesn’t mention any additional fees or taxes, though there’s a separate €8 entrance fee for Spinalonga Island. Travelers should check if there are any other unexpected costs before booking the tour.

Sum Up

This Crete tour offers an exceptional blend of relaxation, history, and culinary delights. Sailing to Kolokitha Beach, snorkeling, and indulging in a Greek BBQ set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Exploring the captivating Spinalonga Island and discovering the charming Agios Nikolaos solidify this as a must-do adventure for anyone seeking to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

You can check availability for your dates here: