Agios Nikolaos: Luxury Catamaran to Spinalonga with Lunch

This sailing experience in Crete offers a mix of relaxation, beautiful scenery, and water fun aboard a luxury catamaran. While we haven’t been on it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that this cruise delivers an enjoyable day for many visitors.

What really draws us to this trip are the stunning views of Spinalonga Island, the all-day access to unlimited drinks and water activities, and the fresh Mediterranean lunch—all served in a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The only caveat? The tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point.

This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day at sea with some fun in the water, great food, and the chance to see Crete from a different perspective. It’s especially appealing for families, couples, or groups wanting a well-rounded adventure with plenty of comforts.

This experience made our article of Top 13 Tours & Experiences In Agios Nikolaos.

Contents show

Key Points

Luxury catamaran: Spacious, well-equipped for comfort and fun.
Water activities: Swimming, snorkeling, SUP, and fishing gear included.
Scenic stops: Spinalonga Island and Mirabello Bay offer perfect photo opportunities.
Tasty Mediterranean lunch: Fresh, local ingredients with options for children and dietary preferences.
Unlimited drinks: Soft drinks, beer, and white wine served throughout the trip.
Family-friendly: Toys, inflatables, and a relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for all ages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You’ll Love This Experience

This cruise combines the allure of Crete’s coast with the luxury of a well-organized boat trip. The expert crew, many of whom are certified with Red Cross, aim to make your day both safe and enjoyable. The spacious catamaran is designed for comfort—ample deck space for sunbathing and relaxing, coupled with shaded areas if you prefer to stay cool.

Most reviews highlight how the crew goes above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome. For example, one reviewer mentions how their captain, Sergei, was “amazing,” and the team was “extremely fun and helpful,” which truly adds a personal touch to the experience. The relaxed vibe means you can glide through the day at your own pace, whether you’re soaking up the sun or taking part in water activities.

The unlimited drinks are a big plus, especially considering the warm Crete sun. Soft drinks, beer, and white wine flow freely, and Wi-Fi on board lets you share those moments instantly, adding a touch of modern convenience to the relaxing day.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Agios Nikolaos

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and Welcome

Your day kicks off at the Marina Agios Nikolaos, where a friendly crew member, identifiable by their DanEri Yachts t-shirt, greets you about 30 minutes before departure. Expect a warm welcome with coffee, tea, and delicious pies, setting a friendly tone. The marina offers convenient parking, making it easier to get started without hassle.

The Journey on the Water

The cruise begins with a gentle sail around Mirabello Bay, providing sweeping views of the coastline and the rugged remains of Spinalonga Island. This part of the trip lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to settle in, enjoy the music, and snap photos of the iconic island. A review notes how “the route and guides made us feel very welcome,” emphasizing the smooth, friendly atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Spinalonga Island Stop

After sailing, you’ll stop at Spinalonga for around 20 minutes. This is the perfect window for photos and quick sightseeing—reviewers mention how the vantage point from the water offers a unique perspective. The island’s history and ruins are visible even in this brief stop, creating a memorable snapshot of Crete’s past.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Agios Nikolaos

Mirabello Bay Water Fun

The highlight for many is the extensive time spent in Mirabello Bay—about 2.75 hours. Here, you can dive into the clear waters for a swim or snorkel using supplied gear. Stand-up paddleboarding, inflatables, and fishing are all available, giving everyone a chance to get active or just relax in the water. One guest loved the “beautiful swim stop” and the “crystal-clear water,” which truly enhances the experience.

The Mediterranean Lunch

Midday, you’ll gather on deck to enjoy a freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch featuring regional ingredients—think seafood pasta, fresh salads, and a homemade dessert. Several reviews highlight the quality of the food, with comments like “the seafood spaghetti and mussels were superb,” and “the lunch was made fresh in the boat’s kitchen.” Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, ensuring dietary needs are accommodated.

Return and Reflection

After your extended water time, the cruise resumes with another hour on the water, offering a chance to unwind, chat, or sunbathe. As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Agios Nikolaos, passing scenic views and enjoying the last moments of sunshine and music.

Water Activities and Comforts

The tour’s water activities are a major selling point. The snorkeling gear allows you to explore underwater life in the calm, transparent waters. Many reviewers appreciated how the crew provided arm floaties and inflatables—not only fun but also safe for kids and inexperienced swimmers. Stand-up paddleboards are included, offering a different way to enjoy Mirabello Bay’s serenity.

Onboard amenities include Wi-Fi, music, and clean toilets, making the whole journey more comfortable. Toys and inflatables add a playful touch, especially appreciated by families. The cozy cabins serve as quiet spots for children or anyone needing a break from the sun.

The Food and Beverage Experience

The Mediterranean lunch is consistently praised as a highlight, with fresh, local ingredients and a variety of dishes to please all tastes. Reviewers particularly enjoyed the seafood options, like pasta with seafood and mussels, describing them as “superb” and “delicious.” The inclusion of unlimited soft drinks, beer, and white wine keeps everyone refreshed, with many noting how it adds to the relaxed, festive vibe.

For those with specific dietary preferences, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be arranged. The crew’s attention to dietary needs and quality of the food significantly enhances the perceived value of this tour.

Overall Value and Practical Considerations

At around 5 to 5.5 hours, this cruise offers a full day of activity, relaxation, and good food—especially considering the included amenities and water gear. The costs reflect a premium experience, but reviews indicate it’s good value for the quality and variety of experiences offered.

It’s worth noting that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the marina. Most reviewers found the meeting point easy to access, and the experience starts with a warm welcome and helpful crew, setting the tone for a seamless day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families, couples, and groups seeking a comfortable, scenic day on the water with plenty of water activities and delicious food. If you enjoy relaxing in the sun, taking photos of iconic sights, and sampling fresh regional cuisine, this trip checks all those boxes.

While not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, it’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting a well-organized, enjoyable day that balances adventure with relaxation.

The Agios Nikolaos catamaran cruise to Spinalonga offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines stunning scenery, water fun, and delicious local food. The friendly crew and quality amenities—from unlimited drinks to paddleboards—make it feel like a real treat.

Travelers interested in seeing Crete from the water, enjoying a laid-back atmosphere, and having plenty of water-based activities will find this trip hard to beat. It’s a flexible, family-friendly option that promises memorable moments, stellar views, and a taste of luxury on the Aegean Sea.

For those seeking a relaxing yet lively day out with great value and authentic touches, this cruise is a solid choice. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a break from the beach, it’s an experience worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrange your own transport to the Marina Agios Nikolaos, where the cruise departs.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothes and carry a camera for photos.

Are dietary options available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be requested, and the lunch features fresh regional ingredients.

How long is the cruise?
The activity lasts approximately 5 to 5.5 hours, including sailing, stops, and lunch.

Can I do water activities?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, inflatables, and fishing equipment are included, and many guests enjoy the water stops.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided, allowing you to share your experiences instantly.

Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with toys, inflatables, and a special menu for kids. The crew is attentive to younger travelers’ needs.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not explicitly stated, Crete’s warm climate makes this cruise enjoyable from spring through early autumn, weather permitting.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Many say it’s the combination of scenic beauty, water activities, and the quality of the Mediterranean lunch, creating a balanced and memorable day on the sea.