Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip

The Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip promises an unforgettable journey through Crete’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Travelers embark on a scenic boat ride to the once-isolated Spinalonga Island, where they’ll explore the remnants of a former leper colony and Venetian fortress. With a delightful BBQ lunch and opportunities for swimming, this engaging experience offers both culture and relaxation. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a memorable day in Crete, this cruise trip is sure to captivate.

Key Points

• A day cruise from Heraklion to Elounda and Spinalonga Island, including a guided tour of the former leper colony and Venetian fortress.
• Opportunity to swim in Mirabello Bay and explore the harbor and bottomless lake in Agios Nikolaos.
• Includes BBQ lunch, professional guides, and hotel pickup and drop-off services.
• Entrance fee to Spinalonga included only for the German option, with additional fees for other activities.
• Suitable for travelers with mobility needs, with a maximum group size of 50 for an intimate experience.

Overview of the Cruise Trip

This day trip from Heraklion, Greece, allows visitors to explore the picturesque town of Elounda and the historic Spinalonga Island in Mirabello Bay.

Travelers will cruise to Spinalonga to wander through the ruins of the former leper colony, the Venetian fortress, and the old village. The excursion includes a BBQ lunch and swimming opportunities in the bay.

The tour also includes a sightseeing drive to Agios Nikolaos’ harbor and its reputedly bottomless lake.

With professional guides and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this cruise offers an immersive experience of Crete’s natural beauty and rich history.

Itinerary and Activities

The cruise day trip begins with a journey from Elounda to the nearby Spinalonga Island.

Passengers will stroll through the streets and houses where lepers once lived, exploring the ruins of the former leper colony, Venetian fortress, and old village.

After the guided tour, guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the tranquil waters of Mirabello Bay.

The excursion then continues with a scenic drive to the picturesque harbor town of Agios Nikolaos, where travelers can explore the shops and sights at their own pace.

The cruise and lunch are included, while entrance fees are at your’ own expense.

Inclusions and Pricing

The cruise day trip from Heraklion includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, and surrounding areas.

A professional guide accompanies the tour. The entrance fee to Spinalonga is included only for the German option, which costs $45.98 per person.

The price covers gratuities, a BBQ lunch, and beverages. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Travelers must pay for any additional expenses, such as entrance fees, separately. The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Accessibility and Additional Information

The cruise day trip is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it convenient for travelers with mobility needs.

It’s also located near public transportation, ideal for those without their own transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. Guests from Elounda must return independently from Agios Nikolaos if joining the city tour, though the cruise and lunch are included.

Reviews and Customer Feedback

A total of 20 reviews have been left for this cruise day trip, collectively earning it an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Guests praise the friendly staff, comfortable boat, knowledgeable tour guides, and quality BBQ lunch. Many highlight the ample time for swimming and exploring the ruins and old village of Spinalonga Island.

However, some travelers report tour cancellations due to language requirements. Despite this, the experience is widely recommended for its value and enjoyable activities, from the scenic cruise to the picturesque Agios Nikolaos harbor.

Highlights of the Cruise Experience

Guests raving about the cruise experience highlight a few key aspects that make the day trip so enjoyable. The stunning vistas of Mirabello Bay, the opportunity to explore the abandoned leper colony of Spinalonga, and the delicious BBQ lunch all contribute to an unforgettable outing. As the table below shows, the cruise offers a diverse range of activities and sights that cater to various interests.

Activity	Description
Cruising	Scenic boat ride along the bay
Spinalonga	Tour the historic former leper colony
Swimming	Refreshing dip in the crystalline waters
Lunch	Savor a mouthwatering BBQ spread
Agios Nikolaos	Explore the charming harbor town

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

When booking the cruise, travelers should be mindful of their hotel locations, as pickup and drop-off services are available only from selected hotels in Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, and surrounding areas.

Travelers should be prepared to cover the entrance fee to Spinalonga, which isn’t included in the tour price except for the German option. Guests from Elounda must return independently from Agios Nikolaos if joining the city tour.

With a maximum of 50 travelers per tour, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Cancellation policies allow free changes up to 24 hours before the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cruise Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The cruise appears suitable for people with mobility issues, as it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible. However, guests should note that there’s a need to walk around the islands and beaches during the trip.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to fit your interests. The tour allows flexibility, and you can choose to spend more time exploring specific areas or skip certain activities that don’t appeal to you.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

No, you don’t need to bring your own snorkeling gear. The cruise includes swimming opportunities in Mirabello Bay, and the necessary equipment is provided. Just bring your swimsuit and towel to enjoy the refreshing waters.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are no major restrictions on photography during the tour. Visitors can freely take photos throughout the cruise, at Spinalonga Island, and during other activities, though they should be mindful of respecting others and not disrupting the group.

Can I Extend My Stay on Spinalonga Island if Desired?

You can’t extend your stay on Spinalonga Island as the day trip includes a fixed itinerary. The cruise schedule doesn’t allow for additional time on the island beyond the set tour duration.

The Sum Up

The Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip offers a captivating journey through Crete’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Guests can explore the remnants of a former leper colony, enjoy a delightful BBQ lunch, and take a refreshing swim in the picturesque Mirabello Bay. With professional guides and convenient transportation, this engaging experience promises cultural enrichment and relaxation for travelers seeking to enjoy Crete’s stunning beauty and enduring heritage.