Crete: Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ

Thinking about exploring Crete from the water? This Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ offers a relaxed day packed with swimming, scenic views, delicious food, and a touch of history. According to a recent review, it’s a 5-star experience that combines fun and value, especially for those looking to enjoy Crete’s coastal beauty without breaking the bank.

What makes this trip appealing? For starters, the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha Bay are perfect for swimming and relaxing, and the authentic BBQ lunch on board is a highlight. You’ll also cruise past Spinalonga, a fascinating island with a history of leprosy colonies and Venetian fortifications, offering excellent photo opportunities. Plus, the stop at Agios Nikolaos promises charming town vibes and free time to explore.

One potential drawback? The tour is quite full, so if you prefer very private, small-group experiences, this might feel a little crowded. Also, the cost of extras like boat and BBQ are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly if you want the complete experience.

This tour suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and cultural insight—perfect for first-time visitors wanting to see key highlights without fussing over logistics.

Key Points

• Stunning Swimming Spots: Relax in clear waters at Kolokytha Bay, ideal for a refreshing dip.
• Authentic Cretan Cuisine: A mouthwatering BBQ with grilled pork, Greek salads, and seasonal fruit.
• Historical Views: Pass by the Venetian fortress of Spinalonga, with opportunities for memorable photos.
• Local Tasting: Enjoy a Cretan olive oil tasting at a local park—a true flavor of the island.
• Charming Town: Spend free time in Agios Nikolaos, exploring shops, cafes, and the picturesque lake.
• Flexible & Convenient: Round-trip transport from several pickup points makes the day easy and stress-free.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s coast and culture, ideal for those wanting a full-day adventure with minimal planning. The journey starts with a comfortable transfer in an air-conditioned bus from select pickup points including Heraklion, Kokkini Hani, and other nearby towns. Once in Elounda, your boat awaits, and from there, the magic begins.

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Morning: Setting Sail Toward Kolokytha Bay

The first highlight is Kolokytha Bay, a tranquil, isolated beach known for its pristine waters. This stop is perfect for swimming, floating, or simply lounging on the boat deck soaking up the sun. Reviewers mention that you can swim directly from the boat or step ashore if you prefer. The shallow, clear waters make it safe and inviting for all ages, and the scenery here really lives up to the photos—calm, untouched, and picture-perfect.

Lunch: A True Taste of Crete

While the crew prepares a barbecue on board, you’ll enjoy a traditional meal that hits the spot after swimming. The menu features grilled pork chops, Greek salads with feta, fresh bread, seasonal fruit, and a drink—either wine or soft drink. Vegetarian options are available on request, which makes it flexible for different dietary needs. The quality of the food, based on reviews, is genuine and satisfying, blending well with the laid-back vibe of the trip.

Midday: Passing Spinalonga

After lunch, you’ll cruise past Spinalonga, the island famous for its Venetian fortress and history as a leper colony. The water views here are stunning, and you’ll get a sense of the island’s layered history even from the boat. Some travelers mention that the guides do a good job explaining the significance of Spinalonga, making it more than just a photo stop.

Second Swim & Scenic Views

Next, you’ll stop for another swim in the open sea, between Spinalonga and the small village of Plaka. It’s a quieter spot with clear waters—perfect for a quick dip or just floating around. The boat crew is attentive, and many reviews note that the trip is well-paced, allowing enough time for swimming and sightseeing.

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Afternoon: Olive Oil Tasting & Agios Nikolaos

Back on land, the tour continues to a local olive oil park, where you’ll learn about traditional Cretan oil production and enjoy a tasting. This adds a local, authentic flavor to your day, offering insights into one of the island’s most iconic products. The tasting tends to be well-received, with visitors appreciating the chance to try high-quality Cretan olive oil.

Finally, the visit to Agios Nikolaos rounds out the day. This charming coastal town has a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of cafes and shops along the lake. You’ll have free time to wander, grab a drink, or simply soak in the scenery before the return journey.

Transport & Group Size: The round-trip transport is included, with pickup from multiple locations including Heraklion and Koutouloufari, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle. The group size is not specified but is likely sizable given the shared bus and boat.

Price & Value: At $29 per person, this tour offers a solid value, especially considering the included activities such as swimming, BBQ, olive oil tasting, and sightseeing. Additional costs (like boat and BBQ) are not included in the base price, so plan for that if you want the full experience.

Timing & Duration: Expect a full day of around 7-8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon. The itinerary is structured to balance time on the water, on land, and for free exploration.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, a sun hat, and lightweight, breathable clothes. Don’t forget your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.

Accessibility & Language: The tour is offered in English, with live guides providing commentary throughout, making it accessible for international travelers.

From the knowledgeable guides to the authentic Cretan food and olive oil tasting, this trip offers more than just sightseeing. It’s about enjoying genuine local flavors, relaxing in scenic spots, and learning about Crete’s history in an informal setting.

Reviewers like Petra mention her guide Georgia as “super nice” and “explaining everything well,” which adds a personal touch that makes the experience more memorable. The chance to see Spinalonga from the water provides a different perspective on its historical significance—a rare view that many visitors find enriching.

The scenic stops, cultural insights, and relaxed pace make this a well-rounded choice for travelers wanting an enjoyable day without the rush.

If you’re someone who loves combining swimming, scenic cruising, and local food experiences, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for first-timers in Crete who want to hit key highlights with minimal fuss. The boat trip is family-friendly and offers a relaxed pace, making it ideal for couples or groups wanting a fun, educational day on the water.

However, if you prefer smaller groups or more personalized, in-depth explorations of historical sites, this might feel a bit crowded. Also, the cost of extras like boat and BBQ isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

This experience is best for travelers seeking value-packed, authentic moments—from tasting fresh olive oil to enjoying picturesque coastlines—that leave lasting memories without over-complicating travel plans.

How long is the boat trip?
The full tour lasts around 7-8 hours, including transfers, swimming stops, and free time in Agios Nikolaos.

What is included in the price?
Round-trip transportation, a live guide, swimming stops, the BBQ meal (with drinks), and free time in Agios Nikolaos are included. Additional costs for boat and BBQ are extra.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested for the BBQ meal.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pick-up is available from multiple locations including Malia, Stalida, Hersonissos, Heraklion, and surrounding areas. Specific pickup points will be confirmed via email.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the stops for swimming and the relaxed schedule make it family-friendly, but check with the provider for any age restrictions.

What are the main highlights?
Swimming in Kolokytha Bay, tasting Cretan olive oil, viewing Spinalonga from the water, enjoying a BBQ, and exploring Agios Nikolaos.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The provided info doesn’t specify accessibility details; consider contacting the tour operator directly if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

The Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ provides a genuinely enjoyable way to experience Crete’s coastal charm. It’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting an affordable, fun-filled day with a mixture of swimming, cultural sights, and local flavors. The combination of scenic cruising, historical views, and authentic Cretan cuisine makes it a well-rounded outing that appeals to a variety of travelers.

While it might feel busy during peak seasons, the quality of the experience, the knowledgeable guides, and the stunning sights make it worth considering. Whether you’re in Crete for a short visit or looking for a relaxing day at sea, this tour delivers value and authentic memories that you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: