From Heraklion: Elounda, Kolokitha, and Spinalonga Boat Trip

Explore the rich history and stunning natural beauty of Crete’s northeastern coast with a captivating boat trip from Heraklion. This 4-hour excursion takes you to the enchanting Elounda, Kolokitha, and Spinalonga Island, where you’ll uncover the Venetian fortress, swim in crystal-clear waters, and discover a remarkable geological wonder. Enjoy the charming ambiance as you embark on an unforgettable journey that promises to leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

• 4-hour boat trip from Elounda to Kolokitha and Spinalonga Island, starting from Kč 626 per person.
• Explore the historic Venetian fortress on Spinalonga Island and visit the Barbarossa cave with stunning natural beauty.
• Enjoy swimming at Skistra and Kolokytha beaches with crystal-clear waters.
• Onboard refreshments, air-conditioned boat, and optional pickup services from locations like Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Heraklion.
• Discover the poignant history of Spinalonga Island, a former Venetian fortress and leper colony, with its eerie abandoned buildings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The boat trip from Elounda to Kolokitha and Spinalonga Island offers an engaging 4-hour activity for visitors.

A 4-hour boat trip from Elounda to Kolokitha and Spinalonga Island offers an engaging activity for visitors.

Priced from Kč 626 per person, the excursion features a visit to the historic Spinalonga Island and its Venetian fortress, as well as the opportunity to explore the Barbarossa cave and swim at the picturesque Skistra and Kolokytha beaches.

Refreshments, including a salad and fruit bar, are available for purchase onboard the air-conditioned boat.

Optional pickup from select locations is offered.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover Crete’s natural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing from Elounda Port at 2 p.m., the boat trip takes visitors on an engaging journey to explore the historic Spinalonga Island and its Venetian fortress.

After visiting the island, the tour explores the captivating Barbarossa cave, known for its stunning natural beauty.

Guests can then enjoy a refreshing swim at the crystal-clear waters of Skistra beach, followed by time to relax on the pristine sands of Kolokytha beach.

Throughout the experience, travelers can indulge in the onboard salad and fruit bar, along with a selection of beverages available for purchase.

Onboard Experience

Aboard the boat, travelers can enjoy a variety of onboard refreshments. A salad and fruit bar, along with water, cocktails, and other beverages, are available for purchase.

The air-conditioned boat provides comfortable seating, ensuring a pleasant journey. For those who prefer not to drive, optional pickup services are offered from various locations, including Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Heraklion.

This seamless transportation service allows guests to fully enjoy the boat trip experience without the hassle of navigating. With these amenities, the onboard experience complements the stunning natural beauty and historical sites visitors will explore.

Departure Details

Departures from Elounda Port begin at 2 p.m. Guests will board the air-conditioned boat and set off on the approximately 4-hour journey.

The boat trip takes visitors to the island of Spinalonga, a former Venetian fortress and historical leper colony. Along the way, the boat will stop at the stunning Barbarossa cave and the serene Skistra beach, allowing time for swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

Finally, the tour will end with a visit to the picturesque Kolokytha beach before returning to the Elounda Port around 6 p.m.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Spinalonga Island

Why is Spinalonga Island such a captivating destination? Once a Venetian fortress, it became an isolated leper colony in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the remnants of this poignant history, walking the streets where lepers lived and worked. The island’s haunting past evokes a deep sense of melancholy and awe.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Venetian Fortress | Impressive stone walls and structures from the island’s Venetian era |

| Leper Colony | Eerie abandoned buildings that housed those afflicted with leprosy |

| Views | Stunning vistas of Elounda Bay and the surrounding Cretan landscape |

| Atmosphere | A palpable air of isolation and haunting past events |

| Access | Easily reached by boat from Elounda, with regular scheduled tours |

Exploring Spinalonga Island provides a unique window into Greece’s complex history and the human experience.

Exploring Barbarossa Cave

The Barbarossa Cave, a natural wonder along the boat trip’s route, captivates visitors with its stunning geological formations.

Travelers can explore the cave’s interior, marveling at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that have taken thousands of years to form.

The cave features:

1. A serene, underground lake with crystal-clear waters.

2. Intricate rock formations in various shapes and sizes.

3. Impressive lighting that highlights the cave’s natural beauty.

4. The opportunity to learn about the cave’s geological and historical significance.

Truly a highlight of the boat excursion, the Barbarossa Cave offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Swimming at Skistra Beach

Following the boat’s exploration of the Barbarossa Cave, travelers are treated to a relaxing stop at Skistra Beach. Known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere, Skistra provides the perfect setting to unwind and cool off. The beach features:

| Features | Details |

|———-|———|

| Water Clarity | Exceptional, with visibility reaching several meters |

| Seabed | Smooth sand, free of sharp rocks or debris |

| Amenities | Sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent |

| Atmosphere | Peaceful and uncrowded, perfect for swimming and relaxation |

| Accessibility | Easily accessible from the boat’s docking point |

Guests can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the serene ambiance of Skistra Beach before continuing their Spinalonga Island adventure.

Relaxing at Kolokytha Beach

After enjoying the refreshing waters of Skistra Beach, the boat transports guests to the serene Kolokytha Beach.

This pristine stretch of sand and turquoise waters offers the perfect setting for relaxation.

Visitors can:

1. Sunbathe on the soft, golden sand.

2. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim.

3. Explore the nearby rocky coves and caves.

4. Indulge in a picnic while admiring the stunning views.

With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Kolokytha Beach is the ideal spot to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Things To Know

Is Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

The tour includes a salad and fruit bar as well as water, but other beverages like cocktails must be purchased separately. Refreshments are available for purchase on the air-conditioned boat.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, there are also refreshments available for purchase on board, including a salad and fruit bar, water, cocktails, and other beverages.

Do I Need to Pay for Any Additional Activities on the Island?

The boat trip doesn’t include any additional activities or entry fees to Spinalonga Island. Visitors can explore the island and its attractions independently at their own pace during the tour.

Is the Boat Wheelchair Accessible?

The boat trip is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the tour itinerary indicates that the boat is not wheelchair accessible. Passengers should be able to board and disembark the boat without assistance.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Boat Trip?

According to the tour information, pets are not allowed on the boat. The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, so it’s unlikely the boat can accommodate pets. Passengers should leave their furry friends at home for this excursion.

Sum Up

This captivating boat trip from Heraklion takes you on a journey through history and natural beauty. Explore the Venetian fortress of Spinalonga, swim in crystal-clear waters, and discover the enchanting Barbarossa cave. With comfortable air-conditioned transportation and an exciting itinerary, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: