Late Cruise to Spinalonga, Beaches & Barbarossa Cave

Discovering Crete’s Coastal Charm: A Look at the Late Cruise to Spinalonga, Beaches & Barbarossa Cave

If you’re considering a day out on the water while visiting the beautiful island of Crete, the Late Cruise to Spinalonga, Beaches & Barbarossa Cave offers a mix of scenic views, historical sights, and relaxing beach time. Although some reviews hint at inconsistencies, the experience still promises plenty of memorable moments—especially for those who love a relaxed pace, great scenery, and a touch of legend.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its combination of picturesque boat rides, easy access to secret beaches, and views of Spinalonga’s Venetian fortress without the need for long walks or complex disembarking. The included hotel transfers, lunch, and guidance on board make it a convenient choice, especially for travelers preferring a hassle-free day.

That said, it’s worth noting that some guests have voiced frustrations about food quality and the short beach stops. If you’re someone who values gourmet meals or extended beach relaxation, you might want to set your expectations accordingly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, want a quick overview of Spinalonga’s coastline, and are happy to spend a day swimming and sunbathing. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for an affordable way to see Crete’s coastal highlights without too much walking or fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Boat Ride: Offers impressive views of Spinalonga, Barbarossa Cave, and Mirabello Bay.
• Hassle-Free Transfers: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included, easing the logistics of your day.
• Two Beaches: Stops at Skistra and Kolokytha provide opportunities for swimming and relaxing by the sea.
• Onboard Refreshments: Lunch is included, with a basic salad and fruit bar, plus wine and water.
• Guided Experience: An experienced crew shares insights, making the cruise informative.
• Some Criticisms: Food quality and beach stop durations have been less than ideal for some guests.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

Easy Start with Hotel Transfers

Most travelers will appreciate the convenient hotel pick-up from five major locations, including Hersonissos, Analipsi, Gouves, Stalida, and Ammoudara. The journey begins comfortably with a two-hour bus ride through Crete’s lush landscape, setting the tone for a relaxing day on the water. While the transfer can feel long, it’s an opportunity to settle in and enjoy the scenery.

The Boat Ride: Scenic & Relaxing

Once at Elounda Port, the day kicks off with a boat cruise aboard the Mirabello Bay. The boat itself is described as comfortable, and the cruise offers a panoramic view of Spinalonga Island, which is only visible from the sea. This approach is perfect for those who want to admire the Venetian fortress without the hassle of wandering around the island itself.

A common point from reviews is that the crew is knowledgeable, with guides sharing interesting tidbits about the fortress and the coastline. One reviewer highlighted the enjoyable commentary and friendly crew, which added value to the experience. You’ll love the way the boat glides smoothly through calm waters, offering photo opportunities of the rugged coastline and the iconic fortress.

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Exploring Barbarossa Cave

Continuing along the coast, the cruise passes by the legendary Barbarossa Cave — a striking natural sea cave associated with a pirate’s hideout. Its dramatic appearance makes for a fantastic photo backdrop, and it’s a highlight for many looking to capture memorable shots of their Crete trip.

While you don’t disembark here, the view alone makes it worthwhile. The name Barbarossa might conjure up pirate tales, but for travelers, it’s simply a chance to see a fascinating natural feature from the comfort of your boat.

Beach Stops: Skistra and Kolokytha

The two main stops are at Skistra Beach and Kolokytha Beach, both offering peaceful settings for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the natural beauty.

Skistra Beach is underlined as a quiet, secluded spot, ideal for escaping the crowds and enjoying the turquoise waters. One traveler mentioned it as “a pleasure to swim in,” emphasizing that the water quality is excellent. You might find that the lack of crowds adds to the feeling of authentic serenity.

Kolokytha Beach is surrounded by lush greenery and features soft sand, making it perfect for relaxing walks or just lounging on the shoreline. Guests often appreciate the scenic surroundings, which provide a perfect backdrop for photos or quiet beach time.

However, some reviewers have expressed disappointment with the short duration of the beach stops — about an hour — which might leave those eager for more time feeling rushed. One comment called the time “disastrous,” especially since the second stop is in the middle of the ocean, leaving little room for extended relaxation.

Onboard Dining & Refreshments

The cruise includes a lunch of hot dogs and toast, along with water, fruits, and a glass of wine or raki. While the quality of the food has received mixed reviews—some guests found it lacking in variety or freshness—the inclusion of a salad bar and fresh fruit was appreciated by others.

One review pointed out that the salad bar was missing at the time, and the serving was later in the day, which affected freshness. Drinks like cocktails are available for purchase, so if you’re craving something more refined, you’ll have options to upgrade.

Return Journey & Drop-Off

After a full day at sea, the boat returns to Elounda by 6 PM, and the bus ride back to your hotel is about 1.5 hours. The whole experience wraps up with you back at your accommodation, often with a camera full of photos and a head full of memories.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price point, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, historical glimpses, and beach time. While some guests felt the food was average and the beach stops brief, many still enjoyed the overall experience for the relaxed pace and stunning backdrop. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a low-effort day on the water, with plenty of photo opportunities and a bit of local legend thrown in.

The guide’s insights and the views of Spinalonga from the sea are definite highlights, especially if you’re not keen on walking around the island itself. The included transfers remove the logistical hassle, making it easier to enjoy your day without stress.

However, if you’re looking for a gourmet meal, longer beach stays, or an in-depth tour of Spinalonga itself, this may not satisfy all your expectations. For those craving a more immersive experience, other tours with disembarking options and more extensive stops might be better.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits those who prefer a gentle, scenic trip over an active exploration. Families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxing day on the water with easy logistics will find it appealing. It’s a good choice for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Crete’s coastal beauty without the hassle of multiple bookings.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the inclusive nature of transfers, lunch, and guided commentary, especially when compared to more expensive day trips. But if you’re a foodie or beach lover craving longer time, you might want to explore other options.

In summary, this tour delivers beautiful views, relaxed beach stops, and a taste of local legend—perfect for those who prioritize comfort and scenic beauty over lengthy stops or gourmet dining.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include disembarking on Spinalonga Island?
No, guests stay on the boat and enjoy a cruise around Spinalonga rather than disembarking. The focus is on scenic views and the coastline.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Barbarossa Cave, Skistra Beach, and Kolokytha Beach, with a scenic cruise around Spinalonga Island.

Is the lunch included on the tour suitable for all diets?
The included lunch is basic, with hot dogs, toast, water, and fruit. If you have specific dietary needs, you might want to bring additional snacks.

How long does the boat cruise last?
The cruise itself lasts approximately 4 hours, with total tour time from pick-up to drop-off around 7 to 9.5 hours.

Are the views of Spinalonga from the boat good?
Yes, the boat provides a great perspective of Spinalonga’s Venetian fortress, especially for photography and sightseeing.

Can children enjoy this tour?
Absolutely, the relaxed pace and swimming stops make it suitable for families, though young children should be comfortable on a boat ride.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a towel, swimwear, and possibly a camera. The tour doesn’t specify restrictions, but pets are not allowed.

Final words

While not a perfect tour—given some frustrations with food and stop durations—it still offers a lovely way to see Crete from a different angle. You’ll love the spectacular coastline views, swimming in clear waters, and learning about the legendary Barbarossa Cave. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a laid-back day with scenic highlights, rather than intense sightseeing or gourmet dining.

If you’re okay with a relaxed schedule, some minor inconveniences, and a focus on natural beauty and panoramic views, this cruise could be a highlight of your Crete trip. Just be prepared for some variability in the experience, and don’t forget to bring your sense of adventure—and your sunhat.

You can check availability for your dates here: