Elounda is a superb base for exploring Crete from the water. Its calm bay, scenic coastline, and proximity to fascinating spots like Spinalonga make boat tours here especially appealing. Whether you’re after a quick half-day excursion, a full-day adventure, or a private yacht experience, there’s something for every traveler. We particularly like the Spinalonga Boat Trip from Elounda, which offers a wonderful blend of history, scenery, and sea breeze — a true classic that captures the essence of the area.
What makes Elounda stand out is its combination of accessible, well-organized tours and the chance to explore less crowded beaches and caves. If you’re keen on history, the visits to Spinalonga are a highlight, but if you’re after a more relaxed day with swimming and sunbathing, options like Kolokytha Beach or private charters might suit you better.
1. Spinalonga Boat Trip from Elounda Port
This tour takes you on a traditional Greek boat to the island of Spinalonga, famous for its Venetian fortifications and as one of Europe’s last leper colonies. The boat cruise lasts about 2 hours, providing ample time to explore the island’s narrow streets and learn about its unique history. The entrance fee to Spinalonga itself is €20, payable on arrival, which is a good thing to remember as it’s not included in the tour price.
What makes this trip appealing is the relaxed, flexible nature — you can hop on any available boat, spend as much time as you like on the island, and return at your convenience. The reviews highlight how smooth and straightforward it is; travelers love that they can avoid guided tours and explore at their own pace. The scenery in Elounda bay is stunning, and the boat’s gentle sail delivers a true sense of freedom.
Bottom line: If you want a hands-on, flexible way to experience Spinalonga’s storied past — without the hassle of guided tours — this is a solid choice. Perfect for history lovers and those who appreciate a leisurely pace.
2. Crete: Boat Trip to Spinalonga and Kolokytha Beach
This full-day adventure offers a comprehensive experience, combining a visit to the historic Spinalonga Island with stops at two gorgeous beaches: Skistra and Kolokytha. At around 8 hours, it’s ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with plenty of swimming and relaxing.
The tour includes a boat cruise that takes you from Elounda to the island, where you can stroll around the Venetian fortress and learn about its complex history. Afterward, the boat heads to Barbarossa Cave for a quick sightseeing stop, then on to Skistra and Kolokytha beaches, both known for their clear waters. Lunch, featuring fresh fruit and salads, is served on board, making it a true Mediterranean feast.
The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating based on just three reviews, emphasizing how well-organized the day is. The tour’s multiple pickup points and drop-offs, including Heraklion and Malia, make it very accessible. It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day on the water with plenty of swimming and sightseeing.
Bottom line: For around $71, this all-in-one trip offers excellent value, especially for those eager to combine history, sunbathing, and good food in one day.
3. Late Cruise to Spinalonga, Beaches & Barbarossa Cave
This 7 to 9.5-hour cruise is designed for travelers with flexible schedules who want a scenic, laid-back day. It departs later in the day, making it perfect for those who prefer to avoid the morning rush. The route includes a scenic cruise from Elounda that explores Spinalonga, Barbarossa Cave, and two stunning beaches—Skistra and Kolokytha.
The tour features crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, along with a fresh salad and fruit bar that keeps you nourished without fuss. The private transportation from your hotel adds a layer of convenience, so you can relax from start to finish. Although the reviews are mixed—some mention the chaos of the return trip—they agree that the day’s scenery and swimming opportunities are excellent.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full day of scenic cruising, swimming, and exploring, with the added convenience of hotel transfers. It’s a good value if you want a hassle-free experience with a flexible itinerary.
Bottom line: This is a solid option for those who value comfort and scenic routes, but be prepared for a longer day and variable review scores.
4. Luxury Private Cruise with Homemade Lunch on Board
For travelers seeking a bespoke, exclusive experience, this private cruise is hard to beat. Costing around $1,863 for up to 8 people, it offers full customization, from snorkeling to fishing and exploring hidden caves. The homemade lunch is included, prepared onboard with local ingredients, adding a personal touch.
The itinerary is entirely flexible, with options to visit small islands, secluded bays, or hidden caves unreachable by larger boats. Highlights include snorkelling with professional equipment, fishing with quality rods, and the thrill of the Sea Scooter. The private nature of the trip ensures a more intimate and tailored experience, ideal for celebrating special occasions or for travelers who want total privacy.
Guests rave about the personalized service and the opportunity to explore Crete’s less-visited spots. The main potential downside is the higher price, but for a group of friends or family, the value for a customized, luxury day is significant.
Bottom line: Perfect for those with a bigger budget who want a private, flexible, and luxurious day on the water, with the added bonus of a homemade meal.
5. Private Motor Boat Cruise, Snorkelling, Swimming, Fishing
This 6-hour private motorboat trip offers a dynamic exploration of Crete’s marine environment. Starting from Marina of Agios Nikolaos, you can experience snorkelling, fishing, and visits to small islands with caves and secluded bays.
The tour includes professional equipment for snorkelling and customized fishing with quality rods and secret bait. The boat allows you to explore different spots, making it an ideal choice for those who want flexibility and active engagement. The reviews are outstanding, with a 4.9/5 rating reflecting the high satisfaction levels.
It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy water sports and want a personalized experience. The inclusion of sea scooters adds extra fun and exploration potential. A possible drawback is that it’s only a half-day trip, so those wanting a longer, more leisurely experience might prefer other options.
Bottom line: This tour offers a perfect mix of adventure and privacy, ideal for active travelers or groups wanting to customize their day on the water.
6. Private Boat Trip – Snorkeling to Elounda Caves
This private 3-hour trip focuses on snorkeling around the Elounda caves and the iconic Spinalonga island. It’s a flexible, intimate experience that includes transfer from your hotel, making logistics easy. The boat is traditional and private, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
During the trip, you’ll stop for snorkeling near caves, where the fruit season enhances the experience with refreshing treats. The tour offers a great opportunity to see underwater life close to the coast and enjoy the tranquility of the caves. With a 4.5/5 review score, it’s well-regarded for its personalized service and scenic route.
Best suited for travelers who want a shorter, focused snorkeling adventure with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s ideal for families or couples looking for an authentic, private experience without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: If snorkeling and caves are your priority, this private trip offers a personalized, relaxed way to explore Elounda’s marine landscape.
How to Choose Your Perfect Water Adventure
When selecting the right boat tour, consider your budget, time available, and specific interests. For a history-focused experience, the Spinalonga Boat Trip provides an easy, flexible way to explore the island at your own pace. If you want a full day of swimming and sightseeing, the Crete Boat Trip to Spinalonga and Kolokytha Beach offers superb value.
For those craving luxury and privacy, the Luxury Private Cruise and Private Motor Boat Cruise deliver tailor-made experiences. Budget-conscious travelers can find great options with the Late Cruise, while snorkel enthusiasts will appreciate the Snorkeling to Elounda Caves for its underwater focus.
Timing your tours early in the day or during the shoulder seasons can help avoid crowds and get the best weather. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for private options or full-day trips.
Final Thoughts
Elounda offers a rich variety of cruises and boat tours. If you’re interested in history and flexibility, the Spinalonga Boat Trip is a reliable choice. For a full day packed with swimming, sightseeing, and great food, the Crete boat trip provides excellent value.
Luxury seekers or groups celebrating a special occasion will love the private options, especially the Luxury Private Cruise. Meanwhile, snorkel fans should consider the private trip to Elounda caves for an intimate underwater adventure.
No matter your preference, booking early and choosing the right tour for your interests will ensure a memorable day on the water in Elounda.