Spinalonga with Guide, Kolokitha Bay Cruise, Swimming & BBQ

Explore the captivating island of Spinalonga with a knowledgeable guide, enjoy a relaxing cruise through Mirabello Bay, and indulge in a flavorful BBQ lunch at Kolokitha Bay. The tour, offered by Island Spy, provides a balanced mix of history, scenic views, and leisure, all packed into approximately 10.5 to 12 hours. Starting from Elounda, this experience is perfect for travelers interested in Crete’s cultural sites and coastal beauty.

We appreciate how the tour combines a professional guided tour of Spinalonga, with time to relax at Kolokitha Bay, and free time in Agios Nikolaos. While the entrance fee of 20 euros for Spinalonga is not included, everything else, including pickup, transportation, and the olive oil tasting, is covered. This makes it an accessible and well-organized option, especially appealing for those who enjoy history, scenic cruising, and local flavors.

Key Points

• Includes a guided tour of Spinalonga Island led by a licensed escort, revealing its history as a Venetian fortress and leper colony.
• Cruises through Mirabello Bay offer scenic views and relaxing moments on the water.
• Swim and sunbathe at Kolokitha Bay, with crystal-clear waters and a BBQ lunch served on board.
• Taste high-quality Crete olive oil at a local olive oil park during the trip.
• Free time in Agios Nikolaos allows visitors to explore the seaside town at their own pace.
• The tour lasts around 10.5 to 12 hours, with flexible pickup options from various locations.

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Starting Point at Elounda Port and Boat Cruise

The adventure begins at the Elounda Port, where travelers board a boat for a scenic cruise along Mirabello Bay. This cruise lasts approximately 40 minutes, offering views of the coastline and the opportunity to enjoy the fresh sea air. The boat provides a comfortable setting for the day’s journey, with drinks and the promise of a delicious BBQ lunch served on deck.

The cruise to Kolokitha Bay sets the tone for the relaxing part of the day. The boat’s seating and the panoramic vistas make it easy to unwind while watching the landscape drift by. The cruise duration and scenic stops make this part of the tour a highlight for fans of coastal views and gentle sailing.

Swimming and Relaxing at Kolokitha Bay

Arriving at Kolokitha Bay around 10:50 to 12:00, visitors find a quiet stretch of crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is known for its seclusion and beauty, making it an ideal spot to bask in the sun, cool off in the sea, or simply relax on the shaded areas.

While guests enjoy the water, the crew prepares and serves a BBQ lunch right on the boat. The meal features grilled pork chop, Greek salad, feta, bread, and seasonal fruit, with options for vegetarian or chicken burgers if requested. Guests can choose to enjoy wine or Fanta alongside their meal, adding a touch of local flavor to the experience.

After about 1.5 hours, the boat departs for the next stop, bringing plenty of time to swim, relax, and savor the scenery.

Exploring Spinalonga Island with a Licensed Guide

The guided tour of Spinalonga lasts about 1.5 hours and is led by a professional escort. This island’s history includes periods as a Venetian fortress and as a leper colony, giving it a mix of military architecture and historic significance.

Visitors can expect a photo stop and a comprehensive sightseeing experience. The guide shares insights into the island’s layered past, including stories of pirates and the residents who once called it home. The tour offers an intimate look at the ruins and landscapes, making it a meaningful highlight of the day.

The entrance fee of 20 euros for Spinalonga is not included, but the guided experience makes the visit both informative and engaging.

Return to Elounda and Olive Oil Tasting

After leaving Spinalonga, the boat sails back to Elounda in about 30 minutes. From there, the group travels by bus to a local olive oil park, where a tasting session introduces visitors to Crete’s renowned olive oil. This 30-minute stop offers a chance to sample different varieties, learn about local production, and purchase authentic products.

This stop adds a cultural layer to the tour, highlighting Crete’s culinary traditions. The high-quality olive oil sampled here is often regarded as some of the best in Greece.

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Free Time and Exploration in Agios Nikolaos

The tour includes around 1 hour in Agios Nikolaos, giving visitors time to explore the charming seaside town. Many choose to relax at a lakeside café by Lake Voulismeni, a famous scenic spot, or browse local boutiques and shops.

The walk along the waterfront offers picturesque views of the harbor, with opportunities for photos and leisurely browsing. This period allows for a refreshing break before the journey back, and the return bus departs between 17:45 and 19:15.

Practical Details and Logistics

This tour offers pickup and drop-off services from multiple locations, including Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, Analipsi, and others. The air-conditioned bus ensures comfortable transportation throughout the day, and live guides speak several languages, including English, French, German, Polish, Russian, and Italian.

Participants should bring sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, and sunscreen, as the Crete sun can be strong, especially during summer. The menu options for the BBQ lunch include pork, chicken, or vegetarian, with pork served by default unless a preference is communicated beforehand.

The entire experience is covered by public liability insurance, and full cancellation is available if made up to 24 hours in advance.

Value and Overall Experience

The tour offers a well-rounded day that combines scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and leisure. The guided tour of Spinalonga provides depth, while the swimming at Kolokitha Bay satisfies those seeking relaxation. The olive oil tasting adds a local flavor, and free time in Agios Nikolaos allows for personal exploration.

The cost of entrance fees and meals are additional expenses, but the overall package provides great value considering the included transportation, guide, and activities. The reviews consistently rate the experience 5 out of 5, reflecting satisfaction with the organization, scenery, and overall flow.

This tour suits travelers interested in history and culture, scenic boat rides, and relaxed beach days. It’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and outdoor activity and who enjoy local culinary experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Spinalonga entrance fee included?
No, the entrance fee of 20 euros is paid separately on-site.

What are the menu options for the BBQ lunch?
There are pork, chicken, and vegetarian options, with pork served by default unless specified.

How long is the guided tour of Spinalonga?
The guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, led by a licensed escort.

What should I bring for the day?
It’s recommended to bring sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, and sunscreen for protection from the sun.

Is there free time in Agios Nikolaos?
Yes, visitors have about 1 hour to explore, enjoy a coffee by the lake, or browse shops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby