Burgas: Return Boat Trip to St. Anastasia Island

Discover Bulgaria’s Only Inhabited Island on a 3-Hour Boat Trip from Burgas

This boat tour to St. Anastasia Island offers a charming escape into Bulgaria’s maritime history and peaceful scenery. Departing from Burgas, the return trip lasts approximately 3 hours and includes a 40-minute ferry ride across the Black Sea. The tour features a visit to Bulgaria’s sole inhabited island, where visitors can wander through a medieval monastery, explore its museum, and enjoy panoramic views. The experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxed day out, with options to sit back, take in the scenery, or explore at your own pace.

A notable highlight is the access to an e-guide, usable on any device, which enriches the experience with historical insights. The tour’s simplicity—no guide included and food and drinks not provided—makes it flexible for independent explorers. While the duration is around 3 hours, the delightful scenery, historical sites, and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile trip for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

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Key Points

• Travel from Burgas to Bulgaria’s only inhabited island on a scenic 40-minute ferry ride across the Black Sea.
• Visit the medieval monastery and explore the local museum to learn about the island’s past.
• Enjoy herbal tea made from herbs grown in the monastery’s garden.
• Self-guided experience with an e-guide available for use on any device.
• Tour duration: approximately 3 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.
• No guide, food, or drinks included, allowing for independent exploration or picnics.

The Ferry Departure and Arrival in Burgas

The tour begins at the port of Burgas, where travelers hop onto a ferry that takes them across the Black Sea in about 40 minutes. The boat ride itself offers views of the coastline and waves, setting a relaxed tone for the excursion. This straightforward transportation makes the trip accessible and easy to plan, with no need for complicated logistics or additional transportation arrangements.

The return trip from St. Anastasia Island completes the roughly 3-hour itinerary, giving travelers plenty of time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The ferry departure times vary, so checking availability is recommended to align with your schedule.

Exploring Bulgaria’s Only Inhabited Island

Once on St. Anastasia, the quiet, picturesque atmosphere invites leisurely exploration. The island’s medieval monastery is a key highlight, with its historic buildings and tranquil gardens. Visitors can wander freely, taking in the panoramic views of the Black Sea and the lush surroundings.

The museum housed on the island adds context, sharing stories of the island’s past, from pirate raids to its time as a prison camp for communists. This mix of history and natural beauty provides a compelling reason to linger or simply sit and enjoy the peaceful environment.

Tasting Herbal Tea Made from Monastery Herbs

A special treat on this tour is the herbal tea made from herbs harvested from the monastery’s garden. This simple yet authentic experience allows visitors to taste a local, natural beverage while soaking in the serene surroundings. It’s a small touch that adds a layer of local flavor to the overall experience.

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Using the Electronic Guide for Self-Guided Discovery

A significant advantage of this tour is the access to an e-guide, which travelers can use on any device. This guide offers detailed information about the monastery’s history, the island’s past, and notable scenery points. It ensures that even without a guide leading the way, visitors can deepen their understanding and enjoy a personalized tour experience at their own pace.

Flexibility and Simplicity of the Tour

Since guides and food or drinks are not included, the tour offers flexibility. Travelers can choose to follow the provided e-guide or explore more freely. The short duration makes it suitable for those with limited time or for combining with other activities in Burgas or Nessebar.

The free cancellation policy—up to 24 hours before the trip—provides added peace of mind, while the reserve now, pay later option allows for flexible planning. English is the language of the tour, ensuring clear communication for international visitors.

What the Reviews Say About the Experience

The enthusiasm expressed in reviews highlights the quality of the boat, the stunning views, and the informative electronic guide. The calm atmosphere and beautiful scenery are consistently praised, making this trip ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing. Reviewers appreciate how helpful the guide is, and the landscape of the island is described as stunning.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour departs from the Burgas port, with availability to check for specific start times. Since food and drinks are not included, bringing a picnic or snacks is recommended if desired. The self-guided format suits travelers who enjoy a flexible, independent approach but still want an enriching experience through the e-guide.

The duration of approximately 3 hours is enough for a leisurely visit, allowing time for exploration, relaxation, or taking photos. The group size tends to be manageable, and the tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

The Unique Charm of St. Anastasia Island

What sets this trip apart is the fact that it visits Bulgaria’s only inhabited island, which has a colorful history involving pirate raids and political imprisonment. The combination of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and peaceful solitude draws those looking for a different kind of outing away from bustling city life.

While the lack of guided commentary might be a drawback for some, the electronic guide fills this role effectively, offering a personalized exploration. The stunning views and quiet atmosphere make it an ideal choice for a short, memorable escape.

Final Thoughts on the St. Anastasia Island Boat Trip

This Burgas-based tour delivers a charming half-day experience crossing the Black Sea to a small but historically significant island. Its simple logistics, combined with stunning scenery, historical sites, and a self-guided approach, make it a compelling option for travelers in the area.

The high rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 31 reviews underscores its popularity and quality. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy independent exploration, picturesque surroundings, and historical curiosity. While it lacks guided commentary and included food, the self-paced nature and authentic touches, like herbal tea, make it a worthwhile addition to any Bulgaria itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the boat trip last?
The return journey from Burgas to St. Anastasia Island takes about 40 minutes, with the total tour duration around 3 hours including exploration time.

Is there a guide on the tour?
No, the tour does not include a guide, but you receive an electronic guide that can be used on any device to learn about the island’s history and sights.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can enjoy herbal tea made from herbs grown in the monastery’s garden.

What are the start times?
Start times vary depending on availability. It’s recommended to check the schedule when booking.

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

Who is this tour best suited for?
It is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of history, especially those who enjoy self-guided exploration and panoramic views.

This boat trip to St. Anastasia combines history, scenery, and independence into a memorable outing, perfect for a short getaway from Burgas.

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