Crete: Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ

If you’re seeking a full day of relaxing seaside adventures in Crete, the Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ offers an engaging experience at an affordable price of $30 per person. This 10-hour tour combines scenic cruising, Mediterranean swimming, delicious food, and cultural highlights like the island of Spinalonga and olive oil tasting. The tour departs from Elounda and is suitable for travelers eager to explore multiple facets of Cretan life in one day, with a balance of activity and leisure.

A key feature of this tour is the cruise along the coast to Kolokytha Bay, an isolated spot renowned for its crystal-clear waters. The onboard BBQ lunch is a highlight, offering grilled pork, Greek salad, feta, fresh bread, seasonal fruit, and drinks, with vegetarian options available. The journey also includes a passage past Spinalonga, a historic island famous for its Venetian fortress and former leper colony. After exploring Agios Nikolaos, the charismatic town on the lake, visitors enjoy free time to soak up the atmosphere or browse local shops. A visit to a local olive oil park caps off the day with tastings and insights into traditional Cretan production.

This tour combines scenic vistas, historical sights, and culinary delights, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a balanced taste of Crete. While the price and duration offer good value, travelers should be prepared for a full day that involves some walking and swimming, with the need for comfortable shoes, sun protection, and casual clothes. The overall experience earns a perfect 5-star rating based on reviews praising knowledgeable guides and the enjoyable itinerary.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Only $30 per person for a 10-hour adventure.
• Multiple Highlights: Swimming at Kolokytha Bay, BBQ lunch, spending time in Agios Nikolaos, and learning about Spinalonga.
• Cultural and Culinary Insights: Olive oil tasting at a local park enhances the experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: Includes round-trip bus transfers from various pick-up points.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with options for vegetarian meals and swimming.
• Guide-led Experience: An English-speaking live guide explains the sites and keeps the day engaging.

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Starting Point: Elounda and the Boat Cruise

The adventure begins at the Elounda port, where the comfortable boat awaits. The cruise takes you past Spinalonga, offering excellent photo opportunities of its Venetian fortress perched on the island. The boat’s design enhances the experience, providing space to relax and enjoy the sea breezes during the ride.

Swimming at Kolokytha Bay: Crystal Waters and Secluded Beach

The first stop is at Kolokytha Bay, an untouched and peaceful stretch of coastline famous for its crystal-clear waters. Here, swimmers can choose to stay on the boat or go ashore to explore. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for a refreshing dip, and the serene environment offers a break from busier sights.

The BBQ Lunch: Grilled Pork and Greek Flavors on Board

While sailing, the crew prepares a mouth-watering BBQ featuring grilled pork chop, complemented by Greek salad, feta cheese, fresh bread, and seasonal fruit. Guests also receive a glass of wine or soft drink. Vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring all guests enjoy the meal. The lunch provides a tasty break and a chance to socialize as the scenery passes by.

Cruising Past Spinalonga: A Historic Island Perspective

The boat cruise offers a close-up view of Spinalonga, allowing guests to admire its Venetian fortress from the water. This island’s history as a leper colony is part of what makes it a meaningful sight. The guide offers insights into its past, making this a rich visual and educational experience.

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Second Swim Between Spinalonga and Plaka

After lunch, the boat stops for a second swim in the open sea between Spinalonga and the village of Plaka. This scenic spot is perfect for a quick dip and enjoying the calm waters. The area offers beautiful views of the coastline, making it a great photo opportunity.

Olive Oil Tasting at a Local Park

In the early afternoon, the tour heads to a local olive oil park. Here, visitors get a brief explanation of Cretan olive oil production and enjoy a tasting session. This segment offers a taste of authentic Cretan culinary tradition, enriching the overall cultural experience of the day.

Exploring the Town of Agios Nikolaos

The final stop is in Agios Nikolaos, a charming seaside town known for its lakefront setting. Visitors have free time to walk around, relax at a seaside café, or browse shops. The town’s relaxed atmosphere and scenic views make it an ideal place to unwind before heading back.

Transportation and Practical Details

The tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus. Pickup is available from multiple locations, including Heraklion, Malia, Stalida, and others, with specific pick-up and drop-off points confirmed via email within 24 hours. The full-day schedule balances sightseeing, swimming, and leisure, making it a well-paced experience.

Price, Inclusions, and Additional Costs

At $30 per person, this tour offers excellent value. Included are bus transfers, a live English-speaking guide, and free time in Agios Nikolaos. The boat ride and BBQ are an additional cost of 15 AD / 7.5 CHD per person, paid on-site. Optional individual expenses such as souvenirs or extra drinks are not included.

The Experience Provider: ETHERION

The tour is operated by ETHERION, a provider with positive feedback, including praise for knowledgeable guides and interesting commentary. A review from Petra in Germany highlights Georgia’s excellent explanations and friendly attitude.

Suitability and Final Tips

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and casual clothes for the day. The tour involves some walking and swimming, so physical comfort is recommended. The full-day schedule, combined with the cost-effective price, makes this an attractive choice for those wanting a comprehensive Crete experience without heavy planning.

Crete: Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ—A Balanced Day of Sea, Culture, and Food

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s beautiful coastlines, historic sites, and local flavors. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, informative guides, and delicious meals, all while exploring authentic towns like Agios Nikolaos. Its affordable price and multiple stops make it stand out among other Crete excursions.

While the onboard BBQ and crystal waters are definite highlights, some may find the full-day commitment demanding if mobility is limited. This tour balances relaxation and discovery beautifully, providing a memorable taste of Crete’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting with pickup in the late morning and returning in the evening.

What is included in the price?
The round-trip bus transportation, live English guide, and free time in Agios Nikolaos are included. The boat and BBQ cost an additional 15 AD / 7.5 CHD per person.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request for the BBQ lunch.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and casual clothes are recommended for the day.

Can I swim at Kolokytha Bay?
Yes, the first swimming stop at Kolokytha Bay allows for swimming directly from the boat or ashore exploration in a peaceful environment.

How do I get the pickup details?
The tour provider contacts guests within 24 hours of booking via email to confirm the specific pickup location.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s family-friendly nature and leisurely pace make it suitable for travelers of all ages, with options for all to enjoy.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic cruising, historical sights, delicious food, and local culture at an accessible price point make this a compelling choice for a full day in Crete.

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