From Ag. Nikolaos: Spinalonga & Kolokytha Cruise with Lunch

This 5.5-hour boat tour offers a balanced mix of history, relaxation, and local flavors, departing from the charming port of Agios Nikolaos in Crete. For just $30.49 per person, travelers get to explore the historic Spinalonga Island, swim in the clear waters of Kolokytha Bay, and enjoy an on-board barbecue meal. This tour has earned a solid 4.2 out of 5 from over 580 reviews, indicating a generally positive experience with some minor caveats.

A key highlight is the self-guided visit at Spinalonga, allowing ample time for exploration, combined with a relaxing beach stop at Kolokytha Bay. The onboard barbecue, featuring pork chops and seasonal fruits, adds a tasty, casual touch to the day, though some reviews note the lunch can be simple or inconsistent. This tour suits those interested in a mix of history, scenic cruising, and swimming, especially if you enjoy a laid-back pace and engaging local stories.

Key Points

• Departure from Agios Nikolaos with a 5.5-hour schedule, including visits to Spinalonga and Kolokytha Bay
• Price of $30.49 per person, with options to reserve and pay later
• Visit Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony with Venetian fortifications and old homes, self-guided with a booklet
• Swim and sunbathe at Kolokytha Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters
• Delicious barbecue lunch served on the boat, with vegetarian options available
• Entry tickets to Spinalonga are not included, costing €20 for adults, free under 25 EU citizens and under 18 non-EU with ID

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Spinalonga Island: A Visit to Crete’s Most Notable Historical Site

Spinalonga features prominently in this cruise, offering an hour and a half to explore its Venetian fortifications and abandoned homes. Known for its history as a leper colony during the early 20th century, the island is rich in stories that are made accessible through a free printed guide handed out on the boat. Visitors appreciate the ample time to wander at their own pace and absorb the sights and sounds of this fascinating island.

While guided tours are not included, the printed guide and the information boards on Spinalonga provide plenty of context, making it suitable for those interested in history without the need for a guide. Note that entry tickets must be purchased separately, and the island is not wheelchair accessible.

Cruising Across the Bay of Mirabello

The journey begins in the pretty harbor of Agios Nikolaos, where the boat departs on a scenic cruise across the Bay of Mirabello. The route offers beautiful views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape, setting a relaxed tone for the day. Passengers can enjoy the sunshine from various decks, with covered seating options available on the upper deck.

The cruise itself is appreciated for its smooth sailing and picturesque scenery, making it a peaceful way to start the adventure. The boat’s crew ensures that the journey is comfortable, and the atmosphere is friendly and efficient.

Exploring Kolokytha Bay and Beach

After the visit to Spinalonga, the boat moves to the other side of Kolokytha Island, where it anchors at Kolokytha Beach. Known for its crystal-clear waters, the bay provides a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is relatively small, and during busy days, it can get filled up quickly, so early arrival offers the best chance for more space.

For those who prefer staying on the boat, the crew offers a swim opportunity directly from the vessel. The bay’s calm waters and scenic surroundings make it a favorite for relaxing in the sun or taking quick dips to cool off. The small size of the beach means some might find their swimming time limited, but the overall setting remains charming and inviting.

Onboard Barbecue: A Casual Crete Meal

A highlight of this tour is the barbecue lunch prepared on board, featuring pork chops, cabbage salad, bread, seasonal fruits, and wine. The lunch service takes place while moored at Kolokytha Beach, offering a relaxed dining experience with seating on the aft deck.

The food quality garners mixed reviews—many appreciate the casual, hearty meal, but some find the pork chops to be raw or not very fresh. Vegetarian options are available if requested at boarding. The wine and seasonal fruits are generally well-received, providing a nice touch to the meal, though some travelers may want to bring extra snacks or drinks to complement the lunch.

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Practical Details: Boarding and Entry Requirements

The meeting point is at the port of Agios Nikolaos on Koundourou Street, where travelers should arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. The tour departs from this mooring point and returns there at the end of the cruise.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, and cash for any additional expenses. ID and the voucher are required for check-in, especially for purchasing Spinalonga entry tickets, which cost €20 for adults. Tickets are free for those under 25 EU citizens and under 18 non-EU citizens with ID.

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as access to some sites may be limited.

Flexibility and Cancellations

Booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The reserve now, pay later option adds flexibility for those uncertain of their plans. This makes the tour accessible for spontaneous trips or changing schedules.

Review Highlights: What People Like and Dislike

This cruise generally receives positive feedback for scenic views, friendly crew, and ample time at Spinalonga. The self-guided exploration is popular among visitors who prefer to take their time. The onboard barbecue is a highlight for many, though some comment that the lunch can be simple or inconsistent, with a few noting raw pork or less fresh ingredients.

In terms of pacing, most find the timing sufficient for each activity but some wish for more time swimming at Kolokytha Bay. The boat’s size and organization are praised, especially in handling large groups.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a combination of history, scenery, and beach time without a lengthy or overly complicated schedule. It’s ideal for those comfortable with self-guided visits and who enjoy casual onboard meals. If more extensive guided tours or luxury amenities are your preference, this may feel basic, especially regarding the lunch.

Spinalonga & Kolokytha Cruise with Lunch: Final Thoughts

This affordable cruise offers a well-rounded day out in Crete, balancing historical exploration with relaxing swimming opportunities. The self-guided nature of the Spinalonga visit combined with scenic cruising and a casual barbecue makes for a laid-back yet engaging experience.

While the lunch may not satisfy gourmet expectations, it remains a practical inclusion that complements the overall value. The tour’s positive reviews emphasize the friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and the interesting island as key reasons to choose this activity. It’s a good pick for visitors seeking a budget-friendly, scenic half-day with flexible scheduling and impressive views.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $30.49 per person, including the cruise, a booklet guide, and the barbecue lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 5.5 hours, including stops at Spinalonga and Kolokytha Bay.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from the mooring point at the port of Agios Nikolaos, on Koundourou Street, and returns there at the end.

Are entry tickets to Spinalonga included?
No, entry tickets cost €20 for adults and are paid separately. Entry is free for EU citizens under 25 and non-EU under 18 with ID.

Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians?
Vegetarian options are available if requested at the time of boarding.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, and cash for additional expenses.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Is there any free time at Kolokytha Bay?
Yes, travelers typically have around 1.5 hours for swimming and sunbathing, though the size of the beach can mean it gets crowded.

How is the crew and boat?
The crew is considered friendly and efficient, and the boat has inside, outside, and covered decks to suit weather conditions and comfort preferences.

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