Heraklion : Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos , Elounda Boat Tour & BBQ

Travel to the scenic Spinalonga Island, explore the charming Agios Nikolaos, and enjoy a relaxing boat ride in the Elounda Gulf with this full-day excursion from Heraklion. Priced at $36.68 per person, the tour offers approximate 8-hour experiences that include hotel pickup, a boat journey, and a barbecue lunch if selected. The tour departs from Heraklion, with pickup available from several nearby hotels, and is suited for those looking for a convenient way to see key sights in Crete without the hassle of independent planning.

While the overall experience is well-regarded, some reviews note that time at Spinalonga may feel limited, and the group sizes can be quite large. Still, the guided commentary, stunning views, and ease of transportation make this tour a practical choice for visitors wanting an overview of the region’s highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup from Heraklion and surrounding areas for seamless start
• Approximate 8-hour trip with visits to Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda Gulf
• Boat ride included, with options for BBQ lunch (additional cost)
• Guided visits with professional guides speaking English, German, French, Polish, Russian, and more
• Small group size capped at 50 participants ensures comfort
• Free time at each stop allows exploration, shopping, or relaxing

Heraklion to Spinalonga: A Compact Visit to a Historic Fortress

The tour begins with a visit to the island of Spinalonga, accessible via a brief boat ride from Elounda. The island, known for its fortress and former leper colony, offers a compact visit that lasts roughly one hour. The guided tour on Spinalonga provides informative commentary about its history, making the most of the limited time on the small island.

Guests should be aware that admission tickets for Spinalonga are not included in the basic price and must be purchased separately, especially for children and EU citizens over 65. The small size of the island means that one hour is generally enough for a visit, though some may wish for more time to explore independently.

Elounda: From the Harbour to the Bay for Swimming

Following the Spinalonga stop, the boat departs from Elounda at 10:50 am, arriving at Spinalonga at around 10:50. After exploring the island, visitors enjoy free time for swimming at Kolokitha Bay, situated nearby. The return to Elounda happens around 1:00 pm, providing ample opportunity for a refreshing dip or relaxing by the water.

The boat ride, included in the tour, offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel between stops. Most reviews praise the comfort of the boat and the friendly atmosphere onboard. For those interested in swimming, bringing swimming suits and towels is recommended.

The Journey to Agios Nikolaos: Exploring the Crete Capital

At 3:00 pm, the tour coaches leave Elounda, heading west to Agios Nikolaos, arriving around 3:15 pm. The town is famed for its Lake of Voulismeni, a site of lively cafés and a hub for strolling and shopping. Guests have about two hours to relax, enjoy a coffee by the water, or browse through local shops.

Agios Nikolaos provides a gentle, scenic end to the day, with many visitors appreciating its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful harbor. The return transportation departs at 4:45 pm, returning to Heraklion by around 6:30 pm.

Transport and Pickup: Convenient and Organized

This tour offers hotel pickup from a variety of locations in Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Anisaras, Gouves, Heraklion, and nearby areas. Pickup times are scheduled to begin up to 90 minutes before the tour starts, with clear instructions sent via email. The transportation is in air-conditioned vehicles, making the journey comfortable, especially during warmer months.

Group sizes are capped at 50 participants, helping to prevent overcrowding and ensuring a more personalized experience. Review feedback suggests that pickup logistics are generally smooth, though some mention that waiting times can be longer, especially if hotel pickups are late.

The Guided Experience: Knowledgeable and Multilingual Guides

Guides on this tour are available in English, German, French (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday), and additional languages on other days, including Polish and Russian. The guides are praised for their friendly manner and knowledge about the history and sights. Some reviews highlight guide Manuella’s expertise and ability to manage large groups smoothly.

Guests appreciate the recommendations for cafes, shops, and local spots, making the free time in Agios Nikolaos and Elounda more enriching.

The BBQ and Boat Option: A Tasty Addition

The tour offers an optional BBQ lunch during the boat trip, which many reviewers describe as delicious. If chosen, the adults incur an additional fee, but the quality of the food is generally praised, especially the meat served on the boat. The boat itself is comfortable and well-suited for dining and relaxing during the journey.

Notably, admission tickets and BBQ costs are not included in the base price, so travelers should plan accordingly if they want the full experience.

Pacing and Time Management: Balancing Sightseeing and Relaxation

Some reviews mention that the day’s timetable can feel rushed, especially at Spinalonga, where only about an hour is allocated. While the island itself is small, the limited time to explore can be a drawback for those wanting a deeper visit. The long bus ride—around three hours each way—also contributes to a sense of being on the move constantly.

However, most guests find that the scenic boat rides, guides’ insights, and beautiful stops justify the pacing. The free time in Agios Nikolaos is generally appreciated, although some travelers wish for more time there.

Tour Feedback: Mixed but Mostly Positive

The overall rating is 3.6 out of 5 based on 27 reviews, with some noting overcrowding at Spinalonga and long waiting times for tickets. The guides receive praise for being friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient in handling large groups.

Highlights include the scenic boat trip, delicious BBQ, and the picturesque stops. Some criticism centers on logistics, like hotel pickup delays and limited time on the island, but many reviews describe the experience as pleasant and worthwhile.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits visitors who want a comprehensive day trip, combining history, scenery, and relaxation in one package. It’s ideal for those who prefer organized transportation and guided commentary, with free time to explore at each stop.

However, travelers seeking more time on Spinalonga or a more leisurely pace may feel a bit constrained by the schedule. The price point and included features make it a good value for a full day out in Crete, especially for those wanting to see multiple highlights without the hassle of independent travel.

Heraklion : Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos , Elounda Boat Tour & BBQ (Full Review)

This full-day Heraklion tour offers a well-structured exploration of some of Crete’s most iconic spots, including Spinalonga Island, the vibrant Agios Nikolaos, and the scenic Elounda Gulf. For $36.68, the price is attractive, especially considering the hotel pickup, guided visits, and scenic boat rides. The duration of around 8 hours is balanced to include sightseeing, free time, and relaxing moments.

The main highlights include the guided tour of Spinalonga, famous for its fortress and history, swimming at Kolokitha Bay, and the stroll through Agios Nikolaos with its lake and waterfront cafes. The boat trip, praised for its comfort, adds a scenic element to the experience, with the BBQ option offering a tasty meal on the water.

While there is some feedback about limited time at Spinalonga and long travel distances, many find that organized transportation and professional guides make up for these drawbacks. The tour is especially popular among visitors looking for an efficient overview of Crete’s northern coast.

This experience is best suited for those who value ease of logistics, guided commentary, and a mix of sightseeing and leisure. For visitors wanting more time on each location, or a less hurried pace, alternative options might be preferable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered from several locations around Heraklion and nearby areas, with timings communicated via email.

Is Spinalonga included in the price?
No, admission tickets for Spinalonga are not included and must be purchased separately, especially for children and EU citizens over 65.

Can I swim during this tour?
Yes, free time for swimming is provided at Kolokitha Bay after visiting Spinalonga, so bringing swimming suits is recommended.

Is the BBQ lunch included?
The BBQ lunch is an optional extra that guests can select, and it is well-reviewed for its deliciousness.

How long is the bus journey?
The bus ride to and from Heraklion can take around three hours each way, so expect some time on the coach.

What guides are available?
Guides speak English, German, French, with additional languages like Polish and Russian on certain days.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the maximum number of travelers is 50, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimming suits, sunscreen, and cash for souvenirs or tickets not included.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers; children aged 5-11 require boat tickets and BBQ costs separately.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who provides this tour?
The tour is operated by PLATANOS TOURS.

This Heraklion day trip provides a convenient way to see Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda Gulf in one organized package, blending sightseeing, relaxation, and options for extra dining on the water. It appeals most to those who appreciate guided visits and scenic boat rides, with the understanding that time on the island may be somewhat limited for deeper exploration.