Situated along the northern coast of Crete, the picturesque towns of Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos serve as the ideal starting points for the Elounda Bus and Boat Trip. This 7.5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of the island’s natural wonders, from the historic island of Spinalonga to the breathtaking Barbarossa Cave. With a focus on scenic boat rides, swimming, and snorkeling, the trip caters to travelers seeking an immersive experience amidst Crete’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a day of adventure or simply a chance to unwind, this excursion may just hold the key to unlocking the true essence of this remarkable region.
Key Points
- This 7.5-hour tour from Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos takes visitors on a bus and boat trip to explore Spinalonga, Barbarossa Cave, and beaches around Elounda.
- The tour is available in multiple languages and offers a range of amenities, including friendly guides, music, and refreshments like hot dogs and Raki.
- Key highlights include a boat ride around the historical Spinalonga island, a visit to the scenic Barbarossa Cave, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at Kolokytha and "Skistra" beaches.
- The tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness, as it involves boat travel and activities in the water.
- The tour provider offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring customer satisfaction.
Trip Overview and Pricing
The Elounda Bus and Boat Trip offers an immersive day-long experience, priced from €1,253 per person.
This 7.5-hour tour is available in Greek, English, German, and French. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without immediate payment.
The itinerary highlights include a boat ride around Spinalonga, a stop at Barbarossa Cave, and swimming and snorkeling at Kolokytha Beach and "Skistra" beach.
On board, travelers can enjoy friendly guides, nice music, and refreshments like hot dogs, fruits, and Raki.
Pickup is available from various locations in the Heraklion region, and the tour provider will contact guests 24 hours prior with the pickup details.
Itinerary Highlights
The Elounda Bus and Boat Trip offers an array of captivating highlights throughout its itinerary.
Passengers will embark on a boat ride around Spinalonga, the former lepers’ island, allowing them to explore its historical significance.
Next, they’ll stop at the Barbarossa Cave, a natural wonder with stunning geological formations.
The tour then takes them to Kolokytha Beach, where they can swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
The final stop is at the "Skistra" beach, offering another opportunity to enjoy swimming in the region’s renowned pristine waters.
Onboard Experience
Aboard the tour, friendly guides and nice music create a pleasant onboard experience for passengers.
The tour offers a variety of refreshments, including hot dogs, fresh fruits, orange juice, Raki, and water.
Passengers can engage in multiple activities during the journey:
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sunbathing
- Music and dance
The combination of comfortable transportation, knowledgeable staff, and diverse onboard offerings ensures an enjoyable and memorable experience for all participants.
Pickup Information
Pickup locations for the Elounda Bus and Boat Trip include Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, Karteros, Heraklion, and Ammoudara. The activity provider will contact customers 24 hours prior with the exact pickup details.
| Pickup Locations | ||
|---|---|---|
| Malia | Hersonissos | Gournes |
| Stalis | Analipsi | Kokkini Chani |
| Anissaras | Gouves | Karteros |
| Heraklion | Ammoudara |
The wide range of pickup locations ensures convenient access for participants across the region.
Suitability and Ratings
Certain individuals may find the Elounda Bus and Boat Trip unsuitable, such as those with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness.
However, the activity has received an impressive overall customer rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 17 reviews. The transportation aspect was particularly well-received, earning a 4.8/5 rating.
While the value for money was rated 4.1/5, the trip offers a comprehensive experience, including:
- Boat ride around Spinalonga (lepers’ island)
- Stop at Barbarossa Cave
- Visit to Kolokytha Beach for swimming and snorkeling
- Final stop at "Skistra" beach for swimming in crystal clear waters
What to Bring
To make the most of the Elounda Bus and Boat Trip, visitors should pack a few essential items. A hat is a must to protect against the sun, while beachwear and swimwear will allow guests to fully enjoy the swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
Sunscreen is also crucial to prevent sunburns. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around Spinalonga and the other stops. Lastly, guests may want to bring a small towel or sarong for lounging on the beach.
With these items, travelers can fully participate in the trip’s activities and make the most of their time in the beautiful Elounda region.
Cancellation Policy
The Elounda Bus and Boat Trip offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility, ensuring customers can make last-minute changes without penalty.
Some key points about the cancellation policy include:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity
- Full refund for cancelled bookings
- Easy to adjust plans if needed
- No hidden fees or charges for cancellations
This hassle-free cancellation policy is a testament to the tour provider’s commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many travelers may have questions about the Elounda Bus and Boat Trip.
What’s the minimum age requirement? The trip is suitable for all ages, though children under 3 travel free.
Can I bring my own food and drinks? Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.
Are there any restrictions for the boat ride? Due to safety reasons, the boat ride isn’t recommended for those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues.
What’s the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Children Receive a Discounted Ticket Price?
The activity’s pricing information doesn’t specify a discounted ticket price for children. However, it’s common for tours to offer reduced rates for kids, so customers should inquire about any child pricing options when booking the Elounda Bus and Boat Trip.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the tour operator provides hot dogs, fresh fruits, orange juice, raki, and water as part of the onboard experience.
Is There a Storage Area for Personal Belongings?
Yes, there’s a storage area for personal belongings. Guests can safely store their items during the boat trip as the tour includes amenities like friendly guides and comfortable coaches.
Can I Book This Trip for a Private Group?
Yes, the Elounda Bus and Boat Trip can be booked for a private group. The activity provider offers customizable group tours, allowing travelers to enjoy the experience with their own party.
Do I Need to Know Any Greek or Other Languages to Participate?
No, you don’t need to know any Greek or other languages to participate in the activity. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, so you can fully enjoy the experience regardless of your language skills.
Recap
The Elounda Bus and Boat Trip offers a unique opportunity to explore Crete’s stunning landscapes and historic landmarks. With a scenic boat ride, exploration of the Barbarossa Cave, and swimming at picturesque beaches, this adventure caters to travelers of all ages. With knowledgeable guides, delicious refreshments, and a friendly onboard atmosphere, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Crete.