Burgas: Return Boat Trip to St. Anastasia Island

If your idea of a memorable getaway includes a relaxing boat ride, striking sea views, and a touch of history—all wrapped up in a laid-back setting—then the Burgas to St. Anastasia Island tour might just be the perfect addition to your Bulgaria trip. This experience offers a gentle escape from the busy coastlines, taking you to Bulgaria’s sole inhabited island, where history, nature, and tranquility combine.

Our review highlights a few things we really love about this trip. First, the cruise across the Black Sea is both scenic and serene—perfect for unwinding or snapping some great photos. Second, the medieval monastery and its museum give a tangible sense of the island’s layered past, from pirate raids to political prisons. One possible consideration? The tour is mainly transportation and self-guided, so if you’re seeking a fully guided experience with detailed narration, you might find it a bit limited; however, the provided e-guide offers plenty to explore independently. This trip suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and a peaceful boat ride—ideal for those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments.

Key Points

Scenic boat ride: Enjoy a 40-minute cruise across the Black Sea, offering panoramic views and a relaxing start to your island adventure.
Historical site: Explore Bulgaria’s only inhabited island, featuring a medieval monastery and a museum that tell stories of pirates, prisons, and cultural shifts.
Self-guided exploration: Wander at your own pace with an electronic guide accessible on any device—perfect for independent travelers.
Local flavor: Try herbal tea brewed from herbs grown on the monastery’s garden, adding a taste of local tradition.
Flexible timing: The tour lasts around 3 hours, with checkable start times, making it easy to fit into your day.
Authentic experience: From the reviews, visitors appreciate the helpful guides, stunning views, and the relaxed atmosphere that makes this trip special.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deeper Dive into the Experience

The journey begins at the port of Burgas, where a comfortable boat awaits to ferry you across the Black Sea to Bulgaria’s only inhabited island, St. Anastasia. The ride itself is quite pleasant—about 40 minutes—during which you can soak in the sea breeze and keep an eye out for seabirds or distant ships. The boat is described as nice, and many find the pace just right—neither rushed nor sluggish.

Once on the island, you’ll have the chance to wander freely around the medieval monastery and visit its museum. The monastery has a storied past—raided by pirates and later used as a prison camp for communists—which adds layers of intrigue. Walking the grounds, you’ll probably appreciate how quiet and undisturbed things are here, especially compared to the bustling mainland. The panoramic vistas over the Black Sea are a highlight, offering perfect photo opportunities and a chance to simply relax and take in the scenery.

One of the most praised aspects of this tour, according to reviews, is the self-guided element. Visitors are provided with an electronic guide, usable on any device, that enriches your exploration. The guide helps illuminate the island’s history and points out key features, making the trip both educational and flexible. Several reviewers, like Chris, mention the value of the electronic guide and the helpfulness of the staff, which enhances the experience significantly.

On the grounds, you can also enjoy a herbal tea, brewed with herbs from the monastery’s garden. This simple treat adds a layer of authenticity and local flavor, making you feel connected to the land and its traditions. It’s a charming touch that many reviewers, including Rafa, found enjoyable, citing it as part of the relaxing atmosphere.

The tour wraps up with a comfortable boat ride back to Burgas, giving you a total experience of about 3 hours. The duration is perfect for a half-day outing—leaving plenty of time to explore other parts of Bulgaria or relax afterwards.

Practicalities and Value

The tour is priced to reflect its focus on transportation and self-guided exploration. Given that the boat ride is included and the museum entry is free (or minimal), the value lies in the ease of access and the unique experience of visiting Bulgaria’s only inhabited island. It’s especially appealing for those looking for a peaceful break from more crowded tourist sites.

The availability of flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now with pay later, adds a level of convenience and confidence. This flexibility is particularly useful if your plans are still shifting or if you prefer to keep options open.

While the tour doesn’t include a guide or food and drinks (beyond the herbal tea), the self-guided approach works well here because it allows you to explore at your own pace. If you’re a traveler who enjoys discovering history and scenery independently, you’ll appreciate the freedom this offers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape. It appeals to travelers who value authentic local sites and are happy to explore without a guide, relying instead on an informative electronic guide. It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a scenic, laid-back outing that doesn’t require a full-day commitment.

If you’re looking for a romantic or photo-friendly trip, the vistas and tranquil setting offer plenty of opportunities. Meanwhile, those interested in Bulgaria’s maritime history will find the island’s stories about pirates and prisons particularly intriguing.

The Sum Up

The Burgas: Return Boat Trip to St. Anastasia Island offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, historical interest, and relaxed exploration. Its highlights—like the stunning views, the historic monastery, and the herbal tea—make it a charming and memorable outing. The self-guided approach allows for flexibility and personal discovery, making it a good fit for travelers who prefer to set their own pace.

While it doesn’t feature a guided narration or included meals, the value comes through its accessibility, peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunity to step into Bulgaria’s maritime past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature seeker, or simply looking to enjoy some quiet time by the sea, this trip is worth considering.

For those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that combine scenery, history, and a touch of local flavor, this boat trip to St. Anastasia is a small but satisfying adventure—an excellent choice for a half-day escape from the mainland.

How long is the boat ride from Burgas to St. Anastasia Island?
The ferry takes about 40 minutes each way, providing a comfortable and scenic crossing over the Black Sea.

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers return transportation by boat. The tour also includes access to an electronic guide for self-guided exploration on the island.

Is there a guide on the island?
No, the tour does not include a guide on-site. Instead, you receive an e-guide to learn about the island’s history at your own pace.

Can I visit the museum or the monastery freely?
Yes, once on the island, you are free to explore the monastery grounds and the museum at your leisure.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can enjoy the herbal tea made from herbs grown on the monastery’s garden, which is offered during your visit.

What is the typical duration of the experience?
The entire trip lasts roughly 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day outing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy exploring historical sites and scenic boat rides tend to find this trip engaging and relaxing.

This experience combines ease of access, beautiful scenery, and authentic sights—perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful yet meaningful escape in Bulgaria.

You can check availability for your dates here: