Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip

Set out on a captivating voyage through Crete’s stunning Mirabello Bay and uncover the rich history of Spinalonga Island. This day trip offers a seamless blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty, leaving you with indelible memories. From the well-preserved Venetian fortifications to the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, this immersive experience promises to delight the senses and leave you yearning for more. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this cruise day trip is sure to exceed your expectations.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Heraklion.

Good To Know

• A day trip exploring the picturesque town of Elounda and the historic Spinalonga Island, including a scenic cruise through Mirabello Bay.
• Opportunity to visit the well-preserved Venetian fortifications and ruins on Spinalonga Island, learning about its captivating history from a knowledgeable tour guide.
• Sightseeing in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, known for its harbor and bottomless lake, with time for independent exploration and dining.
• Inclusive package with transportation, lunch, drinks, and entrance fees, accommodating up to 50 travelers with wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
• High customer satisfaction based on reviews, praising the friendly staff, comfortable boat, and quality of the overall experience.

Overview of the Day Trip

This day trip offers travelers a chance to explore the captivating Elounda and Spinalonga Island.

The journey begins with a cruise through the stunning Mirabello Bay, where visitors can admire the Venetian fortress and the former leper colony on Spinalonga Island.

The itinerary includes time to wander through the island’s ruins, enjoy a refreshing swim, and savor a delicious barbecue lunch.

The excursion also features a scenic drive to Agios Nikolaos, known for its picturesque harbor and the reputedly bottomless lake.

This comprehensive tour provides an opportunity to take in the history, natural beauty, and local culture of this enchanting region of Crete.

Cruise Itinerary and Inclusions

The day trip includes a cruise from Elounda to the captivating Spinalonga Island and back.

The cruise provides the opportunity to explore the Venetian fortress and former leper colony on the island. Lunch and drinks are included, and the entrance fee to Spinalonga (8.00 Euro) applies for the German option.

Pickup and drop-off services are provided at selected hotels in Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, and other areas.

The tour starts at 9:00 am and can accommodate up to 50 travelers. Confirmation is received upon booking, and guests from Elounda must return independently from Agios Nikolaos if they join the city tour.

Exploring Spinalonga Island

Stepping off the boat, visitors to Spinalonga Island are immediately captivated by the island’s rich history and well-preserved Venetian fortifications.

Exploring the island, travelers can wander through the ruins of former houses, hospitals, and administrative buildings, all of which provide a glimpse into the island’s past as a leper colony.

The highlight is the Fortress of Spinalonga, a powerful defense system built by the Venetians to protect the island.

Visitors can climb the ramparts, gaze out over the sparkling waters of Mirabello Bay, and imagine the island’s former inhabitants’ lives.

The tour guide’s expertise brings the island’s history to life, making this an unforgettable stop on the day trip.

Sightseeing in Agios Nikolaos

After exploring the captivating history of Spinalonga Island, the day trip continues with a sightseeing drive to Agios Nikolaos. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire the charming harbor and reputedly bottomless lake of this picturesque town. The tranquil atmosphere and colorful buildings create a serene ambiance perfect for strolling, dining, or simply taking in the stunning coastal scenery. To enhance the experience, the following table outlines key information about the Agios Nikolaos visit:

Feature	Description
Duration	Approximately 1 hour
Activities	Harbor exploration, lake viewing, dining/shopping
Highlights	Charming architecture, picturesque waterfront
Accessibility	Wheelchair and stroller friendly
Departure	Independent return to Elounda or Heraklion

Practical Information for Travelers

For those considering this day trip, several practical details are worth noting.

The tour starts at 9:00 AM, with pickup and drop-off offered at selected hotels in Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, and other areas. The maximum group size is 50 travelers, and confirmation is provided upon booking.

Wheelchair and stroller accessibility is available, though infants must sit on laps. Guests from Elounda must return independently from Agios Nikolaos if joining the city tour.

The cruise includes lunch and drinks, while the entrance fee to Spinalonga (8.00 Euro) applies for the German option.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience and the reserve now, pay later option.

Tour Reviews and Ratings

The Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip boasts an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 19 reviews, with guests frequently praising the friendly staff, comfortable boat, knowledgeable guides, and delicious food.

Specific mention was made of the expertise of tour guide Christina.

However, some negative feedback was received regarding a canceled tour due to a lack of English-speaking guests.

Booking and Cancellation Details

The Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip starts from $47.48 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Guests can reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers and is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, though infants must sit on laps.

Pickup and drop-off services are provided at selected hotels in Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, and other areas.

Guests from Elounda who wish to join the city tour must return independently from Agios Nikolaos.

The tour confirmation is received upon booking.

Getting to the Cruise Departure

Participants can reach the cruise departure point in Elounda from their hotels in Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, and other nearby areas. The tour offers pickup and drop-off services at selected hotels.

To get to the cruise, travelers have a few options:

1. Take the provided transportation from their hotel.
2. Drive and park at the cruise departure point in Elounda.
3. Use public transportation or taxis to reach Elounda and meet the group.

The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, so participants should plan their arrival accordingly to ensure they don’t miss the boat.

It’s also important to note that guests from Elounda must return independently from Agios Nikolaos if joining the city tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The tour includes lunch and drinks, and outside food and beverages are generally not permitted. Check with the tour operator for any specific policies.

Is There a Dress Code for the Trip?

There’s no strict dress code for the day trip. Guests can wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for the weather and activities. Swimwear and a change of clothes are recommended if participants plan to swim.

Are There Any Medical Facilities on Spinalonga Island?

There are no permanent medical facilities on Spinalonga Island. Visitors should exercise caution and consult with their tour guide or boat crew if any medical needs arise during the excursion.

Can I Extend My Stay in Agios Nikolaos After the Tour?

Yes, guests can extend their stay in Agios Nikolaos after the tour. The tour itinerary includes a sightseeing drive to Agios Nikolaos’ harbor, allowing travelers to explore the city further on their own if desired.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour offers discounts for seniors and children – seniors get a 10% discount, while children under 12 pay 50% of the adult price. Advanced booking is recommended to secure the best rates.

The Sum Up

The Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Travelers can sail through the stunning Mirabello Bay, explore the well-preserved Venetian fortifications of Spinalonga Island, and enjoy a delightful barbecue lunch on board. The guided tour also includes sightseeing in the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, making it an immersive and unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the enchanting island of Crete.