Cruise to Spinalonga, Kolokytha Bay & Agios Nikolaos With Lunch

Set out on a captivating cruise that takes you to the historic Spinalonga Island, the picturesque Kolokytha Bay, and the charming town of Agios Nikolaos. This all-inclusive adventure promises a day filled with stunning scenery, cultural exploration, and relaxation. From the guided tour of Spinalonga’s leper colony to the refreshing swim in Kolokytha’s crystal-clear waters, this excursion offers an unforgettable blend of history, nature, and culinary delights. With round-trip transfers and a diverse barbecue lunch included, it’s the perfect way to learn about the beauty and rich heritage of Crete.

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

Good To Know

• This 8-12 hour cruise includes a guided tour of Spinalonga Island, swimming and sunbathing at Kolokytha Bay, and a barbecue lunch.

• The cruise departs from Heraklion and provides round-trip transfers, boat tickets, and liability insurance.

• Pickup is available from select areas in Crete, and the tour has a maximum capacity of 50 travelers.

• Spinalonga Island was once a leper colony, and the guided tour offers insights into its fascinating history.

• The barbecue lunch at Kolokytha Bay features a Mediterranean-style menu with local flavors, salad, bread, a choice of main course, and dessert.

Overview of the Cruise

This cruise offers visitors the opportunity to explore three distinct destinations: Spinalonga Island, Kolokytha Bay, and Agios Nikolaos.

The tour lasts approximately 8-12 hours, including bus and boat travel. Priced from $53.00 with a lowest price guarantee, the cruise includes a guided tour, barbecue lunch, round-trip transfers, boat tickets, liability insurance, and all fees and taxes.

Guests can look forward to swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a delicious lunch menu featuring salad, bread, a choice of chicken or vegetarian wrap, dessert, and a drink.

With pickups available from select areas, this comprehensive tour is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Itinerary and Activities

The cruise departs from Heraklion and sails across Mirabello Bay, offering a chance to visit the captivating Spinalonga Island, also known as "the island of tears." Travelers will enjoy a guided tour of the island, followed by free time to explore its historic sites and natural beauty. After Spinalonga, the cruise heads to Kolokytha Bay, where guests can swim, sunbathe, and indulge in a delicious barbecue lunch. The menu includes a fresh salad, bread, a choice of chicken or vegetarian wrap, fruit for dessert, and a refreshing drink like wine or juice.

Activity	Location	Duration
Guided Tour	Spinalonga Island	–
Free Time	Spinalonga Island	–
Swimming & Sunbathing	Kolokytha Bay	–
Barbecue Lunch	Kolokytha Bay	–

Pickup and Transportation Details

For the convenience of travelers, the cruise offers pickup services from select areas, including Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Amoudara, Agia Pelagia, and central Heraklion.

Travelers will receive confirmation and detailed pickup information via email upon booking.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 50 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Travelers are advised to review any additional costs and conditions related to the tour before booking.

Spinalonga Island Guided Tour

Spinalonga Island, known as "the island of tears," is a key destination on the cruise.

Travelers will enjoy a guided tour of this historic island, learning about its fascinating past. Once a leper colony, Spinalonga now offers visitors the chance to explore its well-preserved ruins and stunning natural landscapes.

After the guided tour, guests will have free time to wander the island at their own pace, taking in the breathtaking views and soaking up the island’s unique atmosphere.

The guided tour and free time provide a well-rounded experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the history and beauty of this remarkable destination.

Kolokytha Bay Swimming and Barbecue

After exploring the historic Spinalonga Island, the cruise then sails across the sparkling waters of Mirabello Bay to Kolokytha Bay. Passengers can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at this picturesque beach, accompanied by a delicious barbecue lunch. The menu includes a fresh salad, bread, a choice of chicken or vegetarian wrap, fruit for dessert, and a drink (wine or juice).

Menu Item	Description
Salad	Fresh and seasonal
Bread	Freshly baked
Main Course	Choice of chicken or vegetarian wrap
Dessert	Fruit
Drinks	Wine or juice

The cruise provides a perfect opportunity to relax, soak up the sun, and indulge in a tasty Mediterranean-style meal on the beach.

Lunch Menu and Inclusions

The cruise includes a barbecue lunch served on the beach at Kolokytha Bay.

The lunch menu features a fresh salad, bread, and a choice between a chicken or vegetarian wrap. For dessert, guests can enjoy some refreshing fruit, and a drink, either wine or juice, is also provided.

This hearty meal is included in the tour price, ensuring travelers can refuel and recharge after a morning of exploring Spinalonga Island.

The barbecue lunch is a highlight of the day, allowing visitors to savor local flavors while taking in the picturesque setting of Kolokytha Bay.

Reviews and Feedback

With the highlights of the cruise covered, it’s now time to examine the reviews and feedback from past travelers.

The overall rating of the cruise stands at 4.0 based on 62 reviews. Positive feedback praises the organization, knowledgeable guides, and the stunning scenery.

However, some criticism points to long bus rides, crowded boats, and issues with food quality and timing. Certain travelers also reported a lack of time to explore Spinalonga and crowded conditions on the boat.

While the cruise offers an immersive experience, some areas for improvement have been noted by past participants.

Important Information

Aside from the cruise highlights, there are several important details travelers should be aware of.

Firstly, the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

Plus, travelers are advised to have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour may not be suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

An optional entrance fee of €8 is required to access Spinalonga Island.

Finally, guests are encouraged to review any additional costs or conditions related to the tour, as these can vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise, but the tour includes a barbecue lunch, so bringing extra provisions may not be necessary. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any restrictions.

Is There an Option to Upgrade My Lunch or Add Additional Food Items?

The tour information does not mention any option to upgrade the lunch or add additional food items. Travelers are limited to the provided barbecue lunch menu, which includes a salad, bread, a main dish, dessert, and a drink.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors, Children, or Families?

Yes, there are discounts available. Seniors can get a 10% discount, children under 12 receive a 20% discount, and families of 4 or more can save 15% off the total price.

Can I Purchase Additional Activities or Excursions During the Cruise?

Yes, you can purchase additional activities or excursions during the cruise. The tour operator may offer optional extras, such as upgraded meals or guided tours, that you can add to your booking.

What Is the Policy for Bringing Personal Belongings or Valuables on the Tour?

The policy is that guests are responsible for their personal belongings and valuables. It’s recommended to bring only essential items and to keep a close eye on them during the tour. The operator is not liable for any lost or stolen items.

The Sum Up

This cruise to Spinalonga, Kolokytha Bay, and Agios Nikolaos offers an unforgettable day of exploration and relaxation. With round-trip transfers, a guided tour of historic Spinalonga, and a delightful barbecue lunch, it’s a well-rounded experience amidst breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re interested in history, swimming, or simply taking in the stunning views, this tour promises a day filled with adventure and enjoyment.