Imagine a day spent floating along the South Cretan coast, exploring a wildlife refuge, and taking refreshing dips in crystal-clear waters—all while enjoying a hearty Greek BBQ on a traditional wooden boat. That’s exactly what this Koufonisi Island cruise from Makrigialos promises. It’s a blend of relaxing sea views, scenic caves, and authentic coastal charm—perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and indulge in genuine Greek scenery.
What we love about this trip are its laid-back atmosphere and the opportunity to see undisturbed beaches and caves that most travelers simply don’t get to experience. The delicious BBQ meal on board gets high praise, as does the chance to swim in waters that many describe as “infinite blue.” One potential consideration? The 7-hour duration and boat travel might be a longer day for those sensitive to seasickness or with limited mobility. Still, this tour truly suits travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic, and authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots.
Key Points
- Authentic sea adventure aboard a traditional wooden boat with small-group intimacy
- Stunning scenery of caves, white sandy beaches, and crystal waters
- Delicious Greek BBQ lunch included, with plenty of options
- Wildlife refuge status means untouched nature and protected habitat
- Flexible schedule with swimming stops, photo opportunities, and free time on the beach
- Suitable for those comfortable on boats and looking for a relaxed, scenic day
An In-Depth Look at the Koufonisi Island Cruise
This tour offers a well-rounded day that balances scenic beauty, authentic local food, and relaxation. Starting from Makrigialos harbor, you’ll first be treated to a drive along the southeastern coast of Crete, providing glimpses of the South Cretan Sea. The views here are praised as “breathtaking,” making the drive as enjoyable as the boat trip itself.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Makry Gialos.
The Boat Experience: A Traditional Wooden Vessel
The cruise departs on a charming wooden ship, which adds a nostalgic touch absent from larger, modern catamarans. The smaller size of the vessel, as one review notes, creates a cozy atmosphere, making guests feel well cared for by the crew. Though it’s not a pirate ship (despite the playful name), the boat’s design and atmosphere lend a laid-back, intimate vibe that many travelers find appealing.
The 90-minute boat ride offers a chance to unwind and soak up the spectacular views of rocky coastlines and caves. According to reviews, the scenery from the sea is “breathtaking,” with caves along the coastline that are enchanting and perfect for snapping photos. Expect plenty of opportunities to admire the rugged coastline, and perhaps even touch the white sand beaches you pass.
Swimming in the Crystal Waters
Once you arrive at Koufonisi, the highlight for many is the swimming stops—not once, but twice. The water is described as “infinite blue,” inviting guests for a refreshing dip. One review highlights that the beaches are “fantastically picturesque,” with no crowds, giving you a peaceful setting to relax or snorkel.
The two-hour window on the island provides ample time to sunbathe, explore, and take photos. You might find the beaches here are more pristine and untouched than those on mainland Crete. Since Koufonisi is a NATURA 2000 wildlife refuge, you’ll be visiting an area of ecological importance, which adds an extra layer of value for nature enthusiasts.
The BBQ Lunch: A Greek Feast
The onboard BBQ lunch at 1:30 pm is a hit with most guests. It includes appetizers, Greek salad, grilled fish, as well as chicken and pork—a generous spread that caters to various tastes. Reviewers say the food is more than delicious, plentiful, and cooked to a high standard, with drinks always available. The fruit salad served as the day winds down is a sweet, refreshing end to the meal.
Many travelers comment that the lunch feels like a real feast, making the experience feel like a festive gathering rather than just a tour. The crew’s friendly and attentive service ensures everyone feels comfortable, which adds to the feeling of hospitality.
More Great Tours NearbyTime to Relax and Explore
After lunch, there’s plenty of time to sunbathe or take a second swim. The free time on the beach is appreciated by guests, who often mention how quiet and unspoiled the beaches are. As one reviewer notes, there was “nothing but us and the sea,” making the experience quite special.
Returning to Makrigialos
The boat departs Koufonisi at 3:30 pm, giving you a relaxed and unhurried morning and early afternoon. The return journey offers more scenic views, and you’ll arrive back around 5:00 pm—just in time for a relaxed evening after a day of sea and sun.
The Practicalities: What to Know Before Booking
This tour’s 7-hour duration makes it best suited for travelers who enjoy leisurely days and are comfortable on boats. It’s important to note that the experience isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness, as the boat ride involves water transport.
What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, beachwear, and snorkeling gear. The weather can be warm, so dressing comfortably is key.
What’s not allowed: Pets (except assistance dogs), weapons, smoking indoors, alcohol, littering, or party groups. The tour emphasizes respecting the protected wildlife refuge status of Koufonisi.
Cost and value: The tour includes boat tickets and lunch, making it a good value considering the scenic stops, food quality, and intimate boat experience. You’ll pay for a day that blends adventure, relaxation, and authentic Greek coastal scenery.
Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback
Guests consistently praise the friendly, attentive crew and the delicious BBQ lunch that feels more like a feast than a simple meal. As one reviewer puts it, “The crew was extremely friendly and helpful, food, drinks—everything was there.” Another describes the trip as “a real highlight,” emphasizing the breathtaking views and peaceful beaches.
The small group size and the absence of crowds at the beaches are recurring themes, making this a perfect trip for those craving a more authentic and intimate experience away from tourist-heavy spots.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, beaches, and authentic Greek cuisine. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable on boats and seeking a relaxed day with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities. Nature lovers will appreciate the fact that Koufonisi is a protected wildlife refuge, offering a chance to see untouched coastal environments.
However, if you’re prone to seasickness, have mobility limitations, or prefer more active or structured tours, you might want to consider other options. The tour’s laid-back pace and small-group setting make it a memorable, authentic experience—worthwhile for those who don’t mind a longer day at sea.
This Koufonisi Island cruise from Makrigialos offers a beautiful combination of scenic views, peaceful beaches, and delicious Greek food—all aboard a traditional wooden vessel. It’s more than just a boat trip; it’s a chance to connect with nature, enjoy quiet, untouched beaches, and savor a generous BBQ in a relaxed setting.
The experience’s authenticity and friendly crew stand out, making it a fantastic choice for nature lovers, photographers, and foodies alike. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want an unhurried day away from crowds and are comfortable on water. The value for money is good, considering the included lunch, scenic stops, and intimate boat ride.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of Greek hospitality, this cruise is a solid choice that promises memories of crystal waters, stunning caves, and genuine local flavors.
Is transportation to Makrigialos included?
No, the tour starts from Makrigialos harbor; you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the starting point.
How long is the boat ride to Koufonisi?
The journey takes approximately 90 minutes each way, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery.
What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the boat ticket, lunch with appetizers and grilled dishes, and the scenic cruise.
Are there swimming stops on the island?
Yes, there are two swimming stops, each lasting enough for a refreshing dip in the clear waters.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but it’s best suited for those comfortable on boats and with good mobility.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, beachwear, and snorkeling gear if you like.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or those who require assistance.
What is the weather like?
Expect warm weather typical of Crete’s summer, but always check the forecast and dress accordingly.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.
This tour strikes a fine balance between adventure and relaxation, offering an authentic taste of Greek coastal beauty. Whether you’re snapping photos of caves, lounging on quiet beaches, or enjoying a hearty BBQ, it’s a trip that stays with you long after the last swim.
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