Late Cruise to Spinalonga, Beaches & Barbarossa Cave

A Full Look at the Late Cruise to Spinalonga, Beaches & Barbarossa Cave

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Crete, this late afternoon boat cruise offers a chance to see some of the island’s most captivating sights from a unique perspective. This tour is designed for those who love scenic views, historical glimpses, and relaxing swims, all wrapped into a manageable day-long experience.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its combination of stunning coastal scenery and easy, no-hassle logistics. The inclusion of hotel pick-up and drop-off is a real bonus, especially if you’re staying outside the main port area. Plus, the chance to enjoy a delicious onboard salad and fruit bar adds a nice touch of value. On the flip side, one potential drawback is that you don’t disembark on Spinalonga Island itself, which may disappoint history buffs eager to explore the island’s streets firsthand.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation without the hassle of planning multiple stops. It suits those who enjoy comfortable boat rides, beautiful coastal vistas, and a casual pace. If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic day with some swimming and a bit of history from the water, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Scenic views of Spinalonga and rugged coastline from the boat
• Multiple stops for swimming at Skistra and Kolokytha beaches
• Informative guide sharing insights about the sights
• All-inclusive onboard meal with salads, fruits, and drinks
• Limited time on Spinalonga—view from the boat only
• Variable reviews regarding food quality and timing
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day rather than rigorous exploration
• Possible delays or dissatisfaction due to inconsistent meal and stop quality

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off early, with pickup from a handful of designated hotel points or bus stops, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation logistics. The drive to Elounda is short but scenic, giving you a preview of Crete’s lush landscape. Expect the ride to be around two hours, so bringing a book or some music can help pass the time.

The Cruise Begins: Mirabello Bay and Spinalonga

Once aboard the boat, you’ll cruise through Mirabello Bay, which is arguably one of the prettiest parts of eastern Crete. The main highlight here is the view of Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony and Venice fortress. You won’t step onto the island, but the boat cruise offers excellent vantage points for photos and a chance to listen to your guide’s commentary. Our source reviews note that the guides are knowledgeable and add context, making the experience more meaningful even from afar.

Barbarossa Cave: Pirate Lore and Photo Opportunities

Continuing along the coast, you’ll pass the legendary Barbarossa Cave, rumored to be a pirate hideout used by the infamous Barbarossa. You won’t explore the cave directly, but the natural sea cave’s dramatic cliffs make for fantastic photos. If you enjoy wild coastlines and dramatic natural formations, this stop is a scenic highlight.

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Beach Stops: Skistra and Kolokytha

The two main swimming stops are at Skistra Beach and Kolokytha Beach. Skistra is described as a peaceful and secluded spot, perfect for a quiet swim and some sunbathing. The waters are clear, inviting you to relax and enjoy Crete’s famous blue sea.

The second stop, Kolokytha Beach, is surrounded by green hills with soft sands and turquoise waters. Here, you can stroll, swim, or just soak in the scenery. These stops are where many guests rate the tour highly, especially for the refreshing swims and beautiful natural settings.

Onboard Experience: Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy a complimentary lunch buffet featuring hot dogs, toast, fresh fruits, and even some local spirits like raki and wine. Reviews mention that the quality of the food can be hit or miss, with some travelers noting the food was not particularly good and arriving late (around 4 pm). However, the refreshing drinks and relaxed atmosphere still make it worth enjoying.

Additional beverages are available for purchase, which can be a good idea if you’re craving something more elaborate or a cocktail. The onboard crew is described as friendly and professional, adding to the overall comfort.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

After a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, the boat docks back at Elounda around 6 pm, and a bus takes you back to your hotel. Expect to arrive around 7 to 8 pm, giving you time to unwind after your day out. This smooth, organized schedule keeps things simple and stress-free.

What Travelers Say: The Good and The Not-So-Good

Multiple reviews give us a balanced look. One traveler called it a disaster because the salad bar was missing and the food served was not what was promised—a mixture of hot dogs and only one piece of fruit. They also felt the beach stops were underwhelming and the timing was off.

Conversely, others appreciated the stunning views of Elounda’s waters and found the swimming stops at Skistra and Kolokytha to be the best part of the day. One review highlighted that the water was very nice, and the beach was enjoyable.

The key takeaway here is that the experience can vary significantly, often depending on expectations around food and timing. It seems the scenic and relaxing aspects tend to be consistent, but the meals and stops can sometimes fall short.

Transport, Duration, and Value

The tour lasts about 7 to 9.5 hours, with most of that spent on the boat or traveling between sites. The price includes round-trip transport, the boat cruise, stops at the beaches and Barbarossa Cave, a guide, and food. This all-in-one package offers decent value for the price, especially considering the convenience of hotel transfers and the scenic experience.

However, the quality of the meal and limited time on Spinalonga from the water may be factors to consider if you’re after a more historical or extensive land visit. For many, the relaxed cruise and swimming opportunities outweigh these drawbacks.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise is well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a laid-back day enjoying Crete’s coastline. It’s great for those who prefer not to disembark on Spinalonga but want the views from the water, combined with relaxing swims in unspoiled beaches. If your priority is historical exploration or gourmet food, you might find this experience lacking.

It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate easy logistics—the hotel pickup, the straightforward schedule, and the inclusive meal. If you’re comfortable with some variability in food quality and timing, you’ll find this a pleasant way to spend a day at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get to explore Spinalonga Island on this tour?
No, you won’t disembark on Spinalonga Island. Instead, the cruise offers a scenic view of the fortress from the boat, with insightful commentary from the guide.

Are there stops at beaches for swimming?
Yes, the tour includes stops at Skistra Beach and Kolokytha Beach, where you can swim and relax in clear waters.

Is meals included?
Yes, there is a complimentary salad and fruit bar along with hot dogs, toast, and drinks like water, raki, and wine. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

What is the duration of the tour?
The total tour lasts between 7 and 9.5 hours, including transportation, cruising, stops, and return.

Is hotel pickup guaranteed?
There are five pickup locations, and the operator will confirm your specific pickup time and point after booking. The service is designed to be convenient and hassle-free.

Can I expect good views from the boat?
Absolutely. The cruise provides excellent vantage points of coastal cliffs, Barbarossa Cave, and Spinalonga, making it a photographer’s delight.

Are there any restrictions on what to bring?
Bring sun protection essentials such as a hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Pets are not allowed.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Stops are generally brief but sufficient for swimming and enjoying the scenery. However, some guests feel the beach stops could be slightly longer.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This late cruise around Spinalonga and Crete’s coast offers a relaxing way to enjoy some of the island’s most picturesque sights without the hassle of land excursions. The scenic views, swimming opportunities, and onboard amenities make it appealing for travelers seeking a leisurely day at sea. The inclusion of hotel transfers and a simple schedule add to its convenience.

However, the mixed reviews about food quality and timing suggest it’s best for those with flexible expectations. If you’re after stunning coastal scenery, enjoyable swims, and a relaxed pace, this cruise can deliver a satisfying experience. For history buffs eager to explore Spinalonga on foot, this might feel a bit limited, but for most, the view from the boat and the beaches will be plenty.

Ultimately, this tour suits travelers who prioritize ease and scenic beauty over in-depth exploration or gourmet dining. It’s a nice way to spend a warm afternoon, soaking up the sights and sounds of Crete’s beautiful shoreline.

You can check availability for your dates here: