Spinalonga Island, a former Venetian fortress and leper colony, beckons visitors to explore its rich history and captivating scenery. This guided day trip takes travelers on a private fishing boat cruise to the island, where they’ll uncover its well-preserved architectural gems and gain insights into its fascinating past. Complemented by a delightful lunch in the picturesque village of Plaka, the tour offers an immersive experience of Cretan culture and heritage. With convenient hotel pickup and a small group size, this excursion promises an intimate and enriching adventure. But what secrets does Spinalonga hold, and what stories will unfold on this remarkable journey?
Key Points
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This Spinalonga Island day trip includes hotel pickup/drop-off, private boat cruise, guided tour, lunch, and entrance fee to the historic island.
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The tour has a maximum capacity of 35 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
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Visitors can explore the well-preserved Venetian fortress, learn about the island’s dark past as a leper colony, and gain insights into Crete’s rich culture.
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After the Spinalonga tour, the trip includes a visit to the charming village of Plaka for a complimentary lunch with stunning views of the island.
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The tour is stroller-accessible and has a flexible cancellation policy, making it convenient for travelers.
Overview of the Tour
The Spinalonga Island Day Trip offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Cretan history and culture.
With 32 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate, this excursion has earned a Badge of Excellence.
The all-day cruise includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, a private fishing boat cruise to Spinalonga Island, a guided tour of the island’s history, and a visit to the village of Plaka for lunch, swimming, and shopping.
The tour includes lunch, a professional guide, and the entrance fee to Spinalonga, catering to a maximum of 35 travelers.
Priced from £82.04 with a Lowest Price Guarantee, this tour offers an immersive cultural experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Crete.
Itinerary and Activities
This Spinalonga Island Day Trip offers a comprehensive itinerary for exploring Cretan history and culture.
It starts with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Guests will then embark on a private fishing boat cruise to Spinalonga Island, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour to learn about the island’s fascinating history.
After the tour, the group will visit the charming village of Plaka for a delicious included lunch, with a choice of fish or chicken. Visitors can also indulge in swimming and shopping opportunities in Plaka before heading back.
With a maximum group size of 35, this tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
Inclusions and Costs
The tour includes a delightful lunch, a knowledgeable professional guide, and the entry fee to Spinalonga Island, which costs 8.00 Euros.
The overall price for this experience starts from £82.04, with a lowest price guarantee. Gratuities aren’t included in the cost.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 35 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
Some additional details:
- Confirmation received at booking
- Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible
- Near public transportation, with infants sitting on laps
- Minimum participation of 4 pax from Ammoudara – Agia Pelagia
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Pickup and Departure Details
Encompassing a range of convenient pickup points, the tour departs from select hotels in Agia Pelagia Heraklion, Amoudara, Karteros, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, Chersonissos, Malia, Analypsis, Anissaras, Stalida, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda, with a departure time set for 07:00 am.
This ensures easy access for travelers, streamlining the start of the day’s adventure. Whether you’re staying in the bustling Heraklion area or the picturesque coastal towns, the tour makes it simple to join the excursion and embark on the captivating journey to Spinalonga Island.
With the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, you can sit back, relax, and learn about the rich history and enchanting scenery that awaits.
Guided Tour of Spinalonga
Embarking on the private fishing boat, travelers are whisked away on a scenic cruise to Spinalonga Island, the former leper colony that has become a symbol of Cretan history and resilience.
Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide leads the group on a captivating tour:
- Exploring the island’s well-preserved Venetian fortress, once a stronghold against invaders
- Learning about the poignant history of the leper colony, where patients lived in isolation for decades
- Visiting the haunting remnants of the abandoned village, a testament to the island’s dark past
- Discovering the island’s natural beauty, from its rugged coastline to the crystal-clear waters
- Gaining a deeper understanding of Crete’s rich cultural heritage and the resilience of its people.
Lunch and Swimming in Plaka
After exploring the captivating history of Spinalonga, travelers head to the charming village of Plaka for a well-deserved lunch and time to swim in the crystal-clear waters.
The tour includes a complimentary meal, with a default option of fresh fish or chicken upon request. Visitors can enjoy their lunch while taking in the stunning views of the Spinalonga fortress across the bay.
Following the meal, they’re free to spend time swimming, shopping at the local boutiques, or simply relaxing in the picturesque seaside setting.
This portion of the tour offers a perfect blend of Cretan culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
Convenient Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
The tour conveniently offers hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations across the region, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.
Travelers can be picked up from popular spots like:
- Agia Pelagia Heraklion
- Amoudara
- Karteros
- Gouves
- Gournes
This service eliminates the need for arranging transportation, allowing guests to simply relax and enjoy the day’s activities.
With a 7:00 AM departure time, the tour ensures an early start to make the most of the day’s exploration of Spinalonga Island and the charming village of Plaka.
Additional Tour Information
This tour has a minimum participation requirement of 4 travelers when departing from the Ammoudara – Agia Pelagia area.
Pickup is available from a variety of locations, with a 7:00 am departure time. The tour is stroller-accessible but not wheelchair-friendly, and infants must sit on laps.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the tour. Gratuities aren’t included in the tour price, which starts at £82.04 and has a lowest price guarantee.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 35 travelers and includes a professional guide, lunch, and entrance fees to Spinalonga Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Boat Wheelchair Accessible?
Unfortunately, the boat to Spinalonga Island is not wheelchair accessible. The tour provider notes that the activity is not suitable for those in wheelchairs, though strollers are allowed and infants can sit on laps.
Will Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Be Available for Lunch?
The tour’s default lunch option is fish, but they can accommodate chicken upon request. However, the website does not mention vegetarian or vegan meal options. Guests with dietary restrictions should inquire directly with the tour operator.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks/Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the boat. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any specific policies or restrictions.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and light, breathable clothing are recommended to explore the island comfortably. There’s no need for formal attire on this relaxed day trip.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?
The tour has no age restrictions, but infants must sit on laps. Children of all ages are welcome to join the excursion, making it suitable for families.
Sum Up
This comprehensive Spinalonga Island Day Trip offers an immersive cultural experience. Travelers can explore the island’s well-preserved Venetian fortress, learn about its history as a leper colony, and enjoy a delightful lunch in the charming village of Plaka. With convenient hotel pickup and a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and enriching way to discover Cretan heritage.
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