Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony, beckons travelers with its captivating history and scenic landscapes. This guided day trip promises an immersive experience, blending cultural exploration and culinary delights. Guests will embark on a private boat cruise, discover the island’s poignant past through a guided walking tour, and savor a local lunch at a seaside tavern. With roundtrip hotel transfers and a small group size, the excursion offers a comfortable and enriching way to uncover the unique charms of this Cretan gem. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an authentic adventure, this day trip unveils a side of Crete that is sure to linger long in the memory.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Lunch Experiences In Crete.
Key Points
- This guided day trip to Spinalonga Island includes roundtrip hotel transfers, a private boat cruise, a walking tour, and a local seafood lunch.
- The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and accommodates a maximum of 35 participants for a comfortable experience.
- Language options include German, French, and an optional audio guide in German, ensuring accessibility for various travelers.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for customers.
- The tour covers key highlights such as Elounda, Spinalonga Island, Plaka, and Agios Nikolaos, offering a comprehensive Cretan experience.
Trip Overview
This guided day trip to Spinalonga Island provides a comprehensive and immersive experience. Priced from $105.21 per person, the 8-hour tour includes roundtrip hotel transfers, a private boat cruise, and admission to the island.
Groups are kept to a maximum of 35 participants, ensuring a comfortable and personalized journey. Language options include German, French, and an optional audio guide in German.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence. Whether exploring the island’s history as a former leper colony or enjoying a seaside lunch, this day trip offers an engaging and well-rounded introduction to this captivating destination.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Crete.
Itinerary
The day trip begins with pickup from your hotel or nearest bus-accessible point, allowing for convenient transportation.
From there, the group travels through small towns to reach the charming village of Elounda.
Next, guests embark on a private boat cruise to the iconic Spinalonga Island, where a guided walking tour provides insights into its history as a former leper colony.
After the island exploration, the group enjoys a delightful lunch at a seaside tavern in Plaka, featuring fresh local fare and regional wine.
The final stop is the town of Agios Nikolaos, offering time to explore and shop before returning to the original pickup location.
Inclusions
What does the Spinalonga Island Guided Day Trip include?
For starters, you’ll get roundtrip hotel transfers with up to 6 pickup stops. A licensed guide will accompany you throughout the day.
You’ll take a private boat cruise to Spinalonga Island and get admission to the site.
Lunch at a seaside tavern in Plaka is provided, with options for fresh fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, plus local wine.
However, gratuities and personal expenses aren’t included.
The tour operates with a maximum of 35 participants in a 50-seater bus, ensuring comfort and safety.
Important Information
Bus will only be 80% full for comfort and safety.
The default lunch option is fresh fish, but chicken is available upon request.
The tour is open to participants of all ages – adults (13-99), children (3-12), and infants (2 and under).
This guided day trip to Spinalonga Island lasts approximately 8 hours and is limited to a maximum group size of 35 people in a 50-seater bus.
German and French are the available languages, with an optional audio guide in German.
Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
Based on the 1 review, customers overall rated the guided day trip to Spinalonga Island 4 out of 5 stars. Positive remarks were made on the boat ride to the island and the quality of the lunch. However, customers noted the absence of a promised visit to a herb farm, which seemed to be a disappointment. The table below summarizes the key customer feedback:
Feedback Aspect | Rating |
---|---|
Boat Ride | Positive |
Lunch Quality | Positive |
Herb Farm Visit | Negative |
Overall Rating | 4/5 |
Booking and Cancellation
The guided day trip to Spinalonga Island can be booked easily online.
Prices start from $105.21 per person, with the tour lasting around 8 hours. Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour has a maximum group size of 35 people, traveling in a 50-seater bus that’ll be only 80% full for comfort and safety.
The tour is available in multiple languages, with an optional audio guide in German.
Gratuities and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.
Accessibility and Accommodation
Participants of the Spinalonga Island guided day trip can expect a convenient hotel pickup and transfer service.
The tour operates with a maximum group size of 35 travelers in a 50-seater bus, ensuring ample personal space and comfort. The bus will only be 80% full, prioritizing safety and relaxation.
The default lunch option is fresh fish, but chicken is available upon request to accommodate dietary preferences.
This guided excursion caters to a range of age groups, welcoming adults aged 13 to 99, children aged 3 to 12, and even infants 2 and younger.
With thoughtful inclusions and adjustments, the Spinalonga Island tour give you an accessible and accommodating experience for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
While the Spinalonga Island guided day trip provides a comprehensive and seamless experience, travelers may have some common questions. Here are a few FAQs that can help address potential queries:
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Can I choose my own lunch option? | Yes, the default fish option can be substituted with chicken upon request. |
Is the boat ride suitable for children? | Absolutely, the boat ride to Spinalonga Island is safe and enjoyable for all ages. |
What if I need to cancel my trip? | You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility in your travel plans. |
The tour operator is committed to ensuring a memorable and hassle-free experience for all participants, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?
According to the trip details, outside food and drinks are not mentioned as being allowed. The trip includes a tavern lunch, so bringing your own meals and beverages may not be permitted.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour itinerary does not mention an option to extend the duration. Customers should expect the standard 8-hour tour length. Any requests to extend the tour would need to be discussed with the tour operator directly.
Do We Have Free Time to Explore Spinalonga Island on Our Own?
Yes, the tour provides free time for participants to explore Spinalonga Island on their own after the guided walking tour. This allows visitors to discover the island at their own pace.
Can I Request a Specific Dietary Requirement for the Lunch?
Yes, participants can request a specific dietary requirement for the lunch, such as a vegetarian or chicken option. The default lunch is fish, but the tour operator accommodates special dietary needs upon request.
Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?
Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a private tour. Guests can choose a private day trip with a smaller group size and personalized attention from the guide. This customized tour may cost more but offers a more exclusive experience.
Recap
Spinalonga Island offers a captivating day trip that combines history, stunning landscapes, and local cuisine. Priced at $105.21 per person, this 8-hour tour includes roundtrip hotel transfers, a private boat cruise, and a guided walking tour of the island. Visitors can enjoy a delicious lunch at a seaside tavern in Plaka, featuring fresh local fare and wine, all while experiencing the beauty and culture of Crete in comfort and style.
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