Elounda: Spinalonga Guided Boat Tour with BBQ and Swimming

Exploring the Elounda: Spinalonga Guided Boat Tour with BBQ and Swimming

This guided boat trip around Crete’s stunning northeastern coast offers a blend of history, scenic beauty, and relaxation, all wrapped into a six-hour package. While the price is quite accessible at just over $28 per person, the experience aims to deliver a little bit of everything—visiting the legendary island of Spinalonga, enjoying a beachside BBQ, and taking refreshing dips in crystal-clear waters.

We particularly appreciate how this tour combines cultural exploration with leisurely beach time—meaning you get a well-rounded taste of Crete’s charms. That said, it’s worth noting that the overall rating hovers around 3.1/5 based on reviews, with some travelers raising points about uneven paths and specific logistical details.

This tour suits those who love a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxing. If you’re comfortable with some walking and are keen to explore history but also want a straightforward, budget-friendly trip, this could be a good pick. However, if you prefer more personalized or in-depth historical tours, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Affordable Value: At approximately $28, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that includes transport, guided insights, and a BBQ meal.
• Historic Highlights: Visiting Spinalonga gives insight into its layered past as a fortress, pirate refuge, and Greek island.
• Beach and Swimming: You’ll enjoy time at Kolokytha Beach, ideal for swimming and photos, with some reviewers noting the scenic, peaceful setting.
• Guided Commentary: The tour features professional guides, primarily in English, with options in German, French, Polish, and Russian on select days.
• Convenient Transportation: The boat trips across Mirabello Bay are smooth, with about 20-minute ferry segments connecting each stop.
• Mixed Reviews: Some guests mention uneven paths and rocky terrain, so it’s worth considering if walking or uneven surfaces are challenging.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at the Windmill small port in Elounda, with the guide waiting at least 10 minutes before the scheduled 9:50 AM start (or 11:50 AM on Thursdays). You’ll need to arrive promptly to ensure you don’t miss the boat, as late arrivals aren’t refunded. The tour lasts about six hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and meal times.

The Ferry Crossings

The boat is the main mode of transport, with three ferry segments—each lasting roughly 20 minutes—cruising across Mirabello Bay. These gentle crossings set the stage for the day’s adventures, giving travelers plenty of time to enjoy the sea breeze and views.

Kolokytha Beach Stop

The first major stop is Kolokytha Beach, a calm, sandy cove where you’ll have approximately 1.5 hours to unwind. The water here is notably clear and inviting, making it perfect for swimming or snapping photos. Reviewers like Vingenza appreciated the scenic views and the relaxed atmosphere. This beach offers the chance to snorkel, so bring your gear.

However, she also notes that the path leading down to the beach can be rocky, steep, and uneven—probably fine for most, but those with mobility issues or unsteady on their feet might find it a bit tricky. This detail is useful for travelers to consider beforehand.

Exploring Spinalonga Island

The highlight for many is the visit to Spinalonga, known for its layered past—once a Venetian fortress, later a leper colony, and a symbol of resilience. The guided tour here provides historical insights, with the guide explaining the island’s story as a natural barrier for ancient Olous, a pirate refuge, and Venetian fortification.

Expect about 1.5 hours on the island, which includes some time for photographs, wandering, and learning from the guide. The island’s ruins, especially the Venetian fortress, are striking against the sea backdrop. One reviewer mentioned how the guides are knowledgeable, providing context that enriches the visit beyond just sightseeing.

Returning to Elounda

After exploring Spinalonga, the boat takes you back across Mirabello Bay, returning to Elounda. The final stop is a brief photo opportunity at Elounda’s scenic harbor, giving you a chance to soak in the views once more before the tour concludes.

The BBQ Lunch

A real perk of this tour is the onboard BBQ lunch. You’ll choose from pork, chicken, or vegetarian options, served with cabbage salad, bread, and fruit. The included glass of wine or lemonade complements the meal nicely. Review snippets suggest the food is good value and satisfying, especially after a morning of sightseeing.

Practical Aspects

• Pricing: At around $28, the trip packs in a good balance of transport, entertainment, and meals—making it quite a competitive choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Inclusives: The tour includes boat tickets, the BBQ, a guided tour in English, and liability insurance. It’s noteworthy that entry to Spinalonga costs an extra €20 (free for children up to 18), and some discounts apply for students and seniors.
• Language options: Besides English, guides speak German, with some days offering French, Polish, and Russian. Check your booking details if language is a priority.

What the Tour Means for You

This trip is perfect if you’re after a well-paced, budget-friendly day that combines history, coastal scenery, and leisure. You’ll love the stunning views across Mirabello Bay and the chance to walk on the historic island of Spinalonga, which has become a symbol of resilience. The swim at Kolokytha is a bonus, especially if you enjoy a peaceful beach away from crowds.

However, the overall review score indicates some inconsistency. Several guests, like Vingenza, advise that if you’re not steady on your feet or uncomfortable with rocky paths, you might find parts of the trip a little challenging. The uneven terrain and rocky paths at the beach, in particular, are worth noting.

Plus, if you expect a deeply personalized experience or more time on each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed. The group size isn’t specified, but it’s likely a typical small-group experience given the nature of such tours, which helps with the flow of sightseeing and interaction with guides.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In essence, this tour offers excellent value for money. For just over $28, you get a scenic boat ride, a glimpse into the fascinating history of Spinalonga, a relaxing beach stop, and a tasty BBQ lunch. It’s a straightforward choice for travelers who want a low-stress, scenic day with highlights that fit well into a broader Crete itinerary.

If you’re someone who appreciates cultural insights, scenic coastal views, and a relaxed day in good company, this tour will suit you well. It’s less ideal if you have mobility concerns or are looking for a highly personalized, in-depth historical experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the Windmill small port in Elounda, arriving at least 10 minutes early.

How long is each ferry segment?
Each boat crossing takes about 20 minutes, providing smooth transitions between stops and scenic views along the way.

What’s the cost of entry to Spinalonga?
Entry fees are €20 per adult, but children under 18 are free. Some discounts apply for students with valid cards and EU citizens over 65.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are primarily in English and German, with some days offering French, Polish, and Russian. Check your booking to confirm your preferred language.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen, and wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths, especially if visiting the beach or exploring the island.

Can I swim at Kolokytha Beach?
Yes, the beach offers clear, inviting waters perfect for a swim, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the sand.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, families can enjoy the day, but be mindful that rocky or steep terrain might be challenging for very young children or those with limited mobility.

Final Words

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Crete’s natural beauty and history, bundled into a budget-friendly package. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy combining sightseeing with leisure, without the pressure of a highly intensive schedule. Expect beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and a tasty BBQ, all while discovering the intriguing story of Spinalonga.

For those wanting an affordable, scenic day filled with culture and coastline, this experience is a solid choice. Just keep in mind the terrain and plan accordingly, especially if mobility might be an issue. With the right mindset, you’ll come away with memorable photos, new insights, and a good dose of Crete’s laid-back charm.