Agios Nikolaos: Boat Trip to Spinalonga with Swim Stop

Agios Nikolaos: Boat Trip to Spinalonga with Swim Stop is a popular choice for travelers seeking a mix of history, scenic views, and relaxation on the water. Priced at just over $28 per person, this 4.5-hour cruise offers a chance to explore the legendary island of Spinalonga, known for its Venetian fortress and poignant history as a leper colony. Alongside this, you’ll enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Kolokitha Bay, with plenty of comforts onboard like bars, a restaurant, and shaded lounge areas.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the knowledgeable guide and the well-organized itinerary that balances educational moments with downtime for swimming and sunbathing. However, a key consideration is that entry tickets to Spinalonga are not included in the price, which means you’ll need to budget extra if you want to explore the island thoroughly. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, appreciate insightful storytelling, and want a comfortable, all-in-one day out on the water.

Key Points

Conveniently combines sightseeing and relaxation in one tour, offering both cultural insights and leisure opportunities.
Affordable value considering the scenic cruise, guided commentary, and swim stop in a stunning bay.
Knowledgeable guides provide engaging stories and context, especially on Spinalonga’s history as a leper colony.
Good onboard amenities such as bars, a restaurant, and lounge areas make the trip comfortable.
Flexible options for languages including English, Dutch, French, and German, catering to a wide audience.
Clear logistics with a small meeting point in Agios Nikolaos, and a straightforward check-in process.

A Detailed Look at the Journey

Starting Point & Ease of Access

This tour begins at the small Port of Agios Nikolaos, marked by a blue kiosk with the Nostos Cruises name. The port itself is tiny, making it easy to locate your departure point amidst the white boats docked there. Since the boats are the only ones in this small port, it’s straightforward to find your vessel without confusion.

The Boat & Onboard Experience

The vessel used for this trip is a 40-meter boat equipped with two bars, a lounge, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine. From the reviews, it’s clear that the crew offers friendly, high-quality service, and the boat itself is well-maintained and clean. Many travelers appreciate the relaxing atmosphere, with shaded lounges for sunbathing or just kicking back while enjoying the views.

The Cruise in Mirabello Bay

Once underway, you’ll cruise in the calm waters of Mirabello Bay, famed for its stunning scenery. The boat’s open deck allows for unobstructed vistas of Crete’s coastlines, with plenty of space for photos, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the sights. Several reviewers mentioned how the views alone justify the trip — the coastline, the hills, and the occasional glimpse of Cretan villages make for a memorable backdrop.

The Swim Stop at Kolokitha Bay

One of the tour’s highlights is the swim stop at Kolokitha Bay, a small, turquoise jewel where you can float in the warm, clear waters. The boat anchors in the bay, and you’re invited to jump in off the side for a refreshing swim. Reviewers consistently rave about this part, often describing the water as “beautiful” and “crystal clear.”

It’s important to note that life jackets are not provided, and the swim is in deeper water, so it may not be suitable for very young children or less confident swimmers. Timing for the swim is usually around 30 minutes, giving enough time to cool off and relax before heading to Spinalonga.

Visiting Spinalonga Island

The core of this tour is the visit to Spinalonga, a small island with a complex history. Famous for its Venetian fortress, the island also served as a leper colony until the early 20th century. You will have the option to explore the fortress, walk through the old settlements, and visit the Interpretive Centre, which dives into the harrowing stories of those who once lived there. The guides, like Gloria, are praised for their passion and knowledge, making the history come alive.

You’ll have around 1.5 hours on the island, which seems to be enough for a walk around and some exploration on your own. Some reviews mention wishing for more time, especially since the island is “empty and unfinished for travelers,” and prices in the island shop can be twice as high as on the mainland. The guided tour, however, provides a meaningful context that enhances the visit beyond just wandering around ruins.

Additional Points of Interest

On the way back, the boat passes by notable sights such as the legendary Pirate Barbarosa’s cave and the sunken city of Olous. These details add an element of discovery and storytelling, enriching the experience. Many guests find these snippets of information fascinating, making the cruise not just about the destination but about the stories of the sea and coast.

Food & Drink Onboard

The boat features a bar and a restaurant, offering Greek and international dishes at reasonable prices, according to reviews. Options are limited but tasty, with many appreciating the value for money. Drinks, snacks, and meals are available during the cruise, making it easy to relax without having to leave the boat.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the total cost of around $28, plus the optional extra for Spinalonga entry (which is not included in the ticket), this trip offers excellent value. The combination of scenic cruising, historical exploration, and swimming is a compelling package for the price. Reviewers repeatedly mention the friendliness of the crew, the instructive guides, and the stunning scenery, all of which contribute to a memorable day.

The positive feedback from travelers highlights how well-organized and enjoyable this experience is. Many mention that it’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The boat’s amenities make it comfortable, and the accessible timing allows for a relaxed pace.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who love history and storytelling but also want some relaxing downtime. It suits travelers who enjoy being on the water, discovering new places at a comfortable pace, and soaking up Cretan scenery. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with kids, as long as they’re comfortable with swimming in deeper waters and walking around ruins.

Final Thoughts: Is It for You?

If you’re after a well-organized, budget-friendly way to see one of Crete’s most iconic sites, this tour ticks all the boxes. The mix of stunning views, engaging guides, and a relaxing swim makes it a top choice for many visitors. The fact that the tour is flexible — with options for multiple languages and a short duration — adds to its appeal.

However, if you’re eager to spend more time exploring Spinalonga without rushing, or if you prefer included entrance fees, you might want to consider other options. Still, the overall value, combined with the memorable stories shared by guides like Gloria, makes this a highly recommended experience.

FAQs

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including time for swimming, exploring the island, and cruising.

Is the entry to Spinalonga included?
No, the ticket to enter Spinalonga is not included and costs about €20 per person during peak season. You’ll need to buy this locally.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in Dutch, English, French, and German. The French tour is only through a French-speaking guide.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meeting point is at the Port of Agios Nikolaos, marked by a blue kiosk with the Nostos Cruises name. The port is small and easy to find.

Can I buy food and drinks on the boat?
Yes, the boat has a bar and restaurant offering Greek and international cuisine at reasonable prices. You can also purchase drinks and snacks.

Is swimming safe?
Swimming occurs in deeper waters in Kolokitha Bay, and life jackets are not provided, so swimmers should be comfortable in the water and confident in their swimming ability.

How much does it cost?
The basic tour is around $28.23 per person, excluding the Spinalonga entry fee and optional food or drinks purchased onboard.

Would this trip suit families?
Yes, especially for families with children who enjoy swimming and exploring historical sites. Just keep in mind the deeper water swim and walking involved.

What do reviewers say?
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful scenery, good value, and the well-organized nature of the trip. Many also highlight the friendly crew and the quality of onboard amenities.

In summary, if you’re looking for a relaxed yet enriching day out from Agios Nikolaos, this boat tour offers a charming blend of history, scenery, and leisure. It’s especially worthwhile if you enjoy stories, stunning views, and a comfortable boat experience. Just remember to bring your own towel, and keep in mind that exploring Spinalonga fully might require a little extra time and budget.