Crete: Spinalonga, Elounda, & Agios Nikolaos Boat Tour & BBQ

If you’re looking for a way to pack a lot into a single day on Crete, this boat tour exploring Spinalonga Island, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos might just be your perfect match. It combines history, scenic views, beach relaxation, and a taste of local cuisine all in one neat package. What makes it especially appealing is the chance to learn about Spinalonga’s layered past, from Venetian fortress to Ottoman settlement, while enjoying some downtime at beautiful beaches.

We love the combination of guided tours and free time, giving you both insight and space to explore. Plus, the included BBQ lunch offers great value for the price, with choices for meat and vegetarians alike. One thing to keep in mind: this tour involves a fair bit of travel, including bus rides and boat crossings, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a busy, full-day itinerary. If you love discovering new places with a mix of history, scenic beauty, and relaxing moments, this tour is likely to suit you well.

A possible consideration is the additional costs like the boat ticket and Spinalonga entrance fee, which aren’t included in the base price. These extras are quite manageable but worth planning for. This tour caters most to travelers who enjoy structured days with a mix of culture, leisure, and scenic views—and who don’t mind a long day out on the water and on their feet.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines historical site visits, scenic beaches, and charming towns.
• Value for money: Includes transportation, guided tour, and a hearty BBQ for a reasonable price.
• Knowledgeable guides: Reviewers praise guides like Manuela and Dimitrios for clear, engaging commentary.
• Flexible experiences: Free time at Agios Nikolaos and Kolokytha Beach allows personalized exploring.
• Additional costs: Boat ticket and Spinalonga entrance are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Weather dependent: The tour relies on favorable sea and weather conditions, so be flexible.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup from numerous locations across Crete, including Heraklion, Malia, Stalida, and others. This convenience means you avoid the hassle of finding your own way to the meeting point. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride that lasts about 1.5 hours, winding along the scenic coast and through the St. George Gorge. Several reviewers mention that the transport is clean, and the air conditioning works well—important details for comfort during what can be a long day.

One point that pops up in reviews is the importance of punctuality. While most guests find pickups smoothly managed, a few note delays or confusing meeting points. The provider contacts travelers a day before to confirm details, which helps set expectations. The ride is quite scenic, giving you your first glimpses of Crete’s rugged coastline and lush greenery.

The Beach at Kolokytha

The first major stop is Kolokytha Beach, a quiet, sandy stretch perfect for swimming and relaxing. This secluded spot is a hit among visitors, especially those who appreciate less crowded beaches. The water is described as crystal clear, inviting for a quick dip or snorkeling. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here—enough to soak in the sun, take photos, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Reviews highlight that the BBQ lunch served on the boat here is a standout feature. You’ll have a choice of pork, chicken, or vegetarian burger, accompanied by Greek salad, bread, feta, fruits, and a drink—either wine, lemonade, or water. The ship’s crew, including the chef, is praised for preparing delicious, authentic food, making this a solid value at €15 extra. Guests mention the BBQ as one of the best parts of the day, with some describing it as “worthy of a very good rating.”

Crossing to Spinalonga Island

Around 12:45 pm, the boat departs for Spinalonga Island—a highlight of the tour. This crossing takes about 40 minutes across Mirabello Bay, a journey filled with scenic views of the coastline, sea caves, and rocky outcrops. As you approach, you’ll get a first glimpse of the Venetian fortress rising from the island’s landscape.

Once ashore, a guided tour is included, led by knowledgeable guides like Manuela and Dimitrios. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their engaging, clear explanations about Spinalonga’s layered past—from its origins as a natural barrier for ancient Olous, to its role as a Saracen pirate refuge, and later a Venetian fortress and Ottoman settlement. Some reviews mention that guides provide personal insights, making the history feel alive rather than just facts.

Guests have about an hour and a half to explore the island independently after the guided tour, which is enough time to walk around the fortress walls, take photos, or visit the small museum. Keep in mind, entrance to Spinalonga costs €20 for adults (free under 18), which is separate from the tour price, and the boat ticket is an additional €15 for adults. Many reviewers find these costs reasonable, especially considering the historical significance and scenic beauty.

Final stop: Agios Nikolaos

After leaving Spinalonga around 2:45 pm, the bus heads to Agios Nikolaos, arriving around 3:45 pm. This lively town is famous for its bottomless lake, Voulismeni, and bustling waterfront cafes. Visitors love strolling along the promenade, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying a coffee with a view of the lake. About an hour is allocated for exploration, which is enough to soak up the town’s charm and grab some photos.

Reviewers mention that Agios Nikolaos offers a modern, lively contrast to the quieter beaches and historic fortress. The town’s shops and cafes are perfect for a quick refresh or some light shopping, making it a nice way to wind down before heading back.

Return Journey

By 6:30 pm, the tour departs from Agios Nikolaos back to Heraklion, completing a full, busy day. The journey offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights, with plenty of scenic views along the coast. Some travelers mention that the return trip can be long, especially if you’re coming from Chania, but overall, most find it a worthwhile adventure.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season. You’ll want to confirm your pickup location and time, as these can vary.
• Remember to bring essentials such as sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and cash for extras. The tour involves a lot of outdoor time, and having cash handy simplifies paying for additional costs like the boat ticket and entrance.
• The BBQ lunch is optional and paid separately (€15), so plan accordingly if you wish to indulge.
• Keep in mind that the tour is weather dependent—bad weather can lead to cancellations or changes in plans.
• If you’re sensitive to motion, prepare for the boat crossings, which are generally smooth but can sometimes be choppy depending on the sea conditions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day excursion suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and leisure. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want to see some of the most iconic spots on Crete without the hassle of planning individual transport. The guided tour adds educational value, especially if you’re interested in the rich, layered history of Spinalonga.

It’s also perfect for those who appreciate scenic beaches and relaxed towns—Agios Nikolaos offers a lively yet charming atmosphere. Foodies and casual explorers will enjoy the BBQ, while families or groups who enjoy shared experiences will find the itinerary engaging and well-organized.

However, if you prefer a slow, relaxed day or need accessibility accommodations, this tour might feel a bit rushed or challenging, given the walking involved and the boat crossings.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from select locations, along with air-conditioned bus transportation.

How much does the boat ticket cost? The boat ticket costs €15 for adults (additional for Spinalonga entrance), which is paid on the day of the tour.

What is included in the BBQ meal? The BBQ includes your choice of pork, chicken, or a vegetarian burger, accompanied by Greek salad, bread, feta cheese, fruits, and a drink (wine, lemonade, or water). It is paid separately (€15).

How long is the total tour? The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Can I skip any part of the tour? The schedule is structured, but you’ll have some free time at Agios Nikolaos and Kolokytha Beach to explore or relax.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children are welcome, but the tour involves a fair amount of walking and boat crossings, so consider your child’s comfort level.

Final Thoughts

This Crete boat tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending history, scenic beauty, and relaxation in a single day. The inclusion of a guided tour of Spinalonga, time at a peaceful beach, and a lively town visit makes it a fantastic option for those wanting to see the highlights without the stress of logistical planning.

The value for money is solid, especially with the option to add a tasty BBQ and enjoy stunning views along the coast. While there are extra costs to keep in mind, most travelers agree that the experience is worth it for the chance to explore some of Crete’s most iconic spots in comfort.

If you’re eager for a full-day adventure that combines culture, scenery, and leisure, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour is likely to leave you with memorable stories and plenty of photos. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of the Mirabello region.

This tour is a balanced mix of education, scenery, and fun—bringing together the best of Crete’s historical sites, charming towns, and beautiful beaches, all with a touch of Greek hospitality.