Luxury Sailing Cruise in Agios Nikolaos: Half-Day & Full-Day Trip

Planning a day on the water in Crete doesn’t have to mean roughing it or settling for crowded boat tours. This luxury sailing cruise offered by Nostos Cruises combines comfort, stunning scenery, and cultural stops—all within a tailored experience that appeals both to those seeking relaxation and adventure. Whether you opt for a half-day escape or a full-day exploration, this trip promises a unique way to see some of Crete’s most picturesque spots from the comfort of a well-equipped yacht.

One of the standout features is the luxurious yacht itself, loaded with amenities like snorkeling gear, towels, a sound system, and even stand-up paddleboards and floating mattresses. The ability to customize your trip—adding stops at fascinating islands like Psira or enjoying a delicious local lunch—makes this experience versatile and appealing.

A possible consideration? The price point is on the higher side, at over $1,000 for a group of up to 10 people. While this might seem steep, the combination of private space, quality amenities, and exclusive stops can offer good value for travelers looking for a premium experience. This tour suits those who appreciate comfort, beautiful scenery, and a mix of relaxation with cultural highlights, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family and want a private, tailored adventure.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between half-day or full-day trips, allowing you to tailor the experience to your schedule and interests.
• All-inclusive amenities: Snorkel gear, drinks, towels, paddleboards, and even floating mattresses are included for maximum fun and comfort.
• Beautiful stops: Explore Spinalonga Island, relax at Kolokytha Bay, and on full-day trips, visit Psira Island for a touch of history.
• Private and intimate: Only your group participates, making the experience more personal and relaxed.
• Gourmet options: Full-day trips offer a chance to indulge in lunch at renowned local restaurants.
• Extra features: Music, sea noodles, and unlimited drinks add to the enjoyment on board.

The Experience: A Deep Dive

Setting sail from the charming port of Agios Nikolaos, you’ll find the start point at the Marina of Alkyon Sailing Yacht. The boat itself is a 50 schooner with cabins, a kitchen, toilets, and a range of amenities that clearly prioritize comfort. The reviews mention a captain named Nectarios, who is appreciated for being welcoming and professional—something to note if you’re looking for a smooth, informative ride.

The Itinerary

Half-Day Option: The typical cruise takes around four hours, making it ideal for those with limited time or looking for a quick escape. Within roughly an hour of sailing across the tranquil Mirabello Gulf, you’ll reach the highlight: Spinalonga Island. This former leper colony and Venetian fortress is a must-see for its intriguing history and striking views. Expect to circle the island for photo opportunities, as the reviewer noted, “We were a family of 5 and were joined by another 3 couples. Our boat was a 50 schooner with cabins, kitchen, toilets, and other amenities”—highlighting the comfort factor and the intimate group size.

The Bay Stop at Kolokytha: After exploring Spinalonga, the boat heads to Kolokytha Bay, a secluded spot with incredibly clear waters. Here, the yacht anchors for about an hour, giving guests time to swim, float, or simply lounge. Reviewers mention being captivated by the stunning views and the peaceful environment—perfect for unwinding. Whether you choose to stay on the yacht or dip into the water, this spot exemplifies the relaxing side of the trip.

Full-Day Option: Adds more variety and depth. You can extend your time at each location or opt for a different route that includes Psira Island. As an uninhabited, barren island, Psira offers a different vibe—more about the untouched nature and brief exploration of its history. Afterward, the trip continues to Mochlos, known for its excellent seafood restaurants, where you can indulge in a leisurely lunch with fresh fish and local flavors.

The Highlights

• Spinalonga Island: Rich in stories and scenic views, the island’s history as a former leper colony lends an air of mystery.
• Kolokytha Bay: Its azure waters make for ideal swimming or relaxing onboard with music and snacks.
• Psira Island (full-day trips): Uninhabited, with a stark, wild beauty and a peek into Crete’s less-developed side.
• Mochlos: A charming fishing village where a wonderful seafood lunch awaits, especially if you choose the full-day excursion.

Amenities and Extras

The cruise’s thoughtful inclusions really enhance the experience. Unlimited drinks, including wine, beer, soft drinks, and water, ensure a relaxing atmosphere. The snorkeling equipment and stand-up paddleboards give active travelers a chance to explore the waters more intimately. Towels are provided, and the onboard audio system keeps the vibe lively.

The review highlights that the boat has amenities like cabins, a kitchen, and toilets, which can be a game-changer on longer trips. The availability of floating mattresses and sea noodles adds a playful element, perfect for lounging or floating around in the water.

Practical Details

• The price of ~$1,017 for a group of up to 10 translates to around $100 per person, which, given the inclusions and privacy, can be quite reasonable.
• The meeting point is centrally located at the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, easily accessible by public transport or taxi.
• The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, which guarantees a more relaxed and personalized atmosphere.
• Cancellation policy is flexible—free up to 24 hours before—ideal if your plans are subject to change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, personalized experience on Crete’s waters. It’s especially ideal for families, romantic couples, or small groups of friends who want privacy and comfort. If you appreciate scenic beauty, historical stops, and premium amenities, you’ll find this cruise ticks many boxes.

It’s also well-suited for those who want a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration, with options to swim, enjoy local cuisine, and learn about the area’s history—all in a single day. However, keep in mind the cost, which reflects the luxury and exclusivity of the experience.

The Sum Up

This luxury sailing cruise in Agios Nikolaos offers a fine blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery. With options for half and full-day trips, it caters to a variety of schedules and interests, from quick scenic outings to more in-depth explorations. The boat’s amenities, combined with the stunning stops at Spinalonga, Kolokytha Bay, and possibly Psira Island, make it a memorable way to see Crete from the water.

While the price may be on the higher side, you’ll enjoy a level of privacy, luxury, and personalized service that many standard tours can’t match. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a premium experience, this cruise is likely to deliver a day full of beautiful views, relaxing waters, and cultural highlights.

In essence, this trip is best for those who value comfort and exclusivity, along with breathtaking scenery and a hint of history—all wrapped into a seamless, enjoyable boat ride.

FAQ

What is included in the price of the cruise?
The price covers snacks like a fruit mixture, unlimited drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and more), snorkeling equipment, towels, music, stand-up paddleboards, floating mattresses, and sea noodles.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, lunch on board is not included unless ordered, and hotel transfers are extra if you choose to add them. The tour itself is private, so all costs are upfront unless you opt for extras.

Can I choose between half-day and full-day trips?
Absolutely. You can select either the four-hour half-day cruise or the more extensive full-day trip, which includes additional stops and a chance to explore Psira Island and enjoy a local restaurant lunch.

How many people can join the cruise?
Up to 10 guests per group, making it an intimate and personalized experience.

What are the main destinations?
You’ll visit Spinalonga Island, explore Kolokytha Bay for swimming, and on full-day trips, visit Psira Island and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Mochlos.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Yes, the amenities and relaxed pace make it family-friendly, especially with the inclusion of snorkeling gear, floating mattresses, and plenty of room to relax.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the boat is equipped with amenities, travelers with specific mobility requirements should check directly with the provider for accessibility details.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a waterproof camera. All towels and snorkeling equipment are provided.

This comprehensive experience combines the best of Crete’s natural beauty, culture, and luxury, making it a standout way to enjoy your time in Agios Nikolaos.