Boat tour Panorama Spinalonga with BBQ and Agios Nicolaos

Imagine a day spent cruising Crete’s sparkling waters, exploring historic landmarks, enjoying a flavorful BBQ, and relaxing in the charming streets of Agios Nikolaos. This boat tour promises just that—a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and local flavors, all at an accessible price.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see Spinalonga from the water, with its evocative fortress and past as a leper colony. Second, the opportunity to swim at two different spots—Kolokytha Bay and near Plaka—offering plenty of time to cool off and soak up the sun. Third, the inclusion of a traditional BBQ lunch with flexible options, making it both tasty and convenient. One thing to keep in mind: the tour length can vary quite a bit, from 4.5 to 12 hours, depending on your pickup and stop choices. But if you’re after a full, authentic Crete experience, this tour hits the mark.

This trip is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxed exploration. If you’re not keen on long boat rides or have mobility challenges, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments. Overall, it’s a great choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Crete’s coastline and culture without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

• Scenic Boat Ride: Enjoy panoramic views of Spinalonga and the surrounding coastlines.
• Historical Sights: Approaching Spinalonga by boat offers unique photo opportunities of the Venetian fortress and former leper colony.
• Swim Stops: Two swim opportunities in calm, crystal-clear waters—Kolokytha Bay and near Plaka.
• Local Flavors: A BBQ lunch with pork, chicken, or veggie options, plus a local olive oil park visit with tastings.
• Charming Town: Free time in Agios Nikolaos to stroll, relax, and soak up the lively seaside atmosphere.
• Flexible Duration: Tours range from 4.5 to 12 hours, depending on pickup and activities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Start with Comfort and Convenience

Your day kicks off with a hotel pickup if you’ve selected the transfer option. This is especially handy if you’re staying in resorts around Heraklion, Sissi, Malia, or other nearby areas. The bus ride to Elounda port is smooth, with air-conditioning and a friendly driver, but do keep in mind that travel time can stretch up to 2.5 hours from some locations.

The First Swim at Kolokytha Bay

Boarding the boat, the first highlight is the sail across Kolokytha Bay, a beautifully calm spot known for its clear waters and gentle waves. This is a perfect chance to jump in, whether you prefer to cannonball from the boat or wade ashore with your towel. Several reviewers mention the water’s transparency and the peaceful vibe—ideal for relaxing after the bus journey.

Enjoying the BBQ Lunch

As the boat gently cruises along, the crew prepares a fresh BBQ lunch. Options include grilled pork, chicken, or vegetarian burgers, complemented by Greek salad, bread, seasonal fruit, and a refreshing drink—wine or lemonade. Reviews point out that the food is generally tasty, though one guest noted the pork could be tougher than expected. The generous portions and inclusion of drinks add good value for the price, especially considering the scenic setting.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Spinalonga from the Sea

Next, you’ll get a sweeping view of Spinalonga, the small island famous for its Venetian fortress and its past as a leper colony. From the water, you’ll see the fortress walls and get an idea of the island’s strategic significance. The boat provides panoramic vistas, making it a great photo opportunity. While no detailed historical commentary is mentioned, the visual impression alone leaves a lasting impact.

Second Swim Near Plaka

After passing Spinalonga, the boat anchors for a second swim in the open sea, between the island and the quaint fishing village of Plaka. Many review quotes mention how peaceful and deep the water is, giving you time to float and unwind in the deep blue. This is often described as a highlight, especially when combined with the stunning scenery and warm weather.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos

Arriving back in Elounda, the tour continues by bus to Agios Nikolaos, a lively town famous for its lake and vibrant streets. You’ll have some free time to explore, grab a coffee by Lake Voulismeni, or browse local shops. Reviewers highlight the town’s charm—it’s a lively, picturesque spot to unwind after the boat ride.

Visit to the Olive Oil Park

Finally, the tour takes you to a local olive oil park, where you learn about traditional production methods and enjoy tastings. This adds a cultural and culinary flavor to your day, allowing you to take home some authentic Cretan products.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Timing

The boat cruise itself lasts approximately 4.5 hours, departing around 10:00 AM from Elounda harbor. If you opt for a hotel transfer, your total day could extend from 9 to 12 hours, depending on your pickup location. The tour operator contacts you a day prior to confirm exact pickup times, so flexibility is essential.

Transportation & Group Size

The shuttle service is on an air-conditioned bus, driven by reliable drivers. While the exact group size isn’t specified, tours like this tend to be reasonably sized, balancing intimacy with social vibes. The boat ride is included in the price, and booking is straightforward through the official operator, TOURLINE.

Food & Drinks

The BBQ lunch is the main meal, with vegetarian and chicken options available—important for dietary preferences. Drinks like wine or lemonade are included, but soft drinks and other beverages are extra. No alcohol or cocktails are included, so if you’re craving a cold beer, you’ll need to buy it separately.

What to Bring

For comfort, pack sunscreen, a sun hat, a towel, camera, cash, and beachwear. The boat’s open-air design makes sun protection vital. Reviewers mention that the water can be deep, so flotation devices might be appreciated if you’re not comfortable swimming.

Limitations & Considerations

This tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues due to the boat and walking involved in free time. Plus, for travelers who dislike long bus rides, the transfer time might be a drawback. The tour’s length and included stops mean you’ll need to be prepared for a full day.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

One reviewer from Hungary called it a “perfect program,” praising the well-organized nature of the day despite some minor hiccups. Another from the Netherlands appreciated the friendly guide and the beautiful boat trip, describing the last stop in Agios Nikolaos as “very charming.”

However, a guest from Germany expressed some disappointment about overbooking, which suggests that the tour can get quite popular and crowded at peak times. Another reviewer from the Czech Republic mentioned that the food on board could be better—specifically, that the pork was tough and the chicken minced. These insights remind travelers to have realistic expectations but also to appreciate the scenic and cultural value of the day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a value-for-money experience that combines scenic sailing, historical sights, swimming, and local culture, this tour ticks many boxes. The inclusion of a BBQ meal and stops at both Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos makes it a well-rounded day out.

Ideal for travelers eager to see Crete’s coastline from the water, history enthusiasts interested in Spinalonga, or anyone wanting a relaxed, all-in-one day of sun, sea, and culture. Its flexible timing and affordable price make it accessible, but be prepared for a full day with some bus travel involved.

While it might not be the perfect fit for those with mobility issues or very tight schedules, it offers a balanced glimpse into Crete’s coastal charm and culinary delights. Overall, it’s a satisfying way to experience the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you choose the transfer option, you can be picked up from your accommodation or specific meeting points. Confirm your pickup time with the tour operator a day in advance.

How long does the entire tour last?
The boat cruise lasts around 4.5 hours, but with transfers and stops, your full day can extend up to 12 hours depending on your pickup location.

What food options are available on the BBQ lunch?
There are options for grilled pork, chicken, or vegetarian burgers. The meal also includes Greek salad, bread, seasonal fruit, and a soft drink or wine.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there are two swim stops—at Kolokytha Bay and near Plaka—both offering calm, clear waters perfect for relaxing and cooling off.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s mainly suited for able-bodied travelers comfortable with boat rides and walking. It’s not recommended for guests with mobility challenges.

Are drinks other than wine or lemonade included?
No, soft drinks, cocktails, or additional beverages are not included and would need to be purchased separately at the bar.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of Crete’s most captivating sights, enjoy delicious food, and relax in beautiful surroundings. It’s a well-organized, value-rich experience perfect for travelers who want a full day of sea, history, and local flavor without the fuss. Whether you’re a history buff, a swimmer, or simply in search of a scenic adventure, this trip is likely to leave you with wonderful memories of Crete’s coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: