Heraklion Areas : Elounda Boat Trip -The Authentic

Heraklion Areas: Elounda Boat Trip – The Authentic

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed day on Crete’s crystal-clear waters, this boat trip from Elounda might be just what you need. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, plenty of travelers find it offers a genuine glimpse into the island’s coastal beauty, with highlights like Spinalonga Island, pirates’ caves, and secret beaches.

What we love about this experience is its combination of scenic cruising, historical sights, and beach time—all wrapped into a manageable 8-hour day. The friendly crew, the chance to swim in pristine waters, and the authentic local touches appeal to those wanting more than just a typical boat ride.

One thing to keep in mind is that the experience isn’t tailor-made for everyone—reviews suggest that the organization and communication could be better, and certain stops might feel rushed or less informative. But if you’re after a laid-back, scenic adventure with lots of swimming and fun, this trip has plenty to offer. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, beach time, and casual boat cruising.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views & Historical Sights: Cruising around Spinalonga and Pirates’ Cave offers visual and cultural appeal.
• Great for Swimming & Sunbathing: Stops at Kolokytha and Skistra beaches provide crystal waters and quiet spots to relax.
• Authentic Crete Experience: Local snacks, fresh fruits, raki, and hot dogs add a genuine touch, though vegetarian options aren’t available.
• Friendly Crew & Live Atmosphere: Expect dance, music, and a lively but relaxed vibe on board.
• Value for Money: At around $60 per person, you get a whole day of activities, scenic cruising, and good food—considerable for the price.
• Some Limitations Noted: Communication issues, especially about time stops, and occasional weather or wind disruptions can affect the trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Elounda Boat Trip

This tour promises a full 8-hour exploration of some of Crete’s most enchanting coastal spots, with plenty of opportunities to swim, take photos, and relax. Starting with pickup from various locations around Heraklion, the journey begins with a roughly 65-minute coach ride to Elounda, setting the scene for a day of scenic views and anticipation.

Once on board, the boat cruise around Spinalonga Island is the first real highlight. Known for its history as a leper colony, the island’s crumbling walls and evocative setting are best appreciated from the water, offering perspectives that photos alone can’t capture. Expect the crew to point out interesting features, though reviews note some guides might not be as communicative or engaging as hoped.

Next, the boat pauses at Pirates’ Barbarossa Cave—a site shrouded in tales of refuge and conquest. Here, you’ll get a brief photo stop and some sightseeing, with the opportunity to imagine pirates hiding away centuries ago. Given the short 15-minute stop, don’t expect a deep dive into history, but it’s enough to spark your curiosity.

Afterward, the boat heads to Kolokytha Beach, renowned for its natural beauty and calm, clear waters. This is the main swimming stop—an ideal spot for snorkeling and sunbathing. The crew sets up a relaxed vibe here, with music, dancing, and the serve of hot dogs with chicken sausages (note: vegetarian options aren’t provided). Local fruits, orange juice, water, and raki cool you down while you soak in the scenery.

Following some downtime, the boat moves to Skistra Beach, a quieter, less crowded location perfect for swimming and relaxing in unspoiled surroundings. The water is clear, and the atmosphere is laid-back—ideal for those seeking peaceful moments away from busy tourist spots.

Midday, there’s a longer break for lunch and free time, giving guests a chance to explore a bit more or simply enjoy onboard entertainment. The crew’s lively music and friendly atmosphere help create a fun, informal environment.

The final stops include a scenic rerun of Elounda’s coast and a second water stop, before returning to the starting point in Heraklion around 8 hours later. The return journey is a long coach ride—roughly 65 minutes each way—so be prepared for some travel time, especially if you’re staying further out.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Spinalonga Island: A visual and emotional highlight, with its historic ruins and evocative atmosphere, seen from a boat’s perspective.
Pirates’ Cave: A quick but intriguing stop, perfect for photos and imagining pirate hideouts from centuries past.
Kolokytha Beach: The star of the swimming stops, with shallow, crystalline waters ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing.
Skistra Beach: A hidden gem, less visited, offering a peaceful environment to swim and relax.
Lunch & Free Time: A casual onboard meal of hot dogs, fresh fruit, and drinks, with music and dancing to keep spirits high.

Authenticity & Value

What sets this trip apart is its effort to offer a taste of real Crete—local snacks, friendly crew, and scenic stops that aren’t overly commercialized. While some reviews mention that guides might not always be as engaging or informative, the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

The price point of $60 per person makes it a reasonable choice for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and fun. You get multiple swimming stops, scenic cruising, and a lively social vibe—all important ingredients for a memorable vacation day.

However, keep expectations realistic: the tour might be more about the experience than detailed historical insights. Some travelers noted that the trip’s organization could be smoother, and communication about stop durations isn’t always clear. Weather can also influence the itinerary, with winds possibly limiting access to certain sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers craving a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of swimming and casual sightseeing. It’s great for those who enjoy social atmospheres, music, and uncomplicated, fun-filled hours on the water. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed escape from busy resorts will find it holds plenty of appeal.

If you’re after an informative, in-depth historical tour or seamless organization, you might find some aspects less satisfying. But if you enjoy a good mix of nature, culture, and lively crew, this trip will likely stand out among your Crete adventures.

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FAQs

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including transfers, cruising, swimming stops, and free time.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the boat ride, stops at Spinalonga, Pirates’ Cave, Kolokytha Beach, Skistra Beach, lunch with chicken sausages, fresh fruits, orange juice, water, and raki, plus life jackets and an experienced crew.

Are vegetarian options available?
No, vegetarian or vegan options are not provided for the hot dogs or snacks.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from various main roads and designated points across Heraklion, Malia, Stalis, and nearby areas is included. The operator will contact you with details after booking.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so bringing your own is recommended if you want to explore underwater. Towels are also not provided.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, snacks, cash, and any personal gear like snorkeling equipment.

Is this trip suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it’s generally suitable for those comfortable with boat rides and swimming, but not recommended for people with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity.

Are there any restrictions?
High heels, pets, non-folding strollers, alcohol, and unaccompanied minors are not allowed onboard. For safety, climbing and fireworks are also forbidden.

What happens in bad weather?
The provider is not responsible for weather conditions or traffic, and the captain may change destinations or schedules if needed for safety.

In summary, this boat trip from Elounda combines scenic cruising, historical sights, and beach relaxation into a full-day adventure suitable for those wanting a casual, fun, and authentic taste of Crete’s coastal charm. While it may not satisfy history buffs or those seeking a perfectly organized tour, its relaxed vibe, friendly crew, and stunning views make it a worthwhile choice for sun-seekers and water lovers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: