Agios Nikolaos: Spinalonga and Kolokitha Island Sailing Trip

Imagine gliding smoothly across the waters of the Cretan Sea, feeling the warm sun on your back, and hearing the gentle rush of the boat’s wake. For those craving a taste of authentic Crete without the crowds, this private sailing trip from Agios Nikolaos offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, relaxation, and active fun. At around $813 per group up to 10 people, this 4.5 to 6-hour experience is a bit of an investment but one that many find well worth it.

What sets this tour apart? First, you get to admire the Venetian fortress of Spinalonga from the water — a perspective that’s hard to beat. Second, the opportunity to anchor at Kolokitha Island’s pristine bays offers a perfect blend of swimming, snorkeling, and simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun — all with local wine and fresh food onboard.

A potential consideration? The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those prone to seasickness, so check your personal comfort level with sailing.

This experience is ideal if you’re after a personalized, relaxed day on the water with plenty of chances to explore and indulge. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate good scenery, quality food and drink, and a more intimate setting than large group tours.

Key Points

Private Experience: Enjoy a tailored sailing adventure for your group, avoiding crowded tours.
Stunning Views: Sail past Spinalonga’s Venetian fortress and along the Cretan coastline for memorable photo ops.
Active & Relaxing: Participate in sailing or simply lounge on the deck while enjoying the sea breeze.
Onboard Dining: Savor locally sourced snacks or a full meal paired with regional wine and seasonal fruits.
Flexible Duration: Choose between 4.5 to 6 hours based on your interests and schedule.
Family & Couple Friendly: Perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway or a fun family outing, with some activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

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Starting Point and Departure

The journey begins at the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll meet at the Eurobank ATM located near the marina’s parking lot. The captain will greet you about 15 minutes before departure, giving ample time to settle in. The boat itself is described as elegant, offering comfort and privacy, making it a great alternative to larger, crowded tours.

Scenic Cruise Through Mirabello Bay

After setting sail, the first leg takes you around an hour through the Mirabello Bay, where you’ll enjoy scenic views of the coast and the peacefulness of the open sea. We loved the way the boat glided smoothly, and the gentle breeze made it easy to relax and take in the sights. This part of the trip is a lovely warm-up, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Spinalonga: A Venetian Fortress from the Water

Next, the sail approaches the famous Spinalonga, a small island with a storied past. You’ll cruise around its perimeter, catching stunning views of the fortress built by Venetians centuries ago. The highlight for many is the perspective — seeing the fortress from the water offers a unique angle that photos simply don’t capture.

One reviewer highlighted, “We enjoyed it very much,” noting how the boat’s vantage point allowed for a more intimate appreciation of Spinalonga’s history and architecture. The 15-minute sail around the island is enough to appreciate the scale and beauty without feeling rushed.

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Kolokitha Island: A Natural Paradise

The biggest highlight of the tour is the stop at Kolokitha Bay, where you’ll drop anchor for approximately 3.75 hours. Here, the game plan is simple and delightful—swim, snorkel, relax, and explore. The waters are described as crystal-clear, making it ideal for marine life viewing and snorkeling.

The boat crew sets up a relaxing atmosphere with local wine, snacks, or a full meal depending on the package or timing. Travelers have raved about the quality of the food and wine, with one mentioning the “excellent wine selection” that complements the fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Many guests take advantage of the free time to swim along the coastline or paddleboard with the included SUP equipment. If you’re a keen snorkeler, you’ll appreciate the chance to spot marine life in the calm bays.

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Lunch, Snacks, and Refreshments

A key feature is the onboard meal service — which might be snacks or a full lunch, depending on your booking. The emphasis on local ingredients means you’ll get a taste of authentic Cretan cuisine. Refreshments include local wine and seasonal fruits, enhancing the laid-back, Mediterranean vibe.

Sunset Sailing Back to Agios Nikolaos

As the afternoon wanes, the boat sets sail again, heading back toward Agios Nikolaos. The last hour offers a chance to enjoy the sunset, with scenic views of the coast and a relaxing cruise to close out the day. We found this part especially peaceful — a gentle end to an active and scenic day.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour includes a comprehensive sailing experience, onboard meal, local wine, seasonal fruits, snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment, and fishing gear. The price might seem steep at first glance, but considering the personalized nature, the quality of food and drink, and the private setting, many travelers find it offers solid value.

Not included are hotel transfers and towels, but these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall experience. Towels are approximately $25, so packing your own is a good idea.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing trip is perfect for those seeking a luxurious yet authentic experience. It appeals especially to travelers who appreciate comfortable privacy, scenic beauty, and good food and wine. It’s great for couples celebrating a special occasion, families looking for a fun activity, or small groups interested in a more intimate adventure.

However, those prone to seasickness or pregnant women might want to consider other options, as the tour isn’t suitable for them. The activity’s focus on sailing and water activities requires some physical comfort and a sense of adventure.

The Sum Up

This Agios Nikolaos sailing trip delivers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s coastal charms. From the striking Venetian fortress of Spinalonga to the pristine waters of Kolokitha Island, every aspect feels personalized and meaningful. The inclusion of local wine and fresh food onboard elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing — it’s a true taste of Mediterranean leisure.

For travelers who value scenic views, relaxed pacing, and quality local flavors, this tour offers a wonderful balance. It’s especially suited for those wanting a private, flexible day on the water without the rush of larger tours.

While it requires a bit of a financial commitment, the combination of comfort, scenery, and authentic experiences makes it a compelling choice for a memorable Crete excursion.

FAQs

How long is this sailing trip?
The tour lasts between 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on the selected schedule and the pace of the day.

What are the main stops on this tour?
You’ll visit Mirabello Bay, Spinalonga, and Kolokitha Bay, with each offering scenic views, historical sights, and time for swimming and relaxing.

Is food and drink included?
Yes, a meal onboard (snacks or lunch) featuring local ingredients, along with local wine and seasonal fruits, are included.

Can I participate in sailing activities?
Absolutely, you can actively participate in sailing procedures or simply relax on the sun deck. Kayaking and snorkeling gear are also provided.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s great for small groups, couples, or families. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those prone to seasickness.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Towels are not included but can be purchased for about $25.

This private sailing adventure offers an authentic, scenic, and relaxed way to explore Crete’s coast. Whether you’re after stunning views, good food, or simply a day away from the crowds, it’s a trip that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Greece.