From Ag. Nikolaos: Spinalonga & Kolokytha Cruise with Lunch

If you’re cruising around Crete and looking for a blend of history, sun, and seaside relaxation, this Spinalonga & Kolokytha cruise offers a well-rounded day. For around $30, you’ll hop on a boat in Agios Nikolaos and spend about 5.5 hours exploring the legendary island of Spinalonga, swimming in turquoise waters at Kolokytha Bay, and enjoying a tasty barbecue on deck.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the ample time on Spinalonga, allowing for self-guided exploration of the Venetian fortress and historic homes, and the beautiful setting of Kolokytha Bay, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The boat crew’s effort in preparing a pork barbecue adds a genuine touch to the experience.

A potential consideration is the lunch quality, which some reviews suggest could be better. If you’re expecting a gourmet meal or have specific dietary needs, you might want to bring some snacks or extra supplies.

This cruise suits those who enjoy a relaxed pace, a mix of history and leisure, and aren’t fussed about strict guided tours — since much of the island exploration is self-guided with a helpful booklet. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free day with stunning views and authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Historic Exploration: Self-guided tour of Spinalonga offers insights into its Venetian fortifications and past residents.
• Beach and Swimming: Kolokytha Bay provides crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Value for Money: Includes a barbecue lunch, boat transfers, and a guide booklet, making it a cost-effective option.
• Flexible Experience: Ample free time at each stop and the ability to explore at your own pace.
• Limited Guided Content: No official guided tour on Spinalonga, so self-exploration and reading material are your main sources of info.
• Potential Food Concerns: Lunch gets mixed reviews; some find it decent, others wish for more variety or freshness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins at the mooring point at Koundourou Street in Agios Nikolaos, where you should arrive about 30 minutes early. The boat, operated by NOSTOS Cruises, is usually spacious enough to avoid feeling crowded, with both covered and open-air seating options. You’ll want to dress comfortably, wearing sandals or shoes suitable for walking, especially since you might get a bit sandy or sticky from sunscreen or light sea spray.

The duration of approximately 5.5 hours makes this a manageable half-day trip, with flexible start times depending on availability. Since there’s no hotel transfer included, you’ll need to plan your transportation to the port, which is quite central and easy to reach.

The Cruise Across Mirabello Bay

Once underway, you’ll cruise across the beautiful Bay of Mirabello, a highlight in itself. The boat offers scenic views of the coastline, with plenty of opportunities for photos. Many reviews mention the captain and crew’s professionalism, making the ride smooth and comfortable. The boat’s lower deck provides inside seating, while the upper deck offers shade, allowing you to choose your preferred spot.

Visiting Spinalonga

The main attraction is the island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony turned historical site. You’ll have about an hour and a half to explore on your own, which is enough time to walk around the Venetian fortress, peek into the old houses, and read the informative boards.

While no official guide is included, you’ll receive a booklet with the island’s history and photos, giving you context to better appreciate the site. Many travelers, including reviewers, find this self-guided approach sufficient; as one said, “the island had a lot of direction and information boards so I don’t really think a guide was needed.”

However, some noted a lack of an English-speaking guide during the visit, so if you’re keen on detailed guided commentary, this might be a downside. Still, the atmosphere of the island itself — its crumbling walls, narrow alleys, and panoramic views — makes the visit memorable regardless.

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Relaxation at Kolokytha Bay

After Spinalonga, the boat moves to the beautiful Kolokytha Bay, a tiny but stunning stretch of shoreline with crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll have about an hour and a half for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on the boat.

It’s worth noting that the beach itself is small and can get crowded quickly, as some reviews mention. If you’re hoping for a long, uninterrupted swim or sunbathing session, you might find the limited space a challenge, especially during peak season.

Lunch on Board

The boat crew then prepares a barbecue lunch right on deck, featuring pork chops, cabbage salad, bread, seasonal fruits, and wine. Many find this to be a charming, authentic touch, with the open-pit cooking adding a bit of local flavor.

That said, reviews reveal mixed feelings about the meal. A few mention the lunch being a bit basic, with some criticising the quality of the pork or the freshness of the bread. One reviewer humorously noted, “the meat was raw,” so keep that in mind if you have specific expectations.

Vegetarians are accommodated if you notify the crew beforehand, which is appreciated. The wine and fresh fruit add a leisurely, convivial vibe, perfect for unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing and swimming.

Returning to Agios Nikolaos

After lunch, the boat heads back to the starting point at Molo in Agios Nikolaos, arriving around 3 PM. The return trip offers more scenic views and an opportunity to relax and reflect on the day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of history, relaxing beach time, and good value. It’s ideal if you enjoy self-guided exploration, don’t mind a casual pace, and want to avoid overly structured or guided tours. If you’re interested in local history, the booklet provides enough context, and the sightseeing at Spinalonga is enriching even without a guide.

Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and scenic beauty, especially those who don’t mind some variability in the lunch quality. If you’re eager to maximize your time in Crete with a straightforward, enjoyable trip that covers key sights without breaking the bank, this tour fits well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy the boat ride, swimming, and exploring Spinalonga at their own pace. However, keep in mind that the lunch is basic, and the boat isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments.

How long do we have at each stop?
You get approximately 1.5 hours at Spinalonga and 1.5 hours at Kolokytha Bay, which balances sightseeing with leisure.

Are tickets included in the price?
Entry tickets to Spinalonga are not included; they cost €20 for adults. It’s free for EU citizens under 25 and non-EU under 18 with ID.

Is there a guide on the island?
No professional guide is provided. You receive a booklet with information and photos, which many find sufficient for understanding the site.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, cash for extras, and perhaps a towel if you plan to swim.

Can I get vegetarian food on the boat?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you notify the crew at boarding.

Is the boat big?
It’s described as a large boat with both shaded and open areas, making it comfortable for most travelers.

Are there any cancellation restrictions?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Spinalonga & Kolokytha cruise offers a well-priced way to see some of Crete’s most celebrated sights. You’ll love the self-guided exploration of Spinalonga, with its evocative ruins and panoramic views. The opportunity to swim in Kolokytha Bay’s clear waters provides the perfect break from sightseeing, and the onboard barbecue adds a relaxed, local touch to the day.

While the lunch quality has mixed reviews, the overall value shines through — especially given the included booklet, scenic cruise, and the chance to learn a bit about the island’s past. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a casual, flexible day out with a touch of history, a splash of sea, and some authentic Crete flavors.

For those seeking a straightforward, scenic trip with a focus on comfort and local charm, this cruise hits the right notes. Just come prepared for the weather, bring some extra snacks if you’re picky eaters, and enjoy the views and stories that make Crete such a fascinating island.

You can check availability for your dates here: