Spinalonga with Guide, Kolokitha Bay Cruise, Swimming & BBQ

Experience the Best of Crete in a Day: Spinalonga, Kolokytha Bay, and Agios Nikolaos

If you’re looking for a way to combine history, scenery, and local flavors on Crete, this tour offers a compelling choice. Starting from Elounda, you’ll cruise across the shimmering waters of Mirabello Bay, stopping at Kolokytha Bay for swimming and a delicious BBQ, then step back in time with a guided visit to Spinalonga Island — once a Venetian fortress and later a leper colony. The day concludes in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, where you can stroll along the waterfront and soak in authentic Cretan life.

What we love about this trip are the personalized guided tour of Spinalonga that brings its layered stories to life, and the relaxed, scenic stop at Kolokytha Bay, perfect for swimming and enjoying a freshly grilled meal. The inclusion of a local olive oil tasting adds a flavor of genuine Cretan tradition. A potential consideration is the full-day commitment—it’s long, but for those who love a mix of history and leisure with plenty of time to explore at your own pace, it’s well worth it.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of cultural exploration and relaxed seaside downtime. It’s ideal for those who want to see iconic sites without rushing, and who enjoy discovering local tastes along the way. If you’re eager to understand Crete’s history with a knowledgeable guide and love being by the water, this experience fits the bill.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Spinalonga, Kolokytha Bay, and Agios Nikolaos in one day
• Balanced mix of history, relaxation, and local food experiences
• Professional guided tour of Spinalonga enhances understanding of its layered past
• Scenic boat cruise with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and BBQ lunch
• Authentic olive oil tasting offers insight into local Cretan agriculture
• Suitable for travelers seeking a full, varied day with cultural and leisure activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with pickup from a selection of 14 locations across Crete, including Heraklion, Malia, and other popular spots, which makes this tour accessible for many travelers. The air-conditioned bus ensures a comfortable ride through some of the island’s most inviting landscapes. Expect to spend about 2.25 hours on the bus as you head from your hotel or designated pickup point to Elounda, setting the perfect tone for a day packed with sights.

Elounda Port and the Boat Cruise

At Elounda port, the adventure truly kicks off as you board your boat for a scenic cruise across Mirabello Bay. We loved the way the boat ride offers panoramic views of the coast, with fresh sea breeze and the glittering water all around. It’s a wonderful way to relax and prepare for the day ahead.

The cruise to Kolokytha Bay takes approximately 40 minutes. During this time, you can enjoy the views of the coastline, snap some photos, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The boat is well-equipped and provides a comfortable vantage point for watching the seascape unfold.

Kolokytha Bay: Swimming, Sunbathing, and BBQ

Arriving at Kolokytha Bay, you’ll find a tranquil, crystal-clear stretch of water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. We loved the clarity of the water — it’s easy to see why it’s considered a hidden paradise. The shallow shoreline makes it suitable for all ages, and the peaceful environment invites relaxation.

While you indulge in the refreshing waters, the crew begins serving a delicious BBQ meal on board. Options include grilled pork chop, Greek salad, feta, bread, seasonal fruit, and a choice of wine or Fanta. Vegetarian and chicken burger options are available if you prefer. The quality of the food is quite good, and the relaxed setting makes it easy to linger over the meal.

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Spinalonga Island: A Step into the Past

After approximately 20 minutes sailing, you’ll reach Spinalonga Island. This island’s layered past — from Venetian fortress to leper colony — provides a compelling setting for a guided tour. We appreciated the presence of a professional guide (likely a licensed escort) who brought the island’s stories to life.

The guided tour lasts about 1.5 hours and covers the island’s fascinating history and architecture. Expect to hear stories about pirates, Venetian rulers, and the poignant history of the leper colony. The island’s crumbling walls and abandoned buildings evoke a powerful sense of the stories they hold.

Guests have remarked that the guide’s storytelling made the visit engaging and informative. One reviewer noted, “The guide was very knowledgeable, making the history of Spinalonga come alive.” The opportunity to walk through narrow streets and explore the remnants of a former fortress provides an immersive experience.

Return Voyage and Olive Oil Tasting

After exploring Spinalonga, you’ll sail back towards Elounda, with a stop at a local olive oil park. Here, you can sample some of Crete’s renowned olive oils, often described as “liquid gold.” This stop offers a taste of the land’s agricultural tradition and the chance to purchase high-quality products.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos

The final highlight is a free hour in Agios Nikolaos, a lively seaside town famed for its Lake Voulismeni. You’ll have time to stroll along the waterfront, browse charming boutiques, or relax at a lakeside café. The town’s relaxed atmosphere, combined with beautiful views, makes it a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on your day.

Guests have appreciated this segment, with comments like “Loved wandering through the streets and soaking in the local vibe.” The timing allows for a leisurely visit without feeling rushed.

Return Journey

After exploring Agios Nikolaos, the bus ride back to your hotel area is approximately 2 hours, giving you time to rest and think about the day’s highlights. The entire experience runs between 10.5 to 12 hours, making it a full but rewarding day.

Pricing and Value

The tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of Spinalonga, the boat cruise, BBQ lunch, and olive oil tasting. The optional additional charges cover entrance fees to Spinalonga (€20) and lunch (€15/adult, €7.50/child).

Considering the inclusion of transportation, guided storytelling, a full meal, and multiple key sites in one day, the value is quite good. The experience is especially appealing for travelers keen on seeing historical sites without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

Food and Drinks

The BBQ lunch is well-reviewed, with several options to suit different tastes. The inclusion of local wine or Fanta enhances the authentic experience. The olive oil tasting adds a genuine touch of local tradition, which many travelers find memorable.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This experience suits those who love a full-day adventure with a mix of history, nature, and leisure. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a packed itinerary and are eager to see iconic sights with knowledgeable guides. The boat cruise and swimming are perfect for those wanting a relaxed seaside experience, while the guided tour ensures a meaningful connection to the history.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to blend culture, scenery, and relaxation, this Crete tour offers a comprehensive package in a single day. The journey covers a significant slice of the island’s highlights—from the historic depths of Spinalonga to the peaceful waters of Kolokytha Bay, topped off with a taste of local olive oil and the charm of Agios Nikolaos.

The well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and variety of activities make it valuable for those wanting a hassle-free way to see key sights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a mixture of storytelling, leisure, and scenic beauty.

If your goal is to walk through history and soak up the Mediterranean vibe in one memorable outing, this tour fits perfectly. Just remember to bring sun protection, your swimwear, and an appetite for local flavors.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned bus, a guided tour of Spinalonga, the boat cruise, BBQ lunch, olive oil tasting, and all relevant taxes.

How much does Spinalonga entrance cost?
The entrance fee is €20 per person, payable separately if you wish to visit the island. The tour price generally covers the guided tour, but entrance fees are your responsibility if you choose to enter.

What are the food options for lunch?
The BBQ lunch offers a default pork chop meal, with alternatives including a chicken burger or vegetarian option (vegetable burger and dolmadakia). You should specify preferences if possible.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10.5 to 12 hours, making it a full-day commitment. The timing allows ample time at each stop plus travel between sites.

Can I swim at Kolokytha Bay?
Yes, the water here is clear and shallow, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun. Bring your swimwear and sunscreen for the best experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially if your kids enjoy swimming, exploring, and learning about history. The flexible schedule and scenic stops make it family-friendly, with vegetarian and chicken options available for lunch.

This detailed, balanced overview should help you decide if this Crete tour matches your interests. It combines the beauty of the island’s history, nature, and local traditions into one memorable day—perfect for travelers eager to experience the real Crete.

You can check availability for your dates here: