Agios Nikolaos: Fun Cruise Around Elounda Bay

Thinking about a day on the water while exploring Crete? This cruise from Agios Nikolaos offers a chance to relax, swim, and soak in some iconic sights. From what we’ve seen in reviews, it’s a well-loved experience, especially for those craving a laid-back day with good company, tasty snacks, and gorgeous scenery.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the variety of stops—each offering a different vibe and photo opportunity. Second, the friendly crew and lively atmosphere, often highlighted as making the day memorable. But, of course, no trip is perfect. Some travelers mention that noise levels can be high, especially during the lively parts of the cruise, which might not suit everyone.

So, if you’re after a relaxed, fun-filled day with opportunities for swimming and a taste of local drinks, this cruise could be just right. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, socializing, and unwinding in the sun. Families, couples, or groups of friends—everyone seems to find something to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat with ample space and a friendly crew
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops with plenty of water toys
• Great value considering food, drinks, and activities included
• Accessible options for different tastes with optional snorkeling gear
• Lively atmosphere with music, but check noise levels if you prefer quiet
• Iconic sights like Spinalonga and Kolokytha Beach

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Crete Cruise

This cruise from Agios Nikolaos is designed to give you a relaxed but active day on the water in Mirabello Bay. It’s perfect if you’re into swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, with enough time at each stop to truly enjoy the surroundings. The boat departs from Agios Nikolaos harbor and slowly makes its way through the scenic Mirabello Gulf, giving you a taste of Crete’s coastline right from the start.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Agios Nikolaos Harbor
The journey begins in the vibrant harbor of Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll meet the crew and settle into your spot. It’s a casual start, with the crew offering welcome drinks—either a refreshing virgin cocktail or a shot of raki—to set the mood for the day. The boat’s spacious, so even if it’s a busy day, there’s room to relax and find a good seat.

First Stop: Kolokytha Beach
You’ll cruise along Mirabello Bay for about an hour before arriving at Kolokytha Beach. This is a quiet, isolated spot with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The boat anchors here for around an hour, giving you plenty of time to explore the shallow waters and enjoy the scenery. Many reviews mention the water’s exceptional clarity, making it a great place to see fish and underwater life if you bring your goggles.

Second Stop: Spinalonga Island
Next, the boat cruises around the famous leper island, Spinalonga. Here, you get a different perspective—viewing the island from the water rather than exploring on land. It’s a striking sight, with the fortress-like remains and history just beneath the surface. This stop is especially loved by those wanting a quick, scenic look at one of Crete’s most talked-about sites. Some reviews suggest that catching the best views of Spinalonga is best from the left side of the boat, so if photos are your thing, plan accordingly.

Third Stop: Skistra Gulf
The final swimming and snorkeling stop takes you to the hidden paradise of Skistra Gulf. The waters here are calm, shallow, and packed with fish—perfect for snorkelers. The crew provides or sells snorkeling gear, though some reviews recommend bringing your own for convenience. You’ll spend about an hour here, giving ample time to relax, swim, or just float with a noodle or towel.

Activities and Atmosphere

Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and relaxing on the boat’s deck. Many reviews highlight the friendly crew helping with equipment and making sure everyone feels comfortable. The boat is equipped with floating noodles, so you can easily cool off in the water. Whether you want to just drift and soak up the sun or swim around exploring marine life, this cruise caters to all.

The onboard music adds to the lively vibe, with a DJ spinning tunes that keep the energy high. Some passengers mention that the music can be loud, especially in the latter part of the trip, which might be less ideal if you prefer a quieter experience. Still, it definitely contributes to a festive, carefree environment.

Food and Drinks

One of the best parts? The food and drinks included are a solid value. Reviewers rave about the BBQ, which features fresh pork souvlaki, and the selection of local drinks like raki and cocktails. You can buy more drinks on board at reasonable prices, making it easy to toast the day away. Some reviews mention watermelon and melon served mid-cruise as a refreshing treat, adding a touch of hospitality and local flavor.

A few travelers note that snorkeling gear is available for rent or purchase, but it’s worth bringing your own if you want to avoid extra costs or ensure you have the right fit. Also, while the boat offers a variety of snacks, bringing your own water or additional food might be wise if you have specific dietary preferences.

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Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, making it a half-day adventure that fits well into most schedules. The boat tends to be comfortably filled but not crowded, allowing for easy movement and socializing. A few reviews mention that the earlier trips tend to be less crowded, which can make for a more relaxed experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for those who love water-based activities, scenic views, and a lively, social atmosphere. If you enjoy a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing with good music and drinks, you’ll get plenty of what you’re after here. It’s also a great choice if you want to see Spinalonga from the water and explore some quiet beaches without the hassle of land-based tours.

However, if you prefer a completely quiet, peaceful experience, or are sensitive to loud music, this might not be your cup of tea. It’s also worth noting that the tour may be affected by sea conditions, so check the weather forecast if you’re planning around a particular day.

The Real Value

Many travelers highlight the value for money—considering the included food, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and the scenic stops, it’s often described as a good deal. People appreciate the friendly crew, who seem to go out of their way to ensure everyone has a good time.

The price point around €17 for a roughly 5-hour trip is also a key factor in its popularity. For the experience of cruising past iconic sights, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying local cuisine, most reviewers feel they’re getting their money’s worth.

Final Thoughts

This Agios Nikolaos cruise offers a well-rounded mix of relaxing water activities, scenic vistas, and fun atmosphere. It’s most suitable for travelers who want to kick back and enjoy the day without too much fuss, making it ideal for couples, friends, or anyone looking to escape the land and soak up the sun.

The lively music, good value, and stunning stops make this a memorable part of any Crete trip, especially if you love the water. But if you’re after tranquility or a quieter experience, you might want to consider other options or request a more subdued time.

FAQs about the Agios Nikolaos Fun Cruise

Is the cruise suitable for people who don’t like loud music?
The onboard DJ and lively atmosphere mean the music can be quite loud, especially later in the trip. If you prefer a more mellow environment, it’s worth considering this before booking.

Can I snorkel at the stops?
Yes, snorkeling is a key part of the experience. Snorkeling gear is available for rent or purchase on the boat, but many travelers recommend bringing your own for convenience.

How long are the swimming stops?
Each main stop lasts around one hour, giving plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or relax in the water.

Is food included?
Not exactly. The cruise offers a BBQ with pork souvlaki, and snacks like watermelon are served mid-cruise. Drinks such as local cocktails and raki are also available, often included or at reasonable prices.

What are the main sights viewed from the boat?
You’ll get a scenic cruise around Spinalonga, views ofKolokytha Beach, and the opportunity to see the coastline of Mirabello Bay from the water.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically tailored for children, families who enjoy water activities and a lively atmosphere generally find it suitable. Bring your own floaties or noodles for extra fun.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. If you want to snorkel, pack your gear or plan to buy or rent on board.

How does the weather affect the cruise?
Sea conditions can influence the tour; if it’s rough, some stops might be adjusted or canceled. Check the forecast before booking, especially during stormy seasons.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun, social way to spend half a day in Crete, this cruise from Agios Nikolaos offers a lot of bang for your buck. The combination of scenic views, water activities, and tasty local snacks makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to relax and enjoy the sea. While it’s lively and busy at times, the friendly staff and beautiful spots mean most will leave with a smile and some great memories.

Whether you’re into snorkeling, socializing, or just soaking up some sun, this trip caters well to those who want a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water with minimal fuss. Just remember to bring your own snorkel gear if you want the best experience, and be prepared for a lively atmosphere that could be a hit or miss depending on your mood.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture those unforgettable views of Spinalonga and the shimmering bays!

You can check availability for your dates here: