Crete: Boat Trip to Spinalonga and Kolokytha Beach

If you’re planning a day out on the water in Crete, this boat trip to Spinalonga and Kolokytha Beach might be just what you’re looking for. It’s an experience that combines historical intrigue with relaxing beach time, all aboard a comfortable boat with friendly crew. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out, along with some of the things to consider before booking.

What we really like about this trip is how it offers a solid mix of sightseeing and downtime. You get to see the famous Spinalonga Island, explore a dramatic Barbarossa cave, and then unwind on two gorgeous beaches. Plus, the onboard food and drinks add a nice touch, making it feel like a full-day escape.

A potential downside? The itinerary is somewhat structured, so if you’re someone who loves to set your own pace or explore independently, this might feel a little rushed. Also, the tour is quite popular, so group sizes can be larger, which might affect the intimacy of the experience.

This tour suits those who want a balanced day with historical sights, scenic views, and some relaxing swimming. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates both culture and beach lounging.

Key Points

• Balanced experience: Combines sightseeing, swimming, and good food onboard.
• Historical highlight: Spinalonga Island with its Venetian fortress.
• Natural wonders: Barbarossa cave and pristine beaches.
• Comfort & convenience: Hotel pickup/drop-off and multilingual guides.
• Value for money: Includes food, drinks, and insurance in the price.
• Timing: An 8-hour tour, so plan your day accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off from Elounda Port, which is easy to reach from many parts of Crete with the included hotel pickup service. You’ll be on the water for about 4.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling too rushed. The entire experience lasts roughly 8 hours, including transportation to and from your accommodation, making it a full-day adventure but not an exhausting one.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from several locations including Hersonissos, Ammoudara, Malia, Heraklion, and surrounding areas. Transportation is via air-conditioned bus, so you’ll stay comfortable before and after your boat ride. A multilingual guide will accompany you, making sure you don’t miss any important sights or details.

Once aboard, you’ll find the boat ticket covered, along with a salad and fruit bar. The onboard fare is quite generous — fresh fruit, salad, and water are available throughout the day. You can also purchase cocktails and soft drinks at an additional cost if you want something stronger or more festive.

The experience is insured, so you can relax knowing safety measures are in place. However, alcoholic drinks and snacks from the bar are not included, so if you have specific preferences, bringing some extra cash or snacks might be worthwhile.

Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins in the morning with pickup from your hotel or accommodation, allowing you to relax and let someone else handle the logistics. The exact pickup time is communicated via email after you book, so don’t worry if you’re not sure where you’re being picked up from initially.

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Approaching Spinalonga Island

Once on board, you’ll set sail towards Spinalonga, the star of the trip. Known for its Venetian fortress and its history as a leper colony, Spinalonga has a haunting beauty that visitors find compelling. The views of the fortress from the water are picturesque, and you’ll have time to snap some photos and appreciate the island’s dramatic landscape.

Barbarossa Cave Exploration

Next, you’ll visit the Barbarossa cave, a natural wonder that’s historically connected to the infamous pirate Barbarossa, who supposedly used it as a hideout. The cave’s rugged, natural beauty makes it a must-see for anyone interested in the area’s history or natural scenery. You’ll have time for photos and to take in the impressive rock formations.

Swimming at Skistra Beach

After the cave, you’ll head to Skistra beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil environment. It’s the perfect spot to cool off, swim, or simply relax on the sand if you prefer to stay dry. The setting is peaceful, and the scenery—surrounded by lush greenery—is quite stunning.

Relaxation at Kolokytha Beach

The last swimming stop is at Kolokytha Beach, which is praised for its pristine sand and turquoise waters. This spot tends to be less crowded, giving you a chance to unwind thoroughly. The surrounding lush vegetation adds to the scenic appeal, making it ideal for photos or just soaking up the sun.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day of exploration and relaxation, you’ll return to Elounda, where your transfer will drop you back at your accommodation. The entire experience is designed to give you a satisfying taste of Crete’s natural and historical highlights in one day.

The Food and Drinks

The onboard salad bar and fruit bar are well-reviewed, offering healthy, refreshing snacks during your trip. Water is served, so you stay hydrated, especially if the sun is strong. Should you want cocktails or other drinks, they are available at an extra cost, adding a fun, optional element to the day.

What Real Travelers Say

One reviewer from Serbia summarized it well: “Beautiful beaches, friendly boat crew, and charming and helpful guide. Very nice way to spend one afternoon in Crete!” That pretty much captures the overall vibe—friendly service, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed pace.

The positive mentions of stunning views are consistent across reviews, emphasizing how memorable the scenery is. Some note that the boat crew is especially welcoming, which can make a big difference in how comfortable and enjoyable the day feels.

Pricing and Value

At $71 per person, this tour offers good value considering it includes transportation, food, sightseeing, and insurance. Naturally, alcohol and extra snacks are extra, but the core experience provides a rundown of some of Crete’s best sights in one day.

If you’re keen on exploring Spinalonga and enjoying some beautiful beaches without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or transport, this package is a straightforward and enjoyable option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see iconic sights like Spinalonga without spending too much time organizing logistics. It’s perfect for those who enjoy relaxing at the beach but appreciate a bit of history and scenic beauty along the way. If you’re traveling with someone who loves natural landscapes and historical sites, this offers a balanced mix.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or want to explore at your own pace, the scheduled stops and group setting might feel limiting. It’s also worth noting that the trip is quite full, and while the pace is manageable, it’s a long day if you’re not used to spending many hours on a boat.

This boat trip from Crete to Spinalonga and Kolokytha Beach offers a well-rounded day with stunning views, interesting history, and relaxing swimming opportunities. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a straightforward, comfortable way to experience some of Crete’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

The inclusive food and drinks, along with the experienced crew, add to the appeal, making it a convenient option for those looking to enjoy a carefree day on the water. The scenery at each stop—the fortress on Spinalonga, the caves, and the beaches—is genuinely striking and likely to leave lasting memories.

If you’re after a leisurely, scenic adventure that combines culture and relaxation, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a bit of cash for extras.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from several locations, including Hersonissos, Heraklion, Malia, and others. You’ll receive your specific pickup details via email after booking.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat ride itself lasts about 4.5 hours, with the total experience spanning approximately 8 hours including transportation and stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, beachwear, sunscreen, and cash are recommended. Bringing extra snacks or drinks is optional since only water and some food are included onboard.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, cocktails and alcohol are available for purchase at extra cost, but they are not included in the price.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for most travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and swimming. Be mindful of boat safety and swimming conditions if traveling with children.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a scheduled tour with set stops, there’s limited flexibility. It’s designed to give a full experience of the key sights in one day.

This trip strikes a good balance for those wanting to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty and historical sites in one easy, well-organized day. Whether it’s your first time in Crete or a return visit, it provides a manageable way to see some of the island’s most photogenic spots without a lot of fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: