Spinalonga Boat Trip from Elounda Port

If you’re looking for a way to experience one of Greece’s most evocative sights — without spending hours planning every detail — a boat trip from Elounda to Spinalonga might just be what you need. This tour offers a straightforward, scenic route to a fascinating island with a layered past, from Venetian fortifications to its infamous role as a leper colony. We’ve seen plenty of reviews and details that help paint a clear picture of what this trip is really like, so let’s break it down.

One thing we love about this experience is its simplicity: a comfortable, traditional boat cruise that feels authentic and relaxed. Plus, the flexibility to hop on another boat later if you want more time on the island is a real plus, especially if you’re not in a rush. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the time on Spinalonga is limited to about 1 hour and 10 minutes — enough for a quick look, but not for a deep dive into its history. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and want a manageable, well-organized visit to one of Crete’s most renowned sites.

Key Points

• Comfortable, traditional boat cruise with friendly, experienced crew
• Flexible return options allow you to stay longer on the island if you wish
• Entry fee to Spinalonga is separate, around 20 euros, which is an important budget consideration
• Timing is crucial: early or late visits tend to be less crowded and more peaceful
• Duration is around 2 hours total, with about an hour on the island itself
• Scenic sailing in Elounda bay offers enjoyable sea breezes and lovely views

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why the Spinalonga Boat Trip Is Worth Considering

The cruise starts from Elounda’s port, where you’ll meet a friendly representative from the Elounda 18 Boat Cooperative. From there, a traditional boat whisks you across the calm waters of Elounda bay. The boat ride itself is part of the charm — you’ll love the way the breeze plays with your hair and the views of the coastline gradually revealing the island’s silhouette.

The trip typically kicks off around 10 AM, with departures every 30 to 40 minutes, making it easy to fit into your day. The boat’s crew is local and knowledgeable, often moving the vessel to get the best photos of Spinalonga as you approach. Reviewers mention that the boat departs punctually and that you can hop on an earlier boat if you arrive ahead of schedule.

What to Expect During the Trip

Once you arrive at the pier, you’ll notice several licensed guides ready to bring the island’s storied past to life. You’re free to explore on your own or opt for a guided tour — which is not included but can be found on-site. The island’s entry ticket costs 20 euros, payable on arrival, and grants access to its salt pans, Venetian fortifications, and abandoned buildings.

The main highlight is wandering around the remnants of the leper colony, which is both haunting and captivating. We loved the way the island’s features tell stories of past hardships and resilience. Keep in mind, though, that your window of time is limited — usually about 70 minutes. Some reviewers felt they could have used more time; one even said, “Needed more,” expressing a wish to linger longer and explore in more detail.

The Return Trip: Flexibility and Convenience

One of the great aspects of this tour is the ability to catch any available boat back to Elounda. If you’re happy with a brief visit, you’ll easily hop on the next boat departing the island. Alternatively, if you want to stay longer, you can catch another boat of the same operator later on, at no extra cost. This flexibility means you’re not stuck with a rigid schedule, which is reassuring for travelers who like to go at their own pace.

The last boat usually leaves around 5 PM during summer months. If you’re visiting in April or October, expect the final return to be around 3:30 PM. The timing is designed to maximize daylight and allow sufficient time to explore the island or enjoy the sail.

The Experience on the Island

Spinalonga’s unique history makes it a must-see, especially for lovers of stories with layers of human drama. Originally part of Crete, it was carved out of the coast during Venetian rule for defensive purposes. Salt harvesting was also a key activity during that period. Later, it became Europe’s last leper colony, a fact that lends the island a poignant, almost ghostly atmosphere.

When you set foot on the island, you’ll find a mix of crumbling fortifications, abandoned buildings, and salt pans. There’s a toilet and a bar or coffee shop on-site if you need a quick refreshment, but most visitors recommend bringing water or snacks to stay comfortable, especially if you plan to walk around.

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What the Reviews Say

Many travellers praise the timeliness and professionalism of the boat operators, highlighting how smoothly everything runs. For example, one reviewer shared, “The ferry departs right on time, and about 25 minutes later we’re pulling into Spinalonga,” emphasizing the efficiency of the trip.

Another pointed out the value of the experience: “Great day trip! Worth the money and the history of the island is fascinating.” They also mentioned that the shop on the island is overpriced, so waiting until back on the mainland for souvenirs like ice cream is a smart move.

Some travelers also appreciated the flexibility. One person said, “You can come back on any of the boats from the same company, so you can spend as little or as much time as you’d like.” This means you can tailor your visit to your own pace, whether you’re quick to explore or eager to soak in every detail.

Considerations for Your Visit

Timing can influence your experience. The island tends to get crowded between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM, so visiting earlier or later in the day can make for a more relaxed experience. Also, because the trip is relatively short, it’s ideal for those who want a quick but meaningful glimpse into the past, rather than a lengthy tour.

Practicalities and Tips

• Meeting Point: You’ll meet the boat representative at Vritomartes Restaurant in the Port of Schisma Eloundas. The port is easy to access by bus, taxi, or car, with free parking available.
• Timing: The trip starts at around 10 AM, with departures every 30-40 minutes. The last boat from the island is at 5 PM in summer, earlier in April and October.
• Cost Breakdown: The boat trip is included in the tour price, but the entry fee to Spinalonga (around 20 euros) is paid separately on-site. This is worth noting, especially since some reviews mention bringing extra cash for souvenirs or snacks.
• Duration: Expect around 2 hours total — including the sailing time and island exploration.
• What to Bring: Snacks and drinks are allowed, and there’s a bar/coffee shop on the island. Consider bringing water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking.
• Language: The crew speaks English, making communication straightforward.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy scenic boat rides and want a manageable, hassle-free way to see Spinalonga, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the island’s compelling history. The flexible return policy makes it easy to customize your experience, whether you want a quick visit or a longer stay.

However, if you’re a history buff eager to explore every corner or learn from guided tours, this might feel a bit rushed. The one-hour sightseeing window isn’t enough for deep exploration, so consider combining it with a guided tour or extra time on your own if possible.

This experience is also good for those who prefer a relaxed, scenic day out without complicated logistics. The boat departs punctually, the crew is friendly, and the scenery in Elounda bay is lovely.

For travelers wanting a straightforward, scenic boat ride combined with a glimpse into one of Greece’s most historically layered sites, the Spinalonga Boat Trip from Elounda hits the right notes. The journey is smooth, flexible, and offers a good balance between comfort and adventure. You’ll love the views of the bay, the ease of hopping on and off, and the opportunity to stand on the island that has captured imaginations for centuries.

While the time on Spinalonga is limited, it’s enough to get a sense of the island’s story and explore its ruins at your own pace. The added bonus of being able to return on any boat from the same operator makes this a flexible and stress-free option. Just be prepared for the entry fee on arrival and plan your visit outside of the busiest hours if peace and quiet matter to you.

All in all, this tour offers a genuine taste of Crete’s coastal charm and a fascinating slice of history that’s accessible and enjoyable for most travelers.

Is the boat trip suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most ages. The boat ride is comfortable, and exploring the island is manageable, though very young children should be supervised around ruins and salt pans.

How long do I stay on Spinalonga?
Typically about 1 hour and 10 to 20 minutes, which is enough for a quick look and some photos. If you want more time, you can catch another boat later at no extra charge.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to check availability beforehand, especially during peak season, but you can usually buy tickets on the day if space allows.

What’s included in the tour?
The return boat trip, experienced crew, and the option for a late return with the same boat service. The entry fee to Spinalonga (€20) is paid separately.

Are there guided tours on the island?
Guided tours are available locally but are not included in this package. You can explore on your own or hire a licensed guide on-site.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meet a representative at Vritomartes Restaurant in the Port of Schisma Eloundas. The port is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or car, with free parking.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Yes, snacks and drinks are allowed, and there’s a bar/coffee shop on the island if you want to purchase something.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind if your plans change.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, it can suit families with older children who enjoy scenic boat rides and exploring ruins, but very young children might find the walking and exposure to ruins less comfortable.

If this sounds like a trip that fits your style, it’s worth considering for your Crete itinerary. It’s simple, scenic, and offers a meaningful peek into a remarkable part of Greek history, all with the ease of flexible scheduling.

You can check availability for your dates here: