Have Fun Cruising Agios Nikolaos – Elounda Bay

Exploring the Waters of Crete: A Detailed Look at the Have Fun Cruising Agios Nikolaos – Elounda Bay Tour

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water while exploring some of Crete’s most beautiful spots, the Have Fun Cruising Agios Nikolaos – Elounda Bay tour might just be worth considering. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture of a laid-back, scenic cruise that offers a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and easygoing fun.

What we love about this experience are the accessible meeting point and the affordable price point, which makes it easy for most travelers to hop on board without much fuss. Plus, the stunning views of Mirabello Bay and the chance to relax at a quiet beach spot are definite highlights.

However, a few considerations are worth noting — like the fact that you won’t be disembarking onto Spinalonga itself, but rather circling it for photos. If you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of the island, this isn’t the tour for you. Still, if a scenic boat ride with some time to swim and soak up the sun sounds appealing, this cruise could fit well into your Crete itinerary. It’s especially suited for those who want a simple, affordable way to enjoy the sea and scenic landscapes, with plenty of flexibility.

Key Points

• Budget-friendly: An excellent option for travelers wanting to enjoy a boat trip without overspending.
• Scenic views: Expect beautiful vistas of Mirabello Bay and the chance to take photos of Spinalonga from the water.
• Relaxing stops: Swim and relax at Kolokytha Beach and Skistra Gulf—great for unwinding.
• Flexible activities: You can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel (if you bring your own gear), making this a versatile outing.
• Group experience: With a maximum of 200 travelers, it’s lively but not overcrowded.
• Timing: The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, leaving plenty of time afterward for other activities or downtime.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at 11:00 AM from Agios Nikolaos harbor, a convenient spot to meet, especially if you’re staying nearby. From here, the boat sets out on a slow cruise along Mirabello Gulf, giving you plenty of chances to settle in and enjoy the views. The approximately one-hour journey is peaceful, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

First stop: Kolokytha Beach. Here, you’ll anchor for about 75 minutes, which is just long enough to cool off, enjoy the water, and explore the beach. Its crystal-clear waters make it ideal for swimming and lounging. We’ve heard from fellow travelers that the water here is especially inviting, perfect for a quick dip or floating around with some of the provided floating toys.

After soaking up the sun, the boat cruises around Spinalonga, the famous leper island. While passengers don’t disembark, the boat slowly circles the island for about 15-20 minutes, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate its rugged beauty from the water. One reviewer noted, “We take a cruise around the Island… to have some time for pictures,” emphasizing the scenic value of the viewing experience.

Next, the boat heads to Skistra Gulf, another hidden gem for about 75 minutes. This spot is perfect for snorkeling (though you’ll need to bring your own gear), swimming, and relaxing. The calm waters and beautiful surroundings make it a favorite for those wanting a quiet escape. The floating toys provided are a nice touch, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.

The trip wraps up after the second stop, returning to Agios Nikolaos in time for the afternoon. The entire cruise lasts around 4.5 hours, leaving plenty of time left for sightseeing, exploring, or just relaxing back at your hotel.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out

What really sets this tour apart is its balance of affordability and scenic beauty. At just over $20 per person, it’s a wallet-friendly way to cruise the bay, see Spinalonga from a different perspective, and enjoy some beach time. The group setting helps keep costs down but still feels intimate enough for a pleasant experience.

Another aspect travelers appreciate is the ease of access. The meeting point at Koundourou 6 in Agios Nikolaos is convenient for those staying in town, and the tour’s schedule fits well into a morning or early afternoon plan.

The water toys are a bonus for those who want to splash around without bringing their own equipment, and the overall vibe is casual and friendly, with a crew that gets good reviews for their service.

The Realities: Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

While most reviews are positive, one detail to consider is the water condition during the stops. A reviewer, Andrew, mentioned that during the second stop, the water was choppy and felt like the tide was pulling them out, which limited swimming time. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calm waters, this is worth noting.

Most travelers find the length of the tour just right—long enough to see two beautiful spots and relax without feeling rushed. The scenic views of the bay and coastline are a highlight, with many noting how picture-perfect the scenery is.

In terms of the scheduled stops, some might wish for a more in-depth exploration of Spinalonga. As the boat only circles the island, no disembarkation is included, which could be a drawback if you’re eager to explore the island’s history firsthand. However, for those who simply want a good vantage point and some photo opportunities, this setup works well.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

Considering the price, this cruise offers solid value. For just over twenty dollars, you get a scenic boat trip, swimming opportunities, floating toys, and the chance to see some of Crete’s iconic sights from the water. It’s a no-fuss, relaxing way to spend part of your day, especially if you’re on a budget or want a simple activity to break up your sightseeing.

The inclusions are straightforward, and the free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, letting you book confidently knowing you can change plans if needed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want an affordable, scenic boat ride and don’t require an in-depth tour of Spinalonga. It’s perfect if you enjoy swimming and relaxing at beaches, and if you’re okay with a group setting. Families or groups of friends looking for a laid-back day on the water will find this cruise enjoyable.

It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a flexible schedule—after the tour, the rest of the day is free to explore more or unwind. If you’re craving a more active, guided exploration, you might find this cruise a little too relaxed. But if serenity, beautiful views, and casual fun appeal, this could be just right.

FAQ

How do I meet the tour?
You meet at Koundourou 6 in Agios Nikolaos, which is central and easy to access. The tour begins at 11:00 AM on scheduled days.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts about 4.5 hours, including stops for swimming and sightseeing.

Is snorkeling included?
No, snorkeling equipment is not provided, so bring your own if you want to snorkel.

Can I swim at the stops?
Yes, you’re encouraged to swim, especially at Kolokytha Beach and Skistra Gulf. The water toys make it fun for all ages.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is suitable for most ages, but keep in mind the stops are mostly for swimming and relaxing.

What is the price per person?
About $20.64, making it a reasonably priced way to enjoy the bay.

What should I bring?
Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to snorkel, and don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a towel.

Is there any cultural or historical aspect to this tour?
The main focus is on scenic cruising and beach relaxation. You’ll see Spinalonga from a distance but won’t explore its history on this trip.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund.

Is it suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the relaxed nature and swimming stops make it suitable for most travelers, including families with older children.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an easy, budget-friendly way to enjoy some of Crete’s best water views, the Have Fun Cruising Agios Nikolaos – Elounda Bay tour offers a relaxed, scenic escape. You’ll love the opportunity to swim in clear waters, take photos of the rugged coastline, and enjoy a laid-back day on the water — all without breaking the bank.

This cruise is perfect for those who want a peaceful, straightforward experience, especially if they’re content with viewing Spinalonga from the boat rather than exploring it on land. Just be prepared for the possibility of choppier waters at certain stops, and bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to explore beneath the surface.

Overall, it offers a nice balance of scenic beauty, activity, and affordability — making it a worthwhile addition to your Crete adventures if it fits your style.