Agios Nikolaos in Crete is a fantastic place for sailing. Its calm waters, stunning coastlines, and proximity to iconic sights like Spinalonga Island make it ideal for boat lovers. Whether you’re looking for a lively cruise with water toys or a private, relaxed outing, this town has something to offer. Our favorite is the Agios Nikolaos: Spinalonga and Kolokytha Catamaran with Meal because it offers a perfect mix of scenery, activity, and comfort, all in a manageable 5.5-hour trip. It takes you around the Mirabello Gulf, with highlights like sailing past Spinalonga, exploring secret swim spots in Kolokytha Bay, and enjoying a premium meal onboard. The reviews are excellent—4.8 out of 5 from hundreds of travelers—testifying to its popularity and quality.
If you’d prefer a more all-inclusive experience, the Agios Nikolaos All-inclusive Catamaran Cruise & Water Toys delivers a longer, more relaxed journey with unlimited drinks and a healthy Mediterranean lunch. For those wanting a private, tailored adventure, the Private Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks offers exclusivity with a more personalized itinerary. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you choose the best fit for your Crete sailing experience.
1. Agios Nikolaos: Spinalonga and Kolokytha Catamaran with Meal
This 5.5-hour catamaran trip stands out for its combination of scenic sailing, water activities, and excellent food. Departing from the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, the cruise takes you along Mirabello Gulf, where the clarity of the water and the variety of blue shades make every moment picture-perfect. The itinerary includes a sail around Spinalonga Island, known for its Venetian fortress, and exploration of secret swimming spots like Kolokytha Bay and Schistra, perfect for escaping the crowds.
What makes this tour worth it is its balance—an active day with swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, topped with a premium menu and unlimited drinks. The crew skillfully blends a safety briefing, water fun, and sightseeing to keep everyone engaged. The scenic views of Spinalonga from the water are particularly memorable, and the trip ends with a relaxing sail back to Agios Nikolaos Marina.
This tour is ideal if you want a well-rounded day with great scenery, good food, and water activities, all in a moderate time frame. The large reviews and high rating underline its quality. The only potential downside is its duration—if you prefer a shorter or more private experience, other options might suit better.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers seeking a lively yet comfortable sailing day with fantastic photo opportunities and a quality onboard meal.
2. Agios Nikolaos All-inclusive Catamaran Cruise & Water Toys
This longer, 5.5 to 7-hour cruise offers a leisurely exploration of Mirabello Bay aboard a modern, spacious catamaran. It’s a favorite for those who want the full experience—plenty of time to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, and relax. The boat itself features sunbeds and shaded lounges, making it perfect for lounging in comfort between water activities.
What sets this cruise apart is its focus on healthy, balanced food designed by a certified nutritionist, along with an open bar serving water, soft drinks, Greek wine, and beer. The itinerary includes stops at the Cave of Barbarossa, Elounda, and Spinalonga, with scenic views and opportunities for memorable photos. The highlight is the stop at Kolokytha Bay, where you can snorkel, enjoy regional food, and take in the serene surroundings. The cruise also features fun water toys like sea scooters, slides, and paddleboards, making it suitable for families and active travelers.
Guests consistently praise the day-long relaxing vibe and the quality of the onboard service. The extended duration and variety of stops make it ideal for those who want a relaxing, full-day adventure with plenty of water-based entertainment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to spend a longer day at sea, with good food, unlimited drinks, and lots of water toys for all ages.
3. Agios Nikolaos: Catamaran Trip with Food, Drinks, & Water Toys
This 5.5 to 7-hour semi-private cruise offers an intimate, relaxed atmosphere with a focus on luxury and comfort aboard a beautiful catamaran. Starting from Agios Nikolaos, this tour includes stops at Spinalonga Island and Kolokytha Bay, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Mirabello Gulf.
A key feature of this trip is the healthy, organic Mediterranean lunch and unlimited drinks such as wine, beer, and soft drinks. The itinerary includes visits to the Barbarossa Cave, Elounda, and scenic sailing along the coast. The small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience, which many travelers find adds to the overall enjoyment. Plus, fun water toys like paddleboards, inflatables, and slides are included, making it ideal for families or couples wanting a more private feel.
Guests appreciate the combination of excellent food, ample water activities, and the chance to relax in a smaller group. The tour’s focus on quality and comfort makes it stand out among larger, more bustling cruises.
Bottom Line: A sophisticated, smaller-group cruise perfect for couples or those seeking a peaceful, upscale day on the water.
4. Luxury Sailing Cruise in Agios Nikolaos: Half-Day & Full-Day
Our pick for travelers who want a luxurious, flexible sailing experience is the Luxury Sailing Cruise. Operating as both a half-day and a full-day trip, it takes you on the water aboard a brand-new vessel equipped for maximum comfort. It’s ideal if you want a customizable experience, whether for a sunset cruise, celebration, or simply a relaxing day at sea.
The itinerary features stops at Mirabello Bay, Kolokytha Beach, and Spinalonga, with options for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying regional food. The crew offers refreshments, including aperitifs, wine, and local snacks, alongside opportunities to see marine life. The most appealing aspect is the vessel itself—modern, well-equipped, and designed for comfort—making it suitable for special occasions like weddings or anniversaries.
Guests report that the scenery and relaxed vibe are top-notch, and the flexibility of the itinerary is a big plus. The only potential drawback is the higher price point, which reflects the quality and exclusivity of the experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a private, elegant sailing experience, especially for special occasions or those who value comfort.
5. Agios Nikolaos: Private Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks
For travelers who want total privacy and a tailored experience, the Private Catamaran Cruise is unmatched. It’s a 5-hour exclusive voyage offering full control over your itinerary, including stops at Spinalonga and Kolokytha Bay. This cruise is ideal for celebrations, romantic getaways, or families seeking a quiet day on the water.
The vessel is equipped with luxurious amenities, and you’re served freshly cooked Mediterranean meals with organic ingredients. Unlimited drinks—wine, beer, and soft drinks—are included, and you can enjoy features like snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing on deck. The crew provides a personalized service, making this a highly curated experience.
Pricing is not specified, but the reviews (5/5 from six reviews) suggest it’s excellent value for a private, luxury outing. The flexibility to customize your day means you can focus on what matters most—whether that’s a scenic sail, swimming, or a special meal.
Bottom Line: The top choice for those looking to host a special event or enjoy a completely private day at sea with high-end comforts.
How to Choose Your Sailing Experience in Agios Nikolaos
When selecting your boat trip, consider your budget, how much time you want at sea, and whether you prefer group or private experiences. If you want a balanced day with plenty of water activities and a good meal, the Spinalonga and Kolokytha Catamaran with Meal is a solid choice. For a more relaxed, all-inclusive day with fun water toys, the All-inclusive Catamaran Cruise offers great value.
If privacy and a tailored schedule matter most, the Private Catamaran delivers an upscale, exclusive experience. The Luxury Sailing Cruise is perfect if you want to celebrate a special occasion or indulge in a refined environment.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and boat type. Think about your activity preferences—water sports, scenic sailing, or private comfort—and pick the tour that best matches your style.
Final Thoughts
Agios Nikolaos offers a wonderful range of sailing options, from lively group cruises to exclusive private charters. If you’re looking for a classic day on the water with plenty of photo opportunities, the Spinalonga and Kolokytha Catamaran is a top choice. For a longer, relaxed day with lots of water toys, the All-inclusive Catamaran Cruise suits active travelers. Couples or families wanting a serene, tailored experience should consider the Private Catamaran.
No matter which you pick, these tours promise beautiful scenery, fun water activities, and memorable moments. To ensure a smooth trip, book early, especially during busy months, and prepare to enjoy the best of Crete’s waters.
