Crete: Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ

Planning a day out in Crete and considering a boat trip? You’re in luck. This Elounda boat trip with BBQ is a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of the island’s most loved sights without breaking the bank. With a solid 5-star rating based on just one review, it’s clearly made a good impression on those who’ve tried it.

What we love about this tour? First, the crystal-clear waters at Kolokytha Bay offer a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing in nature’s lap. Second, the authentic BBQ lunch on board turns a simple cruise into a proper feast — especially appreciated when you get to enjoy grilled meats and fresh salads in the sun.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the 10-hour duration. It’s a full day that involves transportation, multiple stops, and sightseeing, so it’s best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule and some stamina. This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic adventure that combines swimming, good food, and a bit of local history. Not a bad pick if you enjoy day trips that mix relaxation with a bit of exploration.

• Beautiful swimming spots in secluded Kolokytha Bay with clear waters
• Onboard BBQ with options for meat and vegetarian dishes
• Photographic cruise past Spinalonga, with engaging commentary about its history
• Cretan olive oil tasting adds a flavorful local touch
• Free time in Agios Nikolaos for strolling, shopping, or relaxing at seaside cafes
• All-in-one experience blending sightseeing, swimming, eating, and cultural insights

What This Tour Offers at a Glance

This boat trip is designed to give you a well-rounded experience of Crete’s coast and countryside. Starting with a comfortable bus transfer from a wide array of pickup points, the journey to Elounda sets the tone for a day packed with highlights. Once on the boat, you’ll find yourself cruising past notable sights, stopping for swims, and enjoying authentic local food.

The price of $30 per person covers most essentials. It’s surprisingly affordable, especially considering the full 10-hour duration and inclusive activities. The tour is operated by ETHERION, with a professional guide leading the way and offering insights in English. Plus, the inclusion of liability insurance ensures a sense of security during your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Transportation and Timing

You’ll be picked up from your hotel or a designated location and then transported comfortably in an air-conditioned bus. Expect about 1.5 hours of travel to the port of Elounda. From there, the boat awaits, and the adventure begins. The overall length of the tour, including stops, is around 10 hours, making it suitable for those willing to spend a full day on the water and exploring.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Starting with the Pick-up — you’ll be offered one of 14 pickup locations, ranging from Heraklion to Malia, ensuring easy access regardless of where you stay. The precise pickup time will be confirmed via email, usually within 24 hours of booking.

Transfer to Elounda — the bus ride of about 1.5 hours is straightforward, and the coach is described as comfortable and air-conditioned, making the early part of the day stress-free.

Cruise to Kolokytha Bay — this is where you’ll drop anchor at one of Crete’s most tranquil spots. The bay’s pristine waters are perfect for swimming directly from the boat or taking a short walk ashore to explore. The water is often described as crystal-clear, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for a swim.

BBQ Lunch on Board — while relaxing in the sun, the crew will prepare a traditional Greek BBQ. The menu includes grilled pork chops, Greek salad, feta, bread, seasonal fruit, and a glass of wine or soft drink. Vegetarian options are available, which is a considerate touch.

Cruising past Spinalonga — the tour offers a water view of the legendary island, famous for its Venetian fortress and history as a leper colony. The guide will share interesting stories, enhancing your appreciation of the scene passing by.

Second Swim Spot — between Spinalonga and the village of Plaka, you’ll stop for another swim in open waters, a scenic and refreshing break.

Visit to Olive Oil Park — after returning to Elounda, the trip continues with a visit to a local olive oil park. Here, you’ll learn about how Cretan olive oil is made and enjoy a tasting session — a fun way to connect with local flavors.

Final Stop in Agios Nikolaos — the picturesque town offers free time to stroll, relax, or browse shops. The small lake and seaside cafes make for a relaxing end to your day.

Return Journey — after a full day, you’ll head back to your pickup points, often feeling both relaxed and inspired, with plenty of photos and stories to share.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

Authentic Food & Drink — the BBQ is simple but tasty, with vegetarian options available. The inclusion of wine or soft drinks makes the meal feel like a proper treat rather than just a snack.

Scenic Views & History — cruising past Spinalonga provides a stunning backdrop and a little dose of history, especially for those interested in Crete’s past. The water stops are well-placed for maximum enjoyment without feeling rushed.

Local Culture — olive oil tasting is a lovely addition that offers insight into Cretan traditions and flavors, making the experience more than just a sightseeing cruise.

Guide Quality — reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Georgia, for their clear explanations and friendliness, which enhances the overall vibe.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

Duration: 10 hours, including transport, swimming, and sightseeing. Be prepared for a full day, and bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear.

Price: $30 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the inclusiveness of the trip, especially if you value good food, scenic views, and a relaxed pace.

Group Size: While not explicitly specified, these tours tend to be group experiences, which can be lively but not overly crowded.

What’s Not Included: The boat and BBQ cost an additional €15 (approx. $15) for adults and €7.50 for children. Budgeting for that is wise if you want to indulge in the meal.

Family-Friendliness: Not explicitly rated for children, but the relaxed pace and swimming stops make it suitable for most travelers, including families with older children comfortable in the water.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for an affordable, scenic day that combines swimming, local food, and a touch of history, this cruise ticks a lot of boxes. The value for money is good, especially given the included attractions and stops. The trip’s highlights — stunning water, lively guide commentary, delicious BBQ, and free time in Agios Nikolaos — make it a well-rounded sample of what Crete has to offer.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed day with plenty of opportunities to take photos, swim, and learn about local culture without the hassle of planning each stop. If your idea of a perfect day involves good food, beautiful scenery, and a bit of history, this tour is a safe bet.

However, if you’re sensitive to long days in transit or prefer private, customized experiences, you might want to explore other options. Still, for most visitors wanting to dive into Crete’s coastal charm without fuss, this trip offers solid value and memorable moments.

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus is part of the package, with multiple pickup points available.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts about 10 hours, including transfers and stops, so it’s a full-day commitment.

What does the BBQ lunch include? The meal features grilled pork chops, Greek salad, feta, bread, seasonal fruit, and a drink — with vegetarian options on request.

Are there swimming opportunities? Absolutely. You’ll stop at Kolokytha Bay and between Spinalonga and Plaka for swimming in clear waters.

Is the tour suitable for families? While not explicitly marketed for children, the stops for swimming and scenic spots suggest it could be enjoyable for older kids comfortable in the water.

How much does the boat & BBQ cost? The additional cost is €15 per adult and €7.50 per child, payable on the day.

What is the guide like? Reviewers praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, especially Georgia, who explains things well and makes the experience more engaging.

Can I customize the experience? The tour is set with a fixed itinerary; personalized options aren’t available.

What should I bring? Essentials include comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, and a hat.

How do I book? You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.

This boat trip from Elounda offers a well-balanced taste of Crete — scenic waters, tasty food, and laid-back sightseeing. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, it’s a dependable way to enjoy a slice of the island’s coastal life.

You can check availability for your dates here: