Luxury Sailing Cruise in Agios Nikolaos: Half-Day & Full-Day Trip

If you’re dreaming of sailing in Crete, this luxury yacht trip in Agios Nikolaos might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this experience is a fantastic way to enjoy both the natural beauty and some gentle adventure around Mirabello Bay. With options for half or full days, it’s designed to fit different schedules and interests.

What really draws us to this cruise are the stunning views of Spinalonga Island and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters at Kolokytha Bay—two of the most picturesque spots in the area. Plus, the added touch of a luxurious sailing yacht with good amenities makes it feel more like a special treat than just a boat trip. On the downside, the price is on the higher side, but considering what’s included, many will find it offers solid value.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who love a mix of relaxation and exploration on the water, enjoy picturesque scenery, and appreciate a touch of luxury. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy Mirabello Bay at your own pace with a small group and a comfortable yacht, but it might not be ideal if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a very active adventure.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between half-day or full-day trips depending on your schedule.
• Comfort and amenities: The yacht offers plenty of comforts, including snacks, towels, and an extensive drinks selection.
• Beautiful stops: Visit Spinalonga Island for photos and explore Kolokytha Bay for swimming and relaxation.
• Optional activities: Snorkeling, SUP, floating mattress, and sea noodles are available to enhance your experience.
• Culinary delight: Full-day trips include an optional lunch at a renowned local restaurant or on-board meals.
• Private feel: It’s a private tour with only your group, making it more personalized.

Setting Sail From Agios Nikolaos

The cruise departs from the charming port of Agios Nikolaos, which is a lovely place to start your day—and easy to access whether you’re staying nearby or arriving for the trip. The initial hour of sailing is leisurely, giving you time to enjoy the views of the coastline before reaching the first highlight.

The yacht itself is described as a luxurious vessel, equipped with cabins, a kitchen, toilets, and amenities that elevate the experience above a standard boat tour. The review from a past guest highlights the comfort and convenience, noting that the vessel was a 50-foot schooner with a range of amenities that made the trip special.

Exploring Spinalonga Island

The main star of this cruise is Spinalonga Island, a striking spot that travelers love for its history and scenery. The boat circles around the island, offering excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate its rugged beauty. The boat’s movement around the island creates a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for snapping pictures or simply soaking in the views.

One reviewer mentioned, “We went around the island to take some pictures,” which captures the essence of this stop—more about admiring the scenery than detailed tours. It’s a moment to pause, breathe, and appreciate the scenery, making it great for photo enthusiasts or those wanting a calm, scenic experience.

Swimming at Kolokytha Bay

The highlight for many is the stop at Kolokytha Bay, where the yacht anchors and you’re free to enjoy about an hour of swimming or just relaxing on deck. The water here is described as crystal-clear, and the bay’s seclusion makes it feel like a private paradise.

If you’re into snorkeling or floating on a mattress, you’ll find plenty of options, with some equipment provided. The US reviewer praised the beauty of Kolokytha, noting that you could relax onboard or explore the bay—both options are equally inviting.

Full-Day Versus Half-Day Experience

The half-day option is straightforward: a scenic cruise with stops at the island and bay, perfect if you want a taste of sailing without committing the entire day. It’s ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer to keep your day varied with other activities.

The full-day trip adds a few appealing features: an optional lunch at a local restaurant, often renowned for its seafood, and the chance to explore Psira Island, an uninhabited and historically interesting spot northwest of Mochlos. The full-day itinerary can be slightly more flexible, extending time at stops or taking an alternative route to include Psira Island.

One guest appreciated the length, stating, “On full-day trips, we either extended our time or took an alternative route,” which speaks to the customizable nature of the experience.

The Food and Drinks

For many travelers, a good meal can make or break a trip. On this cruise, snacks like Cretan fruit and refreshments are included, along with an unlimited drinks selection—wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, coffee, and water. You could easily enjoy a leisurely drink while soaking up the scenery.

Lunch isn’t included in the base price but can be ordered separately, often enjoyed at a highly-rated local fish restaurant in Mochlos or onboard if you prefer. This flexibility allows you to choose a dining experience that suits your appetite and budget.

Activities Aboard

Apart from sailing, you’ll love the variety of water activities available: snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), floating mattresses, and sea noodles. These extras ensure you have options for fun and relaxation during your time at anchor, especially in Kolokytha Bay.

Guests have noted the convenience of all these amenities and how they add to the overall enjoyment, making the trip feel more like a leisurely day on a private yacht rather than a crowded tour.

The Experience from a Guest’s Perspective

From a review, one traveler said, “Our boat was a 50 schooner with cabins, kitchen, toilets, and other amenities,” which underscores the level of comfort provided. They also mentioned being a family of five, joined by other couples, highlighting the social yet intimate vibe of the cruise.

Another traveler appreciated the stunning views and the relaxed pace, emphasizing the beauty of the coastline and islands. The sense of exclusivity and the quality of the boat’s amenities make this cruise stand out compared to standard tours.

Pricing and Value

At $1,017.70 for up to 10 people, you’re paying a premium, but the inclusions—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, paddleboard, floating mattress—add value. The experience is about combining comfort, scenery, and a bit of adventure in one package.

If you’re after a more personalized, relaxed day on the water with a touch of luxury, this cruise offers good bang for your buck. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family who appreciate comfort and scenic beauty.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This sailing trip is perfect for those seeking a luxurious, relaxed day on the water with beautiful scenery and manageable activity levels. It’s suited for travelers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Crete without rough waters or strenuous activity.

It’s also ideal for those interested in sights like Spinalonga and Kolokytha Bay, along with the option of a nice meal and some water-based fun. If you’re looking for a private, flexible, and scenic sailing adventure, this could be your perfect match.

The Sum Up

This luxury sailing cruise in Agios Nikolaos offers a fantastic way to experience Crete’s coastline, combining stunning views, comfortable amenities, and a leisurely pace. The stops at Spinalonga Island and Kolokytha Bay are truly highlights, especially if you love taking photos or relaxing in beautiful surroundings.

While the price might seem high, the inclusions of snacks, drinks, water activities, and the private feel make it a worthwhile indulgence—particularly if you’re traveling with friends or family. The option to extend your trip or include a delicious local lunch adds flexibility and value, making it suitable for a variety of preferences.

If you’re after a calming, scenic, and comfortable boat trip that lets you soak in Crete’s natural beauty, this cruise could be just what you need. It’s ideal for lovers of scenery, relaxing water activities, and a touch of luxury.

FAQ

Can I choose between half-day and full-day trips?
Yes, you have options for both half-day and full-day cruises, allowing you to tailor your experience to your schedule.

What is included in the price?
Snacks like fruit, unlimited drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, coffee, water), snorkeling equipment, towels, a paddleboard, floating mattress, and sea noodles are included.

Is there an option for lunch?
Yes, on full-day trips, you can opt for a meal at a renowned local restaurant or enjoy onboard meals if ordered separately.

How long is the stop at Kolokytha Bay?
The yacht anchors for about an hour, giving you plenty of time to swim and relax in the clear waters.

Are the water activities suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, most water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding are generally suitable for older children with supervision, but check with the provider about specific age restrictions.

What if I want a more private experience?
Since this is a private tour for your group, it offers a personalized feel, especially compared to larger group tours.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, hotel transfers are available at an extra charge if ordered, but most travelers can easily reach the marina of Agios Nikolaos on their own.

If this sounds like a perfect day on the water, it’s worth considering. The combination of scenic stops, luxury amenities, and water fun makes it a memorable way to enjoy Crete’s coast.