Crete: Spinalonga Agios and Elounda Boat Tour and BBQ

Crete’s Spinalonga Agios and Elounda Boat Tour and BBQ offers a day of captivating exploration and indulgence. Guests can discover the island’s rich Venetian and Saracen history, swim in the serene Kolokytha Bay, and savor traditional Greek cuisine. With convenient pickups, air-conditioned transportation, and a mix of guided experiences and free time, this tour provides a well-rounded experience. But what sets it apart is the opportunity to uncover the island’s fascinating past and connect with its vibrant culture. Those seeking an immersive Cretan adventure won’t want to miss this exceptional tour.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best BBQ Experiences In Heraklion.

Key Points

• This comprehensive tour offers a blend of cultural exploration, swimming, snorkeling, and a traditional Greek BBQ lunch.
• Key highlights include visiting the Venetian Fortress on Spinalonga Island, swimming in Kolokytha Bay, and discovering the shopping and food scene in Agios Nikolaos.
• The tour includes boat transportation, air-conditioned bus transfers, and an English-speaking guide, providing a seamless and accessible experience.
• Customers have praised the tour for its value for money and quality of the BBQ lunch, though some have suggested more time at certain locations.
• The tour showcases Crete’s rich history, including the Venetian Fortress and its previous use as a leper colony, as well as the Saracen presence.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This comprehensive Crete boat tour provides a captivating exploration of Spinalonga Island, the tranquil Kolokytha Bay, and the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, catering to visitors with a diverse range of languages and flexible pickup options.

Priced from €31 per person, the tour lasts 4 to 12 hours, allowing ample time to immerse in the island’s history, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and savor a delectable BBQ lunch.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can secure their spot with confidence.

Whether you’re seeking a cultural adventure or a relaxing day on the water, this Crete tour offers an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s main locations include the captivating Spinalonga Island, where visitors can explore the Venetian Fortress and learn about its historical significance as a Saracen refuge and Turkish settlement.

Travelers will also enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the tranquil Kolokytha Bay, where a delectable BBQ lunch featuring pork steak, Greek salad, bread, feta, and fruit will be served.

Finally, the charming town of Agios Nikolaos provides ample opportunities for shopping, food tasting, and strolling through its picturesque streets.

Transportation to these locations is provided by air-conditioned buses and boats, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.

Included Services

The tour includes a boat ticket for access to Spinalonga and Kolokytha, as well as a BBQ lunch served onboard.

Plus, the package covers air-conditioned bus transportation for pickup and drop-off, and a guided tour available daily in English, with other languages offered on specific days.

Liability insurance by Generali is also part of the included services.

Travelers can enjoy a hassle-free experience, with the boat ticket, BBQ lunch, transportation, and guided tour all covered in the price.

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable day exploring the highlights of Crete, from the historic Spinalonga Island to the scenic Kolokytha Bay and the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.

Important Information

Aside from the included services, travelers should remember to bring essential items like sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, towel, comfortable clothes, swimwear, and a sun hat.

Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.

The tour meeting point is outside Restaurant Megaro at 9:15 a.m. for those not opting for hotel pickup. It’s important to arrive on time as the tour departs promptly.

Participants should also be prepared for the tour’s itinerary, which includes a 1.5-hour bus ride and 20-minute boat transfers to each location.

With a mix of guided tours, free time, and a BBQ lunch, travelers can expect a well-rounded experience exploring the highlights of Crete’s Spinalonga Island and Agios Nikolaos.

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Customer Feedback

Overall, reviewers have given the Crete: Spinalonga Agios and Elounda Boat Tour and BBQ a rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 93 customer reviews.

Customers were generally pleased with the tour’s value for money and the quality of the BBQ lunch. However, some suggested that more time was needed at the key locations of Kolokytha beach and Spinalonga Island. A few travelers felt the pace of the tour was a bit rushed.

On a positive note, customers enjoyed the olive oil tasting and the overall experience. The tour’s transportation, guided tours, and liability insurance were also well-received.

Convenient Pickup Locations

One of the highlights of the Crete: Spinalonga Agios and Elounda Boat Tour and BBQ is the convenient pickup options available from various locations across the region, including Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, and Heraklion. This allows travelers to easily access the tour, no matter where they’re staying.

The tour provider offers air-conditioned bus transportation to the departure point, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey. This pickup service is included in the tour price, making it a seamless and accessible experience for visitors to Crete.

Whether you’re staying in the bustling city of Heraklion or the charming coastal town of Sissi, the convenient pickup options cater to the needs of all participants.

Venetian Fortress and Saracen History

Spinalonga Island, a former Venetian fortress and leper colony, holds a significant place in the history of Crete, having served as a Saracen refuge and Turkish settlement over the centuries.

The island’s Venetian-built fortress, constructed in the 16th century, was a strategic asset that protected the island from pirates and invaders.

During the Ottoman rule, Spinalonga became a refuge for the Saracens, a Muslim people who fled persecution.

Later, the island was used as a leper colony, housing those afflicted with the disease until 1962.

Today, the well-preserved ruins and historical sites offer visitors a glimpse into Crete’s rich past, making it a captivating destination on this guided tour.

Dining and Leisure Experiences

After exploring the historical significance of Spinalonga Island, the tour offers a chance to unwind and savor the local culinary delights. Travelers can look forward to a BBQ lunch on board the boat, featuring traditional Greek dishes like pork steak, fresh salad, bread, and feta cheese, accompanied by seasonal fruits for dessert.

Experience	Description	Highlights
Swimming & Snorkeling	Enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha Bay.	Discover the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
Free Time in Agios Nikolaos	Explore the charming streets, sample local delicacies, and indulge in some shopping.	Enjoy the authentic atmosphere of this picturesque town.
Onboard Dining	Savor the flavors of a traditional Greek BBQ, with options to satisfy various dietary preferences.	Relax and enjoy the scenic views as you dine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There Any Age Limit for the Tour?

The tour does not appear to have an age limit specified. However, it is recommended that guests be able to comfortably handle the activities, such as boat rides and beach time. Participants of all ages can likely enjoy this tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks onboard, though the tour operator may provide meals and beverages as part of the tour. It’s best to check with the operator before the tour to confirm any policies.

Is There a Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour operator does not specify a maximum group size. However, group size may be limited by the capacity of the boat and transportation used during the tour. The exact group size can vary based on demand and availability.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration at an Additional Cost?

Yes, customers can typically extend the tour duration for an additional cost. Tour operators often offer flexible options to accommodate varying needs and preferences, allowing participants to customize their experience within the tour’s overall framework.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, there are discounts available for children and seniors on this tour. Children under 12 typically receive a 20% discount, while seniors over 65 can get a 10% discount. Discounts may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest pricing.

Recap

The Crete: Spinalonga Agios and Elounda Boat Tour and BBQ provides an all-encompassing experience, blending historical exploration, leisure activities, and delectable Greek cuisine.

With convenient pickups, guided experiences, and ample free time, this tour caters to visitors seeking a well-rounded day of discovery and relaxation in the stunning Cretan landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here: