Heraklion: Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos Cruise With BBQ Lunch

Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete, offers a unique opportunity to embark on a captivating cruise that unveils the rich history and stunning coastal scenery of the region. Travelers can enjoy the captivating story of Spinalonga, a former leper colony, and then explore the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, renowned for its picturesque lagoon. Accompanied by a guided tour and indulging in a delectable BBQ lunch, this excursion promises to be a highlight of any Cretan adventure. However, the true allure lies in the chance to discover the region’s hidden gems and uncover the captivating narratives that lie beyond the surface.

This experience made our list of the 21 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Agios Nikolaos.

Key Points

• This full-day tour offers a guided exploration of the historical leper colony of Spinalonga, followed by relaxation at Kolokytha Bay and free time in the scenic town of Agios Nikolaos.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, boat tickets, and a BBQ lunch with a complimentary glass of wine or juice, catering to various dietary preferences.
• Visitors can enjoy the preserved ruins of Spinalonga, learning about the lives and social issues faced by its former inhabitants from knowledgeable guides.
• The tour provides an opportunity to swim and unwind in the serene waters of Kolokytha Bay, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
• Agios Nikolaos offers a vibrant contrast to the solemn history of Spinalonga, with its bustling harbor, cafes, boutiques, and restaurants for independent exploration.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour offers visitors an enriching experience combining a guided exploration of the historic island of Spinalonga and a relaxing cruise to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, complete with a BBQ lunch.

The 9-11 hour tour is priced at $52.28 per person and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Available in multiple languages, the tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 220 reviews.

Pickup is provided from select locations across Crete, ensuring a convenient start to the day’s activities, which include free time on Spinalonga, swimming, and exploring Agios Nikolaos at your own pace.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour’s itinerary starts with pickup from select locations across Crete, including areas like Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos, and central spots in Heraklion, ensuring a convenient beginning to the day’s activities.

Guests will then embark on a guided tour of the historical leper colony, Spinalonga, learning about its fascinating past. After, they’ll have free time to explore the island and capture photos.

Next, the group will relax and swim at the beautiful Kolokytha Bay before heading to the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, where they can shop and dine at their leisure.

Throughout the day, a delightful BBQ lunch with chicken, bread, salad, and a glass of wine or juice is included.

Transportation and Pickup

Pickup and drop-off from selected locations across Crete, including areas like Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos, and centrally located spots in Heraklion, is included in the tour.

Air-conditioned bus transportation and boat tickets for the cruise are also provided as part of the package. However, if accommodation is inaccessible, an extra charge may apply.

The convenient pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s excursion. Guests can sit back and relax as they’re transported to the various sites, including the historical island of Spinalonga and the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, without the hassle of arranging their own transportation.

Spinalonga Guided Tour

After being transported to the island, guests embark on a guided tour of the historical Spinalonga, which once served as a leper colony.

The knowledgeable guide provides in-depth information about the island’s rich past, sharing captivating stories and insights that bring the site’s intriguing history to life.

Visitors explore the well-preserved ruins, including abandoned homes, churches, and other structures that offer a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who lived in isolation on the island.

The guided tour allows guests to gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable place, its resilient inhabitants, and the complex social and medical issues that shaped its history.

This immersive experience leaves a lasting impression on all who visit Spinalonga.

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Relaxation at Kolokytha Bay

Following the guided tour of Spinalonga, guests can enjoy a relaxing interlude at the picturesque Kolokytha Bay, where they have the opportunity to swim and unwind in the serene waters. The bay’s tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty provide a perfect setting for visitors to recharge and rejuvenate.

Kolokytha Bay
Crystal-clear waters	Ideal for swimming	Picturesque scenery
Peaceful ambiance	Time to relax	Gorgeous coastline
Opportunity to unwind	Refreshing dip	Breathtaking views

With its inviting turquoise waters and surrounding natural splendor, Kolokytha Bay offers a delightful respite from the day’s activities, allowing guests to fully enjoy the serene island atmosphere.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos

Upon completion of the relaxing interlude at Kolokytha Bay, the cruise next takes guests to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, where they’re afforded ample free time to independently explore the charming locale.

Nestled along the shores of a scenic lagoon, Agios Nikolaos boasts a bustling harbor lined with inviting cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. Visitors can stroll the quaint streets, browse local shops for handicrafts and souvenirs, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

The town’s picturesque setting and vibrant ambiance offer a delightful contrast to the solemn history of the previous stop at Spinalonga. This free time in Agios Nikolaos allows guests to enjoy the vibrant culture of Crete at their own pace.

Lunch and Refreshments

The cruise then proceeds to provide a delightful BBQ lunch for guests, offering a savory spread of grilled chicken, fresh bread, and a selection of salads.

Accompanying the meal is a complimentary glass of wine or juice, allowing guests to indulge in the local flavors while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

The BBQ lunch caters to various dietary preferences, including a vegetarian option, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a satisfying and nourishing midday meal.

The combination of the fresh seafood, sun-kissed produce, and refreshing beverages creates a truly Mediterranean dining experience that complements the relaxing atmosphere of the cruise.

Guests can savor their lunch while admiring the picturesque landscapes that surround them.

What to Bring and Conditions

Travelers should pack essential items like sunglasses, sun hats, and comfortable beachwear to make the most of the cruise and activities. Swimsuits, towels, and sunscreen are also necessary for enjoying the swimming and relaxation at Kolokytha Bay. Plus, a face mask is required for the tour. It’s important to note that the tour is subject to sea and weather conditions, so visitors should be prepared for potential changes. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with recent surgeries, so guests with mobility limitations should consider this.

Essential Items	Conditions
Sunglasses	Tour subject to sea and weather conditions
Sun hat	Not suitable for wheelchair users
Swimwear	Not suitable for individuals with recent surgeries
Towel	–

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Restrictions on the Maximum Group Size?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, it notes that the experience may not be suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with recent surgeries, suggesting there could be practical limits on group size and composition.

Can I Book This Tour for a Specific Date and Time?

Yes, travelers can book this tour for a specific date and time. The tour operator offers flexibility in scheduling, allowing customers to select their preferred departure time and date subject to availability.

Is There a Child/Student Discount Available?

The tour operator does offer discounted rates for children and students. Specific pricing details would need to be checked when booking, as the discount amounts may vary. This information is typically provided on the tour’s website or by contacting the operator directly.

Does the Tour Operator Provide Any Photography Services?

The tour operator does not provide any professional photography services. Participants are responsible for bringing their own cameras and capturing photos throughout the tour themselves. Digital photography is permitted during the excursion.

Can I Leave the Group During the Tour and Rejoin Later?

During the tour, participants are generally expected to remain with the group. Splitting from the group may not be possible, as the tour operator likely needs to account for all participants for logistical and safety reasons. Rejoining later may not be feasible.

Recap

This captivating full-day cruise from Heraklion offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich history of Spinalonga, the former leper colony.

Enjoy a guided tour, followed by a refreshing swim at Kolokytha Bay.

Then, explore the vibrant town of Agios Nikolaos, known for its picturesque lagoon, before savoring a delicious BBQ lunch surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.

It’s an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the culture and beauty of Crete.

You can check if your dates are available here: