Discover the captivating island of Spinalonga and the serene beauty of Mirabello Bay with this comprehensive full-day tour. Guests will embark on a scenic boat cruise, explore the rich history of the island through a guided tour, and indulge in a delectable BBQ lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re seeking a cultural adventure, a refreshing swim, or simply a chance to relax and soak in the stunning coastal vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a carefully curated itinerary, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors…
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Heraklion.
Key Points
- A full-day tour that includes a cruise in Mirabello Bay, a guided tour of Spinalonga Island, swimming at Kolokytha Beach, and a BBQ lunch.
- The tour is priced from €48 per person and lasts 9-11 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The guided tour of Spinalonga Island provides historical insights and commentary in multiple languages, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
- The tour includes pickup and drop-off service, air-conditioned transportation, and a freshly prepared BBQ lunch with chicken, Greek salad, and dessert.
- Recommendations for sun protection, comfortable footwear, and hydration are provided to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers a full-day experience that includes a cruise through Mirabello Bay, a guided tour of the historical Spinalonga Island, and time for swimming and a barbecue meal.
Priced from €48 per person, the tour lasts 9-11 hours and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers can choose from 16 pickup locations across the region, including popular destinations like Koutouloufari, Hersonissos, and Agios Nikolaos.
The guided tour is available in multiple languages, providing insights into the island’s rich history.
The package includes air-conditioned transportation, liability insurance, and a freshly prepared BBQ lunch with Greek salad, bread, and dessert.
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Itinerary and Highlights
In an article titled ‘Spinalonga With Guide, Mirabello Bay Cruise, Swimming & BBQ’, the current points is ‘Itinerary and Highlights’.
The tour begins with a bus/coach ride to Mirabello Bay, which takes approximately 2 hours.
Guests then embark on a 45-minute boat cruise to Kolokytha Beach, where they can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and a BBQ lunch for 1.5 hours.
Afterward, they take a 15-minute ferry to the historical Spinalonga Island for a 40-minute guided tour, exploring its rich history.
The journey concludes with a 50-60 minute boat ride back to Agios Nikolaos, allowing 1.5 hours of free time for personal exploration.
Scenic views and a BBQ meal on board are highlights throughout the day.
Guided Tour Details
During the tour, a live guide provides commentary in English, French, German, and Polish, offering knowledgeable insights into the historical significance of Spinalonga Island throughout the guided excursion. Guests can expect a professional and informative experience, as the guide shares fascinating details about the island’s past as a leper colony and its role in Cretan history.
Guide Expertise | Language Offerings | Tour Duration |
---|---|---|
Knowledgeable | English | 40 minutes |
Experienced | French | – |
Professional | German | – |
Polish | – |
The guided tour of Spinalonga provides an in-depth look into the island’s captivating history, enriching the overall experience for visitors.
Inclusions and Additional Costs
This experience includes pickup and drop-off service from the hotel or nearby points, an air-conditioned bus with a skilled driver, and a licensed tour guide.
Additional fees apply for entrance to the archaeological site (€6) and caves (€4).
The meal provided on the cruise includes freshly barbecued chicken, a Greek salad, bread, and a fruit dessert.
The tour also provides public liability insurance coverage for all participants.
While the tour focuses on the historical significance of Spinalonga Island, visitors should come prepared with sun protection and comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the day’s activities, including swimming and snorkeling at Kolokytha Beach.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information and Recommendations
Visitors should typically bring sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, due to the high summer temperatures on Spinalonga Island. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for the tour, as you will be exploring the historical site on foot.
Important Reminders | Notes |
---|---|
Sun Protection | Hat, sunscreen |
Comfortable Footwear | Walking shoes |
Hydration | Bring water |
Swimwear | For swimming at Kolokytha Beach |
Spending Money | For optional cave entrance fees |
The tour provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of the region. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can expect an engaging and informative journey through this captivating destination.
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Pickup Locations
The tour offers pickup locations from 16 different points, including popular destinations like Koutouloufari, Hersonissos, and Agios Nikolaos. This wide range of pickup options ensures convenience for travelers staying in various parts of the region.
The pickup service starts early in the morning, allowing participants to begin their excursion without the hassle of arranging their own transportation.
The bus ride to Mirabello Bay takes approximately 2 hours, providing ample time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic countryside along the way.
Whether you’re staying in a central location or a more remote area, the tour’s comprehensive pickup options cater to the diverse needs of its participants.
Boat Cruise and Activities
After the bus journey to Mirabello Bay, participants board a boat for a 45-minute cruise to Kolokytha Beach, where they’ll have 1.5 hours to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and a freshly prepared BBQ meal on board.
The BBQ spread includes succulent chicken, a Greek salad, freshly baked bread, and a delightful fruit dessert. This stop allows travelers to relax, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in the local cuisine, all while taking in the scenic views of the bay.
Following the beach activities, the group boards the boat again for a 50-60 minute return trip to Agios Nikolaos, where they’ll have 1.5 hours to explore the charming town.
Customer Reviews
Overwhelmingly positive customer reviews highlight the tour’s captivating highlights, from the breathtaking Mirabello Bay cruise to the engaging guided tour of the historic Spinalonga Island.
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guides, who bring the island’s rich history to life with insightful commentary.
Guests also rave about the scenic boat ride, the refreshing swim at Kolokytha Beach, and the delicious barbecue meal served on board.
The seamless organization and punctuality of the tour operators are noted, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is not specified in the provided information. Tour group sizes can vary, so the exact maximum is not clearly stated in the tour details given.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children and Families?
The tour appears suitable for children and families. It includes activities like swimming, snorkeling, and a BBQ, which would appeal to a range of ages. The guided tour and transportation provided make it an accessible option for families.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or prefer guests to purchase refreshments on board.
Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Equipment for the Activities?
For the activities, it’s recommended to bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, as well as comfortable walking shoes. Snorkeling gear may be useful for the swimming portion, though it’s not required. Sunglasses and a towel are also advisable.
What Happens in Case of Bad Weather During the Tour?
In case of bad weather, the tour operator will make appropriate adjustments to the itinerary, such as rescheduling the boat tour or relocating the activities to indoor or sheltered locations. They’ll ensure customers’ safety and enjoyment throughout the tour.
Recap
This full-day tour offers an immersive experience of Mirabello Bay‘s natural beauty and rich history.
Travelers will enjoy a guided exploration of the captivating Spinalonga Island, a refreshing swim at Kolokytha Beach, and a delightful BBQ lunch aboard the boat, all while taking in the stunning scenery.
With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and ample opportunities for relaxation, this tour provides an unforgettable way to experience the charm of this picturesque Greek destination.
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