Agios Nikolaos: Boat Trip to Spinalonga with Swim Stop

Agios Nikolaos: Boat Trip to Spinalonga with Swim Stop offers an engaging way to explore Crete’s storied coastline and historic island. For just over $28, you get a 4.5-hour adventure that combines scenic cruising, a visit to the famous Spinalonga fortress, and a refreshing swim in turquoise waters. The boat, operated by Nostos Cruises, features friendly crew, a bar, and a restaurant—adding comfort and convenience to your day.

Two things I particularly like about this experience: first, the expert-guided tour of Spinalonga provides fascinating insights into a place that’s both visually stunning and historically significant—especially if you’ve read Victoria Hislop’s novel The Island. Second, the swim stop in Kolokitha Bay is a highlight, giving you a chance to relax in crystal-clear waters. That said, it’s worth noting that entrance to Spinalonga is not included in the price, so be prepared for an additional ticket cost (around €20). Also, some reviews mention that the timing can feel tight, especially if you want to explore the island at leisure.

This trip strikes a nice balance for those interested in history, scenery, and leisurely swimming, all in a well-organized package. Keep in mind that the boat departs from a small, easily recognizable port—your meeting point is a blue kiosk at Agios Nikolaos, and the boats are the only white ones docked there, so no chances of missing it. If you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed pace, this cruise offers great value, though more dedicated explorers might want to budget for tickets on Spinalonga itself.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Historic Significance: The tour offers a detailed look at Spinalonga’s Venetian fortifications and its story as a leper colony, with guides providing engaging commentary.
• Scenic Cruising: The cruise in Mirabello Bay offers views of caves like Pirate Barbarosa’s and the sunken city of Olous, perfect for photography and relaxation.
• Swimming Opportunity: The stop in Kolokitha Bay provides a refreshing break with time to swim in pristine waters—ideal for families and water lovers.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: The boat is equipped with a bar, restaurant, and lounge, making the journey comfortable, with food and drinks available at reasonable prices.
• Guided Experience: With multilingual guides (including English, Dutch, French, and German), you’ll receive informative narration that enhances your understanding of the sights.
• Additional Costs: Remember, entry to Spinalonga Island costs about €20, paid on-site; the tour price covers the cruise and guide but not the island ticket.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Out from Agios Nikolaos

The adventure begins at the small port of Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll find a blue kiosk bearing the Nostos Cruises name. The port’s cozy size means you won’t miss your boat, which is easily identifiable as one of the few white vessels docked there. This simplicity means less stress on the day of your tour—no long waits or confusing meeting points.

The boat itself is quite comfortable. With a 40-meter length, it offers plenty of space for relaxing on deck, sunbathing, or enjoying the views from the shaded lounge area. The crew is praised for their friendliness and professionalism, with many reviews highlighting how well organized everything feels from the start.

The Scenic Cruise in Mirabello Bay

Once underway, the cruise offers a chance to unwind and take in spectacular views of Crete’s coast. I love the way the boat glides smoothly over the waters, passing by notable sights like Pirate Barbarosa’s cave—an intriguing spot linked to local legend—and the submerged ruins of Olous, an ancient city lost to time and sea.

This part of the cruise isn’t just about the scenery; it’s about the experience of being on the water, with a bar and restaurant on board serving Greek and international fare. Many reviews mention the reasonable prices and high-quality service, which makes relaxing with a drink or snack even more enjoyable. Plus, the crew often provides a booklet with information about the sites, adding a layer of storytelling to your trip.

Swim Stop at Kolokitha Bay

One of the tour’s standout features is the swim stop in Kolokitha Bay. The boat anchors in a beautiful area with transparent, inviting waters, perfect for jumping off the boat and cooling off. Reviewers note that life jackets aren’t provided, and the swim is in deeper waters, so be prepared if you’re not a confident swimmer. It’s a highlight for families and anyone who appreciates a quick dip in nature’s pool.

The timing of the swim is generally about 30 to 40 minutes, which is enough to relax without feeling rushed. Travelers mention that the water here is some of the clearest in the area, making it perfect for photos and just soaking up the sun.

Visiting Spinalonga Fortress

The main attraction is Spinalonga Island, known for its Venetian fortifications and poignant past as a leper colony. The tour includes a guided walk around the fortress and settlements, with guides like Gloria (who gets special praise for her passion and knowledge). You’ll have the chance to visit the Interpretive Centre, which sheds light on the lives of those affected by leprosy, a moving and educational experience.

It’s worth noting that admission to the island costs about €20 per person and is paid on-site. Many visitors comment that the guided tour is the best way to understand the significance of the island, especially if you’re interested in its stories of resilience and survival. You’ll also be able to explore the ruins, enjoy sweeping views over the bay, and take memorable photos.

Timing and Duration

The total tour lasts about 4.5 hours, which many reviewers find just right—long enough to enjoy all the sights without feeling overwhelmed. The timing is generally flexible, with departure times posted online; just be sure to arrive on time so you don’t miss the boat. Some comments suggest that the time spent on Spinalonga can feel a bit rushed, so if you’re a serious explorer, consider how much time you want to dedicate.

Food and Beverage on Board

The boat features two bars and a restaurant, offering snacks, drinks, and meals at reasonable prices. Reviewers appreciate the high-quality service and tasty options, which make the trip more comfortable. However, if you want to be sure you have what you need, bringing some snacks or a water bottle might be wise, especially for children or those sensitive to dehydration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a fan of history and scenic boat rides, this experience offers a well-rounded package. The knowledgeable guides and the captivating sights of Spinalonga make it ideal for history buffs, while the swim stop appeals to beach lovers and families. The value for money is evident, especially considering the included guide, the cruise, and the scenic stops.

This trip is suitable for those with moderate mobility—be cautious of the deeper swim in Kolokitha Bay—and for travelers who appreciate a mix of relaxation and culture. It’s perfect for a half-day outing, especially if you’re based in Agios Nikolaos or nearby.

Best for: History enthusiasts, water lovers, families, and travelers looking for a relaxed yet enriching experience in Crete.

Consider: Those who want more time on Spinalonga might find the schedule a bit tight, and additional costs for island entry are not included in the ticket price.

The Sum Up

The Boat Trip to Spinalonga with Swim Stop from Agios Nikolaos offers an accessible, enjoyable way to explore Crete’s waters and history. The combination of scenic cruising, an insightful guided tour, and a refreshing swim makes it a versatile choice for many travelers. The onboard amenities, knowledgeable guides, and picturesque views help justify the modest price tag—especially when you factor in the cost of the island ticket separately.

If you love stories of resilience, stunning landscapes, and a touch of leisure, this trip ticks all those boxes. With well-organized logistics and a friendly crew, it’s a reliable option for anyone wanting to add a memorable chapter to their Crete journey. Just be ready for some extra expense on the island itself and plan your time accordingly.

This tour balances value, beauty, and cultural insight, making it a worthwhile experience for those seeking a taste of Crete’s maritime and historical charm.

FAQ

Is the meeting point easy to find?
Yes, the meeting point is a small port in Agios Nikolaos marked by a blue kiosk with the Nostos Cruises name. Since the port is small and the boats are the only ones there, it’s hard to miss.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is approximately 4.5 hours, including the cruise, the swim stop, and the time on Spinalonga. Departure times vary, so check availability in advance.

Does the tour include entry to Spinalonga?
No, the ticket to Spinalonga Island costs about €20 and is paid on-site. The tour includes the guided walk and sightseeing but not the island entry fee.

What amenities are available on the boat?
The boat has two bars, a lounge, and a restaurant offering Greek and international cuisine at reasonable prices. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase.

Is swimming safe?
Most reviews say the swim stop in Kolokitha Bay is enjoyable, with clear waters. Be aware that life jackets are not provided, and the water can be deep—so swimming confidence matters.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages including English, Dutch, French, and German, making the experience accessible for many travelers.

Can I buy food and drinks on board?
Yes, the boat has a bar and a restaurant. While prices are reasonable, bringing some snacks or water bottles might be wise.

How much does the whole experience cost?
The tour costs about $28.23 per person, excluding the €20 island entry fee. Considering the guided tour, scenic cruise, and swim stop, it’s good value.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the trip. Just note the swim involves deeper water, and children should be comfortable swimmers or be supervised closely.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this Crete boat trip suits your travel style—balancing scenic beauty, history, and leisure in one affordable package.