Agios Nikolaos: Fun Cruise Around Elounda Bay

A relaxed day on the water with spectacular scenery and authentic touches—this boat cruise around Elounda Bay from Agios Nikolaos offers a wonderful escape. The experience combines gentle sailing with stops at pristine beaches, a visit to the legendary Spinalonga island, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. The boat is spacious and comfortable, and the crew makes a point of keeping guests well cared for, with a friendly approach that makes you feel like you’re on a day trip with friends.

What I love about this cruise is how easy it is to unwind while enjoying the incredible views of Mirabello Gulf, with just enough activity to keep it interesting—whether it’s dipping your toes in the clear waters at Kolokytha Beach or floating around with a local Raki in hand. I also appreciate how the stops are well-paced, giving you plenty of time to relax and explore.

A potential consideration is that snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so if snorkeling is high on your list, bring your own gear. Also, the bar prices are reasonable but not unlimited—so if you’re looking for a fully stocked party on the water, this might be more laid-back than you expect. Still, for the price and the quality of experience, it’s hard to beat.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic and affordable: This cruise offers great value, with reviews praising its reasonable prices and quality service.
• Relaxing stops for swimming and snorkeling: Two main swim stops at Kolokytha Beach and Skistra Gulf are highlights, with shallow waters perfect for relaxing or exploring marine life.
• Friendly and knowledgeable crew: Many reviews mention the warm, welcoming staff who keep the atmosphere lively and safe.
• Incredible scenery: Expect stunning views of Spinalonga, Mirabello Bay, and the crystal-clear waters that make Crete’s coast so photogenic.
• Simple but tasty included snacks: A small bowl of watermelon and a welcome shot of Raki introduce you to local flavors.
• Limited snorkeling gear: You’ll need your own equipment if you want to snorkel, as it’s not provided.

Entering the Calm of Mirabello Bay

The cruise begins at Agios Nikolaos harbor, where you’ll step onto a well-maintained boat with an attentive crew. The first hour of your journey is a slow cruise along the shimmering Mirabello Gulf, giving you a chance to appreciate the calm, blue waters and the scenic coastline. I found this part particularly soothing, especially with good music playing and plenty of space to sit back and take in the sights.

Many travelers describe the crew as warm and professional, often noting how easy it is to settle into the relaxed pace. One reviewer, Richard, shared how “the staff on the boat were very nice and warm,” which sets a friendly tone for the day. The boat’s size and layout seem to make for a comfortable experience, with plenty of room for sunbathing and socializing.

Kolokytha Beach: A Beach Day in Paradise

The first major stop is Kolokytha Beach, about an hour into the cruise. This secluded, sandy cove is famous for its turquoise waters and unspoiled beauty. Once anchored, you’ll have about 75 minutes to swim, explore, or simply lie back on the boat. Many comments highlight the clarity of the water, with Camille claiming it was “one of the clearest waters I’ve ever seen,” and others raving about how wonderful the water is for floating and relaxing.

You might find, as some reviews point out, that snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so bringing your own gear will make this stop even more enjoyable. If you want to stay on the boat, there’s plenty of sunbathing space, and floating toys are provided to liven things up—an added bonus for families and friends.

Sailing Around Spinalonga: A Legendary Island

After the beach, the boat heads toward Spinalonga, the island famous for its fortress and history as a leper colony. Cruising around the island offers fantastic photo opportunities, and many reviewers mention how impressive the views are. You won’t disembark here on this trip, but the boat slowly circles the island, giving you a close-up look at its fortifications and scenic beauty.

Lars described the experience as “absolutely recommended,” emphasizing how relaxing and picturesque the cruise around Spinalonga is. It’s a highlight for anyone interested in the island’s story or just seeking a dramatic backdrop for photos.

Skistra Gulf: The Second Hidden Paradise

The second swimming stop is at Skistra Gulf, another peaceful spot ideal for snorkeling and relaxing. Reviewers love this part of the trip, calling it “a perfect place for snorkeling and relaxing,” with shallow waters perfect for families or those new to snorkeling. You’ll have around 75 minutes here, plenty of time to dip in, explore the marine life, or lie back and soak up the sun.

The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it a perfect place to unwind, and the fact that many guests note the friendly crew’s attentiveness adds to the overall positive vibe. Bring your own snorkel gear to make the most of this specific stop, as equipment isn’t provided.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere on Board

The included welcome drink (Raki) and small bowl of watermelon add a nice touch of local flavor. Many reviews mention the reasonable prices of drinks and snacks, with some noting a Pepsi tin costing only €2.50, which is quite affordable for a boat trip. The bar isn’t unlimited, but you can purchase additional food and drinks if desired.

The boat also has floating toys, which guests find handy for relaxing in the water. A DJ and lively music are part of the experience, with some reviewers describing the atmosphere as “very relaxing,” and others mentioning a more energetic vibe on the return trip. It seems the crew strikes a good balance, creating a friendly environment where everyone can unwind.

Duration and Logistics: Making It Work for You

The trip lasts approximately 4.5 hours, starting at Agios Nikolaos harbor. You’ll want to check the available start times, as they vary, and plan your day accordingly. This length is perfect for those who want a substantial outing without a full-day commitment.

The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or snorkeling gear, so plan accordingly. If you’re staying outside Agios Nikolaos, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. The activity ends back at the harbor, so it’s easy to continue exploring or head to a nearby restaurant afterward.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of swimming and stunning coastline views. Families, couples, and groups of friends will all find it appealing. If you enjoy casual outings with friendly crews, good music, and affordable drinks, you’ll feel right at home.

It’s especially well-suited for those who want to skip long walking tours or hikes but still enjoy the natural beauty and history of Spinalonga and the local beaches. The stops are short enough to keep it engaging without feeling rushed, and the overall relaxed pace makes it ideal for unwinding.

Price and Overall Value

At around £17 per person, this cruise offers remarkable value considering the scenic stops, friendly service, and inclusive small snacks. You’re paying mainly for the experience of being on the water, with the chance to swim in some of Crete’s most beautiful spots. Additional costs like snorkeling gear or extra drinks are optional but not necessary to enjoy the trip.

Many guests comment on how “great the value” is, with one reviewer noting it’s “little money for very beautiful and nice trip.” This kind of affordability makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers, especially those who prefer a straightforward, enjoyable day without extra fuss or expense.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise from Agios Nikolaos offers a well-balanced mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and light activity. The highlights—swimming at Kolokytha Beach and Skistra Gulf, cruising around Spinalonga, and enjoying local drinks—are all delivered with friendly service in a comfortable setting.

It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking a day of sun, sea, and stunning views, without the hassle of complicated logistics or high costs. The experience’s casual, friendly vibe makes it perfect for families and groups who want to unwind and take in the best of Crete’s coastline.

If you value authentic, affordable experiences with a dash of local flavor, this cruise will likely leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of photos to prove it.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 4.5 hours, including time at the beaches and around Spinalonga.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
No, snorkeling gear is not provided, so bring your own if you want to explore underwater.

Are food and drinks included?
One welcome drink (Raki) and a small bowl of watermelon are included. Food and additional drinks are available for purchase but are not included.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Agios Nikolaos Main harbor and returns there at the end of the trip.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included; you need to meet at the harbor.

What’s the best time to go?
Check availability for start times; the trip may be affected by sea conditions, so mornings or early afternoons are usually best.

Can I buy extra snacks or drinks on board?
Yes, the bar offers additional drinks and snacks at reasonable prices.

Is this trip suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially since the stops are relaxed and the waters shallow and clear, perfect for children and less confident swimmers.

How is the crew?
Many reviews praise the crew for being friendly, warm, and attentive, making the experience more enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, snorkel gear if desired, a hat, and a towel—everything else like floating toys is provided.

In essence, this cruise offers a straightforward, authentic way to experience Crete’s stunning coastline and historic spots, all from a comfortable boat with a friendly crew. Perfect for those who want to relax, swim, and soak in beautiful scenery without breaking the bank.