Burgas: Return Boat Trip to St. Anastasia Island
If you’re visiting Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, a trip to St. Anastasia Island offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and quiet seaside charm. This tour, rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 31 reviews, takes you on a 40-minute ferry ride from Burgas to Bulgaria’s only inhabited island. Once there, you can wander the old monastery grounds and museum at your own pace, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic sea views.
What I find particularly appealing about this experience is the combination of a straightforward boat ride with the chance to explore a small piece of Bulgaria’s layered past—piracy, prisons, and monasteries all rolled into one. The inclusion of an electronic guide makes navigating the island easy and informative, even if you prefer wandering independently. I also appreciate that the trip includes a chance to try a herbal tea made from the monastery’s garden herbs, which adds a little local flavor and authenticity.
One aspect to consider is that this is a self-guided experience—there’s no included guide or food, which might not appeal to everyone. If you’re after a deeper historical narration or a guided tour, you may want to prepare your own questions or research beforehand. Still, many travelers find the simplicity and relaxed pace part of its charm. Plus, the trip’s price seems quite reasonable considering the short ferry ride and the unique setting.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Only inhabited island in Bulgaria, making it a rare and special destination.
- Includes a scenic ferry across the Black Sea, perfect for sea lovers and photo enthusiasts.
- Visit a medieval monastery and museum that reveal the island’s turbulent past, including pirate raids and use as a communist prison camp.
- Self-guided experience with an electronic guide available on any device, offering flexibility and independence.
- Sample herbal tea made from herbs grown on the island, adding a local, authentic touch.
- Ideal for those seeking a peaceful day trip, history buffs, and nature lovers who enjoy quiet, scenic spots away from crowds.
A Detailed Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Burgas.
The Journey Begins in Burgas and the Ferry Ride
The adventure starts in Burgas, a lively port city with a good transport connection. The ferry to St. Anastasia typically takes about 40 minutes, during which you can enjoy views of the Black Sea and maybe even spot some ships or seabirds. Many reviewers, including “Chris,” mention the “nice boat,” which suggests a comfortable, well-maintained vessel. The short ride makes it easy to fit this trip into a busy day, and the price point offers clear value—you’re paying mainly for the boat ride and access to the island.
What to Expect on the Island
Once on St. Anastasia, you’ll be free to explore at your own pace. The main highlight is the medieval monastery, which has stood the test of pirates, political upheaval, and time itself. The museum housed there gives a tangible sense of the island’s history, from pirate raids to its use as a prison camp for communists. Visitors like “Meital” find the island “stunning,” with the tranquility and stunning panoramic views making it an ideal spot for a picnic, relaxing, or simply soaking in the sea breeze.
The Monastery and Museum
The medieval monastery is the heart of the island, offering a glimpse into Bulgaria’s religious architecture and monastic life. You can wander the grounds, appreciate the ruins, and learn about its past from the museum displays. Many visitors report that the history is quite engaging, especially with helpful guides or the electronic guide that accompanies the tour. The museum’s exhibits turn the simple visit into an educational experience, revealing stories of pirate attacks and political prisons, which adds a layer of depth to what might otherwise be a pretty scenic but straightforward day.
The Herbal Tea Experience
A charming detail is the herbal tea made from herbs grown on the island’s garden. Enjoying a warm sip amid the peaceful surroundings is a nice touch—many reviews mention the quality and flavor of this tea, which offers a taste of local tradition. It’s a small, simple pleasure that elevates the trip from just sightseeing to experiencing a bit of the island’s everyday life.
Flexibility and Independence
Since the trip includes an electronic guide that you can access on your own device, it suits travelers who prefer to explore without a guided tour—yet still want some background information. This flexibility is appreciated by those who enjoy wandering at their own pace or want to take photos without feeling rushed. Plus, the free cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later provide peace of mind for those who like to keep their plans open.
Who Will Love This Trip?
This excursion is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, or anyone seeking a quiet escape along the Black Sea. Because it doesn’t include guided commentary or meals, it’s best for travelers comfortable with self-guided exploration and looking for a reasonably priced, authentic experience. Family travelers, solo explorers, or couples who enjoy a mix of scenic boat rides and laid-back sightseeing will find it particularly appealing.
It’s less suited for those craving guided storytelling or wanting a more comprehensive tour with food and drinks included. Still, the opportunity to visit Bulgaria’s only inhabited island, walk among historic ruins, and relax in a peaceful setting makes this a memorable day out.
Price and Logistics
The cost of this roughly 3-hour experience seems to reflect good value, especially considering the ferry ride and the access to the island without additional charges. Since the tour is hosted in English, language barriers are minimal. With no guide included, the trip offers a relaxed, flexible pace. You will want to check availability for your preferred starting times, as these vary seasonally, and make sure to arrive at the port on time.
Practical Tips for the Trip
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the views and historic ruins.
- Pack a picnic or snacks if you’d like to extend your stay beyond the provided herbal tea.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking around the island’s uneven terrain and ruins.
- Check the ferry schedule for return times to ensure you don’t miss the last boat back to Burgas.
Final Thoughts
This return boat trip to St. Anastasia Island offers a relaxing, educational, and scenic escape from the hustle of Bulgaria’s coast. It’s a chance to step into history, enjoy stunning sea vistas, and experience Bulgarian heritage in a quiet, authentic setting. The self-guided nature, paired with helpful digital guides, makes it perfect for independent travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace.
While it’s not a guided tour with meals or storytelling, many visitors find that the peace, views, and historical snippets make it more than enough. The warm welcome, intriguing history, and charming atmosphere create a memorable outing, especially for those who love a touch of maritime adventure.
If you’re after a tranquil day with a hint of Bulgaria’s past, this trip is a bargain and a charming way to spend a few hours.
FAQ
How long is the ferry ride from Burgas to St. Anastasia?
The ferry takes approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick and comfortable trip across the Black Sea.
Is there a guide included on the island?
No, this experience is self-guided. You get an electronic guide to explore at your own pace, which many find helpful and informative.
What is included in the price?
The ticket covers return transportation by boat. The visit to the monastery, museum, and herbal tea are included in the experience, but food, drinks, and guided commentary are not.
Can I visit the island alone?
Yes, you are free to explore the island independently. The electronic guide allows you to learn about the sights at your own pace, making for a solo or small-group adventure.
Is this experience suitable for children?
While not specifically geared toward children, the short ferry ride and gentle walking around the ruins make it manageable for most families. Just be mindful of uneven terrain.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, a camera, and perhaps a picnic if you want to stay longer. The herbal tea is included, so no need to bring drinks unless you prefer your own.
In essence, this boat trip to St. Anastasia is a compact, affordable, and authentic way to connect with Bulgaria’s maritime past and enjoy a peaceful retreat by the sea.