Late Cruise to Spinalonga, Beaches & Barbarossa Cave

Introduction: A Scenic Day on Crete’s Waters

This late-afternoon cruise from Elounda offers a chance to see some of Crete’s most captivating sights without the fuss of land-based excursions. The journey includes a relaxing boat ride around Spinalonga, famed for its Venetian fortress, a visit past the legendary Barbarossa Cave, and stops at two gorgeous beaches, Skistra and Kolokytha.

What makes this trip appealing is the opportunity to enjoy the scenery from the water, learn about the island’s history from the onboard guide, and dip into inviting waters. It’s a mostly laid-back experience, perfect for those who want a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and a bit of local flavor.

That said, there are a few caveats. Some travelers have reported misleading expectations about food and stops—be sure to check what’s included and what’s not before booking. Overall, it’s a straightforward, relaxed way to spend a day in Mirabello Bay, but be prepared for some variations in quality and timing.

Key points / Takeaways

• Scenic boat cruise offers unbeatable views of Spinalonga and Crete’s rugged coastline.
• Onboard commentary provides insight into the island’s history and legends, making the journey educational.
• Two beaches, Skistra and Kolokytha, give you time to swim in crystal-clear waters and relax in natural settings.
• Included lunch features hot dogs, toast, and fresh fruit—be aware it may not meet everyone’s expectations.
• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or nearby location make this a convenient all-in-one package.
• Timing varies; check availability for your preferred start time, typically lasting around 7 to 9.5 hours.

How the Tour Unfolds: A Day on the Water with Highlights

Efficient Pickup and Scenic Drive to Elounda

Your day begins with a hotel pick-up around 11 am, which is quite convenient. The drive through Crete’s lush, rolling landscape sets the tone—expect a relaxed ride with pleasant views. The bus transfer is about two hours, giving you time to settle in and get excited about the afternoon ahead.

Boarding the Boat and Setting Sail

By 1:45 pm, you’ll arrive at Elounda Port to board the boat, the Mirabello Bay’s vessel for the day. Once aboard, the atmosphere is relaxed, with the crew offering a complimentary salad and fruit bar, plus drinks like water, raki, and wine. Keep in mind, the reviews suggest the quality of the food can be hit or miss—some travelers found it underwhelming or served later than expected.

Cruising Past Spinalonga, No Disembarkation

The first highlight is the scenic cruise around Spinalonga Island. From the water, you’ll see the impressive Venetian fortress, and the guide will share insights about the island’s history—without the hassle of disembarking. The experience is more about viewing than exploring, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed overview of this famous site.

Viewing Barbarossa Cave

As the boat glides through calm waters, you’ll pass by the legendary Barbarossa Cave, named after the notorious pirate. The natural sea cave offers great photo opportunities—its dramatic, rugged cliffs contrast sharply with the calm blue sea. It’s a highlight for many, and a good point to snap some memorable shots.

Beach Stops: Skistra and Kolokytha

The first beach stop is Skistra, a quiet, secluded spot perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the natural beauty. The water here is clear and inviting. The second stop is Kolokytha Beach, which is more picturesque—surrounded by green hills, with soft sand and turquoise waters.

One review noted the stops were short and sometimes crowded, especially at Kolokytha, where limited space can be an issue if the weather is busy. The second stop is sometimes just in the middle of the ocean, which might be disappointing if you were hoping for more beach time.

Returning and Reflection

Around 6 pm, the boat returns to Elounda. Then, the bus takes you back to your hotel, arriving between 7 and 8 pm. The day is quite full, but the timing allows for a leisurely pace.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This experience offers round-trip bus transfers, a boat cruise, and stops at Barbarossa Cave, Skistra, and Kolokytha beaches. The crew and guide are experienced, with the onboard guide providing commentary on Spinalonga’s history and local legends. The lunch is generally simple—hot dogs, toast, and fresh fruit—so manage expectations here, as some reviews found it lacking.

Drinks like water, raki, and one glass of wine are included; additional drinks are available for purchase. Since the tour does not include disembarkation on Spinalonga, it’s a good option if you prefer to admire the island from a distance rather than explore on foot.

The tour is flexible with cancellation and deposit options, which is helpful if your schedule is uncertain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed day at sea with stunning views, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, natural beauty, and some historical flavor without the hassle of land excursions. People who love a beach day in a tranquil setting will enjoy the stops at Skistra and Kolokytha.

However, if you’re expecting a gourmet meal or a thorough exploration of Spinalonga itself, this might not meet your expectations. The experience is more about viewing than walking around, and the food is basic. Also, if you’re a strong swimmer or want more beach time, be aware that the stops are relatively brief.

Price and Practical Tips

This tour offers good value in terms of ease and convenience, especially with hotel pickup included. The cost includes transportation, a guided boat cruise, and the stops, making it a straightforward option. Keep in mind that some reviews mention that the food served might not match the promotional images, and the stops can sometimes feel rushed.

To get the most out of your day, bring essentials like sun hat, sunscreen, towel, and beachwear. Be prepared for the possibility that the lunch might be simple, and plan for some time to relax in the water or take photos. If you’re looking for a more in-depth exploration of Spinalonga, consider supplementing this cruise with a land visit on a different day.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Experience Best For?

This late cruise offers a beautiful, laid-back way to see Crete’s coast and the iconic Spinalonga from a different perspective. It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, quick beach stops, and light historical insights. If you’re traveling with family, it can be a fun, easy outing, though younger children might get bored during the brief stops.

Travelers who value comfortable logistics—with hotel pickup and drop-off—will appreciate the streamlined nature of this experience. It’s also a solid choice for those wanting an affordable day out that combines sightseeing and swimming, without packed schedules or complicated planning.

Just keep your expectations realistic about the food and the short nature of beach stops. It’s a no-fuss way to enjoy Crete’s coastal beauty, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed cruise over a land-based tour.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Does the tour include disembarking on Spinalonga Island?
No, the cruise stays at sea. You view the fortress from the water, and the onboard guide shares insights about the island’s history.

What is included in the lunch?
A simple hot dog, toast, and fresh fruit. Be aware that some travelers found the food underwhelming or served later than expected.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, raki, and one glass of wine are on the house. Additional drinks are available for purchase onboard.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 9.5 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and traffic.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is included from several locations, including hotels and bus stops. After booking, you’ll receive specific details.

Can I swim at the beaches?
Absolutely. Skistra and Kolokytha are both suitable for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The water is clear and inviting.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families who enjoy boat rides and beach time. Just note that the stops are brief, and the boat ride might be lengthy for very young children.

What should I bring?
Sun hat, sunscreen, towel, beachwear, and perhaps a camera for the scenic views and photos.

What if I want a more in-depth visit to Spinalonga?
You’ll need a different tour that offers disembarkation and walking exploration, as this one provides only views from the boat.

Final Words

This cruise presents a relaxed way to experience some of Crete’s most photogenic spots. It’s particularly good for travelers who want easy logistics, scenic views, and a bit of swimming without a heavy schedule. Keep your expectations in check regarding the food and stops, and you’ll find it a worthwhile addition to your Crete itinerary. For those seeking a leisurely day on the water, this tour hits the right notes—just don’t forget your sun cream.