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Spinalonga – Agios Nikolaos

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Spinalonga – Agios Nikolaos

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Discover the Enchantment of Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos!

Join us for an extraordinary adventure to the historic island of Spinalonga! Begin your day in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, where you can savor a coffee by the picturesque Lake Voulismeni. Then, embark on a scenic boat trip across Mirabello Bay, enjoying a delicious lunch on board. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha Bay for a refreshing swim before exploring the poignant history of Spinalonga, known as the “Island of Tears.” This unforgettable journey combines stunning landscapes and rich history – book your excursion today! Operating Days: Every Wednesday & Saturday.

Tour info

Duration:
1 Day
Transport:
Bus/Boat
Tour Type:
Sea Excursion
SKU:
VC-10-001
Group size:
~50 pax

Accompanied service

Guides Transport Insurance

Schedule

Morning Pick up: We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning. Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive will differ.

Bus Drive: 1,5 hours

1st stop: Agios Nikolaos – 2 hours: Explore the cosmopolitan town of Agios Nikolaos, the place where the boat sails from, towards the island of Spinalonga. Enjoy a morning walk and have a coffee around its beautiful port and Lake of the town. During Wednesdays, visitors can also enjoy the traditional bazaar as an additional attraction of this town. At 12:00 we will embark onto the boat and start our cruise.

Boat Trip: 50 minutes

Lunch: During the first 50 minutes of our cruise, lunch will be served on boat so travelers will enjoy their meal while crossing the unique Mirabello Bay, Agios Nikolaos coast and Elounda.

2nd stop: Kolokytha Bay – 35 minutes: Then the boat will stop at the beautiful bay of Kolokytha where travelers will have the chance to swim and dive from the cruise boat into the crystal clear waters. Life jackets are provided by the crew on board.

Boat Trip: 15 minutes

3rd stop: Spinalonga – 30 minutes: After the short boat trip, our groups will arrive at Spinalonga, the island of tears. There will be a guided tour by professional guides for about 30 minutes and some free time to admire the views and take photos!

Boat Trip: 1 hour

4th stop: Agios Nikolaos (End of the cruise - Arrival to resorts): Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning. Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.

Bus Drive: 1 – 1.5 hours

Special offer

Description

Spinalonga - Agios Nikolaos (+Market on Wednesdays)

Discover the Enchantment of Spinalonga: A Journey Awaits!

Embark on a captivating adventure that begins with a comfortable morning pick-up from your hotel, as we whisk you away to the stunning coastal town of Agios Nikolaos. As you relax on the bus for a scenic 1.5-hour drive, anticipation builds for the extraordinary day that lies ahead.

Once we arrive, you'll have two hours to explore Agios Nikolaos, a charming blend of vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes. Stroll along the harbor, sip a fragrant coffee by the tranquil waters of Lake Voulismeni, and immerse yourself in the town's lively atmosphere. If you’re visiting on a Wednesday, don't miss the traditional bazaar, where local artisans showcase their crafts—it's a perfect opportunity to find a unique souvenir!

As the clock strikes noon, prepare for a memorable boat trip across Mirabello Bay. For the next 50 minutes, savor a delightful lunch served onboard while gazing at the breathtaking views of the azure sea and the captivating coastline of Elounda. Feel the warm sun on your skin as you relish delicious local flavors, making every bite a part of your adventure.

The first stop on our journey is the pristine Kolokytha Bay. Here, you’ll have 35 minutes to swim in the crystal-clear waters that glisten like sapphires under the sun. Dive into this tropical paradise from the boat, with life jackets provided for your safety. The gentle waves and stunning surroundings create an unforgettable swimming experience—perfect for making memories and capturing photos!

Next, we continue our voyage to the historically rich Spinalonga Island. After a short 15-minute boat ride, we’ll arrive at the island known as the “Island of Tears.” A knowledgeable guide will lead you on a 30-minute tour, sharing poignant stories of resilience and survival from the days when this island served as a leper colony. Feel the history come alive as you explore the ruins and take in the dramatic views of the surrounding sea. You’ll have time to soak in the scenery and snap photos of this hauntingly beautiful location before we set sail back.

As we return to Agios Nikolaos, you can reflect on the day’s adventures and appreciate the magic of this remarkable excursion. With the bus ride back to your hotel lasting about 1 to 1.5 hours, you'll have plenty of time to share stories with fellow travelers and plan your next journey.

This unforgettable excursion combines stunning landscapes, rich history, and the joy of swimming in the warm Cretan waters. Don’t miss your chance to experience Spinalonga—book your spot today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

This tour combines both a visit to the town of Agios Nikolaos, Spinalonga Fortress and a visit to Kolokytha bay where travelers can swim in its crystal clear waters by diving from the cruise boat. Our participants will enjoy an hour-long cruise through Mirabello bay, and lunch will be provided on board.

 GET THE CHANCE TO ADMIRE MIRABELLO BAY!

Our excursion is one of few that cruises Mirabello bay, giving you the opportunity to admire and enjoy the view and the waters of the amazing bay!

 

Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia. [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]

Departing Port:
Agios Nikolaos

Operating Days:
Every Wednesday, and Saturday  (Alternatively check this excursion: Spinalonga BBQ)

Languages:
Dutch, English, French, German: all days  //  Polish: Wednesday

Tour includes:
• Transportation in Air-Conditioned bus
• Professional Driver
• Tour Guide and guided tour on Spinalonga
• Lunch on the boat
• Boat Tickets for the cruise
• All the legal taxes
• Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ
• On Wednesday we also visit the Market (Ag.Nikolaos)

Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot: Spinalonga Entrance: 8 € (optional), Extra snacks/drinks (optional)
Extras payable on our website: -

Tour highlights:
• Sail by boat from Agios Nikolaos through Mirabello Bay
• Attend a Guided Tour of Spinalonga Island (one of the last leper colonies in the world)
• Visit Kolokytha bay by boat
• Lunch on the boat
• Visit Agios Nikolaos and its Lake Voulismeni

Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Swimsuit / BeachTowel
• Comfortable shoes
• Water

Direction:
East of Crete

Duration:
9 hours approximately - 128 Km (from/to Heraklion)

Overview:
Eastbound on the national road, we arrive in Elounda and we sail to the island of Spinalonga. In Spinalonga we will have a guided tour around this famous island. Originally Venetians fortified the islet in 1579 by building a castle with 40 cannons and thus transforming it into a lethal stronghold for centuries. In the years between 1900 and 1957 human pain and sorrow were scattered around this islet. It became the colony for the lepers. Leper colony was closed in 1957 and 20 years were closed. Now fortress is open to thousands of tourists from all over the World. After our visit, we travel back to Aghios Nikolaos for a walk around the city centre...

Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old  (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old  (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old  (Free of charge)

Booking Guiding Lines:
Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below

PRICING
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from your hotel to the port of Agios Nikolaos, the cost of the boat from Agios Nikolaos to Spinalonga with its return. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).

 


Savor a Delicious Meal Onboard!

During your Spinalonga excursion, you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch served on the boat. Our standard meal features tender chicken, but if you prefer a vegetarian option, we offer a tasty vegetable tortilla filled with cabbage, cucumber, tomato, and vegan mayonnaise. Each meal includes a refreshing salad of purple and white cabbage, carrots, and feta cheese, along with a seasonal fruit and your choice of wine or juice. If you would like the vegetarian option, please notify us at least 24 hours prior to your excursion, along with any dietary allergies or specific preferences, so we can ensure your culinary experience is just right!


 

Pick-up Locations:

Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:

SPINALONGA EXCURSION

Pickup timetable

Pick up Location Pick-up Time
Sissi 09:00 AM
Nikos hotel - Filipidis S/M 09:10 AM
Malia church 09:00 AM
Malia Bay - Malia Park - Sirens 09:05 AM
Drossia - Kernos Beach - Ikaros Village 09:00 AM
Alexander - Ariadni 09:00 AM
Cactus - I Resort 08:55 AM
Mochos Cross (Bus Stop #29) 08:50 AM
Stalis (Bus Stop #28) - Blue sea 08:50 AM
Nana B/S - Mediterraneo 08:45 AM
Belvedere - Eri bus stop 08:45 AM
Silva Beach - Pela Maria 08:40 AM
National Bank (Ethniki Bank) - Chalkiadakis S/M 08:40 AM
Koutouloufari (Esperides Resort) 08:40 AM
Piscopiano well (pigadi) 08:40 AM
Mathioudakis (Kritikos S/M) - Albatros Corner - Creta Maris 08:35 AM
Hersonissos Village (Hotel Accommodation) 08:35 AM
Knossos Royal - Royal Mare - Annabelle 08:30 AM
Cretan Village - Laguna - Chrissi Amoudia 08:25 AM
Serita - Zorbas - Anissa - Bella - Lytos 08:20 AM
Analipsi Beach  Road 08:15 AM
Analipsi Bus stop 08:15 AM
Amirantes Bus stop 08:10 AM
Gouves Beach  Road 08:05 AM
Gouves Cross - Lavris 08:00 AM
Gournes church 07:55 AM
Rinela - Hatzis 07:55 AM
Knossos beach - Arina 07:45 AM
Karteros - Amnsissos 07:40 AM
Astoria Hotel - Galaxy Hotel 07:20 AM
Heraklion port - 18 Agglon Sq. (Koules fortress roundabout) 07:20 AM
Natural History Museum 07:20 AM
Talos Plaza (outside Envy Cafe) 07:20 AM
Giofyros (Meliriton) 07:10 AM
Amoudara (Gazi) 07:05 AM
Lygaria: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Lygaria via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up.
06:30 AM
Agia Pelagia: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Agia Pelagia via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up. 06:40 AM

LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!

 

CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.

IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organizer tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.

Discover SPINALONGA ISLAND

All you need to know about Spinalonga Island in this article:
- Is it Worth Going to Spinalonga Island
- Spinalonga Island History
- Tips about Spinalonga Island
- Useful Information about Spinalonga Island
ARTICLE: Explore the Enigmatic Beauty of Spinalonga Island: A Must-Visit Destination in Crete!

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Spinalonga Excursion

1. What is the entrance fee to visit Spinalonga?
The entrance fee for Spinalonga Island is €8 for adults, while reduced admission costs €4. Free entry is available on select days, including March 6 and various international observance days.

2. Is Spinalonga Island worth a visit?
Definitely! Spinalonga offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and emotional depth. Once a leper colony, the island presents a poignant narrative of resilience and community, making it a significant destination for visitors.

3. Why is Spinalonga Island historically important?
Spinalonga holds historical significance as one of the last leper colonies in Europe, functioning from 1903 to 1957. Its history provides profound insights into the lives of its former residents and the community that developed there.

4. What type of boats are used for the excursion to Spinalonga?
The Spinalonga excursion typically operates using one of two spacious vessels, each designed for comfort:

  • M/V Ostria
    • Length: 41 meters
    • Width: 7.10 meters
    • Capacity: 370 passengers
    • Cruising Speed: 12 knots
    • Features: Two fully equipped bars, a lounge, a restaurant, and ample open deck space for scenic views.
  • M/V Kalidon
    • Length: 33 meters
    • Width: 8.60 meters
    • Capacity: 400 passengers
    • Cruising Speed: 11 knots
    • Features: A well-stocked bar and spacious outdoor decks for relaxation during the journey.

These vessels ensure a pleasant and comfortable experience as you cruise to Spinalonga Island.

5. Are there shopping facilities on Spinalonga Island?
Yes, Spinalonga Island has a small shop where you can purchase archaeological guides, maps, postcards, and souvenirs. However, it's a good idea to bring any snacks or additional beverages you may want.

6. What does the Spinalonga excursion package include?
The excursion package comprises air-conditioned transportation, pick-up and drop-off services, assistance from a professional driver and tour guide, guided tours of Spinalonga, lunch served on the boat, boat tickets for the cruise, and all local taxes.

7. How long is the boat ride from Agios Nikolaos to Spinalonga?
The boat ride from Agios Nikolaos to Spinalonga typically takes about 50 minutes, providing beautiful views of the Aegean Sea as you approach the island.

8. What should I bring on the excursion?
We recommend bringing a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a beach towel, comfortable footwear, and plenty of water to keep hydrated throughout the day.

9. How much time do we spend on Spinalonga Island during the tour?
Guests generally spend around 1 to 1.5 hours on Spinalonga Island, giving you sufficient time to explore its historic landmarks and enjoy the scenic vistas.

10. What time does the excursion begin and end?
The excursion typically starts at approximately 9:00 AM and concludes around 5:00 PM, although exact timings may vary depending on the specific day and pick-up / drop off locations.

11. Is lunch included during the excursion? If so, what type of meal is served?
Yes, lunch is included in the excursion package. Participants will enjoy a delightful meal served on the boat as they cruise, featuring local flavors and ingredients.

12. Can we swim at Kolokytha Beach?
Absolutely! Swimming is permitted at Kolokytha Beach, where the crystal-clear waters provide an ideal setting for a refreshing swim. Don’t forget your swimsuit!

13. What if the weather is poor on the day of the excursion?
In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the excursion may be canceled for safety reasons. Guests will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule for a later date.

14. Is there a cancellation policy for the excursion?
Yes, you can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, if you fail to notify us at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure, no refund will be issued.

15. Are restrooms available on the boat or Spinalonga Island?
Yes, restrooms are available on both the boat and Spinalonga Island. This ensures that guests can enjoy the convenience of restroom facilities during the boat ride and while exploring the island.

16. Is the Spinalonga excursion accessible for individuals with disabilities?
The excursion is partially accessible for individuals with disabilities. While the main ring road on Spinalonga Island is navigable, some areas may present challenges due to uneven terrain. We recommend consulting with our staff prior to booking to discuss specific needs regarding transportation and access to facilities on the boat and island.

 

For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560

 

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Additional information

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