Top Experiences in Spinalonga

A beautiful day starts from Elounda with your final destination on the Spinalonga Island. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the leper island which is located in middle of Mirebello gulf, swim at the green clear sea, admire the view and explore the historical island.

Enjoy a walking tour of the island of Spinalonga during a full-day excursion from Elounda to the island. Visit Agios Nikolaos and Elounda and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch.

Along the coast through the St. George Gorge to Elounda, a tranquil coastal resort At around 10:30, you will get on board to visit the bay and the beach of Kolokytha, a secluded haven that offers a respite from daily life. You can swim and eat a delicious BBQ on board.
Then, you take the boat at around 12:45 to Spinalonga, across Mirabello bay.

Spinalonga's history is complex. It was a natural barrier for Olous in Ancient Greek times, a Saracen pirate refuge, a Venetian fortification, and a Turkic settlement. You depart from Spinalonga at appr. 14:45 p.m.

Transfer from/to port is not included.Clients go with get your guide code to the boat they don't need to have confirmation

A day trip that combines relaxation and history gives you the chance to visit the highlights of the Northeast part of Crete, where the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos with the magnificent lake can be found. Elounda, a small village on the shore of Mirabello bay with spectacular views, is where the boat begins the cruise heading to Spinalonga island, a small uninhabited island used during the history as a fortress and later on as a leper colony. On the way back to Elounda Port the boat will anchor so you can dive in the refreshing waters.

Spinalonga, Elounda Excursion, Agios Nikolaos is a trip not only to other places, but also a trip back in time, since it carries the sensation and the feel of another era.

The route along the northern coast of the island takes us to the small fishing village of Elounda.

The Tour starts by driving along the Northern coast of the island were we will visit the 12th century Byzantine church of Panagia Kera, 1km from the village of Kritsa.
We continue our tour driving through the beautiful coastal road and village of Elounda. One of them is the sea-front village of Plaka where we will board the boat to take us on the now deserted island of Spinalonga. Our guide will guide us through the ruins of what used to be a leper colony from 1903 to 1957 where lepers could have a better life, medical help and economic support.
After our visit to Spinalonga, you will enjoy some free time to swim in the crystal clear waters of Plaka and optional lunch.
After we will visit Agios Nikolaos town, the capital town of Lassithi. Here, the bottomless salt lake Voulismeni dominates the area. The city boasts interesting Archaeological, Folklore, and Natural History museums, Byzantine churches, a well-organised marina and traditional squares with buzzing cafés and restaurants.

Exclusivity: We operate the only tour that starts sail from Agios Nikolaos and gives travellers the joy of cruising across Mirabello Bay for 1 hour! In addition, our boat is the only one that makes a stop at the beach of Kolokytha and give participants the time to swim and enjoy a BBQ lunch there.

This tour combines both a visit to the town of Agios Nikolaos, Spinalonga Fortress and a unique stay on the beach of Kolokytha for a BBQ and a swim stop. Our participants will enjoy a cruise through Mirabello bay, the crystal clear waters of Kolokytha beach, and the historic island of Spinalonga.

With a minibus your Eye Travel guide shows you the Spinalonga island and other interesting places. Our first stop is in Agios Nikolaos where we have a fantastic view over the "Bottomless lake". You have some free time for a coffee, shopping and a stroll along the most eastern main city of Crete.
After passing Elounda it is time for SPINALONGA, the last leper colony of Europe. A typical Cretan fishing boat brings you to the island, this takes no more than 10 minutes. On the island you make a tour.
After finishing the trip on Spinalonga, a fishing boat brings you back to the small village of Plaka. Plaka is a tiny harbor, so the unique opportunity to eat fresh fish.
After our lunch we are heading to an olive oil factory. You get a guided tour through the factory. All facts about olive oil, the pressing methods and grades of olive oil are explained. At the end of the tour you can taste different olive oils and other local products.

The tiny island of Spinalonga is just a short hop away from Crete, but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle it. See it through the eyes of a local on this exclusive full day tour, which also takes in two coastal towns on Mirabello Bay. Veta, one of our guides, says, 'You'll visit the pretty fishing village of Elounda and the seaside town of Agios Nikolaos. You'll try some typical Cretan food in a taverna, too.'
Spinalonga has been many things throughout its existence, including a Venetian outpost and an Ottoman town. It was even a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘Isle of Tears'. You'll take a walk with our local guide, who'll lead you along narrow lanes of long-abandoned roofless dwellings and show you around the fortress and the colony, which closed in the 1950s. What's more, you'll beat the crowds by arriving early on the first ferry of the day.

A fun and sun cruise with a barbeque by the sea, relaxing moments around the surreal Kolokytha Bay and an exceptional visit to the stunning and historic island of Spinalonga. Our Nostos cruise boat departs from the harbor of Agios Nikolaos at 10:00 am and after cruising across the beautiful Bay of Mirabello, arrives at the legendary Spinalonga. You have an hour and a half to tour around and explore the Venetian fortifications and the old homes of the victims of leprosy who lived on the island during the first half of the 20th century. All the necessary information and historical data about the island can be found in the printed guide we provide you free of charge.

Spinalonga is a magnificent island with fortresses dating from the Venetian period. It is an island of legends, a triumph to survival in the early 20th century from the scourge of leprosy, now a place of great archaeological and historical significance. Nostos Cruises operates the only fully organized cruise to Spinalonga which includes detailed information from our experienced guides and onboard guided tours in English, German, Dutch, French, Russian, etc.

From extraordinary landscape & culture to its legendary food & village life, Mirabello majestically captures the soul of Crete as our favorite Cretan getaway.

Pair up with our top local insider & succumb to a bespoke service as we whisk you around the Gulf in the comfort of a luxury chauffeured vehicle at your disposal.

Spoil yourself with tailored details. Hop on a private boat to discover the island of Spinalonga. Bask in azure waters of secluded sandy coves tucked under cave-studded mountains. Hop off in the village of Plaka to indulge in the seafood tastes of delicious tavernas on the waterfront.

On the way to Agios Nikolaos, revel in luxurious panoramic scenes of Elounda's elite haven. Stroll the iconic town that oozes a chic vibe & soak up the splendor of the mythical lake as you unwind at the eclectic wine-cocktail bars.

By the end of the day, visit a family olive oil production estate & let our producers immerse you in their techniques for producing delectable olive oil.

The romantic atmosphere of the island along with the extraordinary landscapes makes the cruise ideal for unforgettable memories surrounded by your family and closest friends.

Discover the charming coastal town of Agios Nikolaos on this day trip from Rethymno. Step back in time as you view the archeological site of Olous from a boat. Go for a dip in Kolokythas bay and take a stroll on the uninhabited island of Spinaloga.
Stop for a coffee break on the way to Agios Nikolaos.
Spend some free time discovering the beauty of Agios Nikolaos where you can see the picturesque Lake Voulismeni, visit the marina, admire neoclassical buildings, and walk along the pedestrian roads. Have some time to purchase lunch at a local establishment before boarding the boat to Spinaloga.
View the partially submerged archeological site of Olous from the ship. Soak up some sun on board or go for a dip in the crystal waters of Kolokythas bay. Reach the island of Spinaloga where you will have a 1.5-hour visit to the leper colony and the surrounding pebble beaches and shallow waters.
Return to Agios Nikolaos where your bus will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation.

Embark on an intimate adventure through the splendors of Crete! Join our exclusive small-group tour, limited to seven guests per luxurious vehicle, for an immersive exploration. We'll start at Merabelo Bay, showcasing the enchanting Agios Nikolaos. This coastal gem, with its Mediterranean charm, offers scenic beauty and a vibrant atmosphere. Our journey then leads to the storied Spinalonga Island, steeped in history and tales of resilience, an emblem of the island's rich heritage. But that's not all. We'll uncover the legendary Diktaion Andron, the birthplace of Zeus, an archaeological wonder alive with ancient legends.Travel comfortably through the picturesque countryside aboard our deluxe mini vans. Engage discover the region's flora and fauna while soaking in stunning panoramas.
Join us for an expedition that transcends sightseeing—it's a deep dive into Crete's essence, curated by locals for an insider's view.

Elounda - a small fishing village on the shores of the bay of Mirabello
Spinalonga Island - Guided tour around the Venetian Fortress,
bay - swimming, sunbathing and BBQ lunch, Agios Nikolaos
Elounda is a popular holiday resort, often visited by VIPs for the luxurious beach resorts, situated in the area. From there, the boat is heading the small island of Spinalonga. The history and the culture of the island of Spinalonga became one with human tragedy in the course of time. This small isle carries within the history of Ancient Greece, as it served as a natural guard for the ancient city of Olous; the history of the Saracens as a hide-out for their pirates; the history of Venetians as their fortress; the history of Turks as their settlement. After the guided tour of the island, the boat will be anchored at one of the bays nearby. Time for swimming at the crystal clear waters, tasting the BBQ served on board. Last stop Agios Nicolas. Visit the picturesque town with a bottomless lake

You want them all ? Here it is: An adventure with the Land Rover and a private speed boat to Spinalonga Island to explore it, than over the countryside and small greek villages to the caves of milatos. Included also is a wonderful lunch at a local exellent taverna with fresh natural products and wine.

Very nice combo with Safari and private boat to the hotspot of the region, Explore the mountains and valleys, passing the small villages in the mountains.  learn how olive oil is made at our stop at an olive oil factory with a free guided tour. Coming back through the mountains we will have some amazing views over the Gulf of Mirabello and the historical island of Spinalonga. At the village of Plaka, our fast private speedboat are wait for you to transfer you to Spinalonga. (Entrance fee to the island not included, has to be payed on the island).

Inclusive: Land Rover Discovery with air condition, experienced driver, refreshments/water, speedboat transfer

Book an amazing tour in the East of Crete to visit Agios Nikolaos, a small town with a picturesque harbor, home to one of the two sweetwater lakes of Crete. We will then explore the oldest and most picturesque village in Crete, called 'Kritsa,' built amphitheatrically on a rock hill named Kastellos. Situated at an altitude of 375 m, Kritsa is surrounded by olive groves. Our visit will include 'Panagia Kera' to see the most important wall painting decorations in Greece. Next, we'll explore 'Elounda,' a small fishing town on the northern coast of the island of Crete. Our final destination is the island of 'Spinaloga,' a Venetian fortress built in 1579 and later used as a Leper Colony

Departing from the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, our journey promises a semi-private escape filled with delightful socializing and shared experiences. It begins with relaxation or actively participating in sailing procedures. Marvel at the stunning coastal views as we sail, feeling the invigorating sea breeze against your skin.

After circumnavigating Spinalonga and admiring the Venetian fortress from the sea, we set sail toward Kolokitha. Upon reaching Kolokitha, we drop anchor in one of its beautiful bays, where you're free to immerse yourself in its pristine waters, explore the coastline, or simply unwind on deck, soaking in the sunshine.

Our company ensures your comfort with a delectable lunch served on board, featuring locally sourced ingredients and complemented by premium local wine and refreshments.

Enjoy a selection of ripe, seasonal fruits as we gently sail back to the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, leaving you feeling invigorated, revitalized, and prepared for the evening ahead.

Start at the traditional village of Mochos with its narrow alleys and colourful gardens, then continue to Krasi and visit the 2,400-year-old Writers' Plane Tree. Afterwards, the tour will ascend to the Diktaion Andron, an ancient cave believed to be the birthplace of Zeus. Take in the incredible view of the Lasithi Plateau. After that amazing experience the tour will take you to the vibrant city of Agios Nikolaos through a long-forgotten route where you get to see wildgoats from up close. There you can visit, surrounded by many legends, Voulismeni lake. Next, visit the villages of Elouda and Plaka with the beautiful beach where you can take a swim or/and visit the world-famous Spinaloga which is a short boat-ride away.

Day cruise with your private motor-yacht to the hotspots in the region:

Your private luxury yacht including professional crew. Enjoy a wonderful day trip to the coves around Elounda and Agios Nikolaos.

Have fun with your friends or your family. (Maximal 10 Guests)

Including fruits and drinks.

Originally, Spinalonga was not an island – it was part of the island of Crete. During Venetian occupation the island was carved out of the coast for defence purposes and a fort was built there. During Venetian rule, salt was harvested from salt pans around the island.The island has also been used as a leper colony. Spinalonga has appeared in novels, television series, and a short film. This excursion is a perfect option for those who want to combine land & sea tours. You will also have the opportunity to visit the eastern part of Crete, Agios Nikolaos, a small town with a picturesque harbour and the island of Spinalonga.

From Agios Nikolaos you take the boat and cruise along the bay to the island of Spinalonga (sometimes called the island of Tears).
The guided tour on Spinalonga will both fascinate and haunt you as you learn the tragic history of this island which was once a Venetian fortress and was then the isolated home of many lepers up to 1957 when it was cleared by the Health Authorities, leaving the place uninhabited. The Venetians constructed a very impressive fortress with forty cannons which has been guarding the strategic bay of Mirabello since the 15th century.
We get on board again and head for the sandy bay of Kolokitha. Here you will have time for resting or swimming and have lunch.
The boat will take you back to Agios Nikolaos, which is famous for its picturesque ‘bottomless lake’. You will have some time to discover this pretty little town on your own, to stroll around the shops or just relax in one of the popular cafes and watch the world go by.

From extraordinary landscape & culture to its legendary food & village life, Mirabello majestically captures the soul of Crete as our favorite Cretan getaway.

Pair up with our top local insider & succumb to a bespoke service as we whisk you around the Gulf in the comfort of a luxury chauffeured vehicle at your disposal.

Spoil yourself with tailored details. Hop on a private boat to discover the island of Spinalonga. Bask in azure waters of secluded sandy coves tucked under cave-studded mountains. Hop off in the village of Plaka to indulge in the seafood tastes of delicious tavernas on the waterfront.

On the way to Agios Nikolaos, revel in luxurious panoramic scenes of Elounda's elite haven. Stroll the iconic town that oozes a chic vibe & soak up the splendor of the mythical lake as you unwind at the eclectic wine-cocktail bars.

By the end of the day, visit a family olive oil production estate & let our producers immerse you in their techniques for producing delectable olive oil.

Through this route we will be captivated by the dream sunset at an altitude of 700 meters and enjoying the sun setting into the Cretan Sea, visiting traditional villages, enjoying local tastes, enchanting the view and ending up with beautiful destinations
Our first stop in Agios Nikolaos, where we will have 50 minutes of free time to admire its amazing beauties or to shop from its beautiful market
Then we head to the fishing village of Plaka and we will be enchanted by the view of Spinalonga.
Arriving at Plaka we will have free time of about 20 minutes, which will give us the opportunity to enjoy and photograph the historic island of Spinalonga
Then we climb to the traditional village of Vrouchas and climb to an altitude of about 700 meters where from the highest point of the area we will have the chance to see the amazing sunset with the sun set late in the Cretan Sea and create beautiful shades on the horizon. It's really a dream thing to see

The trip starts from the port of Ormos Bay and the duration is 4 hours. The boat offering free soft drinks, water, snorkeling devices, music on board with Bluetooth connection, shower with fresh water, all these create a fantastic experience.

There are many options where you can choose the route of your choice or on the contrary he can consult the experienced captains of our company. First choice can be Dianiskari Beach second choice Kolokutha Beach Third choice Skistra Bay, Fourth choice is San Fwkas beach where you can swim or do snorkeling or visit the wonderful beach.

Even upon request there is the possibility of stopping for lunch in one of the restaurants in the area of Elounda based on your preference. Then we can visit the island of Spinalonga where you can admire the wonderful sights of the island. Then we can visit the Plaka village and the town of Elounda .
Finally we will return to the base where we started.

Be your own captain! You can rent a boat and discover all the hidden and secluded beaches of our island, along with enjoying activities such as snorkeling and rod fishing. All boats are equipped with everything you need during your boat ride, so that you do not miss anything, but also be perfectly safe onboard!

For RIB boat rental, a speedboat license is needed.

Discover the seaside village of Elounda and walk amongst history on the island of Spinalonga.

Finishing our touring on this much afflicted place, we head for the small bay of Kolokitha. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches on Crete. It is a remote beach with white sand and deep blue serene water, side by side with old olive groves. There we can swim from the boat.

Here you have plenty of time for swimming at the crystal clear waters, tasting the BBQ served on board. The menu includes pork* chop BBQ, greek salad, feta cheese, bread, wine or Fanta and seasonal fruit.(EVERY SUNDAY the dinner is in a tavern we DONT have BBQ on board)

After our short respite, we go back to Elounda.

Then we move to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, where we have our last stop. We have the chance to enjoy our coffee getting a perfect view of the magnificent lake, do our shopping in the traditional local shops and relax for a while before we hit the road for our going back.

Enjoy a day filled with pretty scenery, history and time to relax. You have seen it in pictures now you have the ideal opportunity to be part of it. A combination of beautiful landscapes with history and tradition. Within a day you will experience a time travel from the long past to modern everyday life. If there is a must-see on Crete, it is surely this multifaceted Tour.