Sail from sun-kissed Crete to the paradise islands of Spinalonga and Kolokytha on this private, half-day cruise. Laze on deck and soak up the sun and sights during the 20-minute crossing to Spinalonga, then learn about the island’s colorful history during a guided visit to its Venetian fortress. Back on board, tuck into a delicious barbecue lunch before enjoying time at your leisure off the coast of Kolokytha to swim and sunbathe.
Your Crete hotel (see pickup areas in itinerary) (Google Map)
Please contact the local service provider to verify your preferred pickup time before travel
The island of Spinalonga, which in the early 20th century was a leper colony, got its name from the Venetians, who occupied it for nearly 150 years, beginning in the late 16th century. They left quite a legacy, including some hefty fortifications and a castle. This private half-day tour explores Spinalonga and beyond. After hotel pickup in Crete, transfer to the pretty fishing village of Elounda and board a shared boat for the 20-minute journey through the azure-colored sea to Spinalonga, which means “long thorn” in Italian. There was once an isthmus connecting Spinalonga to Crete, but the occupying Venetians turned into an island to further protect it from invaders. Spend about 2 hours on Spinalonga (8 Euro entry fee not included in tour price). Enjoy a walking tour around the island, gasping at its Venetian-built fortifications and its castle. Then return to the boat and for a barbecue lunch. Take in the scenic blue waters and the island as you eat. The next stop is the island of Kolokytha. Take about 2 hours to swim here, or just relax on the beach. Leave the beach by private car and travel to the pretty village of Agios Nicolaos, which you can explore on your own for about an hour. Visit Lake Voulismeni at the center of town — according to myth it’s bottomless, and Artemis and Athena are said to have bathed here. Leaving Agios Nicolaos, you’ll be driven back to your hotel.
