Sailing cruise Agios Nikolaos: Spinalonga and Kolokitha

Six hours sailing Mirabello Bay, from fortress views to swimming in Kolokitha's bays

A six-hour sailing cruise departing from Agios Nikolaos marina circles Mirabello Bay, passes Spinalonga's Venetian fortress, and anchors in Kolokitha's bays for swimming and snorkeling. You can help sail the boat or relax on deck. Lunch with local wine and seasonal fruit, snorkeling gear, and a stand-up paddleboard are included. The captain and crew speak English and welcome children from age three.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sailing cruise around Mirabello Bay

• Relax or participate in sailing
• Sail around Spinalonga fortress
• Anchor at Kolokitha bay
• Swim, explore, or relax on deck
• Enjoy lunch with local wine
• Sail back to Agios Nikolaos Marina

The experience

The boat leaves Agios Nikolaos marina and heads into Mirabello Bay, where you can either help with the sailing or settle onto the sundeck. The route circles Spinalonga, the fortress built by Venetians centuries ago, visible from the water as the boat passes. From there, the course turns toward Kolokitha, a small island with several bays deep enough to drop anchor.

Once anchored in Kolokitha, you have the afternoon to swim in the clear water, snorkel with the provided gear, or paddle out on a stand-up board. The crew serves lunch on deck (locally sourced, with premium local wine for adults and soft drinks for everyone), and brings out seasonal fruit as you sail back. A restroom is on board, and cushioned deck space means you can stretch out between activities.

The whole outing runs six hours from departure to return. Public transport reaches the marina, and the operator can arrange a transfer for an additional fee if you need it. The boat suits all fitness levels and welcomes families with children from three years old.

What’s included

• Lunch with locally sourced ingredients.
• premium local wine and soft drinks.
• snorkeling equipment.
• stand-up paddleboard.
• seasonal fruit.
• bottled water.
• comfortable deck cushions.
• on-board restroom.
• experienced captain and crew.
• all fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDeparts at 09:00Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Book up to10h before

AgesAdult (11 and older) · Child (3 to 10 years) · Under 3: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearby

Operated by Avanti Sailing

Is this one for you?The boat is semi-private and shared with other small groups, so you're sailing with a handful of other travelers rather than alone or in a large tour. This keeps the atmosphere social without feeling crowded, and the mix of sailing participation and anchored swimming means you can pace your own day: help with the boat in the morning, swim and snorkel when anchored, relax on deck whenever you want.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 10 years). Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Spinalonga and why do we sail around it?

Spinalonga is a small island fortress built by the Venetians, visible from the water as the boat passes. You see it from the sea rather than landing on it, taking in the structure and the history of Mirabello Bay from the deck.

Can I swim and snorkel during this cruise?

Yes. The boat anchors in one of Kolokitha's bays, and you're free to swim in the water, use the snorkeling equipment provided, or paddle on the stand-up paddleboard. You can also stay on deck if you prefer.

Is lunch included, and what about drinks?

Lunch is served on board and made from locally sourced ingredients. Premium local wine is included for guests over 18. Younger passengers and non-drinkers get soft drinks and bottled water. Seasonal fruit comes out during the sail back.

Can I help sail the boat, or do I just relax?

You can choose. The cruise begins with the option to actively participate in sailing procedures or simply sunbathe and relax on the sundeck. It's up to you how involved you want to be.

What's included in the price, and what costs extra?

Lunch, wine, water, snacks, snorkeling gear, the stand-up paddleboard, cushions, and the restroom are all included. Towels cost extra if you need them, and an optional transfer from your hotel to the marina is available for an additional fee.