Five hours, two swims, and clear water wins. This Mirabello Bay cruise leaves from Agios Nikolaos at 11:00 and turns the time on the water into the main event with real swimming breaks.

I love the way the schedule protects your swim time: about 1 hour to Kolokytha Bay, then roughly 1 hour 15 minutes to swim there. I also like the second stop at Skistra Bay, where you can snorkel and relax for another solid stretch of water time.

One thing to plan for: snorkeling gear isn’t provided on board, and you’ll want to be on time for your pickup/port meeting point to avoid missing the activity.

Key points before you go

• Two water stops with about 1h15 of swimming at Kolokytha Beach and another 1h15 at Skistra Bay
• Snorkel time at Skistra Bay, but you must bring your own gear
• An included onboard cocktail and fruits, so you’re not counting change just to enjoy the day
• Clear timing: return to Agios Nikolaos port around 15:45
• Shade and comfort vary, so boarding early can help you choose better spots on the boat

Mirabello Bay Cruise Timing: 11:00 Departure, 15:45 Return

This is a straightforward, half-day cruise—no all-day slog, no rushed “see-and-go” stops. The boat starts at the Agios Nikolaos port around 11:00, and you’re back around 15:45. That timing is handy if you want sea time without giving up your whole afternoon.

Getting to the port is part of how the day stays easy. The tour offers roundtrip transfer from many Crete hotels via bus, but there’s an important exception: if you’re staying in the Agios Nikolaos and Elounda area, there’s no pickup. In that case, you meet at Agios Nikolaos port instead.

This matters more than it sounds. One late arrival can mean a missed departure. If you’re staying outside the port area, be ready for a pickup window and don’t assume you can leisurely roll out the door. If you’re meeting at the port, build in extra buffer time—especially in busy seasons when parking and drop-offs take longer than you expect.

First Swim Stop at Kolokytha Beach: Turquoise Water and Real Time to Get In

The cruise heads out slowly along the Mirabello gulf toward Kolokytha Beach. You’ll spend about 1 hour cruising first—long enough to settle in, grab a seat, and enjoy the views from the boat without feeling like you’re sitting on your hands.

Then comes the best part: an anchoring stop at Kolokytha Beach. You get about 1 hour 15 minutes there, which is long enough to do more than just dip your feet. If you like actual swimming, this stop is built for you. The water is described as crystal-clear, and that’s exactly the kind of conditions where snorkeling (even without a formal plan) feels worthwhile.

A practical note: anchoring time is great, but your experience depends on where you park yourself on the boat before you jump in. Some boats have limited shade, and seating can be a little “basic,” depending on the departure. If you care about staying cool, get aboard early and choose your spot wisely.

Also, bring your own gear if you plan to snorkel. While the tour is designed around water time, you’re not going to be able to borrow snorkeling equipment once you’re out there.

Skistra Bay Snorkeling and Cocktail: Why the Second Stop Feels Like the Payoff

After Kolokytha, you’ll head to Skistra Bay for the second swimming period. This is where the day shifts from sun-and-swim to a bit more underwater exploration. The tour explicitly highlights snorkeling at Skistra Bay, and you’ll have about 1 hour 15 minutes there again.

This second stop is valuable for two reasons:

1. You get a change of scenery. Two swims feel better than one long one, especially if you get tired of one spot or if the water near the first anchoring point isn’t perfect for your comfort.
2. Snorkeling works best when you’re not rushed. With a proper block of time, you can actually put your goggles on, adjust to the water, and explore without feeling pressured to race back to the boat.

And yes, there’s a treat: a cocktail included (plus fruits). It’s a good way to mark the transition from active water time to relaxed cruising time. The tour also notes a non-alcoholic drink option for children, which is helpful if you’re traveling with mixed ages.

If you’re hungry, the tour info says you can order food on board, but food and extra drinks aren’t included. In other words: the included part covers the basics, and purchases are up to you. That’s a good balance because you can keep costs predictable while still having options.

What’s Included on Board (and What You’ll Pay For)

For the price, what you’re really buying is a tidy package: boat time + guide + transfers + included drink + fruits. It’s not just a cruise where you sit and hope for the best.

Here’s what’s included:

• Pick-up and drop-off transportation (with the Agios Nikolaos/Elounda exception noted above)
• Tour guide
• Boat trip to Mirabello Gulf
• One cocktail or a non-alcoholic drink for children
• Fruits

What’s not included:

• Food and drinks beyond what’s specified above

This setup is good value because it reduces decision fatigue. You don’t need to figure out when you’ll eat or what you’ll drink. You’re covered for fruit and at least one included beverage, and you can top up by purchasing additional items if you want something more substantial.

One review detail that’s worth keeping in mind: some departures are described as welcoming guests with a drink such as raki or a non-alcoholic alternative. Even if that isn’t how every trip starts, it aligns with the tour’s “drink included” approach, so you should expect some kind of onboard welcome moment rather than an empty-hand first minute.

Getting the Most Out of the Boat Seats: Comfort, Shade, and Simple Strategies

This cruise is focused on swimming, so the boat is more means-of-transport than luxury lounge. That said, small comfort issues can shape your day—especially when you’re out in strong sun.

Two practical tips from how these days typically play out:

• Shade can be limited. If you want a cooler spot, board early and pick a position that gives you a break from direct sun.
• Seating can be firm. Some people wish for padded cushions. If you’re sensitive to hard benches, bring a small towel you can fold for extra comfort. It won’t weigh much, and it can make the ride back more pleasant.

Also remember: even on a boat, sun exposure adds up fast. Bring sun protection and a bathing suit you feel comfortable re-wearing between water stops. If you plan to snorkel more than once, a camera is useful, but don’t count on your phone staying safe in salty spray—bring a simple waterproof pouch if you have one.

Packing Checklist That Actually Fits This Cruise

You don’t need a massive kit. But you do need the few items that keep you from wishing you had them.

Bring:

• Snorkeling gear (not available on board)
• Sun protection
• Bathing suit
• Camera

If you want to go one step further for comfort:

• A small towel or folded cloth for seating and drying off
• A light cover-up for moving between sun and shade

And one more “quiet lifesaver”: if you wear prescription gear or have special snorkeling needs, handle it before the day starts. The schedule is built around leaving port at 11:00 and hitting two water stops, so there’s no time for emergency shopping.

Price and Value for $44: What You’re Really Paying For

At around $44 per person for a 5-hour experience, the value comes from bundling several things together that would otherwise cost you separately: a guided boat outing, roundtrip bus transfer (for most hotel locations), two swim periods, and an included cocktail plus fruits.

If you price it out like a traveler, you’re getting:

• Transport that gets you from your hotel area to Agios Nikolaos port and back
• The boat itself (the heart of the day)
• A guide handling timing and logistics
• Included refreshment so you’re not stuck paying for every little thing

You do pay extra if you want more food or additional drinks, but the included items reduce the “nickel-and-diming” feeling. For many people, that’s the sweet spot: you can enjoy the sea day without turning it into a full-blown meal plan.

Where it can feel less “perfect value” is if you arrive unprepared (no snorkeling gear) or if you’re hoping for maximum comfort and shade. In that case, you can still have a great day, but you’ll want to manage expectations and pack a couple of comfort aids.

Who This Cruise Suits Best (and Who Might Want a Different Plan)

This tour is ideal if you want a Crete sea day that’s simple, timed well, and focused on swimming. You’ll likely enjoy it if:

• You like being in the water and not just watching from the deck
• You want a guided day without needing to drive or navigate
• You’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a mix of snorkeling and lounging
• You want a romantic, scenic-feeling day with enough time to actually make memories

It might feel like the wrong fit if:

• You hate crowds or want a quiet, laid-back vibe all the way through
• You need cushioned comfort and lots of onboard shade
• You don’t want to bring snorkeling gear and would rather rent or borrow equipment locally

The good news is that none of those are deal-breakers. They’re just “day style” considerations. With the right expectations and packing choices, you can make the cruise work for you.

Should You Book This Mirabello Bay Cruise?

I think this cruise is a strong yes if your goal is swimming time first and you’re happy with a straightforward, half-day format. The combination of two water stops, a snorkel-friendly second anchoring point, plus an included cocktail and fruits makes the day feel like more than just transportation to the sea.

Book it if:

• You’re planning a Crete trip where you want at least one organized boat day
• You’re willing to bring your own snorkeling gear
• You want a dependable schedule with a clear return time to Agios Nikolaos

Skip it or plan differently if:

• You’re very sensitive to hard seating or sun exposure and don’t want to adjust with a towel or shade strategy
• You’re relying on onboard gear you don’t have

If you’re the type who likes to get in the water, not just admire it, this is exactly the kind of day that makes Crete feel like a postcard you can swim in.

FAQ

What time does the cruise depart and when do we return?

The cruise starts at 11:00 from Agios Nikolaos port and you return to port around 15:45.

Where do I meet if I’m staying in Agios Nikolaos or Elounda?

For the Agios Nikolaos and Elounda area, there is no pickup. You meet at Agios Nikolaos port.

Is snorkeling gear provided on board?

No. Snorkeling equipment is not available on board, so you should bring your own.

What drinks and food are included?

You get one cocktail or a non-alcoholic drink for children, plus fresh fruits. Food and extra drinks are not included, though you can order food on board.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is listed as wheelchair accessible.

What are the cancellation and payment options?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now & pay later option that lets you book without paying immediately.