Boat trips Crete: mini-cruises to Santorini, Spinalonga and Dia, diving tours, group and private options with real 2026 prices and tips on when to book a tour or go independently
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Sea tours from Crete: where people usually sail and why it's a convenient and popular starting point for one-day mini-cruises
Sea travel always adds a special charm to a holiday, and the island of Crete is an ideal place to start such adventures. It is from here that one-day mini-cruises across the Aegean Sea are most conveniently launched.
Advantages of Crete as a starting point for mini-cruises
Let’s begin with the fact that Crete has an excellent geographic location. It is the largest and southernmost island of Greece, which means that from its main ports — Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymno — many popular destinations are easily accessible.
For example, a one-day cruise from Heraklion to the island of Santorini takes just 2–3 hours. That’s enough to set off in the morning and return to your hotel on Crete in the evening. Such a cruise typically costs between 90 and 120 euro, depending on the season and operator.
By comparison, a similar trip from Piraeus (Athens) takes over 5 hours, with prices starting from 130 euro. The fuel surcharge should also be taken into account — it is significantly lower on routes from Crete.
Comparison of ferry routes to Santorini from Crete
| Route | Travel time | Cost (off-season) | Cost (in season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heraklion–Santorini | 2–3 hours | 80–100 euro | 120 euro |
| Piraeus–Santorini | 5–8 hours | 70–90 euro | 110–130 euro |
Table 1 – Comparison of cruises to Santorini from Crete and from the mainland
The main port of Heraklion, the capital of Crete
Why people choose Crete: key advantages
One of the main advantages of Crete is its stable weather. The Meltemi winds, which can significantly complicate navigation near Athens or Thessaloniki, are barely felt here. This makes sea travel comfortable and predictable.
Another important advantage is the well-developed port infrastructure. The ports of Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania offer a wide selection of cruise companies and vessels to suit any taste and budget. Competition among operators makes it possible to find attractive deals, and routes are optimized to make travel as convenient as possible.
Comparing Crete with other departure points: Piraeus in Athens offers more cruise options, but travel times to the islands are longer and the impact of weather conditions is greater. Thessaloniki has a limited choice of destinations and, unlike Crete, is highly season-dependent. The island of Rhodes is closer to the Turkish coast, but has fewer regular services.
From personal experience I can say that mini-cruises from Crete are not only an opportunity to see new places, but also a way to save time and money. For example, fuel surcharges are lower here, and the sailing schedule is more reliable thanks to the high volume of passengers.
Practical tips:
- Always book mini-cruises in advance, especially during peak season — July and August.
- Take the time to compare offers from different operators, and pay attention to the cancellation policy — this matters if your plans change unexpectedly.
A view from the water of the evening waterfront of Chania, where life is in full swing
Destinations for sea tours from Crete
The island of Crete and its surroundings offer fantastic opportunities to explore history, nature, and even the underwater world. Let me share my favorite destinations and highlight what makes each one special.
The most popular destination remains Santorini — and for good reason! It is a true gem of the Aegean Sea, captivating visitors with the blue-and-white houses of Oia, the spectacular views of the volcanic caldera, and black-sand beaches. I visited the archaeological site of Akrotiri, and I highly recommend it — you can truly feel the spirit of ancient civilizations there.
What else is worth seeing? Local wineries built into the cliffs. Santorini is also known for the fact that in a single day you can visit several of the most beautiful islands.
These are the kinds of views you’ll be treated to constantly while exploring Santorini
The second destination that particularly stays with tourists is the island of Spinalonga. Its dramatic history as a former leper colony leaves a deep emotional impression. The 16th-century Venetian fortress is beautifully preserved and is a true architectural gem — and a great spot for photos.
After the tour, you can cool off in the waters of Mirabello Bay or visit the fishing village of Plaka. A tour to Spinalonga will definitely leave a lasting memory.
The famous 16th-century Venetian fortress on the island of Spinalonga
For those looking for something less touristy, I recommend visiting the island of Dia. This is one of my favorite routes for small groups. The ruins of an ancient Minoan-era port have been preserved here, and the coastal caves are great for snorkeling. The waters around the island are ideal for dolphin watching — there are plenty of them! Dia is also close to Heraklion, so the journey doesn’t take long.
A view of the island of Dia from the water
For those who want to feel like true explorers, I recommend Gavdos — the southernmost point of Europe. There are almost no tourists here, but there are wild beaches, the ancient Tripiti lighthouse, and caves where hermits once lived.
One of the beaches on the island of Gavdos — it was this natural arch that inspired me to take a photo
Balos Bay also deserves a special mention. Its turquoise waters, unique pink sandy spits, and the island of Gramvousa with its Venetian fortress together create one of the most picturesque corners of the Mediterranean. Legend has it that pirates once lived on the island, so it is steeped in fascinating stories. It is also home to rare bird species, so wildlife enthusiasts will have plenty to see and photograph.
It was a little cloudy, but the photos of Balos Bay turned out beautifully anyway
A true jewel is the island of Chrysi — often called the “Cretan Caribbean.” It has a unique cedar forest, pink beaches, and ancient ruins. Mirabello Bay is also worth seeing: the route includes visits to Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and the ancient ruins of Olous.
This is an ideal combination of historical discovery and swimming. And finally, Matala beach, known for its hippie caves, Roman catacombs, and picturesque red cliffs. Sunsets here are particularly beautiful, and diving among the rocks is very popular.
One of the beaches on the island of Chrysi
From personal experience, I can say that the best time for sea tours is May to October. The sea is warmest in summer, but there are also more tourists.
One more tip: don’t try to fit everything into one trip. It’s better to choose a route that best matches your interests. Love history? Head to Spinalonga. Dreaming of perfect photos? Then Santorini. Want to swim in crystal-clear water? Balos Bay is the right choice.
Our take: which sea tour destinations are worth your attention
When it comes to sea tours from Crete, the question always arises: is it worth choosing an organized tour, or is it better to go independently? Let me share my experience.
- Organized tours: when it’s genuinely worth it
Santorini — the best option for those who value comfort. To visit Santorini, an organized tour is the most convenient choice. Going independently, the ferry takes 2–2.5 hours one way and costs approximately 65–85 euro. A same-day return trip without an overnight stay is virtually impossible given the transport schedule, and hotels on Santorini are expensive.
I recommend choosing a small-group tour (from 190 to 240 euro) — it saves time, eliminates logistical headaches, and guarantees comfortable transport.
2. Spinalonga — a historical journey without the hassle. A group tour costs 45–60 euro and includes transfer and guide services. Going independently requires around 6–8 euro for a bus to Elounda, 12 euro for a boat, and 8 euro for an entrance ticket. On top of the financial cost, you’ll need to sort out the transport schedule yourself and find information about the sights and how to get there.
3. Balos Bay + Gramvousa island — double the pleasure. Organized tours to Balos Bay and Gramvousa island cost approximately 45–60 euro. For that price you can see two gems: the bay itself and the pirates’ island. The transfer from central Crete (Rethymno or Heraklion) is also a major advantage, especially given the complicated logistics to the port of Kissamos, from where boats depart for Gramvousa. Tours often include a full lunch, which would cost at least 10–15 euro per person if traveling independently.
Organized diving and snorkeling tours in Crete provide the necessary equipment and instructor supervision, guaranteeing safety and access to the best diving spots.
4. The island of Dia — a natural gem that can only be reached via organized tours or a private boat (from 50 to 80 euro per person). Since it is a nature reserve, there is no regular ferry service.
5. Independent travel: freedom and savings
Now for the destinations you can reach on your own.
- Chrysi — the paradise island. The ferry from Ierapetra costs around 25 euro return. Departures every two hours allow for flexible day planning. Sun loungers and parasols can be rented on the spot.
- Balos Bay. An independent trip by ferry from the port of Kissamos costs 30 euro. Keep in mind, though, that it’s best to depart in the morning, and you still need to get to the port.
Comparison of trip prices from Crete: organized tour vs. independent travel
| Destination | Organized tour | Independent trip |
|---|---|---|
| Santorini | 190–240 euro (small group) | Ferry 65–85 euro (one way) + accommodation |
| Spinalonga | 45–60 euro (group) | 6–8 euro (bus) + 12 euro (boat) + 8 euro (entry) |
| Balos Bay + Gramvousa island | 45–60 euro (group) | 30 euro (ferry) |
| Diving and snorkeling | 40–100 euro (organized) | — |
| Island of Dia | 50–80 euro (yacht or catamaran) | — |
| Chrysi | — | 25 euro (ferry) |
Table 2 – Prices (tour vs. independent trip)
General advice:
- When planning sea tours from Crete, the choice between organized tours and independent travel depends on the destination. For remote islands such as Santorini or Mykonos, it’s better to go with a tour — it saves time and effort. For closer islands like Chrysi, traveling independently is perfectly convenient.
- Book ferries in advance, especially in high season when prices can rise. Also check ferry schedules ahead of time, as some routes only operate from May to October.
Types of sea tours (group and private)
Sea tours from Crete are a wonderful way to see remote islands and immerse yourself in the stunning nature of Greece. I’ve personally tried several formats — both organized tours and independent trips — so I can say that finding a tour to fit any budget is entirely realistic.
- Group tours (15–40 people). Let’s start with basic group tours — a great option for those who want to save money and see a lot. Key features:
- Affordable price.
- Large number of participants.
- Slower pace of travel.
- Packed itinerary.
- Limited time at each location.
For example, a tour to Santorini is one of the most popular, thanks to visits to the whitewashed towns of Fira and Oia. It’s a guided walk in a large group with a tour of the main sights.
As part of such a tour, you can also visit the historic fortress island of Spinalonga and swim in Mirabello Bay. The tour to the island of Dia, where you can dive into the clear sea and enjoy the underwater world, also runs on a fixed schedule on a large boat.
2. Small-group tours (6–12 people). This option is for a more relaxed and atmospheric experience. The price is slightly higher, but the quality of the trip is better. Key features:
- Comfortable group size.
- Speedboat.
- Flexible time at each location.
- Individual attention from the guide.
The “golden” island of Chrysi with its exotic beaches is an ideal destination for this kind of tour — no crowds, and the chance to soak up the sun and swim at leisure. There is also a more comfortable VIP tour from Chania to Santorini with extra time on the island. Fishing tours also fall into the small-group category — a chance to fish in the open sea.
3. Private tours (2–6 people). This option is for those who want luxury service and complete privacy. Renting a yacht with a captain and a flexible itinerary along the Cretan coastline is exactly that kind of holiday. Key features:
- An exclusive, private, high-speed yacht.
- Your own itinerary.
- VIP service and catering.
- Skipper and crew.
A trip to Balos with its magical lagoon views is best suited to a VIP tour. A VIP tour to Santorini is also a great option.
4. Specialist tours for active travelers. Key features:
- Physical activity (a basic level of fitness is required).
- Travel between multiple locations.
- Limited group size.
- Professional specialist guides.
These include diving tours off the Cretan coast, snorkeling tours where guides show the best spots for swimming with a mask, and my personal favorite — sunset cruises, evening outings with dinner, such as this one from Chania.
A few words about destination-specific features:
- Eastern Crete is ideally suited to private tours and small groups, combining history with sea relaxation.
- Western Crete is best for group and specialist tours to explore the bays.
- Inter-island routes are most suited to group tours.
- Southern Crete is great for all types of tours — it has the cleanest beaches and the warmest water.
Sea tour prices from Crete in 2026
Now let me share my experience and tips on tour prices in 2025.
Starting with group tours — the classic choice for those looking for an affordable option. These offer standard routes with fixed schedules and a group guide. A tour to Santorini the most popular destination — costs 140–180 euro per person. By the way, if you book very far in advance, you can save up to 40%!
For history lovers, I recommend visiting Spinalonga — the trip costs 65–85 euro. And for those seeking a relaxed holiday, the island of Dia is an ideal choice, with tours starting from 45 to 60 euro.
For those who prefer a more personalized approach, small-group tours are a great fit — they offer a flexible itinerary and comfortable conditions. One option is a trip to Karpathos, which allows you to experience the authentic side of Crete. This adventure costs 160–200 euro.
Another interesting destination I visited is Gavdos — the southernmost point of Europe, where you truly feel removed from civilization. This tour costs 140–180 euro.
The dream of a holiday straight out of a movie comes true on Chrysi — Crete’s very own “Caribbean island.” The cost of such a trip is 90–120 euro.
Now for private tours. I’ve had the opportunity to take one of these, and I can say it’s something you should try at least once.
Depending on the route, prices range from 400 to 700 euro per boat per day — and the comfort and experience are worth every cent. A trip along the southern coast of Crete costs 450–600 euro per boat, a journey around Mirabello Bay costs 400–550 euro, and a tour to Balos Bay costs 300–700 euro. Travelers choose their own route, stop wherever they like, and enjoy premium service.
For active travelers there are specialist tours. Fishing, for example: a group tour costs 80–120 euro, while a private tour starts from 300 to 450 euro per boat. Diving tours for beginners with an instructor cost 130–180 euro, while for certified divers the price is 90–120 euro. Snorkeling group tours cost 50–70 euro, and small-group swimming trips cost 80–100 euro. The most popular spots for these activities are Balos Bay and the island of Dia.
It’s important to keep seasonal price fluctuations in mind:
Bus ticket prices Split - Pricing policy
| Season | Pricing policy |
|---|---|
| High season (July–August) | +30–40% to the base price |
| Off-season (May–June, September) | Base prices |
| Off-season (April, October) | Discounts of 20–30% |
Table 3 – Prices by season
As for choosing a tour format — it all depends on your goals. Group tours are great for a first introduction to the islands. For families with children, I recommend small-group tours, where the guide can give more attention to each participant. If you’re planning a special occasion, a private tour is the better choice. Active travelers should look into specialist tours with snorkeling or diving.
One final important tip: plan your sea adventures in advance. Early booking allows you to save up to 40%, especially in the low season.
The most popular sightseeing spots on Santorini
The first thing worth seeing is the town of Oia. This is probably the most photogenic location on the island, with whitewashed houses cascading down toward the sea.
What makes Oia special are its famous blue-domed Orthodox churches, which blend harmoniously with the brightly colored buildings, and the breathtaking panoramic views of the sea. Oia is also known for its incredible sunset atmosphere. It’s worth spending at least an hour here before the sun begins to sink below the horizon.
The beautiful, whitewashed town of Oia — I’m sure it won’t leave anyone indifferent
A visit to Fira, the capital of Santorini, is equally unmissable. This part of the island offers a stunning view of the caldera. It’s the best spot for panoramic photos, and the waterfront is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. The cable car descending to the old port is a must for anyone who wants to enjoy the island from a bird’s-eye view.
These are the views that opened up from the terrace of our hotel in Fira
Another wonderful place worth visiting is Imerovigli. This village, set at the highest point of the caldera, is known as the “Balcony of the Aegean Sea.” It offers one of the best views of the volcano, and there are numerous luxury hotels with infinity pools where you can relax after sightseeing.
I think these photos show exactly why Imerovigli is called the “Balcony of the Aegean Sea”
Ammoudi Port is another wonderful spot on the island, especially for those who want to enjoy the freshest seafood right on the waterfront. Traditional fishing boats are moored nearby, and the clear-water beach and views of Oia add a special charm to this place.
These are the steps you take to reach Ammoudi Port — for convenience, you can also use the local donkey taxi service
Ancient historical landmarks on Santorini
For history lovers, Akrotiri is an absolute must — an archaeological city that was buried under volcanic ash over 3,000 years ago. Often called the “Pompeii of Greece,” it allows you to delve into the history of the Minoan civilization through remarkably well-preserved frescoes and buildings.
For those seeking peace and spiritual contemplation, I recommend visiting the Profitis Ilias Monastery. This magnificent temple sits at the highest point of the island, offering a panoramic view of the entire territory of Santorini. The monastery preserves ancient manuscripts and artifacts, and also produces traditional products that can be purchased on site.
Wine enthusiasts should visit Santos, the oldest winery on the island. Here you can learn about the traditional methods of growing grapes in volcanic soil and sample the island’s celebrated wines, including Vinsanto, served on stunning panoramic terraces overlooking the sea.
Captivating natural spots on the island of Santorini
Near Akrotiri lies the Red Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, with red volcanic cliffs, and an excellent spot for snorkeling thanks to the rich underwater life.
The small beaches at Perissa are ideal for active travelers and water sports enthusiasts. It’s also worth climbing Mount Mesa Vouno here, where the ruins of the ancient city of Thera can be seen.
Finally, let me tell you about the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. Here you can hike up to the crater of an active volcano and enjoy the hot springs located on one of the islands. Boat trips offer extraordinary landscapes and a real sense of the geological character of this place.
Perissa beach with its black volcanic sand on Santorini — quite an unusual sight
Our take: when it's worth taking a mini-cruise to Santorini from Crete, and when it's better to go independently by ferry
When planning a trip to Santorini from Crete, it’s important to choose the right option — an organized tour or an independent trip. Sometimes the choice is difficult when you don’t know all the nuances.
When should you choose a tour?
If your time on Crete is limited, I would recommend a group tour to Santorini. This is the best option for those who want to see the main sights of Santorini in a single day without worrying about logistics. A small-group tour offers the same benefits for those who value comfort and prefer not to travel with large crowds. An added bonus is more time for photos and conversation with the guide.
When is it better to go independently?
If you have 2 or more days, an independent trip will be far more worthwhile. The ferry from Heraklion costs 65–85 euro one way, with a journey time of 2–2.5 hours.
There are 2–3 sailings per day, giving flexibility in planning — you can explore the island at your own pace and even watch the sunset in Oia (something tour groups rarely manage to do). Accommodation for one night starts from 80 euro, and car rental costs from 50 euro per day. For a group of 3–4 people, the total budget for 2 days works out to roughly the same as the price of a one-day tour.
Practical tips:
- For independent trips, it’s best to buy ferry tickets online 2–3 weeks in advance.
- For tours, I recommend booking at the start of your holiday to avoid cancellations due to weather. The best time to visit is May, September, or October.
My personal preference: if you only have one day — a small-group tour. If you have 2–3 days — an independent trip. Santorini deserves more time than a standard tour allows! Below is my list of the best one-day tours:
- Visiting the famous island of Santorini with return transport — 170 euro for an adult and 85 euro for a child. Duration: 11–14 hours.
- A one-day speedboat trip from Crete to Santorini, exploring the most famous Greek island with over 4,500 years of history. Price: 160 euro for an adult and 80 euro for a child (under 18).
- A full-day bus tour from Chania to the island of Santorini — 240 euro for an adult and 140 euro for a child (ages 3–10; children under 3 travel free).
- A guided one-day ferry trip from Crete to Santorini — 168 euro for an adult and 89 euro for a child (ages 3–10).
- And finally, a one-day Heraklion–Santorini cruise, offering a romantic view of the famous Santorini caldera. Price: 230 euro for an adult and 115 euro for a child under 12.
Mini-cruises to the island of Dia
Several types of tours to the island of Dia are available, each with its own features.
One of the most popular options is the basic tour to the island of Dia, lasting 4–5 hours. This is a great way to discover the beauty of the island without being overwhelmed. Light snacks and drinks are served on board, making this tour ideal for families with children. The price is approximately 35–45 euro for adults and 20–25 euro for children.
If you want to spend more time at sea, I recommend choosing a full-day tour, lasting 7–8 hours. I can say from experience that this is the option to see as much as possible without having to organize anything yourself. During the day we visited several bays around Dia, and the price often includes a seafood lunch. This option costs 65–80 euro for adults and 35–45 euro for children.
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, a VIP yacht cruise is the perfect choice. This is approximately 6–7 hours of exclusive relaxation at the island of Dia with a small group of up to 10–12 people. On board, guests will have a personal guide, premium catering, and even the option to fish. The price for this experience is 120–150 euro per person.
And now for my personal favorite — a sunset cruise to Dia, lasting 3–6 hours. This is an evening outing with wine and a light dinner accompanied by live music. The price is 50–80 euro for adults and 30–35 euro for children.
Regardless of which option you choose, organizers take care of safety and comfort. All trips include insurance, a professional crew, life jackets, and basic swimming equipment.
Panoramic photos of the island of Dia taken during our cruise
Prices may vary depending on the season and the specific operator. I recommend booking in advance, especially if traveling in July or August during the peak tourist season on Crete. It’s also important to check the cancellation and refund policy. Here are a few good tours to Dia in various formats:
- A sailing yacht trip from Heraklion to the island of Dia, including a 3-course menu with drinks and water sports equipment (snorkeling and SUP boards). Price: 90 euro (79 euro in the off-season). Duration: 6 hours.
- A catamaran cruise to the island of Dia with a sunset and a swim in the Mediterranean Sea — just 125 euro for an adult and 70 euro for a child (under 11). Guests can expect snacks, dinner, unlimited drinks, a special children’s menu, and a variety of water activities from snorkeling to fishing.
- A sunset cruise with snorkeling — 80 euro per person, duration 6 hours.
- Or alternatively, a morning sailing trip with diving at the island of Dia — also 80 euro, duration 6 hours.
- A family catamaran cruise with various sea activities — 125 euro for an adult and 70 euro for a child (under 12).
Our take: is it worth booking a tour to the island of Dia from Crete, or is it better to go independently by ferry?
There is no regular passenger ferry service to the island of Dia, as the island is a nature reserve. The only way to get there is via organized tours or a private boat.
So the choice will be from the tours I’ve recommended above. For a first visit to the island, the best option is a full-day tour — it offers the most complete experience of Dia’s beauty. I wouldn’t recommend the basic tour at 35–45 euro: I once had the chance to take one, and it’s simply too short to fully appreciate the beauty of the island. In July and August, the evening cruise is more comfortable — less heat, more atmosphere.
If time is limited or a more budget-friendly trip is needed, it’s better to consider alternatives — for example, visiting Spinalonga or Chrysi, both of which have regular ferry services. Tickets start from 15–20 euro one way, and you can plan the day entirely at your own pace.
If you only have 4–5 hours, it’s better to relax on a Cretan beach, as the journey itself takes up a significant portion of the time.
Tours to the island of Spinalonga
The island of Spinalonga is a place that captivates with its historical charm and incredible natural beauty. There are several ways to get there, and here’s what I recommend from personal experience.
A classic guided tour, lasting 6–7 hours, is a wonderful option for those who want to immerse themselves in the history of this legendary island. For a price of 25–55 euro, the tour includes transfer, a boat trip, a guide, and swimming time in Mirabello Bay. This is the ideal choice for a first visit to Spinalonga.
There is also the option of a speedboat from Plaka for those who prefer flexible planning. For 10–12 euro and a 7–10 minute journey, you can reach the island, but you’ll be exploring the fortress independently. The entrance ticket costs an additional 8 euro. I personally liked this format because of the freedom to choose a convenient departure time.
For something truly special, a VIP yacht tour offers a luxurious adventure. For 75–150 euro per person, guests receive a personal guide, premium catering, and swimming in secluded bays. This is an unforgettable experience for groups or families.
For those who want to combine a visit to Spinalonga with a stroll around the town, there is a combined tour with Agios Nikolaos for 65–75 euro for adults and 35–40 euro for children. It’s an opportunity not only to see the island but also to enjoy lunch at a traditional taverna and go for a swim.
I recommend planning your trip between April and October, when the weather is ideal for sea adventures. In July and August it’s best to book in advance due to high demand. Also note the additional costs: drinks on board (except on VIP tours) and a tip for the guide (optional).
The ancient streets of the island of Spinalonga take you back in time
Here are the most comfortable and best-value tours I’ve selected:
- A one-day trip to Agios Nikolaos and the island of Spinalonga, exploring the northeastern part of Crete — 37.80 euro for an adult and 18.90 euro for a child (discounts apply until November 2025).
- A one-day bus tour to Agios Nikolaos, the fishing village of Plaka, and the former leper colony on the island of Spinalonga — 33 euro for an adult and 16.50 euro for a child.
- A cruise tour to the historic island of Spinalonga, where the histories of Turkey, the Saracens, the Venetians, and the Greeks all converge. Price: 25 euro, duration 6–10 hours. Guests can expect a guided tour, lunch, swimming, and shopping time.
Our take: when to book a tour to the island of Spinalonga, and when to go independently by ferry
For a first visit to the island, I wholeheartedly recommend a traditional guided tour. I still remember my own first visit — without a professional guide, I would never have fully grasped the depth of history this place holds. For those visiting Spinalonga for the first time and wanting to understand its full significance, the classic guided tour is the way to go. It includes transfer, expert accompaniment, and the entrance ticket. Without any organizational stress, you’ll learn a great deal about life in the old leper colony. This is the most convenient option for those not staying near Elounda or Plaka, which are the most straightforward departure points for the island.
Those staying nearby can get there independently. The boat from Plaka costs 10–12 euro, and the entrance ticket is 8 euro, bringing the total to around 20 euro — nearly half the price of a tour.
This option suits those who prefer to travel without a group, want to spend more time on the island, or have visited before. Boats run every 30 minutes from 9:00 to 17:00 in season (less frequently out of season — it’s worth checking the schedule on arrival).
As for the VIP tour — I don’t see the value in it. Spinalonga is compact, and a standard tour gives you plenty of time to see everything. The on-board catering doesn’t justify the high price.
To see more in a single day, a combined tour is worth considering. It includes not only Spinalonga but also Agios Nikolaos — a charming town with Lake Voulismeni. This is a great choice if your time in eastern Crete is limited and you want to pack the day with vivid experiences.
The best places in Crete for snorkeling and scuba diving
When exploring the underwater world of Crete, travelers have two wonderful options: snorkeling or diving. The choice depends on personal preference, experience, and how deep into the underwater world you want to venture. Let’s look at the best locations for each activity.
Best spots for snorkeling:
- Bali Bay (northern coast). One of the most scenic bays in Crete. A gradual entry into the water and a natural breakwater provide shelter from strong waves. The underwater world here is exceptionally diverse: colorful fish swim right at your feet, and water visibility reaches 20–25 meters.
- Elounda Bay. A paradise for snorkelers, especially beginners. Sheltered from the winds by the island of Spinalonga, the bay has calm, still water. The underwater landscape impresses with a mosaic of sandy patches and rocky reefs. Flatfish camouflaged in the sand are a common sight.
- Agia Pelagia beach. A compact horseshoe-shaped bay that creates ideal conditions for snorkeling. The main attraction is a system of small underwater caves along the eastern shoreline. Octopuses and moray eels are frequently encountered here. Water visibility reaches 15 meters.
Best spots for diving:
- The island of Dia. A legendary spot for experienced divers. The island is surrounded by vertical underwater walls that drop to depths of 40 meters. There are rich coral gardens and impressive sea fans. Barracuda and tuna are often spotted here.
- The Hersonissos area. An open-air underwater museum. Ancient amphorae are scattered across the seabed — testament to ancient maritime trade. Depths range from 15 to 30 meters. The caves near Malia are famous for their colonies of red coral.
- The Chania area. A must for military history enthusiasts: a sunken German WWII bomber lies here at a depth of 23 meters and has become home to a wide variety of sea creatures. Visibility often exceeds 30 meters.
- The Plakias area (south). The southern coast of Crete is known for its underwater canyons. The canyon walls are dotted with caves inhabited by octopuses and moray eels. Depths reach 35 meters, making this site suitable for experienced divers.
- Matala Bay. Known for its underwater caves, with remnants of ceramic vessels visible at depths of 10–25 meters. Moderate depths and the absence of currents make it ideal for beginners.
From personal experience, I can say that the best time for snorkeling is early morning, when the water is calmest and visibility is at its best. Special footwear is essential for protection against sea urchins. Diving is best undertaken with licensed centers that provide quality equipment and professional guidance.
Overview of prices for different types of diving tours at various locations in Crete
Snorkeling tour prices. Ideal for those who want to enjoy the underwater scenery without complex equipment. For example, in Bali Bay you can join a 4–5 hour tour for 35–45 euro, which includes transfer, equipment, and a briefing. If you’d like to document your adventure, a GoPro can be rented for an additional 15 euro.
In Elounda Bay, a combo tour including a visit to Spinalonga is available for 25 euro (duration 6–7 hours).
In Agia Pelagia, a three-hour morning tour is available for 35–40 euro, or a full-day program including lunch and drinks for 55–65 euro.
Diving tour prices. For those seeking a deeper experience, diving is a wonderful choice.
- Near the island of Dia, a single dive costs 80–90 euro, or two dives for 120–140 euro. Tour duration is 5–6 hours and includes equipment, a briefing, and lunch.
- Hersonissos offers a trial dive for 65–75 euro, or two dives for certified divers for 110–130 euro (duration: 4–5 hours).
- In the Chania area, you can dive to the WWII aircraft for 90–100 euro, or opt for a double dive lasting 6–7 hours for 140–160 euro.
- In Plakias, a single dive costs 85–95 euro and two dives 130–150 euro over 5–6 hours.
- Matala offers trial dives for 60–70 euro and cave diving for 90–100 euro (4–5 hours).
For those planning to dive more seriously, PADI certification courses are available in Crete. The PADI Open Water beginner course costs 380–450 euro and takes 3–4 days. The Advanced course costs 280–350 euro and lasts 2–3 days.
And as always, here is my curated list of selected tours for divers:
- A beginner diving lesson with a PADI instructor and full equipment in Agia Pelagia Bay, departing from Heraklion. Price: 75 euro, duration: 2.5 hours.
- Another diving option from Heraklion for just 70 euro per person. Duration: 6 hours. Available from age 9.
- For those who love unique experiences — a chance to feel like a mermaid while swimming underwater in a mermaid costume, with a professional guide. Price: 70 euro, duration: 3 hours.
- The Kourtaliotiko Gorge: a perfect journey for divers. A long scenic underwater route, a waterfall, and great photos — all guaranteed. Price: 79 euro, duration: 4 hours.
- A private introductory diving tour in Chania for 115 euro. A group of up to 4 people learns the basics of diving and makes their first attempts over 4 hours.
- Discovering the magical underwater world of the Aegean Sea during an amazing beginner dive, departing from Chania. Price: 110 euro, duration: 3 hours.
Additional services:
- Equipment rental: a basic snorkeling set costs 10–15 euro per day, and a full diving kit costs 40–50 euro per day.
- Underwater photography: 20–30 euro.
- Personal instructor: 50–70 euro.
- Video recording of the dive: 35–45 euro.
Groups of six or more typically receive a 10% discount.