Day Trip to Koufonisi Island
Koufonisi Island
Sailing on a Pirate Ship
Evdokia, our pirate ship, shall depart from the small, wind-protected port of Makrys Gialos in Ierapetra to Koufonisi island.
The ship is 26 meters long and has a capacity of 250 passengers. With soft music playing in the background, we will be sailing in the turquoise blue waters of the Libyan Sea, and the ship will anchor off the coast, giving you the chance to swim in the crystal clear waters. On the ship’s open decks, your children will enjoy our special animation program, and will have the chance to experience a magical pirate adventure, by participating in various games, such as a treasure hunt, water gun fights, face painting, and many more.
Koufonisis Island
The island of Koufonisi is a Wildlife Refuge. Koufonisi island is a habitat of stunning natural beauty, included in the European initiative NATURA 2000. Koufonisi has 36 stunning beaches, with fine white sand, and emerald waters. Some of them, such as Asproulos, Hiliaderfia, Faros and Anemertia next to the Roman theater, could easily be among the best in Europe. Many years ago, a British yacht anchored in Hiliaderfia for a week, with Prince Charles and Princess Diana onboard.
Koufonisis History
The current name “Koufonisi” is related to the many pits and caves shaped by the sea and the rain in the soft rocks. As excavations revealed, the island flourished the Roman times. Excavations during the last century brought astonishing findings to light. Among others, a stone theatre, the southernmost ancient theatre in Europe with a capacity of 1,000 seats and an important settlement which was looted and destroyed during ancient times. A large villa with eight well maintained rooms was also discovered, as well as another house in the settlement with 16 rooms. The most important finding, however, is the Roman the public bathhouse, which was in use from the 1st to the 4th century AD and was luxuriously decorated.
The cruise
Our boat departs daily from May to September. Departure at 11.10 and return at 17.15.
If you prefer a transfer from Ierapetra the trip begins by driving along the South-East part of Crete by bus. You will have a wonderful view of the South Cretan Sea and the opportunity for wonderful pictures!
From Makrigialos harbour we will take the pirate ship and sail to the beautiful Koufonisi. Your children experience a wonderful pirate adventure by participating in various games. Admire the enchanting caves on the coastline before you enjoy the beautiful white sandy beach and refresh yourself in the crystal blue clear sea. The island of Koufonisi is unique, protected by NATURA 2000 and considered as wildlife refuge. The beach is amazing and there will be enough time to swim and enjoy the sun. An eventful day you will never forget on this beautiful island.
What you need to know
- There are no roads on the island, but neither are shops (restaurants, canteens, etc.). The ship’s self-service restaurant-bar is open throughout the cruise, so you can enjoy a delicious meal, salad, wine, snacks, coffee, soft drinks, ice creams, ice creams, etc. on board or take your meal in a package for your stay on the island.
- You may rent a beach umbrella from the bar, at a daily fee of 4€.
- You may use your credit card for purchases onboard the ship.
- A hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are essential under high temperatures, especially during the summer months.
- There is a free parking area at the port of Makrys Gialos.
