Balos Beach and Gramvousa island shared group Sailing Cruise

Are you dreaming of a day spent sailing along Crete’s breathtaking coast, exploring pristine beaches, and discovering ancient castles? This Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island shared group sailing cruise offers just that, whisking you away from the busy land-based tours and onto the calm waters of the Aegean.

What we love about this trip is how it combines relaxation with adventure. The chance to sail with the wind—feeling that wonderful sense of freedom—is a highlight. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the privacy of your boat around less crowded spots, away from jostling crowds, makes this experience truly appealing.

That said, a potential consideration is the group size—with a maximum of 8 travelers, it’s intimate, but those seeking a more social atmosphere might find it too quiet. Still, for those craving a personalized touch, this setup works beautifully.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty, combine water activities with historical exploration, and indulge in authentic Cretan cuisine, all in a well-organized, scenic day.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Setting: Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic Experience: Traditional onboard Cretan lunch provides local flavors.
• Flexible Swimming and Snorkeling: Enjoy privacy and less crowded spots for swimming.
• Beautiful Itinerary: Combines sailing, historical sites, and stunning beaches.
• Excellent Value: All-day adventure with multiple stops for a reasonable price.
• Weather Dependent: Good weather is essential; cancellations are possible but flexible.

Overview of the Experience

This shared group sailing cruise departs from Kissamos Port at around 11:00 am, offering a full approximately 8-hour day of exploration, relaxation, and culture. The company, Falasarna Sailing, keeps the experience intimate with a maximum of 8 travelers, making it suitable for those who prefer a more personalized adventure rather than a crowded tour.

The journey on Boat STELLA is about feeling the wind in your hair, with the added bonus of understanding that you’re part of a small, friendly group. From the moment you set sail, you’ll appreciate the laid-back vibe and the chance to witness some of Crete’s most iconic sights from the water.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Kissamos Departure

Your adventure begins at Kissamos Port, where the crew sets up the sails. If the wind is favorable—and it often is—you’ll get to feel the thrill of sailing under wind power, which adds an authentic touch to the experience. As the boat glides across the water, you’ll see the peninsula of Gramvousa, with its caves and dramatic steep cliffs, making a stunning introduction to the coastline.

This part of the trip is about enjoying the freedom of sailing and soaking up the scenery. The crew will likely share stories about the area, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Stop 2: Gramvousa Island and Snorkeling

After about an hour and a half, you arrive at Gramvousa Island. Here, you’ll anchor and have plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling around the boat—perfect for escaping the crowds that flock to the more popular beaches. The waters are clear, and the environment feels private and peaceful.

Many reviews highlight how enjoyable this stop is. One traveler noted, “During our stay at Gramvousa Island, we had time to snorkel and swim, which was fantastic,” emphasizing the value of having space to enjoy the water without the crowds.

Stop 3: Gramvousa Fortress and Historical Exploration

Next, visitors can hike up to the Castle of Gramvousa, perched on a steep rock overlooking the sea. Originally built by the Venetians and later finished by Arabians, this fortress is a living piece of history. Climbing up offers spectacular panoramic views and a tangible sense of history.

This stop is about appreciating Crete’s past and enjoying the breathtaking scenery. One review mentions that the fortress was an enjoyable highlight, with the added interest of learning about the island’s role in the Cretan revolution of 1825.

Stop 4: Balos Lagoon – A Beach Like No Other

The highlight for many is the Balos Lagoon, often voted among the world’s top beaches. The lagoon’s pink sandy shores and shallow, turquoise waters create a postcard scene. The environment seems untouched, offering a perfect spot to walk along the water’s edge and relax.

You’ll spend about two hours here, so you can take your time to wade into the shallows, enjoy the scenery, or take photos of this iconic location. Travelers have described it as “beautiful and peaceful,” making it clear why it’s a favorite among visitors.

Stop 5: Return to Kissamos

On the way back, the boat skirts the steep cliffs on the west side of Gramvousa Peninsula, offering more incredible views of the dramatic coastline. The return journey takes around an hour and a half, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day at sea.

What to Expect on Board

The boat is well-equipped with protected outside seating areas, thanks to tents and spray hoods, ensuring you can enjoy the scenery without getting soaked or sunburned. For those wanting to freshen up or change clothes, inside cabins are available.

The onboard lunch is a major highlight—prepared freshly on the boat, it features traditional Cretan flavors. This traditional meal allows you to connect with the local culture through simple yet delicious cuisine.

The crew can guide you through swimming and snorkeling, helping ensure everyone’s safety while maximizing fun in the water.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $226.81 per person, this cruise offers a comprehensive, full-day experience that hits all the highlights. Compared to transportation, entry fees, and meal costs if you were to visit these sites independently, the price is quite reasonable.

You’re paying not just for the locations but for the expert guidance, small group intimacy, and the convenience of having all logistics handled. Plus, the chance to sail with the wind and enjoy the nautical feel adds a layer of authenticity that land-based tours can’t match.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to combine sailing, swimming, and sightseeing in one day. It suits those who prefer a smaller, more intimate tour and appreciate authentic local cuisine.

If you’re interested in history, the visit to Gramvousa Fortress offers a tangible sense of Crete’s past. For nature lovers and beach bums, the stops at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island deliver stunning scenery and peaceful water spots.

However, if you have mobility issues, the steep hikes up to the fortress might be challenging. Also, since weather influences the trip, those with tight schedules should be flexible with potential cancellations or rescheduling.

Final Thoughts

This Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island sailing cruise delivers a solid blend of natural beauty, history, and relaxed sailing. The small group setting ensures a more personal experience, and the itinerary covers everything from ancient castles to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

The onboard lunch, the opportunity to swim in private spots, and the chance to sail with the wind make it a memorable day out. While weather can affect plans, the crew’s flexibility and the overall value make this a worthwhile choice for those looking to see some of Crete’s best highlights from a unique perspective.

If you’re after a day that balances adventure, cultural insight, and pure relaxation, this cruise stands out as an excellent option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
It begins around 11:00 am from Kissamos Port, giving you a full day to enjoy Crete’s coastline.

How long does the entire trip last?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, including sailing, swimming, exploring, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat trip, traditional onboard Cretan lunch, and the use of facilities like inside cabins and outdoor seating.

How many people will be on the boat?
Up to 8 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate experience with personalized attention.

Is there time for swimming and snorkeling?
Yes, at Gramvousa Island and around the boat, with specific time allocated for these activities, often highlighted as a favorite part of the day.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a towel. You can change clothes in the inside cabins if needed.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find the steep hike to the fortress challenging.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

How do I book this tour?
It’s best to book early, as it’s popular—on average, travelers book about 74 days in advance.