Crete: Balos Cruise late and direct

An Honest Look at the Crete Balos Cruise: Late and Direct

If you’re dreaming of visiting the famous Balos Lagoon on Crete but prefer a later start than the early-morning rush, the Crete: Balos Cruise late and direct might just suit your style. This tour promises a relaxed approach to one of Greece’s most iconic beaches, with a focus on comfort, scenery, and authentic marine sights. While it’s not a quick jaunt—expect an 11 to 13-hour day—you’ll enjoy the opportunity to soak up the beauty without the early alarm.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this cruise are the scenic coastal views during the boat ride and the well-organized guided experience at the lagoon. The fact that you have nearly three hours on Balos to swim, snorkel, and explore makes it a substantial visit. However, a possible downside is the limited time on land—just under three hours—which some travelers might find too short to truly unwind and enjoy the setting. This tour best suits travelers who want a leisurely day with less early-morning fuss, especially those traveling with family or looking for a more relaxed pace.

If you’re someone who appreciates fantastic scenery, expert guides, and the chance to snorkel in pristine waters, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s also ideal for those who prefer the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a stress-free way to explore the western coast of Crete’s highlights.

Key Points

• Relaxed schedule: Starts later in the day, avoiding early mornings.
• Scenic boat ride: Approx. 50 minutes along beautiful coastline, with chances to spot sea turtles and dolphins.
• Authentic experience: Guided tour with local experts providing insight into the area.
• Good value: At $70, including transportation and boat tickets, it offers a comprehensive package.
• Limited land time: About 2 hours 45 minutes at Balos might be tight for some.
• Accessibility considerations: Not suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A thorough look at what this tour offers

Starting with the logistics — this tour covers a lot of ground, beginning with pickup from one of 17 locations around Crete. From Agia Pelagia to Heraklion, the wide range ensures most travelers can access pickup points close to their accommodations. The modern, air-conditioned coach makes the long drive comfortable, but it’s worth noting that Crete’s lack of highways and the island’s narrow roads mean that travel times, especially during peak hours, can be longer than expected. As one review pointed out, “the coach must adhere to regulation speeds, further contributing to the duration of journeys,” so patience is key.

The itinerary is designed for a relaxed experience. After the 1.5-hour drive, you’ll stop briefly in Skaleta for a 20-minute refreshment break—an excellent chance to grab a coffee or snack before heading further west. Once in Kissamos, you’ll board a boat for a 50-minute cruise along the coast, where the scenery alone is worth the trip. Expect vibrant coastal colors, and keep your camera ready for the possibility of spotting sea turtles and dolphins, as mentioned by the tour provider.

The highlight is the time at Balos Lagoon, where you’ll have around 2 hours 45 minutes to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the sand. This is a significant advantage over earlier tours, which often cram too much into a shorter window. The calm, clear waters of Balos are perfect for swimming, and the marine life viewing promises some fun surprises if you’re into snorkeling.

Authentic marine sights and geology are part of the experience. The boat’s route takes you past a large cave that’s likely an old shipyard, adding an element of history and intrigue to the voyage. The guides are knowledgeable, providing insights into the area’s geology and marine life, which enhances the trip beyond just a beach day.

The return journey involves another boat cruise of 50 minutes, followed by a 1.5-hour coach ride back to the starting points. Two short breaks in Skaleta during the return trip help stretch your legs and grab a quick snack or bathroom break, which many travelers find helpful.

How the experience stacks up

One review succinctly sums up a common sentiment: “The excursion went well, beautiful place. But between the time to get off and get back on the boat, we only stayed 2 hours on the island, which is short enough to really enjoy the place.” While this is a fair point—Balos is stunning and deserves ample time—others appreciate the balance between travel and leisure. The tour’s later start allows for a more relaxed morning, especially valuable if you prefer to sleep in or have a leisurely breakfast.

The guides receive praise for their knowledge, making the journey educational as well as scenic. Knowing about the geological formations or marine life adds depth to what could otherwise be just a pretty beach trip. The boat trip itself, with potential sightings of sea turtles and dolphins, offers a chance to see Crete’s marine ecosystem up close, a delightful touch.

The price point of $70 per person is reasonable considering it covers transportation, boat tickets, and guided commentary. It’s a good value when you factor in the convenience of hotel pickup and the multi-part journey. Snacks and drinks are not included, so packing some water and a picnic might be wise, particularly if you want to avoid extra costs during the day.

Transport and logistics

Traveling on Crete’s narrow roads can mean longer transit times, but the modern, air-conditioned coach makes this as comfortable as possible. The tour explicitly states that pickup is available from many key locations, simplifying logistics. The long duration means it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a full day out—be prepared for a 11 to 13-hour trip, including driving, cruising, and relaxing at Balos.

The schedule is designed for a laid-back experience, starting with pickup around late morning and returning late in the evening. The flexible timing allows you to enjoy each part of the trip without feeling rushed. Be aware that the tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to the nature of the terrain and transportation.

The experience review: authentic and scenic

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic cruising and the time allocated at Balos. The boat ride along the coast offers stunning views of Crete’s rugged shoreline, vibrant waters, and possibly some marine life. The guides’ insights add educational value that enriches the experience, and the chance to snorkel in the calm lagoon waters makes it more than a simple beach visit.

However, the review from Charlotte highlights a common concern: the relatively short stay at Balos, which might limit how much you can really enjoy the beach. For some, two hours and 45 minutes might be enough for a swim and some relaxation, but if you’re hoping for a full day of sunbathing or exploring, this could feel rushed.

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Final thoughts

This cruise offers a relaxed, scenic day out on Crete with a knowledgeable guide, a comfortable coach, and a well-organized itinerary. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who prefer avoiding early mornings and want a balanced mix of sightseeing, marine wildlife viewing, and beach relaxation.

The value for money is solid, especially considering the included transport and boat cruise, but keep in mind the limited time at Balos if you’re a beach lover. The experience is best suited for those seeking a comfortable, scenic adventure rather than a full-day exploration of every nook of the beach.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to visit Balos, enjoy some marine wildlife, and appreciate expert commentary, this tour will not disappoint. Just be prepared for a long day, and consider packing a few snacks to maximize your time in the lagoon.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children can handle a full day of travel and outdoor activity, they’ll enjoy the boat ride and swimming at Balos. However, very young children or those with mobility issues might find parts of the trip challenging.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off from many key locations, transfers by air-conditioned coach, boat tickets, a live guide (English and Russian), liability insurance, and nearly three hours at Balos Lagoon for swimming and relaxing.

Are snacks and drinks included?
No, snacks and drinks are not included, so bringing some cash or packed snacks is recommended.

How long is the total tour?
Expect a total duration of 11 to 13 hours, depending on traffic and pickup times.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
No, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to terrain and transportation limitations.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, sunhat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extra snacks or souvenirs.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
While not explicitly stated, bringing your own snorkel equipment could enhance your marine viewing experience.

Will I see marine life during the cruise?
There’s a good chance to see sea turtles and dolphins, as the tour highlights this possibility along the coast.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, the general warm weather from late spring to early fall is ideal for swimming and enjoying the beaches.

Are there alternative tours if I want a shorter or different experience?
Yes, there are other trips focusing on nearby islands like Gramvousa or Chania old town, but this particular tour emphasizes comfort and a later start.

In the end, the Crete: Balos Cruise late and direct offers a laid-back, scenic, and well-guided way to experience one of Greece’s most stunning beaches without the early-morning rush. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking comfort, natural beauty, and a taste of Crete’s marine life.

You can check availability for your dates here: