From Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of exploring Crete’s most iconic beaches and islands from the water, this sailing cruise from Kissamos offers a fantastic way to do it. Designed for travelers craving both relaxation and active exploration, the experience combines stunning scenery, authentic local food, and the thrill of sailing—whether you opt for a small group or a private boat.

What we love about this tour is how it balances comfort with adventure. You’ll get to sail along the coast with expert skippers, enjoy a delicious homemade lunch cooked on board, and have ample time to swim or hike on two of Crete’s most famous spots: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. A potential drawback? The trip depends heavily on weather conditions, so if a storm roll in, your plans might shift or get postponed.

This experience is perfect for active couples, families, or anyone eager to see Crete’s natural beauty from a different perspective. If you love being on the water, savoring good food, and avoiding crowds, this cruise could be your favorite day on the island.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience: Whether shared or private, you’ll enjoy sailing with a knowledgeable skipper helping you learn and relax.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the Cretan coast, crystal-clear waters, and scenic islands.
• Flexible exploration: Time for swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and taking photos without feeling rushed.
• Authentic local cuisine: A freshly cooked traditional Cretan lunch served onboard, with options for different diets.
• Crowd avoidance: The boat’s timing and stops help you escape the crowds often found on larger ferry-based tours.
• High customer satisfaction: With a 4.9 rating from 177 reviews, travelers consistently praise the professionalism, friendliness, and value of this experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Journey: A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting at Kissamos port, the tour typically lasts around 8 hours, making it a full but relaxed day out. The exact starting time varies depending on your chosen option, so it’s wise to check availability. The tour is offered as a shared group or private experience, catering to different comfort levels and budgets.

The Sailboat and Crew

The vessel, often described as elegant and well-maintained, offers a smooth, enjoyable ride. It features air-conditioned cabins with double beds, a shaded deck for lounging, snorkeling gear, and bathroom facilities. Reviews mention the crew—skippers and staff—are highly skilled and attentive, which adds a layer of safety and comfort on the water. As one reviewer put it, “The captain was a skilled sailor and the crew cooked a fabulous lunch.”

The First Leg: From Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island

The cruise begins with a gentle sail along the coast, allowing you to admire the rugged Cretan shoreline and learn a bit about sailing from your skipper. During this part, you’ll enjoy soft drinks, beer, and fresh fruit, which set the tone for a laid-back day. The journey itself offers spectacular views of the coastline and a chance to practice sailing if you’re interested.

Stop 1: Balos Lagoon

Arriving at Balos Lagoon, travelers often remark on its unbelievable turquoise waters and pristine beaches. Some reviews note that the boat stops at quieter times to avoid the crowds, which lets you enjoy the expansive beauty of the bay peacefully. You’re free to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the sandy shores—something you’ll likely appreciate after battling busy ferry lines or crowded beaches.

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Stop 2: Gramvousa Island

Next, the boat disembarks at Gramvousa Island. Here, you can hike up to the impressive castle built to enjoy sweeping views of the horizon. The fortress, dating back to the pirate era, offers a rugged charm and plenty of photo opportunities. After the climb, many take advantage of the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, discovering the vibrant marine life below the surface.

Lunch on Board

Around noon, the crew serves a traditional Cretan lunch. Multiple reviews highlight the delicious, freshly prepared meals, often cooked onboard. The menu is typically served in a shaded area on deck, allowing you to enjoy stunning sea views while feasting on local flavors. If you have specific dietary needs, the crew is praised for accommodating requests—vegetarian options are often available. When it’s hot, some guests prefer to retreat to the air-conditioned cabins for a break.

The Final Stretch: Returning to Kissamos

After a relaxing afternoon exploring, swimming, and eating, the cruise heads back. Reviews rave about the smooth sailing and the chance to savor a final drink while soaking in the last views of the coast. The entire trip emphasizes a balance of activity and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to capture photos or just unwind as the boat gently rocks you back toward port.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this experience apart from other island excursions is the personalized service and the chance to avoid the crowds. The small group or private options mean you don’t feel like just another face in a herd. The timing of stops at Balos and Gramvousa is designed to beat the crowds, a major plus especially during the high season when these spots can get overly busy with larger ferry tours.

Authentic Experience

Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew, mentioning how attentive and friendly they are. The onboard lunch, cooked by the crew, is frequently praised as a highlight—fresh, flavorful, and authentically Greek. The opportunity to sail, snorkel, hike, and dine onboard creates a well-rounded, immersive experience.

Value for Money

While some travelers note the tour isn’t cheap, many agree that the quality of the experience and the personalized service justify the price. The fact that the boat is equipped with comfortable cabins, snorkeling gear, and a delicious onboard meal makes it a strong value for those wanting a full day of exploration without the hassle of renting a boat or organizing separate activities.

Limitations

Weather dependency is a real consideration. If a storm or high winds roll in, the trip could be rescheduled or refunded, so it’s wise to have flexible plans or be prepared for possible changes. Also, those with mobility impairments might find the hike up to Gramvousa’s castle challenging, so keep that in mind.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for sailing enthusiasts and those looking for a more intimate, less crowded way to see Crete’s top spots. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate good food and scenic landscapes. If you enjoy active pursuits like swimming and hiking, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a highly structured, all-inclusive package might find the flexible, sometimes spontaneous nature of sailing less suitable.

FAQs

What is the tour duration?
The cruise lasts approximately 8 hours, with the exact start time depending on your booking details. Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each location.

Are the stops at Balos and Gramvousa crowded?
The tour aims to avoid the busiest times, allowing you to enjoy the beaches and castle without the large crowds typical of ferry tours. It’s a smart way to experience these sites more peacefully.

Is lunch included, and what’s on the menu?
Yes, a traditional Cretan lunch is served onboard. Reviewers praise it as fresh and delicious, with options to accommodate dietary needs. The meal is cooked onboard, adding an authentic touch.

Can I snorkel and swim?
Absolutely. The waters are described as crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Snorkeling gear is included, and many guests find the marine life below the surface fascinating.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s generally best suited for those who can handle some walking, especially when hiking to the castle on Gramvousa. The tour isn’t designed for people with mobility impairments, given the uneven terrain and boat boarding.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your passport or ID, sun protection, and a towel. While the boat provides towels and amenities like shampoo and hot water, packing sunscreen and a hat can help keep you comfortable during the day.

Final Thoughts

This sailing cruise from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to experience Crete from a different angle, combining the romance of sailing with the thrill of exploring iconic beaches and castles. The small group size, authentic onboard lunch, and timed stops to beat the crowds all contribute to a memorable day.

If you’re looking for a relaxing yet active day on the water, with the opportunity to snorkel, hike, and feast on traditional Greek food, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value personalized service, authentic experiences, and want to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing their own boat.

The Sum Up

This sailing cruise from Kissamos offers a wonderfully balanced combination of adventure and leisure. The chance to sail along Crete’s coast, swim in crystal waters, and hike to a historic castle makes it a well-rounded day out. The delicious onboard lunch, friendly crew, and small-group intimacy elevate it from a typical tour to a memorable experience.

For those eager to see Crete’s highlights from the sea, and enjoy some excellent local cuisine along the way, this trip provides great value and authentic charm. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who want a taste of Crete’s natural and cultural treasures, all in a relaxed, scenic setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: