From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

A Complete Guide to the Kissamos Port Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

Picture this: a full day spent sailing along Crete’s rugged coastline, stopping at two of the island’s most captivating sights—Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. This cruise, offered by Cretan Daily Cruises from Kissamos Port, promises a relaxing escape into some of Greece’s most iconic landscapes. We’ve gathered the scoop on what you can expect, from scenic views to historical ruins, and what might be worth planning for in advance.

What really makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning scenery—think steep cliffs, turquoise waters, and a famous shipwreck. Second, the authentic experience—visiting a Venetian castle and a Greek Orthodox church, plus a chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. But, like all good things, there are a few considerations, like the need for sturdy water shoes and some patience with the boat’s disembarkation process.

This cruise suits travelers who love a combination of scenic beauty, light adventure, and cultural touches—it’s especially appealing for those wanting a stress-free way to see Crete’s highlights without renting a car. If you’re eager to relax on picturesque beaches, explore a historic castle, and enjoy an organized day out on the water, this tour could be perfect. Just keep in mind, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and you’ll want to be comfortable with a bit of swimming or hiking.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing past steep cliffs, caves, and the famous shipwreck at Gramvousa.
• Two iconic stops—Balos Lagoon, renowned as one of the world’s best beaches, and Gramvousa Island with its Venetian castle.
• A well-organized itinerary offering plenty of time for swimming, exploring, and taking photos.
• Includes the essentials, such as round-trip transportation, crew, and optional food/drinks, providing good value.
• Authentic experiences like visiting a Greek Orthodox church and climbing up to the Venetian fortress.
• What to pack: comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat, since you’ll be outdoors most of the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Starting from Kissamos Port

Your adventure begins at the easily accessible Kissamos Port, where the boat departs around an hour into the bay. The port has ample free parking—no need to stress over parking fees or space. Before boarding, you’ll receive your boarding pass via email, and it’s wise to arrive at least 40 minutes early to avoid any last-minute rush. The crew is friendly, and the process is smooth, setting the tone for a hassle-free day.

Sailing Along the Crete Coast

Once on board, expect a comfortable boat ride of about an hour, during which you’ll start soaking in the dramatic scenery. The route might vary slightly—sometimes heading to Gramvousa first, other times to Balos—depending on the day’s itinerary. As you cruise past steep cliffs, secluded beaches, and dramatic rock formations, keep your camera handy.

One of the highlights during this sailing stretch is the chance to see a large cave, believed to be an ancient shipyard, which adds a dash of mystery to the scenery. The boat navigates between Crete’s rugged coastline and scenic islets, giving you a taste of the island’s natural grandeur.

Gramvousa Island: History and Views

Approaching Gramvousa, you’ll appreciate the island’s remote charm. The island features a Greek Orthodox church, perfect for a quick visit and a chance to snap some photos. The star of this stop is the Venetian castle, perched atop a steep rock, offering sweeping views of Balos Lagoon.

Many reviewers love this part of the trip. One said, “The hike to the castle took about 15 minutes, but the views are worth every step,” and another mentioned the shipwreck on the beach—a lonely, haunting reminder of the past—and a perfect photo opportunity. Expect about two hours here, giving enough time for exploring, swimming near the church, and climbing the fortress.

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Balos Lagoon: The Showstopper

After Gramvousa, the boat heads to Balos Lagoon, often called one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. This stretch of vivid emerald waters and soft sands is truly as stunning as travel photos suggest. It’s a place where words fall short, and most visitors simply hold their breath when they see it in person.

The water here is incredibly clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The reviews rave about the crystal blue waters and the landscape of rocks and cliffs that frame the lagoon. “Nothing can describe how impressive Balos is,” one traveler said, capturing how awe-inspiring this spot can be.

Because of the boat’s limited proximity—boats can’t dock directly on the shore—you’ll have to swim or take a small boat to the shoreline, so packing water shoes and waterproof bags is highly recommended. The tour allows about 2.5 hours at Balos, plenty of time to relax, take photos, or enjoy some leisure time on the sand.

Returning to Kissamos

After soaking in Balos, the boat returns to Kissamos Port, completing the roughly 7-hour tour. The trip back offers more scenic views and a chance for a well-earned rest after a busy day of exploration.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The price covers the round-trip boat cruise, the captain and crew, and visits to both Balos and Gramvousa. If you opt for the food and drinks package, you’ll find snacks and a meal available on board, including options like pasta or chicken, salads, and refreshments. Many reviewers find the meals decent but suggest bringing your own snacks if you prefer something specific or want a quick bite.

There’s a small administrative fee of 1 EUR per passenger over 13, payable at the port, which contributes to the upkeep of Balos and Gramvousa. Parking at the port is free, and the port is easy to reach from Chania by car or bus.

A few practical notes:

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and towels.
• The duration is about 7 hours, so comfortable clothing and a water bottle are advisable.

Authentic Experience and Authenticity

Many reviews highlight the authentic charm of the stops. Visiting a Greek Orthodox church, exploring the Venetian castle, and seeing the shipwreck give this tour a cultural and historical dimension beyond just beaches.

The crew and guides are generally praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. One traveler shared, “The crew was very helpful, and the boat was in good condition,” which is reassuring for those concerned about comfort and safety.

The Value of This Tour

While the cost might seem moderate, it’s packed with high-value experiences. You get organized transportation, two major sights, and plenty of free time for relaxing or snapping photos. If you add the optional food and drinks, it’s still a fairly affordable way to visit both Balos and Gramvousa compared to renting a boat or self-driving.

Remember, the scenic beauty of Balos Lagoon alone makes this trip worthwhile, especially if you’re keen on avoiding the hassle of getting there independently. As one review sums up: “The boat was very well run, and the views were incredible—definitely worth the price.”

Who Will Love This Trip?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free day of natural beauty and light adventure. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and unique beaches. If you’re a bit of a history buff or enjoy exploring ruins and churches, you’ll appreciate the stops at Gramvousa. For those who prefer more flexibility or longer beach stays, the limited time at Balos might be a drawback.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and culturally interesting experience that doesn’t require driving or complicated planning, this cruise offers excellent value. Just remember to pack water shoes, sunscreen, and a good camera.

FAQ

Is the trip suitable for children?
Most reviews describe it as family-friendly, but keep in mind the length of the boat ride and the hiking involved at Gramvousa. Small children should be supervised during swimming and hiking.

How much time do I get at Balos Lagoon?
The tour allocates about 2.5 hours at Balos, which is enough for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos. If you want longer, consider staying later or arranging your own transport afterward.

Is food included in the price?
Not automatically. Food and drinks can be purchased onboard for a reasonable price, or you can bring your own snacks. The reviewers say the onboard meals are decent, but options can run out depending on the crowd.

Can I swim at both locations?
Yes, you’ll have opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at both Gramvousa and Balos. Be prepared with water shoes for rocky shores, especially at Balos.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof bags for your belongings. It’s also wise to arrive early at the port and listen carefully to safety instructions.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Also, the boat cannot dock directly on the beach at Balos—swimming or small boat transport is necessary.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise from Kissamos offers a convenient, scenic, and culturally enriching way to see some of Crete’s most famous sights. The combination of stunning landscapes, historical ruins, and relaxing beaches makes it a solid choice for travelers who want a memorable day without the hassle of self-driving or complex planning.

The organized nature of the trip, the knowledgeable crew, and the sheer beauty of locations like Balos Lagoon ensure it’s a worthwhile addition to any Crete itinerary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island explorer, this cruise provides a snapshot of Crete’s natural and cultural treasures—well worth considering.

To sum it up, if you enjoy breathtaking scenery, gentle adventure, and want to see Crete’s highlights comfortably, this cruise is a smart pick. It offers a good balance of relaxation, exploration, and authentic sights, making every euro spent feel justified. Prepare yourself for a day filled with stunning vistas, a bit of history, and lots of memories in the making.

You can check availability for your dates here: