GRAMVOUSA and BALOS Boat & Beach & Lunch on CRETE

Crete offers more than just ancient ruins and mountain villages—its coastline is dotted with some of the most breathtaking beaches and unspoiled islands in Greece. For travelers eager to experience this natural beauty firsthand, the GRAMVOUSA and BALOS Boat & Beach & Lunch tour presents a full-day adventure that combines scenic sailing, historical sites, and plenty of swimming. While it’s not perfect, it offers an authentic taste of Crete’s spectacular maritime landscape at a reasonable price.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning views—from the boat ride along Crete’s rugged coast to the panoramic vistas from the Venetian castle atop Gramvousa. Second, the opportunity to swim and relax at Balos Lagoon, which rivals Caribbean beaches for its shallow, warm waters and soft sand. However, a potential drawback is the long travel time—about 4 to 4.5 hours each way by bus—so this is a tour best suited for those prepared for a full day on the road.

If you’re looking for an active, picturesque outing that combines history, nature, and leisure, this might be just the ticket. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate guided trips with organized logistics, and who don’t mind a bit of a journey to reach such iconic sites.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery: You’ll enjoy a boat trip along Crete’s coastline and views of Gramvousa’s Venetian castle.
• Historical interest: The Venetian fortress on Gramvousa offers a peek into Greece’s layered past.
• Relaxing beach time: Swimming in Balos Lagoon provides a memorable, Caribbean-like experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary: The tour covers Rethymnon, Kissamos port, Gramvousa, and Balos in one day.
• Transportation considerations: The long bus ride is a notable part of the experience—plan accordingly.
• Value for money: At around $55, it includes transportation, boat rides, and a boat lunch, though additional fees apply.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Long Bus Journey from Heraklion or Nearby Areas

The adventure begins early, as you leave Heraklion or other pick-up points along Crete’s northern coast. Be prepared for a long bus ride (about 4 to 4.5 hours each way)—not the most glamorous part of the day, but necessary to reach the scenic west coast. The journey passes through Rethymnon, offering glimpses of Crete’s varied landscape and history, and the old capital of Chania, if you’re lucky with the timing.

Travelers who have taken this trip note that the bus stops briefly (around 20 minutes) along the way, giving you a chance to buy snacks, drinks, or use the facilities. While some may find the drive tiring, it’s worth considering that the scenery is part of the overall experience—the rolling hills, olive groves, and quaint villages all add to the sense of adventure.

Arrival at Kissamos Port and Departure on the Boat

Once at Kissamos, the gateway to Crete’s western coast, you board your boat for a roughly one-hour sail along the coast. This part of the trip sets the tone: expect warm breezes, beautiful water views, and a chance to settle into a relaxed rhythm. The boat is escorted by guides speaking several languages, including English, German, French, and Polish, enhancing the experience with informative commentary.

Gramvousa: Pirate Legend and Venetian Fortress

After arriving at Gramvousa, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore. The highlight is the Venetian castle perched atop a steep rock, which offers sweeping views over the Aegean Sea and a chance to walk through remnants of the fortress that once guarded pirates and traders alike. The story that during Turkish occupation, locals turned to looting passing ships, adds a dash of intrigue to this once-rough-and-tumble island.

Travelers love climbing up to the castle and walking around the cliff edge, but be warned—the ascent is somewhat steep, and sturdy shoes are recommended. One reviewer noted that the experience is worth it for the views and history, but the time at the top is somewhat limited, so pace yourself.

Swimming and Relaxation at Balos Lagoon

Next, a short 15-minute boat ride takes you to Balos Lagoon—a truly breathtaking stretch of shallow, warm waters and fine sand, often compared to Caribbean beaches. With about 2.5 hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, and simply marvel at the scenery. The lagoon’s approximately 50 meters from the shore is law-mandated, so you’ll disembark at a slight distance, which can be a fun walk over rocks and sand.

Guests frequently mention that Balos is one of the most beautiful beaches they’ve seen worldwide, with reviews describing it as “a fantastic swim and relaxing spot.” The shallow waters are perfect for families and anyone who loves floating in warm, gentle waves. You might find the rocks around the shoreline a bit tricky—wear shoes suited for walking in water if you plan to explore the rocky areas.

Lunch and Return Journey

Lunch is served on the boat at any time between noon and late afternoon, adding convenience to the day. The menu includes a warm buffet and water, which helps refuel after a busy morning.

The return sail is roughly an hour, giving everyone time to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The long journey back to Heraklion or your accommodation can be tiring, so plan for a relaxed evening after the trip.

Evaluating the Cost and Value

At around $54.69 per person, the tour offers a lot—transport, boat rides, guided commentary, and a meal. Additional costs include a €15 boat entry fee and a €1 environmental fee, payable on the bus or boat, which are reasonable extras considering the experience.

A couple of reviews mention that the long bus ride is a downside, but many accept it as part of the adventure. The guided aspect, with multilingual escorting and detailed commentary, adds value, especially for travelers who prefer well-organized excursions.

The included transportation and boat make this tour convenient, but it’s essential to weigh the travel time against the payoff of visiting some of Crete’s most iconic spots—particularly if you’re someone who enjoys a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind the journey.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From reviews, we gather that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often making the trip more engaging. Travelers also appreciate the stunning vistas and the opportunity to swim in Balos Lagoon, which is often described as unforgettable.

For a smooth experience, wear comfortable shoes for walking in and around the sites, bring sunscreen and water, and plan for a long day. If you’re traveling with children, note that the long bus ride might be tiring, and the terrain at Gramvousa can be challenging.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who value scenic beauty and historical sites, and who are comfortable with a lengthy travel day. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive experience—combining a boat trip, castle exploration, and beach time—without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics themselves.

It’s also great for adventurers willing to spend most of the day on the move. If you’re looking for a relaxed, short visit, this may be too demanding. However, if you’re eager to see some of Crete’s most stunning landscapes with a guided group, this trip delivers.

The Sum Up

This Gramvousa and Balos tour offers a compelling blend of history, natural beauty, and leisure, making it a worthwhile option for travelers who don’t mind the extensive bus ride. You’ll love the views from the Venetian castle, the incredible color of Balos Lagoon, and the overall sense of being transported to a different world—one of crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastlines.

While the long drive might be a challenge for some, the highlights—stunning scenery and memorable swims—are well worth the effort. The tour provides good value, especially if you’re looking for a guided, all-in-one experience that takes in Crete’s most iconic maritime spots.

It’s best for active travelers, families, or anyone eager for a full-day adventure that balances sightseeing with relaxation. Just prepare for a long day, bring your sense of adventure, and enjoy one of Crete’s most beautiful coastlines.

FAQ

How long is the bus ride?
The bus journey from Heraklion or nearby areas to Kissamos port takes about 4 to 4.5 hours each way, so plan for a long day.

Are meals included?
Lunch is available on the boat as a warm buffet, and water is included. There are additional costs for the meal (€10) and boat entry (€15).

What is the best time to go?
Most departures operate in most weather conditions, but it’s wise to dress appropriately for outdoor activities and sunny weather.

Is there a guide on the boat?
Yes, guides speaking multiple languages, including English, are on escorting both the coach and boat for insights and assistance.

Can I swim at Balos Lagoon?
Absolutely. The lagoon’s shallow and warm waters are ideal for swimming and relaxing. Bring shoes for walking in the water if you want to explore the rocky edges.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children can enjoy the scenery and swimming, the long bus ride may be tiring. Supervision is advised, especially around rocky or steep areas.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs around $54.69 per person, with additional fees for boat entry and environmental charges payable on the day.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Crete’s coast, perfect for those craving memorable scenery, historical exploration, and a full-day adventure. Just pack your patience for the long trip and your sense of curiosity—Crete’s coastline awaits.