Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay Full-Day Tour From Chania

Exploring the stunning landscapes of western Crete, the Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Chania promises an unforgettable adventure. Setting out from Chania at 8:30 AM, travelers embark on a scenic journey to Kissamos, where they’ll board a boat to discover the breathtaking white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Balos Lagoon. For the more adventurous, an optional hike to the historic 16th-century Venetian fortress on Gramvousa Island offers a chance to explore the island’s rich history. With a blend of relaxation and exploration, this tour provides an opportunity to take in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this captivating region.

Key Points

1. A full-day tour from Chania to Balos Beach and Lagoon, with an optional hike to the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Gramvousa Island.

2. The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a guided experience, with a maximum capacity of 50 travelers.

3. Boat tickets are required to access Balos Beach and Lagoon, costing €30 for adults and €14.50 for children aged 5-12.

4. Moderate physical fitness is required, as the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and participants may need to navigate rocky beach access.

5. The tour has received mixed reviews, with some travelers praising the scenery and organization, while others suggest renting a car for more flexibility.

Tour Overview

The Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Chania is a popular excursion that allows visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes of western Crete.

The tour has a rating of 3.6 out of 50 reviews and runs for a full day, starting at 8:30 am.

With a maximum capacity of 50 travelers, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from multiple locations in Chania.

Participants will travel to Kissamos, where they’ll board a boat for Balos Beach and Lagoon.

After free time to explore, they can choose to hike to the 16th-century fortress on Gramvousa Island for an additional fee.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a journey from Chania to Kissamos, where participants board a boat to reach the stunning Balos Beach and Lagoon.

After arrival, travelers have free time to explore the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters of this gorgeous natural wonder.

For the adventurous, an optional hike to the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Gramvousa Island is available, though it comes at an additional cost.

Boat tickets to access Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island are €30 for adults and €14.50 for children, while the entrance to the fortress is €1.

Comfortable walking shoes and swimwear are recommended for this full-day tour.

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional English guide and driver.

All legal taxes and liability insurance coverage are included as well.

Travelers will have free time to explore Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island on their own.

The boat ticket to these locations costs €30 per adult and €14.50 for children aged 5-12.

An additional €1 entrance fee is required to visit the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island.

However, food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.

Reviewers have provided mixed feedback, with some suggesting renting a car for more flexibility.

Participant Requirements

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Infants must be carried on laps, but infant seats are available. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and travelers must provide a phone number and country code.

Additionally:

• The tour has a maximum capacity of 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate group experience.
• Pickup begins up to 90 minutes before the tour’s 8:30 AM start time, so participants should plan accordingly.
• Travelers are advised to bring swimming shoes due to the rocky beach access at the destinations.

Pickup and Confirmation

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and travelers must provide a phone number and country code.

Pickup for the tour begins up to 90 minutes before the scheduled 8:30 am start time. Multiple pickup locations are available throughout Chania, including Perivolia, Halepa, and Akrotiri.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Infants must sit on laps, and child car seats are available.

With a maximum capacity of 50 travelers, this full-day Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay tour offers an opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes of western Crete.

Tour Duration and Schedule

How long does the Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay tour take? This full-day tour from Chania begins at 8:30 am and lasts the entire day.

The tour has the following schedule:

• Travelers are picked up from multiple locations in Chania, including Perivolia, Halepa, and Akrotiri.

• The group then travels to Kissamos to board a boat for Balos Beach and Lagoon.

• Visitors have free time to explore Balos Beach and the nearby Gramvousa Island.

• An optional hike to the 16th-century fortress on Gramvousa Island is available for an additional fee.

• The tour concludes with the return boat ride and drop-off back in Chania.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

What do travelers say about the Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay tour? Reviews are mixed, with some enjoying the stunning scenery and overall organization while others criticize the ratio of travel time to beach time.

Many recommend bringing water shoes due to the rocky beach access, and note the clarity of the water and beauty of the locations.

Some travelers suggest that renting a car may provide more flexibility compared to the tour.

Additional Considerations

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Infants must sit on laps, though infant seats are available.

Travelers should confirm their booking information, including a phone number and country code, as this is required.

Pickup for the tour begins up to 90 minutes before the scheduled start time.

• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
• Infants must sit on laps, though infant seats are available.
• Travelers should confirm their booking information, including a phone number and country code, as this is required.
• Pickup for the tour begins up to 90 minutes before the scheduled start time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes free time at the locations, so individuals are free to bring their own provisions if they prefer.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

There are restroom facilities available at both the departure point and the destinations during the tour. Travelers can use the restrooms on the boat and at Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island.

Can I Rent Snorkeling or Other Water Sports Equipment?

The tour does not provide snorkeling or water sports equipment for rent. However, travelers can bring their own snorkeling gear if they want to explore the waters around Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island.

Is the Boat Suitable for People With Motion Sickness?

The boat ride may cause motion sickness for some people. It’s recommended to bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness. Plus, sitting near the center of the boat can help reduce the effects of the motion.

Can I Take My Pet on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. Pets are generally not permitted on the boat or beach areas due to safety and environmental considerations. Travelers are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets before joining the tour.

Sum Up

The Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Chania offers an unforgettable experience in western Crete. Travelers can explore stunning white sandy beaches, visit a historic Venetian fortress, and enjoy a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With a scenic journey, ample free time, and optional activities, this tour promises an unforgettable day in this beautiful region.