Kissamos: Balos and Gramvousa Sailing Trip with Meal

If you’re eyeing a day out on the water exploring some of Crete’s most iconic sights, the Kissamos: Balos and Gramvousa Sailing Trip with Meal offers a solid balance of adventure, scenery, and local flavor. This tour from Mikros Naftilos Cruises promises a full-day escape packed with swimming in turquoise waters, hiking for panoramic views, and enjoying a hearty Cretan meal—all in a small group setting that keeps things intimate and relaxed.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the way it combines natural beauty with cultural touches—like a visit to the Venetian Castle—and the chance to snorkel around Balos Lagoon, one of Europe’s most praised beaches. Plus, the knowledgeable crew makes the experience feel personal and engaging. However, since it’s a full day on a boat, be prepared for some sun, boat movement, and the need for a bit of physical activity during the hike. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic outings, don’t mind a boat ride, and want a taste of authentic Crete far from typical tourist traps.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters, perfect for aquatic lovers.
• Traditional Cretan lunch and drinks onboard, showcasing local flavors.
• Small-group experience limited to 10 participants, ensuring personal attention.
• Hiking to the Venetian Castle offers panoramic views and historical intrigue.
• Full-day duration (around 8 hours), ideal for a relaxed, yet immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

This tour starts at Mikros Naftilos Cruises, where your crew welcomes you aboard one of the sailboats, “Izabela” or “Poseidon,” both equipped with a grey bimini for shade. The departure is straightforward—just a short drive or regional bus ride to Kissamos Port, and then you’re on your way. You’ll meet fellow travelers, often a mix of locals and visitors, all eager to explore Crete’s coastal treasures.

The Sailing Experience

The cruise is all about enjoying the sea breeze and scenic views. It’s roughly 1.5 hours of sailing to reach the first big highlight: Balos Lagoon. The boats are comfortable, with shaded areas and onboard facilities like bathrooms with showers, making the ride more than just transit.

Exploring Balos Lagoon

Once you arrive at Balos Beach, you’re greeted by one of Europe’s most photographed beaches, famous for its white sands meeting transparent waters. Here, you have about two hours of free time—ample opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the views. The water is shallow and clear enough to see the seabed, making it ideal for both relaxation and underwater photography.

Reviewers highlight the beauty of Balos, calling it “stunning” and “unlike anything else I’ve seen in Europe.” Some mention that the water can be chilly in the early morning or late afternoon, but most find it refreshing. A few note that the white sand can get hot underfoot, so slippers might be helpful.

The Cretan Meal Onboard

After working up an appetite, you’ll be treated to a traditional Cretan lunch onboard, including drinks. The food is generally described as tasty and authentic, providing a genuine taste of local cuisine. This is a lovely touch, especially after a morning of swimming. It also offers a chance to chat with your crew and fellow travelers, adding a social element to the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Imeri Gramvousa Island

Next stop: Gramvousa Island, a rugged spot with a Venetian Castle built into the rocks. You can explore the castle ruins, enjoy sweeping views, or take a dip in the clear waters below. For the more adventurous, a 20-minute hike to the top offers incredible photo opportunities of Balos Lagoon from above.

One traveler describes this part of the trip as “a history lesson with a view,” referring to the castle’s impressive ruins and the panoramic vistas. The island’s craggy landscape makes it a little more challenging to access than the beaches but well worth the effort for the reward of stunning scenery.

Scenic Hike and Photo Opportunities

The hike to the top of Gramvousa is leisurely but involves some uphill walking. The path is rocky but manageable, and the views at the top are spectacular—ideal for snapping memorable photos. From this vantage point, you can see the turquoise waters of Balos, the rugged coastline, and the castle ruins, a perfect combination for landscape lovers.

The Return Journey

After about two hours on Gramvousa, your skipper will start heading back to Kissamos Port. The sail back offers a chance to relax in the covered cabin, chat with new friends, or enjoy the sea breeze. You might find yourself dozing or simply soaking in the scenery before arriving back.

The Practical Details

Price & Value: At $142 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines scenery, culture, and relaxation. The price includes the shared sailing trip, crew, traditional lunch, drinks, and use of onboard facilities. Considering the full-day itinerary, the small group size, and the inclusion of a local meal, most travelers agree it provides good value.

Duration & Timing: The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with exact start times varying by day—so it’s wise to check availability ahead of time. The early start helps avoid crowds and makes the most of daylight.

Group Size & Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, the small group makes for a relaxed and personalized atmosphere, perfect if you prefer intimate experiences over large tours.

What to Bring: Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. Towel and sunscreen are not included, so bring your own to stay comfortable during sunbathing and swimming.

Accessibility & Restrictions: The trip isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, primarily because of the hilly hike and rocky terrain on Gramvousa.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Many reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew who go out of their way to make everyone comfortable. One traveler noted, “The crew was very professional and friendly, making us feel at home.” The views are consistently praised as “breathtaking,” and the snorkeling opportunities are described as “plenty of fish and clear water.”

Some mention that the hike up Gramvousa is leisurely but does require some physical effort. A few reviewers note that the boat ride can be a little choppy on windy days, so good shoes and a calm stomach are recommended.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works well for travelers who want a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight. It’s ideal if you enjoy being on the water, swimming, and exploring historic sites. Families with older children, couples, and small groups will appreciate the intimate vibe, while solo travelers will meet like-minded explorers. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see some of Crete’s most famous spots with local flavor, this tour hits the mark.

However, those with mobility issues or seeking a shorter, less active outing might want to consider other options. Remember, the hike up Gramvousa involves some rocky terrain, and the boat ride, while enjoyable, may be less comfortable in rough seas.

Final Thoughts

This Balos and Gramvousa sailing trip from Kissamos offers a fine introduction to Crete’s coast, combining natural beauty, history, and local cuisine in a manageable, small-group format. The combination of swimming in crystal waters, hiking for spectacular views, and enjoying a hearty meal makes for a well-rounded day.

You’ll love the stunning scenery, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to escape the crowds. The experience is especially rewarding for those who appreciate authentic, scenic outings with a touch of adventure. The price is reasonable for what’s included, and the relaxed pace suits travelers who don’t want to rush but want to make the most of their day on Crete.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and educational day on the water—this tour is a compelling choice. Just remember to bring your camera, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point provided? No, the tour starts at Kissamos Port, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport via car or regional bus.

What should I bring on the trip? Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

Are towels provided? No, they are not included, so bring your own.

Is the trip suitable for children? The tour is best suited for those comfortable with a boat ride and some light hiking; it might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility impairments.

How long do we stay at each stop? Expect about 2 hours at Balos Lagoon for swimming and relaxing, and around 2 hours on Gramvousa Island for sightseeing, hiking, or swimming.

Is the boat ride comfortable? The boats are equipped for passenger comfort, with shaded areas and onboard facilities, but the sea can be choppy in windy weather.

Are meals included? Yes, a traditional Cretan lunch and drinks are part of the package, giving you a taste of local cuisine.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language are the guides? The tour is conducted in English and Greek, with small groups ensuring personalized service.

Will I see Balos Lagoon from above? Yes, from the top of Gramvousa Island after a short hike, offering breathtaking views perfect for photos.

To sum it up, this sailing trip from Kissamos is a delightful way to experience some of Crete’s most iconic sights with ease and authenticity. Whether you’re after scenic beauty, historical intrigue, or a relaxing day on the water, it’s a compelling option worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: