Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal

If you’re considering a day on the water in Crete, this Sailing Cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa from Kissamos offers an adventurous blend of stunning scenery, historical sights, and relaxing indulgence. We’ve gathered details from those who’ve experienced it firsthand to help you decide if this maritime escape is right for you.

What we particularly like about this tour are the luxury boat experience and the well-organized itinerary that balances sightseeing with leisure. Plus, the inclusion of a full Mediterranean meal and unlimited drinks makes it feel like a true taste of Greek hospitality.

One potential consideration is the timed stops—with only about 1 to 1.5 hours at each major destination, some travelers might find that a little rushed to fully explore or relax. However, for those wanting a taste of both Gramvousa’s wild beauty and Balos’ famous lagoon, this cruise offers a fantastic overview.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who value comfort, scenic sailing, and authentic flavors. It’s perfect if you enjoy water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding or simply want a well-balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation on Crete’s coast.

Key Points

• Luxurious sailing yacht: Modern boats with plenty of space and comfort.
• Stunning destinations: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island each offer unique attractions.
• Inclusive meal and drinks: Mediterranean menu with unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and water.
• Water activities: Snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment available upon request.
• Efficient itinerary: Two main stops with enough time to enjoy but not get bored.
• Authentic experience: Knowledgeable crew and well-organized schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This cruise begins at the Kissamos Port, where a friendly crew greets you on board a sleek, modern sailing yacht. The vessel’s design ensures ample space for relaxing, with sunbeds on deck and a large outdoor cockpit—ideal for soaking up the scenery. After a quick safety briefing and some questions answered by the crew, the journey kicks off.

The sailing portion offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful coastline, with scenic views of Gramvousa cape and the opportunity to lie back, sip drinks, and watch the horizon. For those interested in photography or simply soaking in the scenery, the deck provides plenty of vantage points. Reviewers note that the boat itself is clean and comfortable, creating a pleasant atmosphere for the entire trip.

First Stop: Gramvousa Island

About an hour and a half into the cruise, you arrive at Gramvousa Island, which is famous for its shipwreck and rugged landscape. The crew provides about 1.5 hours of free time, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace. You might choose to take the short hike up to the fortress for panoramic views, or simply lounge at the water’s edge.

Many travelers comment on the historical interest of Gramvousa, especially the shipwreck, which has become an iconic photo opportunity. One reviewer mentioned the “short hike up to the fort was worth it for the best views I’ve ever seen,” highlighting how this spot combines natural beauty with a touch of history.

Snorkeling and Water Fun

For water enthusiasts, the crew offers snorkel and paddleboard equipment—a real plus. The shallow areas near the island are perfect for trying out these activities, and the crew is happy to give instructions. Several reviews mention how calm and clear the waters are, making it a fantastic spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Second Stop: Balos Lagoon

Next, the cruise takes you to Balos Lagoon, often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The boat docks close enough for easy transfer via the tender boat, or for a more private experience, you can dive directly from the yacht. You’ll spend approximately 1.5 hours here, which many reviewers say is just enough to swim, relax, or explore the hot-water lagoon.

The lagoon’s crystal waters and white sand create a picture-perfect setting. You’ll love the way the water constantly shimmers, inviting you to cool off or just float and soak in the scenery. One guest highlighted how Balos feels like a true paradise, especially when fewer visitors are around outside peak season.

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Culinary and Refreshments

On the return trip, a full Mediterranean meal awaits—freshly prepared with local ingredients. The menu typically includes shrimp linguine, Greek salad, and Cretan appetizers. Many reviews rave about the quality of the food, describing it as delicious, fresh, and generously served.

Unlimited drinks, including wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water, keep everyone refreshed. Several travelers mentioned how the crew goes above and beyond by accommodating special dietary needs if notified in advance, such as vegan or gluten-free options.

Final Leg and Disembarkation

The cruise concludes with a scenic sail back along the coastline, taking around 1.5 hours. The crew may raise the sails on the way back, adding a bit of classic sailing charm. Disembarkation can be directly onto the dock or via the tender boat, depending on the crowd and conditions.

In the reviews, many guests appreciated the friendly crew, the well-organized timetable, and the attention to comfort and safety. The overall experience is described as relaxing, scenic, and well worth the cost, especially considering the included meal and water activities.

Practical Details and Tips

• The price of $154 per person is quite reasonable when you consider the full-day experience—sailing, sightseeing, water activities, and a substantial meal.
• The duration of 7.5 hours means you’ll spend most of the day on the water, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear.
• Towels are not provided, so pack one if you plan to swim.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off if you select that option, which simplifies logistics. Else, you’ll need to meet at the port.
• Be aware that tickets to Gramvousa Fortress are not included, so if you want to visit the fortress, plan for an extra expense.
• To fully enjoy, arrive prepared with your full name, passport or ID details, and be ready for a mild safety briefing at the start.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly crew, calling them “extremely helpful” and “creating a great atmosphere.” The stunning views and delicious lunch are other highlights frequently mentioned. A common theme is that the cruise offers excellent value—combining comfort, scenery, and food for a fair price.

Some guests wished for more time at Balos—a sentiment shared in reviews noting only about 1 hour at the lagoon. If you’re eager to linger longer or explore the area more thoroughly, this might be a downside.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This trip is a solid choice for travelers who enjoy scenic sailing and water activities without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. If you appreciate comfortable boats, good food, and beautiful scenery, you’ll find this cruise satisfying.

It’s especially suitable if you want a full day of variety—from exploring historic sites to lounging on pristine beaches—without sacrificing comfort. The inclusive drinks and meal make it a value-packed option for those who like to indulge a little while exploring.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more time at each destination or independent exploration, you might find the stops a bit brief. It’s also not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, as the tour involves brief walks and water transfers.

Final Thoughts

The Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day on Crete’s northwest coast. You’ll get a taste of historical Gramvousa, the stunning Balos Lagoon, and the chance to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard in crystal-clear waters. The luxury boat, delicious meal, and friendly crew combine to create a memorable experience that balances adventure with comfort.

This is a trip designed for those who want to see the highlights of Crete’s coastline with minimal fuss. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, it promises a day filled with beautiful scenery, good food, and relaxing water fun—an authentic slice of Crete’s maritime charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, if you select the pickup option, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from several locations, including Kissamos, Platanias, Chania, and nearby areas.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 7.5 hours, including sailing, stops at Gramvousa and Balos, meals, and water activities.

What should I bring?
Pack a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and your ID or passport. Towels are not provided, so bring your own for swimming.

Are water activities available?
Yes, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding equipment are available upon request. The crew will give instructions.

Is there any extra cost for visiting Gramvousa Fortress?
Yes, tickets to Gramvousa Fortress are not included in the price, so plan for an additional expense if you wish to visit.

Can I request special meal options?
Yes, the crew can accommodate vegan or gluten-free diets if informed in advance, as many reviews praise their flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments due to walking and water transfers.

What’s the quality of the boat?
The boat is described as clean, modern, and comfortable, with enough space for relaxation and water activities.

How is the food served?
A full Mediterranean buffet includes shrimp linguine, Greek salad, and Cretan appetizers, with unlimited drinks including local wine and beer.

In essence, this cruise offers a wonderful blend of relaxation, scenery, and local flavor—a high-value day out that showcases some of the most iconic sights of Crete’s northwest coast. Perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and comfort in a beautiful setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: