Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Speedboat Cruise with Snorkeling

Introducing the Balos & Gramvousa Speedboat Cruise: An Authentic Crete Adventure

Thinking about exploring some of Crete’s most stunning spots without the hassle of large crowds? This Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Speedboat Cruise with Snorkeling offers just that — a chance to glide along the Cretan coast on a luxurious, fast RIB boat while avoiding the crush of the big ferries. It’s the kind of trip that combines comfort, excitement, and a touch of adventure, perfect for travelers who love a little speed and stunning scenery.

What we particularly like about this tour is the care taken to avoid the busy boat crowds—you get the best spots and more time to enjoy Balos and Gramvousa without jockeying for space. Plus, the knowledgeable crew and the well-organized itinerary mean you can relax and focus on soaking in the incredible views and crystal-clear waters. One thing to keep in mind: since it’s a speedboat, the ride can be a bit bumpy at times, especially if the sea is lively, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of sea spray and motion.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, love snorkeling, and want the flexibility of private or shared options. If you’re after a luxury feel with a personal touch, this cruise will suit you perfectly. It’s also excellent for visitors looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed, yet exhilarating, day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Avoid Crowds: Cruise early and beat the big ferry crowds at Balos and Gramvosua.
• Speed & Comfort: The fastest, safest RIB boat in Crete offers a smooth, thrilling ride.
• Flexible Options: Choose between private or shared tours, with hotel pickup available.
• All-Inclusive: Snacks, unlimited drinks, and snorkeling gear are provided.
• Time for Relaxation: Around 1.5-2 hours at each main stop, with free time for swimming and exploring.
• Professional Crew: Knowledgeable guides with friendly service and safety at the forefront.
• Authentic Experience: Smaller groups and personal instructions mean a more genuine visit.
• Beautiful Scenery: Stunning views of the coastline, the island, and crystal waters you can snorkel in.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and How It All Begins

The trip kicks off either from your hotel, if you opt for the pickup package, or directly from Kissamos Port. The meeting point is at the sailboats dock, with crew members ready to assist and give a quick safety briefing. The convenience of hotel pickup is a significant advantage, especially if you’re staying in areas like Chania, Agia Marina, or Platanias, making the whole experience stress-free from the start.

The Thrill of Speed Cruising

Once onboard, the engines roar to life, and you’ll feel the adrenaline of cruising at speed through the Cretan Sea. It’s a fantastic way to see the coastline — the wind in your hair, the spray of salt, and the panoramic views of Gramvousa cape. According to reviews, the boat features comfy seats with FOX suspension, which help absorb the waves, making the ride both safe and enjoyable even for those sensitive to boat motion.

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Gramvousa Island: A Natural Fortress

Your first stop is the legendary Gramvousa Island, known for its impressive Venetian fortress ruins and rugged beauty. The crew anchors the boat close to the shore, but be prepared for a brief swim or walk through shallow water to reach land — a fun and slightly adventurous start to your exploration. Expect about 1.5 to 2 hours here, plenty of time to snap photos, explore the fortress ruins, or simply relax on the beach.

One reviewer highlights that the captain expertly timed the trip to avoid the larger tourist boats, ensuring a quieter, more tranquil experience. As you walk around, you’ll appreciate the stunning vistas of the surrounding sea and the chance to see wildlife, with some reports mentioning turtles swimming around the boat during the stop.

Balos Lagoon: A Beach Paradise

Next comes Balos Lagoon, often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. The boat anchors nearby, allowing you to either swim from the deck or walk into the shallow waters. The lagoon’s turquoise waters and soft white sands make it a perfect spot for lounging, swimming, or snorkeling. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, and many reviews mention how clear and inviting the water is.

With another 1.5 to 2 hours here, you’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty, take photos, or simply float in the water. Several reviewers raved about the peaceful atmosphere since the trip was scheduled early in the day to avoid the crowds that arrive later on. One guest mentioned how they appreciated the crew’s helpful instructions about where to swim and how to avoid the busy areas filled with rented boats.

Snorkeling and Snacks

Throughout the trip, snacks and unlimited drinks — soft drinks, beer, juice, and water — are available. The crew also supplies snorkeling gear, allowing you to explore the underwater world. Many travelers loved the refreshing drinks and friendly service, which kept everyone comfortable and energized amidst the sun and sea.

The Return Journey: Relaxing and Scenic

After your time at Balos, the boat departs for the return cruise, offering a relaxing perspective of the coast as you cruise back to Kissamos. The cool breeze and beautiful scenery make the journey a perfect way to wind down, and reviews often note how the crew’s professionalism and friendly attitude made the entire day effortless and enjoyable.

The Itinerary: A Well-Organized Day

The tour’s itinerary is designed to give you maximum time at each stop while avoiding the crowds. Starting with hotel pickup or meeting at the port, the journey includes a 2-hour transfer to the boat, a 15-minute safety briefing, and then a 30-minute cruise to Gramvousa. The stop there lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, followed by another cruise to Balos, where you’ll spend about the same amount of time.

The return cruise takes around 30 minutes, followed by a transfer back to your drop-off point, whether that’s your hotel or a designated location. This structure allows a comfortable balance of exploration and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snapping photos, and enjoying the scenery.

The Value of This Tour

While the price might seem high compared to larger group activities, the value is evident. You’re paying for a luxury, small-group experience with a knowledgeable crew, snacks, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, and the luxury of avoiding crowded ferries. Guests have described the boat as “incredible” and “luxurious,” with many mentioning that the timing and organization made the day seamless.

Why It’s Worth It

• Smaller groups mean more personalized service and less jostling at each stop.
• Early departure helps beat the crowds, giving you a more peaceful experience.
• The speedboat’s comfort makes the ride enjoyable, not just a means to get from point A to B.
• The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear offers great value for a full day out.
• The professional, friendly crew ensures safety and fun.

Possible Drawbacks

A couple of reviews mention that the boat can be crowded when bookings exceed the maximum group size, so it’s worth confirming your reservation if privacy matters. Also, safety briefings aren’t always explicitly detailed, so if you’re concerned about safety or swimming, ask the crew beforehand. The swimming to the shore at Gramvousa involves entering the water, which might be a consideration for less confident swimmers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a more intimate, relaxed experience away from large crowds. It suits snorkelers, beach lovers, and those eager to see Gramvousa’s fortress ruins. If you appreciate good value, knowledgeable guides, and scenic rides, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s not ideal for pregnant women, anyone with mobility impairments, or those uncomfortable in a small boat setting. Also, if you’re seeking a full-day, relaxed sailing experience with multiple stops and onshore meals, there are other options, but for a quick, exhilarating escape to some of Crete’s most iconic spots, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Stands Out

For travelers who want to maximize their time at two of Crete’s most stunning locations without the hassle of crowds, this speedboat tour offers exceptional value. The combination of luxury, adventure, and authentic scenery makes it a memorable day on the water.

If you’re after a tailored experience with friendly guides, the thrill of speed cruising, and the chance to snorkel in clear waters, you’ll love what this tour has to offer. The early start and smaller groups mean fewer travelers and more space to relax and enjoy.

This is a great choice for those seeking a fun, scenic, and personalized Crete adventure—an experience that balances excitement with comfort, and natural beauty with professional service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose a private tour?
Yes, the tour offers a private option for those wanting a more exclusive experience.

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is optional and available from several areas, including Kissamos, Chania, and surrounding towns. Check if your hotel is listed or contact the provider.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, towel, and sunscreen. Towels are not provided, so packing one is advised.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, snacks and unlimited drinks such as beer, soft drinks, juice, ice tea, and water are provided throughout the cruise.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore the underwater scenery.

How long is each stop?
You’ll have around 1.5 to 2 hours at Gramvousa and Balos, enough time to swim, relax, or explore.

Is the trip suitable for children?
The reviews suggest it’s better suited for adults, especially since swimming and the small boat environment may not be ideal for young children.

What if I want a flexible schedule?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

Are there any safety concerns?
Safety is a priority, and waterproof bags are provided for valuables. However, it’s good to be comfortable with swimming and boat motion, as safety briefings are not always detailed.

This Crete speedboat tour strikes a fine balance between adventure, comfort, and authentic scenery, making it a standout choice for those eager to explore Balos and Gramvousa with a splash of speed and style.

You can check availability for your dates here: