Exploring the pristine beauty of Crete’s Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island has never been easier. With a private sailing cruise, travelers can enjoy the island’s captivating landscapes and indulge in a delectable Cretan meal. The journey promises an unforgettable adventure, from the serene turquoise waters to the rugged terrain of the historic island. Whether seeking a day of relaxation or discovery, this cruise delivers an unparalleled experience that showcases the essence of Crete. But the real question remains – what hidden gems await those who embark on this remarkable voyage?
Good To Know
- Private sailing cruises to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, operated by Mikros Naftilos, offering a 90-minute journey with 2 hours for swimming and snorkeling.
- Onboard amenities include a traditional Cretan lunch, covered cabin, restroom, and shower, enhancing the overall sailing experience.
- Exploration of Gramvousa Island, including a nearby shipwreck, providing a combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
- 96% recommendation rate from 28 reviews, indicating high customer satisfaction with the flexibility, quality of the onboard meal, and knowledgeable crew.
- Private tour ensures only the booking group on the boat, providing a personalized and exclusive sailing experience.
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Overview of the Sailing Cruise
The Private Sailing Cruises to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa offer travelers an immersive experience exploring the stunning coastline of Crete, Greece.
Operated by Mikros Naftilos, the cruise features a 90-minute journey to the beautiful Balos Lagoon, where guests can spend 2 hours swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
The tour then continues to Gramvousa Island, where a nearby shipwreck awaits exploration.
With a 96% recommendation rate from 28 reviews, this private sailing experience provides a personalized and flexible tour, complete with a traditional Cretan lunch served onboard and amenities like a covered cabin, restroom, and shower.
The knowledgeable skipper offers local expertise to ensure a safe and memorable adventure.
Itinerary and Stops
The cruise departs from the Port of Kissamos, embarking on a 90-minute journey to the stunning Balos Lagoon. Guests will have 2 hours to swim, snorkel, and relax in the breathtaking surroundings. Following this, the cruise will move on to the island of Gramvousa, where a nearby shipwreck can be explored.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|---|---|
| Depart Port of Kissamos | – |
| Cruise to Balos Lagoon | 90 minutes |
| Time at Balos Lagoon | 2 hours |
| Cruise to Gramvousa Island | – |
During the journey, a traditional Cretan lunch will be served on board, allowing travelers to savor the local cuisine while taking in the stunning coastal views.
Boat Amenities and Features
Boasting a well-equipped interior, the boat features a restroom, shower, and covered cabin, providing travelers with essential amenities throughout the cruise.
Guests will also have access to bottled water, soda, and beach towels, ensuring their comfort and convenience.
To shield them from the sun, an umbrella is available on the beach.
The knowledgeable skipper offers valuable local insights, guiding guests to the safest swimming spots.
With these thoughtful additions, the boat is designed to enhance the overall sailing experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.
Cretan Lunch Onboard
During the private sailing cruise, guests are treated to a delectable traditional Cretan lunch served onboard.
The meal features an assortment of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that showcase the rich flavors of Crete. Expect to enjoy dishes like Greek salad, tzatziki, dolmades, and a variety of grilled meats or seafood.
The crew takes great pride in preparing this authentic Cretan feast, ensuring guests have a truly immersive culinary experience as they sail along the stunning coastline.
Bottled water and sodas are also provided to complement the meal.
This onboard dining opportunity allows travelers to savor the local cuisine while surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.
Balos Lagoon Swimming and Snorkeling
After the leisurely sail to Balos Lagoon, guests have ample time to enjoy the captivating natural surroundings. Visitors can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters or explore the vibrant marine life through snorkeling. The skipper provides local knowledge to identify the safest swim spots, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
| Activity | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Swimming | 2 hours | Swim in the stunning Balos Lagoon |
| Snorkeling | 1 hour | Discover the vibrant underwater world |
| Relaxation | As desired | Soak in the breathtaking scenery |
The private sailing cruise offers the perfect opportunity to fully appreciate the natural beauty of this picturesque destination.
Gramvousa Island and Shipwreck
Next, the cruise ventures to the picturesque Gramvousa Island, where a nearby shipwreck adds to the allure of this captivating destination.
Guests have the opportunity to explore the island’s rugged terrain and discover the remains of the shipwreck, which lies just offshore.
The skipper provides local insights, guiding visitors to the best vantage points for taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
This stop on the itinerary offers a unique combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the rich heritage of the region.
Traveler Ratings and Feedback
Travelers have enthusiastically embraced the private sailing cruise, awarding it an impressive 5.0-star rating based on 28 reviews.
The overwhelming majority, 96%, have recommended the experience to others. Guests consistently praise the flexibility, quality of the traditional Cretan lunch, and the knowledgeable crew who provide local insights.
The stunning sailing views and beautiful swim spots at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island have been highlighted as trip highlights.
Travelers have appreciated the friendly and accommodating service throughout the excursion, contributing to the cruise’s outstanding reputation.
Additional Tour Details
The private sailing cruise provides additional details for guests to consider.
Upon booking, travelers receive confirmation of their reservation. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. The departure point is near public transportation, making it accessible for most participants.
This is a private tour, so only the booking group will be on the boat. Importantly, the tour is non-refundable, and cancellations aren’t eligible for a refund.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Drinks and Snacks Available During the Cruise?
Yes, the cruise provides bottled water and soda for passengers. Plus, a traditional Cretan lunch is served on board during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages?
While the cruise provides lunch, bottled water, and soda, passengers are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages as well. The crew aims to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
The tour provider allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary. Guests can discuss preferred activities or schedule changes with the crew prior to the cruise. However, the overall structure and key stops remain part of the standard sailing experience.
What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Private Tour?
The minimum group size for this private tour is up to 10 people. The sailboat can accommodate a group of up to 10 travelers for the private sailing experience to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.
Can I Book This Tour Separately for Individual Travelers?
No, this is a private tour that can only be booked for groups of up to 10 travelers. Individual travelers cannot book this tour separately and must join an existing group.
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The Sum Up
This private sailing cruise provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Crete. Travelers can enjoy the turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon, hike the rugged terrain of Gramvousa Island, and savor a delicious Cretan meal aboard the comfortable boat. With knowledgeable crew and stunning scenery, this cruise promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to discover the hidden gems of the Greek islands.