Chania: Falasarna & Balos Cruise with Transfer & Boat Ticket

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Chania that combines iconic beaches and smooth logistics, this Falasarna and Balos cruise could be just what you need. We’ve looked into what this tour offers, and while it’s packed with some truly memorable sights, it’s not perfect for everyone. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen on seeing two top Crete beaches in one go, without the hassle of organizing your own transport or tickets.

What really catches our eye are the pre-booked sun loungers at Falasarna—a small detail that makes a big difference when you’re trying to relax—and the beautiful boat ride to Balos Lagoon, which promises crystal-clear waters and impressive scenery. That said, some reviews highlight issues with organization and delays, so it’s worth considering whether the overall experience aligns with your expectations for a smooth, relaxing day.

This tour is ideal for travelers who prioritize convenience and want to tick off two must-see beaches without fuss. If you’re comfortable with a full day of group transport, a bit of unpredictability, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this trip might suit you well. But if you’re after a more relaxed, unrushed experience or have mobility considerations, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Two beaches in one day: Perfect for those wanting to see both Falasarna and Balos without multiple trips.
• Hassle-free transfers: Includes pickup, bus, and boat rides, making logistics simple.
• Pre-booked sun loungers: Adds comfort at Falasarna, saving you time and effort.
• Beautiful scenery and swimming: Expect stunning views, soft sands, and turquoise waters.
• Some delays reported: Be prepared for potential delays or organizational hiccups.
• Good value for money: Offers a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price considering transport and tickets are included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This 10-hour journey starts early with a pickup from one of 14 designated locations around Chania or Kissamos. The exact timing depends on your pickup point, but generally, you’ll be on the road for about two hours before reaching Falasarna Beach. This part of the trip is all about enjoying tropical white sands and crystal waters, perfect for a refreshing swim or just soaking up the sun.

What’s great here is that your sun lounger is pre-booked, so you won’t need to scramble for a spot. You’ll have roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes at Falasarna, plenty of time to relax, take photos, or dip your toes in the water. The beach is known for its wide, unspoiled sands and sweeping views over the Aegean, making it a favorite for many.

After Falasarna, the group boards the bus again for a quick 20-minute transfer to Kissamos port. Here, you catch a boat that takes you across the bay to Balos Lagoon. The boat ride is about an hour and offers scenic views of the coastline, building anticipation for the lagoon’s famed turquoise waters and pristine beaches.

Once at Balos, you’ll have roughly 3 hours to explore. You can stroll through the dunes, enjoy a swim, or simply relax on the soft sands. The lagoon is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, thanks to its white sands and vibrant waters.

When the time comes, the boat departs back to Kissamos, and a bus will take you back to your accommodation. The day is packed with beautiful scenery, beach time, and smooth transfers, but some travelers have reported delays and organizational hiccups (more on that below).

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with your pickup from 14 possible locations, including popular spots like Chania, Kolymvari, Platanias, and Kissamos. Expect to be on the bus for about two hours heading toward Falasarna—an unspoiled beach known for its vast sands and panoramic views.

At Falasarna, you’ll enjoy over two hours of free time, with your sun lounger already reserved. This is a highlight because it means you can relax without fighting for a spot or worrying about paying extra on the spot. The beach’s shallow waters are ideal for swimming, and the scenery is truly breathtaking.

Next, the bus makes a quick 20-minute drive to Kissamos port, where you’ll board a ferry for your trip to Balos Lagoon. The ferry ride, about an hour, offers scenic views of the coastline and the chance to relax before arriving at the lagoon. Once there, you are free to spend nearly three hours exploring, swimming, sunbathing, and taking photographs in one of Greece’s most famous beaches.

The return trip involves a boat back to Kissamos and a bus ride to your drop-off points. The whole day is tightly scheduled, so punctuality is important if you want to maximize your time at each stop.

What Travelers Love

Many reviewers rave about the stunning scenery and beautiful beaches. One said, “Falasarna’s white sands and sweeping views were absolutely breathtaking.” The boat ride to Balos, in particular, is often described as a highlight, with travelers noting the crystal-clear waters and the impressive dune landscape.

Another big plus is the convenience—the tour handles all the logistics, from pickup to tickets and sun loungers. This makes it a good choice for travelers who want a hassle-free day without worrying about booking separate transport or finding amenities.

The value for money also gets praise, especially considering the cost includes transfers, boat tickets, and a sun lounger. It’s a comprehensive package that covers a lot of ground and provides access to some of Crete’s best beaches.

The Downsides and Considerations

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Multiple reviews mention organizational issues, delays, and a lack of communication. One traveler recounted a bus breakdown and a subsequent delay that caused their group to miss part of the boat trip, which they felt compromised the experience. Others noted that timings at Falasarna sometimes don’t match the advertised duration, with some only getting around 1.5 hours instead of the promised 2 hours.

Some guests also pointed out the old bus condition and lack of guidance, which can make the journey feel a bit chaotic. If you’re sensitive to delays or prefer a more relaxed pace, this could be a concern.

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, given the bus and boat transfers involved. Be prepared to walk over uneven surfaces and manage your own mobility needs accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

How Good is the Value?

Given that the tour includes transportation, boat tickets, and a reserved sun lounger, the price seems reasonable for a full-day excursion of this scope. It essentially packages what could be costly and complicated to organize independently, especially if you’re traveling in a group.

However, the value is also impacted by the potential for delays or organizational hiccups, which could cut into your beach time or cause frustration. If you’re flexible and don’t mind minor inconveniences, you’ll find this a solid way to see two amazing beaches efficiently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience works best for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day trip without worrying about the details. It’s suited for those who prioritize seeing Falasarna and Balos and are okay with a busy schedule. If your main goal is to enjoy relaxing beach time with minimal hassle, this could be a good fit.

But if you prefer a more flexible, unrushed day or have specific mobility needs, you might want to look for other options. Keep in mind the possibility of delays, and be prepared to adapt if things don’t run perfectly.

The Chania: Falasarna & Balos Cruise offers a convenient way to tick off two of Crete’s most iconic beaches. You get the benefit of pre-arranged logistics, a scenic boat ride, and access to one of Greece’s most famous lagoons—all in one full day. The views and scenery are genuinely stunning, and many travelers feel it offers good value considering what’s included.

However, it’s important to be aware of possible organizational issues and delays. If you’re traveling with a flexible mindset and a love for beautiful beaches, this tour can be a memorable part of your Crete adventure. But if you’re after a more relaxed, unstructured experience, you might want to explore other options or consider booking parts of the trip independently.

This tour is most suitable for those who enjoy guided group trips, want to see two top beaches in one day, and don’t mind a busy schedule. With some patience, you’ll likely walk away with plenty of stunning photos, great memories, and a deeper appreciation for Crete’s natural beauty.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from 14 locations, bus ride to Falasarna, boat to Balos, and bus back are all included.

Do I need to pay for anything extra?
You’ll need a small cash payment of 1 Euro for the environmental fee in Kissamos. Sun loungers at Falasarna are pre-booked, so no extra charge there.

How long do I get at each beach?
Expect around 2 hours at Falasarna and nearly 3 hours at Balos Lagoon, though actual times may vary slightly.

Are there food options on the tour?
The tour doesn’t mention food provisions, so it’s best to bring your own snacks or plan to buy at the beaches.

Is the boat ride safe?
Yes, the boat rides are standard ferry trips. Be aware that sea conditions can sometimes cause slight delays, as some reviews mention.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments, given the transfers and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Towels, beachwear, and sunscreen are a must. Also, bring cash for the environmental fee.

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

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly advertised as family-friendly, it can work for families with older children comfortable with group tours and full-day schedules.

If you’re craving a well-organized day of beaches and don’t mind some minor hiccups, this trip could be a highlight of your Crete stay. Just keep your expectations flexible and enjoy the stunning views that make Crete such a special place.

You can check availability for your dates here: