Thinking of exploring Crete’s most iconic sights by boat? The Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip offers a luxurious way to experience these breathtaking islands, and while it’s certainly a well-loved excursion, it’s worth knowing what to expect before you book. This review aims to give you a clear, honest picture of what the day involves, so you can decide if it suits your travel style.
One thing we really appreciate about this trip is the large, comfortable catamaran equipped with sunbeds, shaded lounges, and even a VIP relaxation area. It’s clear that comfort and space are prioritized, making for a more relaxed day on the water. Plus, the included meals and drinks are a strong plus—there’s a good variety of snacks, a brunch, and a hearty lunch, alongside soft drinks, water, and regional wines.
On the flip side, one consideration is the tight timing at each location. Reviews mention that the stops, especially at Balos Lagoon, can feel a bit rushed — a common issue with day trips in busy areas. Also, the cruise is weather-dependent, so if wind or seas are rough, the itinerary might change unexpectedly.
Ultimately, this is an experience best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one day on Crete’s stunning coast, valuing comfort, good food, and a smooth trip over the need for extensive beach time or an unplugged adventure.
Key Points
- Luxury Comfort: Spacious, modern catamaran with plenty of seating options, sunbeds, and shaded areas.
- All-Inclusive Food & Drinks: Tasty regional snacks, brunch, lunch, and unlimited soft drinks, wine, and water.
- Water Activities Galore: SUP, snorkeling, inflatable noodles, and even a water slide — fun for all ages.
- Early Arrival Benefits: Arriving at Balos before the crowds allows for peaceful swimming and photo opportunities.
- Expert Crew & Entertainment: Friendly staff, engaging guide, and a onboard animator keep the mood lively.
- Flexible Ticket Options: Choose from comfort seats or VIP packages for a more exclusive experience.
What’s Included and How the Day Unfolds
The day kicks off at Kissamos Port, where the friendly crew welcomes you with refreshments and safety info. From there, the large catamaran begins sailing towards Balos Lagoon, renowned for its turquoise waters and pink sands, famous for its picture-perfect scenery. The journey itself is part of the fun, with scenic views and the promise of a relaxing day at sea.
Early Access to Balos Lagoon
One of the best parts? You get to reach Balos early — before the majority of travelers arrive. This means you can enjoy the calm, clear waters and take those iconic photos without the crowds. The trip includes a tender boat that takes you closer to the lagoon, where you’re free to swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun on the soft sands.
Multiple reviews highlight how much they appreciated being there first. Ashmita from Canada called it a “10/10 experience” and loved arriving before the crowds, while others echoed that sentiment, noting the peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty. A common tip: bring water shoes for the walk from the dock to the beach — the terrain can be rocky.
Water Fun and Scenic Breaks
The water activities are plentiful and well thought out. SUPs, snorkels, and inflatables— including a pink flamingo float — are available to add some playful touches. Jessica from the US appreciated floating around with snorkel gear and noodles, describing the water as “very nice” and the scene as “relaxing.”
You’ll have some free time here, with options to swim, snap photos, or just lounge in the sun. The onboard crew and entertainer make sure everyone stays engaged, turning the journey into a lively, fun-filled day.
Lunch with a View
Back on board, a Cretan lunch awaits — a highlight for many. The food is described as “delicious,” generous, and regional, with reviews praising the quality and variety. You can also opt to buy a cocktail or a premium drink to elevate the experience. Megan from the US appreciated the “very luxurious” catamaran and the great food options.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting Gramvousa Island
Next stop: Gramvousa Island, an uninhabited wild landscape that was once a pirate hideout. Here, you can explore the rugged terrain, enjoy more swimming, or snap photos of the natural scenery. The crew often helps guests learn traditional Greek dances like Sirtaki — a fun way to connect with the local culture.
Reviews praise this part of the trip for its scenic value. Julia from Australia loved the “crystal-clear water” and the “beautiful views.” Be aware that time here can be limited, so plan accordingly.
Return & Reflections
The cruise then begins its sail back, giving you another hour or so to relax, enjoy drinks, and chat with fellow travelers. The whole day lasts around 8.5 hours, including transfers, which many reviewers say is a fair length for a full day of adventure and relaxation.
The Itinerary in Detail
- Pickup Options: With over 22 pickup locations, including hotels and popular spots, organizers make it convenient to meet up.
- Start at Kissamos Port: Enjoy a brief safety briefing and refreshments.
- Cruise to Balos: Approximate sailing time is 1 hour.
- Balos Beach: 2 hours of free time, photo stops, swimming, snorkeling, and regional snacks with scenic views.
- Cruise to Gramvousa: 15-minute sail.
- Gramvousa Island: 2.25 hours for exploring, swimming, and lunch.
- Return cruise: About 1 hour back to port.
- Drop-off: Same as pickup, with multiple locations for convenience.
The itinerary can change due to weather, but the crew’s priority is safety and making sure everyone has a memorable day.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This trip is perfect if you want a luxury, worry-free day exploring Crete’s stunning beaches without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or meals. The included food and drinks, combined with the spacious catamaran, make it a good value for those looking to indulge a little. The water activities suit adventurous types and families alike—especially if you enjoy floating, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting.
Keep in mind it’s a full-day tour, so if you prefer to spend more time on the beach or avoid rushing, this might feel a bit compact. Also, if weather conditions are poor, the experience could be affected, so checking the forecast beforehand is wise.
Practical Tips for Booking & Enjoying the Trip
- Arrive early at your pickup point to avoid missing the transfer—timeliness is key.
- Bring essentials: Sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, waterproof shoes for walking, and your ID or passport.
- Wear flip flops or slides when visiting Balos beach — the walk from the dock can be rocky.
- Consider the VIP option if you want a reserved sunbed, a small bottle of wine, and extra comfort.
- Prepare for the weather: The cruise is weather-dependent, so be flexible with your plans if they change unexpectedly.
- Water shoes are recommended for the rocky walk from the dock to Balos beach, as some reviews note the terrain can be tough barefoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cruise suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it includes water activities like snorkeling and floating, which children might enjoy. However, the trip is quite long, and safety requirements such as respecting marine life and rocky terrain should be considered. Unaccompanied minors and very young children under 2 may not be ideal due to mobility or safety concerns.
What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat ride, all meals (snacks, brunch, lunch), and unlimited drinks including soft drinks, water, and regional wine. Water activities like snorkeling gear, SUPs, inflatables, and a water slide are also included.
Can I upgrade to VIP?
Yes, the VIP option offers a reserved sunbed, towel, a souvenir bracelet, and your choice of a small bottle of wine or a cold beer. It’s great if you want a more exclusive experience with additional comforts.
What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including transfers and the time spent at each location.
What should I pack?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water shoes, and your ID or passport. It’s also wise to have some cash or a card if you want to purchase extra drinks or souvenirs onboard.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the cruise is weather-dependent, it may be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe. The crew prioritizes safety and will keep guests informed. You might find that the itinerary changes, like spending more time at Gramvousa if Balos isn’t accessible.
Is there any safety briefing?
The tour includes a safety briefing at the start, but some reviews mention the absence of detailed safety instructions like life jacket demos. It’s best to listen carefully and ask if you have concerns.
Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip: Meals, Drinks & Transfer
Final Thoughts
The Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip offers a luxurious, well-organized way to see two of Crete’s most stunning spots. The large, modern boat, combined with the all-inclusive meals and water activities, provides great value for travelers looking for comfort and convenience. The early arrival at Balos means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy the beauty in peace, while the scenic cruise and friendly crew ensure you’ll have a memorable day.
This experience is ideal for those who want to indulge a bit, savor regional flavors, and relax in style. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a full day on the beach or those who prefer a less structured tour. But if you’re after a smooth, scenic, and comfortable day on Crete’s coast, this cruise is worth considering.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a hassle-free way to see these iconic islands, the Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip stands out as a popular choice among travelers seeking quality, comfort, and the best views Crete has to offer.
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