From Heraklion: Cruise to Balos Lagoon and Chania Old Town

If you’re considering a day trip from Heraklion to explore some of Crete’s most iconic spots, this cruise to Balos Lagoon and Chania Old Town might just be worth your time. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines scenic boat rides, natural beauty, and a taste of local culture—and at a budget-friendly price of $79 per person, it’s quite appealing.

What really draws people in are the stunning views of the Aegean coastline and the chance to swim in Balos Lagoon’s crystal waters. Plus, a stop in Chania offers that postcard-worthy Venetian harbor and quaint streets that make for lovely strolling. But, as with any long day trip, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as the length of the journey and the crowds on the boat.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, scenic boating, and small-town charm. If you’re okay with a long day on a bus and boat, and enjoy a mix of sightseeing and relaxing in the water, you’ll find this experience quite rewarding. Let’s unpack what to expect so you can decide if it’s the right fit.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery along Crete’s western coast makes for memorable photo opportunities.
• Balos Lagoon offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing away from crowds.
• Chania Old Town features charming alleys and a Venetian harbor—great for exploring or a seaside coffee.
• Long day: Expect about 14.5 to 16 hours from pickup to drop-off, including travel time.
• Value for money: At $79, this includes transportation, a professional guide, and a boat cruise — meals are extra.
• Environmental updates: The itinerary might change depending on regulations protecting Balos, possibly limiting beach access.
• Not suitable for everyone: The trip involves some rocky beaches and long walking distances, so it’s less friendly for mobility-impaired travelers.
• Reviews highlight: knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and good organization, though boat seating can be crowded.
• Great for: those who enjoy sightseeing, natural beauty, and don’t mind a packed schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Off — Early Morning Pickup in Heraklion

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or nearby location. The tour provider offers a convenient door-to-door service, which is a real plus. You’ll hop on a comfortable bus heading west, with the journey lasting approximately 4 hours. This is a fairly long ride, but it’s mostly comfortable, with a quick 20-minute stop along the way for rest, snacks, or a bathroom break.

First Stop — Chania (2 Hours)

Arriving in Chania, you’ll step into a city that looks like it’s straight out of a travel magazine. The old town’s narrow streets wind past colorful shops, lively cafés, and the famous Venetian harbor. This is a highlight, and most people appreciate the free time, which allows for wandering, shopping, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere.

One review mentions, “Very well organized, pick up/drop off right from your hotel,” which underscores how smooth the logistics are. Also, travelers have noted that the views and architecture are worth the walk, and some take extra time exploring local eateries or grabbing a coffee.

Heading to Kasteli — The Launch Point for the Boat

After saying goodbye to Chania, you’ll hop back on the bus for about 40 minutes to Kasteli, where the boat awaits. This part of the trip is exciting because it signals the start of the sea adventure. The boat departure point is scenic, with views of the coastline and a chance to get a quick snapshot of the rugged terrain.

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The Boat Cruise — A 5-Hour Journey to Balos

The heart of this tour is the boat ride. As you set sail along the Gramvousa peninsula and fortress, you’ll get spectacular coastal views. The cruise lasts roughly 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the sea breeze.

Onboard, there’s a restaurant and snack bar where you can purchase meals, drinks, and snacks—lunch isn’t included in the tour price, so bringing some extra cash is a good idea. The reviews suggest the boat can get crowded, and finding a seat might sometimes be a challenge, especially at peak times.

One traveler shared, “Boat can get crowded and might not have spaces to sit at times but don’t be put off by it.” It’s a common experience, so packing light and arriving early could help.

Scenic Stops — Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon

The cruise makes a photo stop at Gramvousa with stunning views and a quick look at the fortress. Then, it’s time for the main event: Balos Lagoon. The boat docks here, and you’re given about 2.5 hours to swim, sunbathe, or explore.

The water is famously clear and warm enough for swimming and snorkeling. However, the beaches can be rocky, so water shoes are highly recommended—many reviews mention this. Access to the beach can be difficult for those with mobility challenges, and environmental regulations may limit where you can go ashore, possibly reducing beach access at certain times.

One review states, “Wear some good water shoes — very rocky.” It’s also worth noting that the tour might not allow disembarkation if environmental protections are in place, so it’s good to be flexible.

Returning to Kasteli and The Long Journey Back

After soaking up the natural beauty, the boat heads back to Kasteli, taking another 5 hours. The return trip is a good chance to relax, reflect on the day, and enjoy the coastal views one last time. Expect the bus ride back to Heraklion to last around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

End of the Day — Drop-Off and Reflection

You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or nearby location, often quite late in the evening. Keep in mind that dinner options might be limited at that hour, especially if you’re returning around 9 pm or later.

Is It Worth the Cost?

At $79 per person, this tour offers a significant amount of value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and a boat cruise—all things that add convenience and expertise to the experience. The only extra costs are food and drinks, which you’ll purchase onboard.

Considering the price of similar tours, this package offers a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural stops, and natural beauty. Many travelers, including one who called it “absolutely amazing,” feel they received good value for what they paid.

What We Loved

• The guides are knowledgeable, making the trip informative and engaging.
• The stunning scenery along the coast, perfect for photos and relaxing.
• The opportunity to swim in Balos Lagoon, a highlight for water lovers.
• The smooth organization from pickup to drop-off, making the day flow seamlessly.

What Could Be Better

• The long travel time might be tiring for some. The cumulative journey from Heraklion to Chania, then across the sea, makes this a full day.
• Boat crowding can be an issue, especially on high-demand days.
• The beach access can be rocky or limited due to environmental rules, so don’t expect a full beach day.
• It’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who dislike long bus or boat rides.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves spectacular scenery, exploring charming towns, and enjoys swimming in beautiful waters, this cruise is a solid choice. It’s especially good for travelers who don’t mind a full day of travel and are eager to experience some of Crete’s natural and cultural gems in one go.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, less structured days or have mobility concerns, you might find this trip a bit intense. It’s best suited for those who can handle busy boat decks and are comfortable with the length of the journey.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from specific locations in Heraklion and nearby areas, making the start and end of the day very convenient.

How long is the entire tour?
Expect about 14.5 to 16 hours from pickup to return, including travel time, sightseeing, and cruising.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Water shoes are also recommended due to rocky beaches.

Can I swim at Balos Lagoon?
Yes, you’ll have plenty of time to swim and snorkel, but be aware that environmental protections might limit beach access or disembarkation.

What languages does the guide speak?
The tour is available in several languages: English, Italian, French, Polish, and German.

Is this suitable for kids or those with mobility issues?
It’s not particularly suited for wheelchair users or those with mobility difficulties because of the rocky beaches and walking involved.

Do I need to pay extra for meals?
Lunch is not included in the tour price. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

What kind of boat is used?
It’s a standard cruise boat, which can get crowded. Seating isn’t guaranteed, so arrive early if possible.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled, you can usually reschedule or get a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Crete’s most stunning spots in one day. You get the chance to explore the charming streets of Chania, relax in the famed waters of Balos Lagoon, and enjoy scenic coastlines from the comfort of a boat. It’s a good pick if you’re comfortable with long days and want a well-organized, value-packed experience.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—those who dislike crowds or rocky beaches may want to consider other options—the overall vibe is positive. Many who’ve taken it say guides are friendly, scenery is breathtaking, and it’s a trip they’d recommend.

If you’re ready for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and coastal views, this adventure from Heraklion could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: