Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Traveling to Crete and looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenery? Then this luxury catamaran cruise from Kissamos might just be what you’re after. It’s been praised for its elegant setup, knowledgeable crew, and the chance to experience two of the island’s most iconic spots — Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island — without the hassle of crowded boat tours.

What really catches our eye about this experience is how it blends comfort with fun. You’ll enjoy crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery while indulging in fresh Mediterranean cuisine and unlimited drinks. Plus, the small-group vibe ensures a more personal feel, which many travelers find more enjoyable than large, crowded excursions. That said, keep in mind that the cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers or entry tickets at Gramvousa Castle, so plan accordingly.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a touch of luxury, excellent service, and scenic boat outings. It’s also suited for travelers of all ages who want to avoid the crowds and focus on enjoying the gorgeous waters and coastline Crete has to offer. If your idea of a perfect day involves lounging on deck, snorkeling, and savoring good food in a peaceful setting, this cruise probably fits your style.

Key Points

• Semi-private experience: Smaller group sizes make for a more relaxed and personalized day.
• All-inclusive comfort: Unlimited drinks, a Mediterranean lunch, and water activities are included.
• Beautiful stops: Long visits at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa give ample time to swim, snorkel, and explore.
• Top-notch crew: Known for their attentiveness, helpfulness, and friendliness.
• Good value for the price: At $220 per person, the experience offers a lot in terms of scenery, food, and comfort.
• Weather dependent: The trip is subject to weather conditions, so flexibility might be needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing on a spacious, modern catamaran through some of Crete’s most breathtaking waters, this tour might be a perfect fit. From the moment you arrive at Kissamos port, the experience begins with a friendly welcome from the crew, who are not only professional but also certified in first aid — giving peace of mind that safety is taken seriously.

The Itinerary and What Makes Each Stop Special

Your day kicks off with a brief safety briefing and a warm welcome, accompanied by fresh coffee, tea, and local pies. The boat itself is described as luxurious and comfortable, with space enough to relax, walk around, or find a shady spot if the sun gets too intense. The first leg of your journey, lasting about 1.5 hours, is a scenic sail that sets the tone for the day — relaxed, scenic, and anticipation-building.

Balos Lagoon is the first major stop, and it’s easy to see why it’s a highlight. The reviews consistently mention the serenity of this spot, with waters so clear and shallow that it’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. One reviewer called it “a piece of paradise,” noting that they arrived early to beat the crowds and enjoyed the calm waters. You’ll love the chance to paddleboard, snorkel, or just float on an inflatable flamingo, capturing those Instagram shots everyone craves.

While at Balos, light snacks are served — Greek cheeses, seasonal fruits, and small bites that keep everyone energized for the next adventure. The atmosphere here is calm, perfect for unwinding and taking in the stunning scenery.

Next, you’ll head to Gramvousa Island, which combines natural beauty with historical intrigue. Its rocky cliffs and the famous fortress atop the hill are sights to behold. Here, you’ll have about 2 hours to explore, relax, or take a swim. Some guests recommend hiking up to the castle for spectacular views, a tip that’s echoed in reviews praising the island’s varied scenery. You can snorkel, swim, or just lounge on deck, soaking up the sun.

For lunch, the crew prepares a Mediterranean feast onboard, featuring fresh seafood, meats, salads, and a homemade dessert — served in the comfort of the boat while you admire the views. One reviewer raved about Jessica’s cooking, particularly her seafood risotto, calling it “amazing.” Special kid-friendly options are available too, ensuring young travelers aren’t left out of the culinary fun.

The Return Journey and Additional Details

After a relaxed afternoon, the boat sets sail back to Kissamos, giving everyone time to reflect, share photos, or simply nap in the cozy cabins. The cruise lasts about 7.5 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed. Throughout the day, unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer flow freely, making it easy to stay refreshed.

The boat itself is well-equipped with paddleboards, snorkeling gear, inflatables, and even fishing rods. As one reviewer put it, the boat is “spotless,” with lots of room to wander and plenty of amenities like Wi-Fi and music to keep the vibe lively yet laid-back.

What People Are Loving

The overwhelming praise from travelers centers on the friendly, attentive crew and the quality of the food. Jessica, the onboard chef, gets special mention for her skillful preparation of fresh, delicious meals. The small-group setting means you get more personalized attention, which many find adds to the overall enjoyment.

Guests also love that the tour minimizes the time spent in crowds, thanks to clever timing and early arrivals at key spots. One review said, “We arrived before the ferries, so the beaches were quiet — it was like having our own private paradise.” The boat’s capacity is intentionally limited, which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxing.

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The Price and What You’re Getting

At $220 per person, this cruise offers a lot of value. The price includes the luxury boat, professional crew, all water activities, unlimited drinks, and a gourmet lunch. Considering the stunning scenery, the personalized service, and the small-group atmosphere, many travelers see this as a worthwhile splurge compared to larger, more crowded boat trips or self-organized visits.

That said, the VIP experience does come with some missing elements: no hotel transfers or admission tickets at Gramvousa Castle, so you’d need to arrange those separately if needed. Also, weather can impact the trip, so it’s good to be flexible.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re someone who enjoys a luxurious, relaxed day on the water with beautiful scenery and excellent service, this cruise will suit you well. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate good food, a smaller group, and the flexibility to swim, snorkel, or just lounge. Families with older children may find it suitable, especially since water activities are part of the day.

Travelers seeking a more private and peaceful alternative to the larger ferry or boat tours will appreciate this experience. It’s also a fantastic choice for those who want to avoid the crowds at Balos and Gramvousa yet still see these must-visit spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but the tour begins at Kissamos port, where parking is available. You can also choose a transfer option if offered, which some providers include.

How long is the cruise?
The entire day lasts about 7.5 hours, with specific starting times depending on the chosen option. It includes travel time, stops, and onboard activities.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID. It’s also helpful to wear shoes suitable for walking or hiking if you plan to explore Gramvousa Castle.

Are there vegetarian or special meal options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, and a kid-friendly meal is also included.

Can I participate in water activities?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, inflatables, and fishing rods are provided. Just let the crew know if you want to try them out.

What if the weather is bad?
Trips are weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe. It’s good to keep an eye on the forecast and check with the operator if you’re concerned.

Final Thoughts

This luxury catamaran cruise from Kissamos offers a well-rounded experience: beautiful stops, excellent food, attentive service, and a peaceful vibe that’s hard to beat. It’s great for travelers who want to explore Crete’s most famous spots without the crowds and in style. The small-group atmosphere, combined with quality amenities, makes it a memorable day that many reviews describe as one of the highlights of their trip.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a fun family day, or simply want to enjoy some of Crete’s best waters and scenery, this cruise has plenty to offer. Just be prepared for the weather and consider that some elements, like transport to the port or entrance tickets, are not included. Still, for the overall experience, it’s hard to find a more enjoyable way to see Balos and Gramvousa in comfort.

Happy sailing, and I hope this helps you decide if this cruise makes it to your Crete itinerary!

You can check availability for your dates here: