Private Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Meals

A Comprehensive Look at the Private Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Cruise

If you’re dreaming of exploring Crete’s famous beaches without the crowds, a private luxury catamaran cruise could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally sailed this exact route, the reviews highlight a smooth, flexible, and truly scenic experience that’s perfect for those wanting exclusivity and comfort.

What we really like about this tour is its private setting—no sharing the boat with strangers—and the chance to enjoy a delicious Mediterranean meal prepared onboard, making the whole day feel special. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel, paddleboard, or just lounge on spacious decks sounds ideal for a relaxed day at sea.

On the flip side, the price tag of around $3,275 for a group of up to ten might give some pause. It’s definitely an investment, but considering the luxury, exclusivity, and all-inclusive nature, it could be worth it if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a truly personalized experience.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate comfort, privacy, and a touch of luxury—perfect for couples, friends, or small families wanting a memorable day out on the water. If you’re after a more budget-friendly or group tour, there are plenty of other options, but for a tailored, upscale adventure, this one checks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Private cruise means avoiding crowds and enjoying a personalized day.
• Stunning Views & Relaxation: Spacious decks, sea breeze, and panoramic Aegean views create a perfect escape.
• Gourmet Meal & Drinks: A chef-prepared Mediterranean lunch, with seafood, local snacks, and unlimited drinks, adds a special touch.
• Adventure & Water Activities: Snorkeling, SUP surfing, and fishing gear are included, offering fun ways to explore the waters.
• Flexible & Convenient: Multiple stop options and optional pick-up make planning easier.
• Family-Friendly & Comfortable: Includes gear for kids, Wi-Fi, and music for a relaxed, enjoyable day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail: What to Expect from Your Day

When you book this private cruise, you’re signing up for a full 7.5 hours of sailing around some of Crete’s most iconic spots, all in a luxury setting. The journey begins from Kissamos Port, where the crew, easily spotted by their red DanEri flag and friendly smiles, will welcome you aboard. Arrive about 15 minutes early to settle in and get ready for a day of laid-back sailing.

The Itinerary and Stops

Stop 1: Kissamos — Your departure point, where you’ll kick off with some welcome refreshments and a safety briefing. It’s a brief but important step to ensure everyone’s ready for the day ahead.

Stop 2: Cruising the Aegean (1.5 hours) — As the sails catch the breeze, you’ll enjoy panoramic views, music, and the gentle motion of the catamaran. This is your chance to relax, take in the scenery, or snap some photos of the coastline.

Stop 3: Balos Lagoon (2 hours) — One of Crete’s most famous spots, Balos is renowned for its turquoise waters and white sand. You’ll have plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun on the boat’s decks. The reviews mention the “scenic views on the way” which are definitely a highlight. While no entry tickets to the lagoon are included, the stop itself is a highlight—”the water was so clear, perfect for swimming,” noted one reviewer.

Stop 4: Return to the Catamaran (15 minutes) — A quick hop back on the boat for a short cruise to your next destination.

Stop 5: Gramvousa (2 hours) — The island’s famous fortress and dramatic cliffs are a sight to behold. Here, you can explore the castle ruins, enjoy more swimming, or relax with a glass of wine as you take in the landscape. Reviewers loved the “fantastic views” and the “delicious lunch” that followed.

Stop 6: Cruise back (1.5 hours) — Relax and unwind as you sail back to Kissamos, with music and Wi-Fi keeping everyone entertained.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, you’re getting a lot—luxury private catamaran, experienced crew, two-hour stops at Balos and Gramvousa, a Mediterranean lunch with seafood and meat, unlimited soft drinks, beer, and wine, plus gear for snorkeling, fishing, and paddleboarding. Little touches like arm floaties, inflatables, a box of toys for kids, and Wi-Fi make it feel comfortable and family-friendly.

However, it’s worth noting that entry tickets to Gramvousa Castle aren’t included**, so if you want to visit the fortress itself, you’ll need to budget for that separately. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are optional—if you don’t choose that, you’ll need to get to Kissamos Port on your own. The tour is wheelchair accessible and perfect for private groups, making it flexible for different needs.

The Food & Drinks Experience

One of the best parts of this cruise is the onboard dining. The chef prepares a delicious Mediterranean lunch, featuring seafood and meat options, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices available on request. The reviews praise the quality of the food, with many saying it was “absolutely delicious,” and a perfect complement to the day’s relaxing vibe.

Snacks, water, and an unlimited supply of soft drinks, white wine, and beer keep everyone refreshed throughout the trip. It’s a good mix that caters to most tastes, and the local wines and beers seem to be a highlight for many guests.

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Water Activities & Entertainment

Snorkeling gear, SUP boards, arm floaties, inflatables, and fishing equipment are all included. The waters around Crete are famously clear, and many reviewers enjoyed snorkel sessions that revealed colorful fish and vibrant marine life. The paddleboards are perfect for those who want to explore at a leisurely pace. Music and Wi-Fi onboard enhance the relaxed, fun atmosphere, making it easy to enjoy the scenery and share your experiences instantly.

The Overall Experience: Pros and Cons

The biggest advantage is clearly the privacy and comfort. With a private group, you won’t be crammed in with strangers, and the luxury setting makes it feel special, whether it’s a celebration or just a treat for yourself. The stunning scenery at Balos and Gramvousa tends to leave guests in awe, and many reviews mention how beautifully the crew handles the day, making it both relaxing and fun.

On the downside, the price point is quite high for some travelers, especially if you’re on a budget. It’s an experience that’s more about exclusivity and comfort than low-cost adventure. Also, since it’s weather-dependent, bad weather could mean rescheduling or cancellation, which might disrupt travel plans.

And while the tour is quite comprehensive, no guided tour of Gramvousa Castle is included, so if you’re keen to learn about the site’s history, you’ll need to explore on your own or hire an extra guide.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for couples celebrating something special, small groups of friends, or small families wanting a safe, private space to enjoy the day. It’s perfect if you value luxury, privacy, and good food while exploring Crete’s most famous spots. If you’re after a laid-back day with the option to snorkel and paddleboard, this cruise ticks those boxes.

However, if you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a more energetic, group-based adventure, other options may suit you better. Also, those not comfortable with boats or prone to seasickness might want to consider that aspect before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a group tour or private?
This is a private group experience for up to 10 people, so you’ll sail with your chosen companions only.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Pickup is optional and available if selected during booking. If not, you’ll need to meet at Kissamos Port.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience is about 7.5 hours, with the main stops at Balos and Gramvousa lasting around 2 hours each.

What’s the price for the group?
The cost is approximately $3,275 for up to 10 people, making it a good value for a luxurious, private experience.

Are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals available?
Yes, special meal options can be requested in advance to cater to dietary needs.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available, along with music, so you can share your trip in real-time.

Can children join this cruise?
Yes, there are gear and toys for kids, and the experience is generally family-friendly, though very young children should be comfortable on boats.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID. Arrive a bit early to get settled in.

Final Thoughts

This private luxury catamaran cruise offers a genuinely special way to see Crete’s highlights with your own small group. The attention to comfort, quality food, and water-based activities makes it a memorable choice for those wanting an indulgent, personalized day out.

While it’s a pricier option, the exclusivity, stunning scenery, and gourmet meal make it a worthwhile splurge for celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself to a luxurious escape.

If you value privacy, great food, and a relaxed pace, this cruise will meet your expectations and probably exceed them. It’s ideal for travelers looking to combine adventure with comfort in one seamless experience.

In summary, this cruise is best suited for those who want a curated, upscale day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, eat, and enjoy the views in a private setting. It’s less about budget and more about creating a luxurious, relaxed memory—perfect if that’s what you’re after in Crete.

You can check availability for your dates here: