Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise (small group up to 12)

If you’re dreaming of days spent lounging on pristine beaches and floating in crystal-clear waters, a catamaran cruise around Crete’s Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island might just be what you need. This particular tour, offered by Sailing Exploring & Driving Creta, has garnered high praise for its stunning scenery, friendly crew, and quality experience — and it’s easy to see why.

What stood out to us are the intimacy of the small group size, which ensures plenty of personal attention, and the chance to enjoy Balos and Gramvousa without the overwhelming crowds. Plus, the inclusion of local snacks and a homemade Greek lunch adds a genuine touch that elevates the whole day. That said, a potential consideration is that, despite the yacht’s length, some travelers have mentioned feeling a bit cramped with the maximum of 10-12 people onboard.

This tour is best suited for those who love scenic sailing, enjoy snorkelling, and appreciate relaxed, small-group experiences. If you’re looking for a laid-back day of sun, sea, and delicious food with knowledgeable guides leading the way, this cruise could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Stunning scenery with clear waters and beautiful beaches, away from crowds.
• Includes local snacks and homemade Greek lunch, offering good value for the price.
• Snorkeling gear provided allows you to explore beneath the waves.
• Comfortable boat facilities with shade, privacy, and space to relax.
• Expert guides with high reviews for friendliness and helpfulness.

An In-Depth Look at the Crete Catamaran Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at the Kissamos meeting point at 10:00 am, with pickup options available if you choose that add-on. You’ll spend roughly seven hours on the water, which gives you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The entire experience ends back at the meeting point, so transportation logistics are straightforward.

The Small Group Advantage

This isn’t a large tourist boat — with a maximum of 12 people (though they typically don’t accept more than 10 onboard), you get a more relaxed atmosphere. Travelers consistently mention how this makes the day more enjoyable, with plenty of space to stretch out and ask questions. As one reviewer notes, “lots of chances to ask your guides questions,” and that kind of interaction really enhances the trip.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Balos Lagoon

The highlight for many is Balos Lagoon, renowned for its strikingly clear waters and soft white sand. The tour offers around two hours here, which might seem brief but is enough to swim, sunbathe, and walk along the expansive beach without the stress of crowds.

One of the most appreciated aspects is the feeling of exclusivity — “you can enjoy the white beach without the stress of losing your sunbed, as it’s secured on the boat,” shares a reviewer. The water’s transparency and the warm Mediterranean sun make for ideal swimming conditions, and you’ll love the chance to relax in a private setting.

Second Stop: Gramvousa Island

Next, the boat sails over to Gramvousa Island, where you’ll have time for more swimming and snorkeling. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, so you can explore the seabed and admire marine life in the clear waters. One traveler mentioned being surprised at the quality of the lunch, which exceeded expectations. “They made us an incredible assortment of food,” they shared, indicating the food is a real highlight.

On Gramvousa, you also have the chance to visit the old pirate fortress atop the hill. The ruins are picturesque and rich with history, adding a bit of adventure and exploration to the day. The island’s rugged beauty and historic intrigue make this stop memorable.

Food and Drinks

We loved the way the tour balances sightseeing with good eats. Throughout the day, there are local snacks, seasonal fruits, and drinks — including beer, wine, Colas, and bottled water. The homemade Greek lunch is a standout, with reviews praising its quality, with one traveler describing it as “some of the best food that we had in Crete.”

The inclusion of alcohol adds to the relaxed vibe, making it easier to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Snorkeling and Comfort

Snorkeling gear is included, which is perfect for those wanting to explore underwater. The boat itself offers shade, comfort, and privacy, so you won’t be exposed to the sun all day. Reviewers mention the boat’s spaciousness and the friendly crew, who go out of their way to make everyone comfortable.

The Crew and Service

Many reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness. Cindy from one review said, “The crew was top notch,” and others appreciated how the guides answered all questions in detail. The crew’s effort to provide a seamless experience, from the initial questions to the on-board service, makes a notable difference.

Value for Money

At about $231 per person, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the full-day experience, included meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and small-group setting, many feel it offers good value. Guests often comment on how the quality of food and the personalized attention make it worth the cost.

What Could Be Better?

While most reviews are glowing, some mention feeling a bit cramped, especially if the boat reaches its maximum capacity of 12. One guest noted, “10 felt too cramped for such a small yacht,” so if space is a priority, it’s worth considering. The boat is 46 feet long but still has a limited capacity, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy close but not crowded conditions.

Final Thoughts

This tour is ideal if you want a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized day on the water. The combination of beautiful stops, friendly guides, and good food makes it stand out. The small group size improves the overall experience, allowing for more interaction and a quieter atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a personalized sailing experience with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and delicious food, this cruise checks all those boxes. It’s suitable for travelers who value comfort, good service, and authentic local flavors. Experienced travelers and first-timers alike will appreciate the informative guides and stunning scenery.

However, if you prefer more space, or if you’re traveling with very young children who might find a cramped space challenging, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire cruise lasts about seven hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is pickup included?
Pickup is offered if you choose the option during booking; otherwise, you’ll meet at the designated spot.

What’s included in the price?
You get snacks, seasonal fruits, drinks (including alcohol), a homemade Greek lunch, snorkeling equipment, and boat comfort amenities like shade and privacy.

Can I snorkel at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the seabed at both stops.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
The yacht’s maximum capacity is technically 12, but they typically accept no more than 10 guests to keep it comfortable.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the experience is relaxed and suitable for most travelers, especially those comfortable on boats and who enjoy sun and water activities.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimsuits, towels, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. The tour does not include these essentials, so pack accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This small-group catamaran cruise offers a thoughtful way to experience some of Crete’s most spectacular coastal sights. Combining stunning scenery, friendly guides, and thoughtful touches like homemade meals, it provides a memorable day on the water. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate outing with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and indulge. For those who value good service, beautiful views, and a taste of local hospitality, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

Whether you’re visiting Crete for a first time or you’ve been around the island a few times, this tour offers a peaceful, scenic break from busy sightseeing. Just keep in mind the space limitations if you prefer a little more room to spread out. Overall, it’s a solid choice that many travelers highly recommend.