Private Boat Trip to Elafonisi and Balos beach

Planning a trip to Crete and looking for a way to see its iconic beaches without the hassle of crowded shorelines? This private boat tour promises just that, taking you on a full-day journey to some of the island’s most celebrated spots—Elafonisi, Balos, Falasarna, and Gramvousta. It’s a chance to enjoy these breathtaking locations from the comfort of a well-equipped vessel, with the added benefit of a knowledgeable local captain guiding the way.

What really caught our attention about this experience? First, the exclusive nature of a private boat means no large crowds, a more flexible schedule, and personalized service. Second, the itinerary covers Crete’s most famous beaches in a single day—perfect for anyone wanting to tick off multiple must-see spots efficiently. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the price per group might seem high, but considering the private nature and all stops included, many find it excellent value. This tour suits travelers who love scenic, laid-back days on the water, especially those eager to explore Crete’s coast without the fuss of busy public beaches.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Small groups or private settings mean more comfort and flexibility.
• All-Inclusive Stops: From pink sands at Elafonisi to the wreck near Falasarna, the stops are curated for beauty and interest.
• Knowledgeable Guides: The crew is praised for their expertise and friendly service.
• Ideal for Photographers & Nature Lovers: Stunning vistas and clear waters make for fantastic photo opportunities.
• Value for Money: Considering the private nature and multiple stops, many reviews say it’s worth the price.
• Weather Dependent: Good weather is essential—bad weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Off: Meeting at 9:00 am

The tour kicks off in the morning, giving you plenty of time to savor the day. The meeting point is conveniently located, and since this is a private tour, only your group will be onboard, which means you can tailor some parts of the trip to your preferences. The cost is $2,289.75 per group, accommodating up to 7 people, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the exclusivity and all the stops, many find it a fair deal, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who value comfort and personalized service.

Elafonisi Beach: Pink Sands and Transparent Waters

The first stop is Elafonisi, famous for its picture-perfect pink sand and crystal-clear waters. You’ll likely feel as if you’ve stepped into a postcard. The boat will moor near a small dock, making it easy for you to explore the tiny island and the main beach. You’ll have about an hour here, which is enough to swim, relax, or take photos. The admission is included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs. Many reviews mention how delightful Elafonisi is, noting the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to lounge on the boat or the beach.

Kedrodasos Beach: Seclusion and Serenity

Next, the boat will anchor about 50 meters offshore near Kedrodasos—a hidden gem with cedar trees and turquoise waters. This spot is perfect if you’re craving tranquility away from crowds. Swimming ashore or relaxing onboard are both options here, though note that admission to this beach isn’t included, so you might want to bring some snacks or water. Many travelers love the feeling of discovering something less touristy, and Kedrodasos is often praised for its breathtaking setting.

Falasarna Big Beach: Snorkeling and a WWII Wreck

Falasarna is one of Crete’s most renowned beaches, especially appreciated for its long stretch of pristine sand, lively atmosphere, and superb snorkeling. The tour stops here for about 30 minutes, anchoring near a WWII shipwreck, which offers a fantastic snorkeling opportunity. The wreck is a highlight for many—adding a bit of adventure and history to your beach day. Reviewers often mention how the shallow waters and rocky formations attract marine life, making this a favorite for underwater photography or exploring.

Gramvousta Beach and the Medieval Castle

The next stop is Gramvousta, a small bay perfect for a quick dip or snorkel near a wreck, along with a chance to hike up to a medieval castle. The boat anchors inside a calm bay, providing a peaceful setting to swim or walk around. While admission isn’t included, many travelers mention how the mix of beach and history adds a special touch to the trip.

Balos Lagoon: The Crown Jewel

The final stop is Balos, arguably Crete’s most famous beach. Known for its stunning lagoon and shallow turquoise waters, it’s a must-see. The boat anchors close enough for you to swim directly from the vessel or take a short walk on land. Many reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery at Balos, with its vivid colors and vast sands. You get about an hour here, enough to relax, take photos, or wade into the shallow waters. Admission is included, making it an easy, stress-free visit.

What Travelers Say About the Tour

Reviews consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the crew, with many mentioning how guides like Captain Panos, Makis, and Gregory made the experience memorable. One reviewer highlighted Captain Panos’s expertise in spearfishing, describing him as “one of the most experienced free divers and spear fishermen in Greece,” which adds a unique dimension to the trip.

Another trip attendee raved about how easy and organized the booking process was, thanks to Ariadne. The staff’s professionalism comes through in the comments about safety, friendliness, and speaking excellent English, making the experience even more comfortable for international travelers.

Many guests appreciate the carefully curated itinerary that covers Crete’s top beaches, with some quoting how they found it to be “the best boat day cruise ever” or “the most gorgeous beaches” they’ve seen. The inclusion of a local lunch and snacks is often mentioned as a big plus, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing day without worrying about extra meals.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers note that the price can seem high, especially for just a single day. However, when you consider the private, all-inclusive nature, it may be worthwhile. Also, since the tour relies on good weather, cancellations due to bad weather are possible, so keeping an eye on the forecast is wise.

How to Get the Most Out of This Tour

• Book in advance: This experience is popular and tends to be booked around 180 days ahead.
• Bring essentials: Towels, sunscreen, and perhaps some snacks, especially for stops where admission isn’t included.
• Prepare for water activities: Snorkeling gear is a good idea if you have your own, though some equipment might be provided.
• Expect a leisurely pace: With about 8 to 9 hours, you’ll have time at each stop but also some downtime on the boat.
• Weather matters: The tour requires good weather, so flexibility might be necessary if conditions change.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This trip is ideal for those wanting an exclusive, laid-back day exploring Crete’s most iconic beaches. It suits travelers who value personalized service, gorgeous scenery, and the ability to avoid the crowds. Families with older children might enjoy the snorkeling and swimming, but very young kids could find some of the stops less accessible. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a memorable, scenic adventure on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups or just my private party?
This is a private tour, so only your group will be onboard, offering a personalized experience.

What is the price per group?
The cost is $2,289.75 per group, accommodating up to 7 people.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and typically ending back at the meeting point later in the day.

Are there any additional fees I should expect?
Most stops include admission tickets, but certain beaches like Kedrodasos do not. It’s a good idea to bring some extra snacks or water.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, towels, water, and possibly snorkeling gear. Since the tour includes swimming and snorkeling, waterproof camera or phone cases are also handy.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather’s bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance, and they will offer a full refund or reschedule if weather conditions are poor.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It can be enjoyed by travelers comfortable with boat trips and water activities. Very young children might find some stops less suitable, but older kids and teens usually love the beaches and snorkeling.

Are lunch and snacks included?
Yes, many reviews mention a local lunch and snacks provided during the day, enhancing the experience.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility, and the crew can tailor parts of the trip to your preferences, within the schedule.

If you’re after a luxurious, all-in-one day trip to Crete’s most stunning beaches, this private boat trip really delivers. You’ll enjoy the exclusivity, the expert guidance, and the chance to soak in some incredible scenery at your own pace. It’s a fantastic way to see the best of Crete’s coast, especially if you’re seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and exclusive access.

This experience is best suited for travelers who don’t mind paying a premium for a personalized, hassle-free day on the water. If you’re traveling with friends or family and appreciate comfort and beautiful settings, this tour could very well be one of the highlights of your trip to Crete.