Balos Beach and Gramvousa island shared group Sailing Cruise

If you’re considering a day on the water in Crete, this Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island shared sailing cruise offers a compelling way to soak up some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of large crowds or hectic schedules. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a pretty appealing picture of this 8-hour adventure, which promises a mix of relaxation, exploration, and authentic local flavors.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines the serenity of sailing with the chance to visit some of Crete’s most famed natural spots — the pink sands of Balos Lagoon and the historical fortress of Gramvousa. Plus, the small group size (max 8 travelers) hints at a more intimate, personalized vibe that many travelers seek. On the flip side, if you dislike boat trips or are sensitive to wind and sea conditions, this might not be your ideal day. But for those craving a balanced mix of leisure and discovery, this cruise hits a lot of the right notes. It’s especially well suited for travelers wanting to avoid crowded ferries and prefer a more relaxed, guided experience.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 travelers, which means more personalized attention and a quieter day.
• Authentic Crete Flavors: Enjoy a freshly prepared traditional lunch onboard, giving you a true taste of local cuisine.
• Flexible Itinerary: Visit Gramvousa Island, explore its castle, and swim in Balos Lagoon with fewer crowds compared to big ferries.
• Comfort and Convenience: Inside cabins for changing, protected outdoor seating areas, and a professional crew.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: Perfect if you love sailing, scenic views, and snorkeling in quieter spots.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is subject to good weather, with a full refund if canceled due to bad conditions.

Setting Sail from Kissamos: What to Expect

Starting at Kissamos Port, your day begins with a sense of anticipation. The boat, STELLA, is ready to catch the wind and take you across the sparkling waters of the Aegean. One of the first pleasures of this trip is feeling the breeze as the sails go up — a simple yet freeing experience that sets the tone for the day.

From the moment you leave port, the views unfold dramatically. You’ll pass the peninsula of Gramvousa, with its caves and steep cliffs, offering a scenic backdrop as you cruise. We loved how the crew shares insights into the landscape, adding a layer of context to the stunning scenery. It’s a leisurely sail, roughly 1.5 hours to the first stop, giving you plenty of time to settle into the rhythm of the sea and enjoy the views.

Exploring Gramvousa Island and Its Castle

The first anchor point is Gramvousa Island, a highlight for many. Here, you’ll have about two hours to swim, snorkel, and explore. The water is reportedly crystal clear, ideal for a dip or snorkeling to see the marine life. The island’s fortress, built by Venetians and later completed by Arabians, is a major draw — offering panoramic views from atop a steep rock.

According to reviews, visitors find the visit to the Castle of Gramvousa particularly memorable, with some describing it as a site where history and stunning vistas collide. As one reviewer put it, “at the top of a steep rock you can visit the Castle of Gramvousa Island and enjoy spectacular views.” It’s a steep climb, but the payoff is well worth the effort for history buffs and photo aficionados.

The Significance of the Fortress

The fortress is not just a scenic lookout but also a site of historical importance. Built during Venetian rule and completed by Arabians, it represents centuries of layered history. Interestingly, this fortress was the launch point of the Cretan revolution in 1825, making it a symbol of local resilience. If you’re into history, you’ll appreciate the brief visit here, which adds a deeper dimension to your trip.

Balos Lagoon: A Beach Like No Other

The real star of the tour is Balos Lagoon, often ranked among the top beaches worldwide. The shallow, turquoise waters and soft pink sands create an almost unreal landscape. Expect about two hours here to walk along the sandy shoreline, take photos, and indulge in some leisurely swimming.

Many reviews emphasize how peaceful and less crowded it feels, especially compared to the busy ferries that visit during peak hours. The tour’s approach of visiting during less busy times means you can enjoy Balos in a more relaxed atmosphere — perfect for unwinding and soaking in the scenery.

Returning to Kissamos: Scenic Highlights on the Way Back

As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Kissamos, about 1.5 hours away. On this return trip, you’ll witness more of the dramatic cliffs of the Gramvousa Peninsula and the clear waters of the coast. It’s a gentle end to a full day of exploration, providing more opportunities for photos and reflection.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

The included amenities like protected outdoor seating, spray hoods, and inside cabins for changing make the journey comfortable, especially if the weather is windy or rainy. The traditional onboard lunch, freshly prepared, offers a taste of local Crete flavors — a real plus for food lovers. The mobile ticket makes it easy to organize your day without hassle.

The tour begins at 11:00 am from E65 18, Trachilos, and lasts around 8 hours, including travel, exploration, and return. It’s a well-paced day, but bear in mind that it’s not recommended for people with mobility problems due to the steep walks and boat boarding.

The cost, around $226.81 per person, might seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in the small-group setting, fresh onboard lunch, and multiple stops at iconic locations, it offers solid value, especially for those craving a personalized experience.

What the Reviews Say

The one available review from a traveler, Oskars_B, sums it up nicely: “Highly recommended. Vasilis was our friendly skipper with his niece and yacht Izabela, we enjoyed our day.” The emphasis on friendly crew and good communication suggests this experience is well-managed and personable. Although there’s only one review, its glowing tone indicates a satisfying day on the water.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate sailing, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you want to visit key sites like Balos and Gramvousa without the crowds and enjoy a more intimate atmosphere. If you’re after adventure or strict schedules, this might not be your best fit, but for those seeking serenity and authentic experiences, it delivers well.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you love boats and scenic coastlines, you’ll probably find this cruise delightful. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a more personalized, less commercialized day out, with the added bonus of enjoying Crete’s natural beauty and history. The inclusion of a traditional onboard lunch and the chance to swim in peaceful spots are big pluses.

However, keep in mind that the tour relies on good weather and is limited to a small group. If you’re sensitive to sea conditions or prefer larger, more bustling tours, this may not be the best option. Still, for anyone looking for a balanced mix of relaxation, exploration, and local flavor, this cruise has a lot to offer.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves boat sailing, snorkeling, and some walking on steep terrain at the fortress, so it’s better suited for older children or teenagers. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but families with older kids who enjoy outdoor activities might find it enjoyable.

How long is the sailing portion of the tour?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours sailing from Kissamos to Gramvousa and about 1.5 hours back, with plenty of scenic views during both parts of the journey.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the transportation by boat, the traditional onboard lunch, and access to the different stops. It does not specify additional fees at the sites, but generally, the boat cruise covers all major expenses.

Can I change clothes onboard?
Yes, there are inside cabins available for changing, which adds convenience especially if you want to freshen up or change after swimming.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, giving peace of mind.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it starts at 11:00 am and lasts around 8 hours, including time at each stop and the return journey.

In the end, this sailing cruise offers a well-rounded way to explore some of Crete’s most beautiful spots from the water, with the intimacy of a small group and the charm of a traditional vessel. Whether you’re into history, nature, or simply relaxing on a boat, this trip can be a memorable part of your Crete adventure.