Kissamos is a fantastic base for exploring Crete because of its proximity to stunning beaches, historic sites, and, notably, the water-based excursions that make island hopping and sightseeing so memorable. If you’re looking to experience Crete’s best without the hassle of driving yourself, private driver services combined with organized trips are the way to go. We’re particularly fond of options like Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip for their all-inclusive approach and lively atmosphere, or the Luxury Catamaran to Balos for a more relaxed, scenic sunset experience. Both tours include free transfers, making your day hassle-free. Plus, the combination of beautiful scenery, water activities, and local food makes these trips a highlight for many travelers.
Here’s a quick look at the types of tours that made our list: full-day cruises with meals and activities, shorter sunset cruises featuring regional snacks and drinks, and options tailored for families or romantics. Whether you want a lively day on the water or a peaceful sunset sail, you’ll find something that suits your style. Now, let’s explore each top private driver service in detail.
1. Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip: Meals, Drinks & Transfer
At number 1, the Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip offers an all-day adventure that’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience. This luxury cruise lasts about 8.5 hours and includes free transfers from 22 pickup locations, including popular resorts and towns. The boat itself is a huge luxury catamaran with sunbeds and shaded lounges, plus a VIP relaxation area, which makes it feel more like a private yacht than a tour.
What sets this trip apart is the variety of included meals and water activities. Guests enjoy Cretan snacks, brunch, lunch, coffee, tea, water, and soft drinks. The onboard professional animator keeps the atmosphere lively, with options for stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming. The itinerary visits the iconic Balos Lagoon and the uninhabited Gramvousa Island, giving ample photo opportunities and time to explore. Reviewers love the organized nature and quality of the food, with one calling it “a full-day feast on the sea.”
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full-day, stress-free outing with plenty of activities, scenic views, and excellent value for money. Keep in mind, the day is packed, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule.
Bottom Line: This trip offers a comprehensive, lively experience with top-tier amenities and memorable scenery, perfect for active travelers or those celebrating special occasions.
2. Luxury Catamaran to Balos: Sunset, Snacks, Drinks & Transfer
At number 2, the Luxury Catamaran to Balos provides a more intimate, relaxed way to experience Crete’s waters, focusing on the stunning sunset views. This 5-hour trip is perfect for those who want a shorter, scenic adventure. Like its full-day counterpart, it includes free transfers from key locations and a large luxury catamaran with sunbeds and shaded lounges.
The highlight here is the sunset over Balos Lagoon—a photographer’s dream. During the cruise, guests enjoy Cretan snacks, soft drinks, and light refreshments, with the onboard entertainment adding a lively touch. Water activities such as snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming are included, giving you plenty of chances to cool off and explore the clear waters.
Guests praise this tour for its peaceful atmosphere and spectacular views, with one reviewer noting, “Watching the sunset over Balos was unforgettable.” It’s best suited for travelers seeking a romantic or restful experience, especially if they prefer to avoid a lengthy day at sea.
Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal for couples or those wanting a serene, picture-perfect experience with a focus on sunset views and light, quality service.
3. Balos & Gramvousa Full-Day Cruise: Food, Water Activities & Scenic Stops
Coming in third, this full-day Balos & Gramvousa cruise combines the best of the first two options, with a focus on comprehensive sightseeing and activities. It runs around 8.5 hours, includes meals, drinks, and transfers, and takes you to both Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of water activities like snorkeling gear, SUPs, and inflatable noodles, plus the option to brunch and lunch onboard, making it great value. The professional animator keeps everyone entertained, while the scenic route includes stops for photos and relaxation. Reviewers appreciate the organised timetable and quality of food, with the added bonus of regional snacks and drinks.
This trip is well-suited for travelers who want a full experience with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing. The length might be tiring for some, but the variety keeps it engaging.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, full-day adventure that combines scenic cruising with active water fun, this is a top choice.
4. Private Sunset Cruise with Snacks and Drinks
While not listed among the top two, a private sunset cruise offers a tailored, quiet escape. Typically, these excursions include snacks, regional drinks, and free transfers. They’re perfect for romantic getaways or special occasions, providing a more personalized experience on your schedule. You can generally choose your preferred departure times and destinations, making it flexible.
How to Choose the Best Private Driver Service in Kissamos
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: a full-day adventure with plenty of activities and food? Or a romantic, short sunset sail? For budget-conscious travelers, the full-day cruise offers excellent value with multiple inclusions, while the sunset cruise is perfect for a more relaxed, intimate experience.
Timing also matters; if you’re visiting in peak summer, booking early ensures you secure a spot, especially for popular sunset trips. The key is to match your preferences — active water sports, scenic relaxation, or a mix of both — with the right tour. Remember to check the pickup locations and choose one near your accommodation.
In summary, Kissamos offers a range of private driver-assisted water tours, from lively full-day cruises to peaceful sunset sails. For those who want a comprehensive, all-in-one experience, the Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip is hard to beat. If romance is your goal, go for the Luxury Catamaran to Balos. Both options promise a memorable day on Crete, with hassle-free transfers and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and taking stunning photos. To make the most of your trip, book early, especially during the busy summer months.
