From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

If you’re planning a trip to Crete, chances are you’ve heard about the legendary Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Their reputation for breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear waters makes them must-see spots. While you could rent a car or join a guided land tour, there’s something special about experiencing these gems from the water. That’s where a full-day boat cruise from Kissamos comes in—it offers a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery, explore both sites, and avoid the hassle of driving or parking.

We’re not speaking from personal experience here, but from reviews and information that travelers have shared. This particular cruise gets decent marks, with an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on over 5,100 reviews. What stands out? The stunning vistas that come with the boat ride, the opportunity to swim in Balos’ emerald waters, and the informative stops at Gramvousa Island, including its Venetian castle.

That said, no trip is perfect, and a few considerations are worth noting. The timing on the island can be tight, especially at Balos, where you might wish for more time to truly soak it all in. Plus, the swimming involves jumping off the boat into rocky waters, which can be daunting if you’re not prepared. This cruise will suit travelers who love scenic outings, enjoy a bit of adventure, and are okay with a packed schedule. It’s especially good if you prefer to leave the logistics of boat and island visits to the experts.

Key Points

• Stunning Views & Natural Beauty: Expect jaw-dropping landscapes, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs.
• Convenient & Well-Organized: The cruise offers a smooth experience with clear timing and onboard amenities.
• Multiple Highlights: Visit a historic Venetian castle, see a shipwreck, explore caves, and swim at Balos.
• Time-Limited Island Stops: You’ll get a good taste of each location but might find the time at Balos a bit short.
• Great for Relaxation & Photography: Plenty of scenic moments perfect for snapping photos or just relaxing.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users: This is a boat-based experience with some walking, especially up to the castle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

When you book this cruise, you’ll depart from Kissamos Port, a straightforward process that is easy to access either by car or bus from Chania. The day lasts about 7 hours, with the actual start time depending on the specific booking.

The Boat Ride

Your journey begins with around an hour sailing in the bay. This leg is all about settling into the trip, enjoying the views of steep cliffs, secluded beaches, and the vast blue sea. The boat ride itself is generally well-organized, with a friendly crew and clean facilities, including air-conditioned toilets. Reviewers often mention how comfortable and efficiently run the boat is, which makes the experience more relaxing.

First Stop: Gramvousa Island

Depending on the itinerary, your first stop might be Gramvousa, a small but striking island famous for its Venetian fortress atop a steep rock. The walk up to the castle takes about 15-20 minutes but is totally worth the effort for the panoramic views of Balos and the surrounding sea. You’ll also see the island’s old shipwreck, which adds a touch of maritime nostalgia to the scenery.

On your time here of roughly two hours, you’ll explore the Venetian castle, wander through the island’s rugged landscape, and visit the Greek Orthodox church by the seaside. Some travelers appreciate the historical charm and natural ruggedness of Gramvousa, with reviews praising the breathtaking vistas and the informational value of staff (many reviews highlight guides or crew providing helpful insights).

Second Stop: Balos Lagoon

After Gramvousa, the boat heads to Balos Lagoon, one of the world’s most photographed beaches. The turquoise waters, white sand, and rocky formations make it an almost surreal sight. The limestone rocks and gently sloping shores create a picture-perfect setting.

Here, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to relax, swim, or snorkel. The crystal-clear waters are a major highlight, often described as some of the best in the world. Reviewers note that the water shoes are useful due to rocks when entering the water, and some mention that the beach can be crowded when multiple boats arrive, although it never feels overly busy.

You’ll also have the chance to take a short hike up to the viewpoint at the top of Balos, which offers incredible views of the lagoon and the surrounding landscape. Many mention that the scenery is hard to match, and some regret the short amount of time they had to linger at Balos.

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Return Trip

After your time at Balos, the boat returns to Kissamos, with an estimated one-hour sail back. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with the logistics handled smoothly by the crew.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers the round-trip boat cruise, the captain and crew, and the visits to Balos and Gramvousa if you opt for the full package. Some options include food and drinks, but it’s wise to check your specific booking.

You’ll need to budget extra for hotel transfers if you want door-to-door service, as this isn’t included. There’s also a small administrative fee of 1 EUR per person over 13, payable at the port.

Onboard Experience

Many reviews highlight the well-maintained boat, friendly staff, and the availability of snacks and drinks for purchase. Some travelers prefer to bring their own food, especially since lunch options onboard can sometimes run out or be limited.

Timing & Planning Tips

• Arrive at least 40 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process.
• Bring comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, and swimwear.
• A towel is essential for the swimming stops.
• Pack light, especially if you plan to swim to shore—many travelers mention rocky entries that benefit from water shoes.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This cruise is ideal for those who love scenic trips and want an easy way to visit Balos and Gramvousa without the hassle of driving and parking. Many reviews mention how convenient and well-organized the experience is, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a stress-free day.

However, it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for more time on the beach or more strenuous activities like hiking or exploring. The short stops mean you’ll get a taste but not a deep immersion.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• Photographers and scenics lovers: The views are truly spectacular.
• Swimmers and snorkelers: The waters are clear and inviting.
• History buffs: The Venetian castle and shipwreck add a historical touch.
• Travelers seeking convenience: The organized boat trip handles logistics smoothly.
• People with limited time: The tour packs a lot into one day.

The Downsides to Keep in Mind

• Limited time at each stop: You might wish for longer at Balos or Gramvousa.
• Potential crowds: Especially at Balos when multiple boats arrive.
• Rocky entries for swimming: Water shoes are recommended.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users: The walk up to the castle and boat docks may pose challenges.
• Weather dependency: Calm seas are ideal for a smooth ride but weather can impact the experience.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa offers a beautiful blend of scenery, history, and relaxation. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a convenient, well-organized way to see Crete’s most iconic spots. While the stops are a bit timed and the experience can get crowded, the stunning landscapes and memorable swim make it worthwhile.

If you’re someone who values easy logistics, scenic views, and a touch of adventure, this trip will likely leave you with great memories—and plenty of photos. Just remember to pack smart, arrive early, and enjoy the ride.

FAQ

Is transportation to Kissamos Port included?
No, the cruise departs from Kissamos Port, and you need to arrange your own transport there. Public buses and parking are available.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience is about 7 hours, including sailing, stops, and the return trip.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Food and drinks may be available onboard for purchase, but many travelers suggest bringing their own snacks or lunch, especially since meal options can run out.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The reviews don’t specify family-friendliness explicitly, but considering the boat ride and walking involved, it’s best for older children who can handle some walking and swimming.

What should I bring for swimming?
Swimwear, a towel, water shoes, and sunscreen are recommended. The waters can be rocky when entering, so shoes help protect your feet.

Can I stay longer at Balos?
No, the scheduled stop is about 2.5 hours, which is usually enough to swim, relax, and take photos, but not to explore extensively.

Is this trip suitable if I don’t want to swim?
Yes, you can still enjoy the scenic views from the boat and the island stops; swimming isn’t mandatory.

How crowded does Balos get?
It can get busy, especially when multiple boats arrive, but it’s generally not overcrowded. Arriving early may help you enjoy a bit more solitude.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to see some of Crete’s most iconic spots with good comfort and scenic views, this cruise is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for the short stops, rocky entries, and the need to organize your own transportation to Kissamos Port. Happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: