If you’re looking at options to explore Crete’s iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this tour from Rethymno could be a solid pick. It’s a full-day adventure that takes in some of the island’s most photographed spots—Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa—plus a boat cruise that promises stunning views and memorable moments.
What we like about this experience is how it combines transportation, sightseeing, and water activities all in one package. The boat cruise, especially, is a highlight, offering a chance to relax and take in the scenery from the sea. Plus, the included pick-up service from Rethymno makes it pretty straightforward, especially if you’re staying in the area.
On the flip side, a key consideration is the size of the boat—this tour has around 500 people, which can mean a crowded experience, especially at popular spots like Balos. Also, while the guided part is informative, some reviews mention language barriers and logistical hiccups, so it’s worth considering whether you prefer more personalized or quieter explorations.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized day out with plenty of scenic moments, don’t mind crowds, and are happy to pay a modest price for a comprehensive experience. It’s ideal if you’re keen on seeing both natural beauty and a bit of history without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets yourself.
Key Points
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off from Rethymno, simplifying your day.
- Beautiful boat cruise offering stunning views of the Cretan coastline and Aegean Sea.
- Visit to Gramvousa Fortress for those interested in history and panoramic vistas.
- Swimming and snorkeling opportunities near Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa.
- Affordable price point (around $11) considering the full-day experience.
- Some crowding and language barriers reported, especially on the boat and with guides.
A Complete Look at the Experience
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Starting Point: From Rethymno to Kissamos Port
Your adventure begins with a pick-up at one of five locations around Rethymno—Skaleta, Stavromenos, Adelianos Kampos, Rethymno town itself, or Sfakaki. The bus ride to Kissamos Port takes about two hours. The comfort of an air-conditioned coach and a professional driver make this part of the journey smooth, though some reviews noted the bus could get chilly, so bringing a sweater or scarf might be wise.
This part is a bit of a transit period, but good for settling in, chatting with fellow travelers, or just relaxing before the day’s main sights. The group size tends to be large, as with most budget tours, but it’s a fair trade-off for convenience.
First Stop: The Boat Ride to Balos Lagoon
Once at Kissamos Port, the boat ride begins. The cruise lasts about 75 minutes and offers excellent views of the coast and open sea. It’s a chance to breathe in the salty air and enjoy the scenery, with the boat often anchored about 300 meters from the shore at Balos Lagoon. This setup means you’ll swim from the boat to the beach—an experience plenty of travelers find refreshing and fun.
Balos Lagoon is known for its white sands and turquoise waters, which truly look like a postcard scene. However, because of new government restrictions, the ferry cannot dock directly on the beach, so you’ll need to swim or wade to shore. This can be a bit challenging for some, especially if you’re not comfortable in the water, but it’s part of the adventure.
The allotted 1.5 hours here is enough for a quick swim, some photos, and perhaps a snack or a quick walk along the shore. Some reviews mention that the boat crew maintains a good pace, but keep in mind that the space is busy, especially with almost 500 people on the boat.
Gramvousa Island: History and Scenic Hikes
Next, the boat sails toward Gramvousa Peninsula. The ferry docks directly on the shore here, giving you a bit more flexibility. Whether you want to hike up to the Venetian fortress—a 20-minute rocky climb—or just relax by the water, there’s enough time for both.
The fortress offers sweeping views of the Aegean and the surrounding coastline. If you decide to hike up, wear sturdy shoes; the paths are rocky and uneven. Many travelers love this part for the historic feel and the chance to capture panoramic photos. You’re also free to swim and snorkel in the clear waters, which many reviewers say are just as beautiful as Balos but less crowded.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch and Free Time
While food isn’t included in the tour, there’s an opportunity to buy snacks or pack your own picnic. You might find local bakeries at Kissamos port where you can grab some essentials before boarding. The tour provides free time at both stops, so plan accordingly if you want to explore more or just relax.
Return Journey: The Boat and Bus Back
After exploring Gramvousa, you’ll hop back on the boat for an 80-minute cruise back to Kissamos Port. The return trip offers more scenic views, and some travelers appreciate the chance to unwind after a busy morning.
Once back at the port, your bus will be waiting to bring you back to Rethymno. The entire day lasts around 11.5 hours, so expect a full but rewarding experience.
What Do Travelers Say?
Many reviews commend the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery. One traveler from Poland mentions the “beautiful views during the cruise” and calls the beaches “like paradise,” though notes a crowded boat with about 500 people and some confusion about the pick-up location. So, if you’re sensitive to crowds, be prepared for a busy scene.
Another reviewer from France appreciated the experience overall but was disappointed that the guides didn’t speak much French, despite the activity being advertised as bilingual. Some travelers also noted that the bus ride could be cold, and in one case, the drop-off was a kilometer from the hotel, which was not ideal, especially at night.
The boat staff generally received praise for friendliness, but some felt left out during the cruise due to language barriers, with no announcements or messages in French. This is worth considering if language is important to you.
On Value and Cost
At about $11 per person, the tour offers a fairly affordable way to see Crete’s highlights. The price covers transportation, the boat cruise, and the guided sightseeing, but extras like ferry tickets, which cost around 38 euros for adults and 19 euros for children, need to be paid in cash. Also, there’s a small 1 euro fee for visiting Balos Lagoon’s natural park, collected before boarding.
While lunch isn’t included, the option to buy snacks onboard or bring your own makes it flexible. If you’re on a budget and want a packed day with swimming, sightseeing, and photo ops, this tour offers solid value.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits travelers who enjoy organized tours that cover multiple highlights in a single day. If you’re comfortable with large group settings and don’t mind some crowds, you’ll find it efficient and fun. It’s particularly good for those who want a low-hassle way to visit Balos and Gramvousa without worrying about transport or tickets.
However, if you prefer quiet mornings, personalized guides, or have specific language needs, you might find the large group and some communication gaps less appealing. It’s also less suitable for those with mobility issues, as walking to the fortress can be rocky and challenging.
Final Thoughts
This tour from Rethymno to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa offers a straightforward way to see some of Crete’s most famous spots. The boat cruise is a real highlight, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy scenic views from the water. The stops at Gramvousa and Balos are worth visiting, with their stunning natural beauty and historical intrigue.
While it’s not perfect—crowds and language issues are noted—most travelers come away with great photos, happy memories, and the satisfaction of ticking off a major destination. It’s a well-priced, no-fuss option for those who want to experience Crete’s coastal gems without the stress of planning each detail themselves.
If you’re after an active, scenic, and social day out, this tour is a good pick. Just be prepared for busy spots and bring your own snacks or lunch if you can.
From Rethymno: Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa Peninsula with PickUp
FAQ
Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, your pick-up from Rethymno and transportation to Kissamos Port are included, and the bus is air-conditioned.
How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise to Balos Lagoon lasts about 75 minutes, and the return cruise is roughly 80 minutes.
Do I need to bring my own food?
Lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or a picnic is recommended. There are food options available for purchase onboard.
Are the spots suitable for swimming?
Absolutely. You can swim and snorkel at both Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, with plenty of clear waters and marine life.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking/hiking, swimwear, sun hat, sunscreen, and beachwear are advisable.
Are guides available in French?
According to reviews, guides mainly speak English, with limited French communication, so be prepared for that.
Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most travelers, this tour involves walking on rocky paths and swimming from boats, so it might be less ideal for very young children or those with mobility challenges.
How much do the tickets cost?
Ferry tickets are about 38 euros for adults and 19 euros for children, payable in cash. There’s also a small fee at Balos Lagoon for park entry.
Is this tour suitable for travelers with dietary restrictions?
Since lunch isn’t included, you can bring your own food or buy in advance at the port. Onboard snacks are available for purchase.
In the end, this tour offers a practical, budget-conscious way to see some of Crete’s most iconic sights, especially if you enjoy boat rides and natural scenery. It’s a busy but rewarding day—perfect for travelers who want to check off a big experience without too much fuss.
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