GRAMVOUSA and BALOS Boat & Beach & Lunch on CRETE

Exploring Crete’s Pirate History and Stunning Beaches: A Practical Look at the Gramvousa & Balos Tour

If you’re eyeing a day out on Crete that combines history, stunning scenery, and a splash of adventure, the GRAMVOUSA and BALOS Boat & Beach & Lunch tour might catch your eye. This experience promises a full day of exploring the pirate-tale island of Gramvousa, enjoying sun and sea at Balos Lagoon, and taking in some gorgeous coastal views along the way.

On paper, it sounds like a dream—cruise along Crete’s northwest coast, climb a Venetian castle, and relax in one of the world’s most breathtaking beaches. We love how this tour offers a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural touches. Plus, the guide’s commentary on the pirate history adds a layer of storytelling that can make the experience more meaningful. And the included lunch on the boat is a nice touch, especially if you’re hungry after a morning of exploring.

A possible drawback is the long travel time—roughly 4 to 4.5 hours in a coach to reach the starting point. That’s a significant chunk of your day just in transit, which might be tiring, especially for those with young kids or limited stamina. Also, keep in mind that the shore at Balos is accessible only about 50 meters from the water, so if you’re hoping for a full beach day with easy access, that’s something to consider.

This tour would suit travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenic boat rides, and beach time, and who are prepared for a slightly lengthy day. If you’re after a laid-back, picturesque experience and don’t mind the long trip, it could be a worthwhile adventure.

Key Points

• Balanced experience: Combines boat travel, historical sights, and beach relaxation.
• Great for scenery lovers: Stunning views, especially at Balos Lagoon.
• Long travel day: Expect over 4 hours of bus ride each way—plan accordingly.
• Includes guided commentary: Guides share tales of pirate history and local lore, adding depth.
• Simple logistics: Pickup included, mobile tickets, and some optional extras like lunch and entrance fees.
• Limited beach access: No pier at Balos; you’ll disembark about 50 meters from the shore.

The Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Early and Traveling to Kissamos

The adventure begins bright and early, with pickup from locations like Malia, Amoudara, and Gazi. The coach ride is approximately 4 to 4.5 hours, passing Rethymnon and the old capital of Crete. This lengthy drive is perhaps the most noticeable aspect of the tour—while it’s not unusual for full-day trips, some travelers might find it a bit draining, especially if they’re not fans of long bus rides.

The coach is air-conditioned, which is a relief during the warm Crete mornings, and stops are made along the way for bathroom breaks and snacks. Just remember, the time spent on the bus means you’re arriving at the port with a good chunk of your day already gone. As one reviewer put it, “it takes all day,” so if your energy or patience for travel is limited, plan accordingly.

Kissamos Port: The Gateway to the Islands

Once at Kissamos, the group boards the boat for the approximately 1-hour sail along the coastline to Gramvousa. The boat ride itself is pretty enjoyable; you’ll love the breezy open water and the chance to get some fresh sea air. Guides typically provide commentary during the trip, giving snippets of pirate lore and historical info, which makes the experience more engaging.

Gramvousa Island and Its Venetian Castle

Arriving at Gramvousa, you’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore. The highlight here is the Venetian fortress perched atop a steep cliff, offering panoramic views of the surrounding sea and coastline. Climbing the castle gives you a taste of history and a sense of accomplishment—just be prepared for a steep walk.

Many travelers choose to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, which are noted for being quite inviting. The water’s clarity and warmth are often praised, making this a picture-perfect swim stop. As one reviewer noted, “don’t forget to bring shoes for walking in the water,” especially since the shore can be rocky and slippery.

The Blue Lagoon of Balos

Next, the boat makes a short 15-minute trip to Balos Lagoon, where you’ll spend about 2.5 hours. This spot is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with shallow, warm waters and soft sand—perfect for relaxing or wading in the sea.

Access is remote; the boat disembarks about 50 meters from the shore due to law restrictions, so don’t expect easy shore access. This might be less ideal for those with mobility issues or families with very young children.

You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on the boat, served anytime between noon and 5 pm, with water included. The setting here makes for some wonderful photos, but be sure to bring sun protection and water shoes if you plan to walk along the rocky parts.

Return Journey and Reflection

After a few hours in Balos, the boat departs for the sail back to Kissamos. The return trip offers more scenic views and a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or simply soak in the surroundings. The coach ride back is similar in length to the morning, so be prepared for a long, full day.

What’s Truly Included and What Costs Extra

The tour package covers pickup and drop-off, an escort on coach and boat, and transportation by air-conditioned coach. It also includes gasoline and insurance, which adds some peace of mind.

However, there are costs you’ll need to budget for separately:

• Boat entrance fee: €15 per adult, €7.5 per child
• Optional lunch: €10, served as a buffet with water
• Environmental fee: €1 per person at Gramvousa-Balos
• Sunbeds and umbrellas are not included, so if you want shade or a spot to relax on the beach, bring your own.

Guides speak multiple languages—English, German, French, and Polish—on different days, which can be helpful for understanding the stories and history shared during the trip.

What Past Travelers Have Said

Reviews paint a picture of a tour that’s mostly well-received but not without its quirks. One traveler called it a “magnifique découverte,” praising the scenery and the organization, especially highlighting the possibility of booking last-minute. They also appreciated the guide’s knowledge.

Another, however, found the long bus ride “really damaging,” noting it takes “at least 5 hours” in total just to reach the start. That’s a fair point—this isn’t a quick jaunt, and most of the day is spent in transit.

A third reviewer described their experience as “really beautiful,” emphasizing the responsiveness of the agency and the overall value of seeing iconic spots like Balos and Gramvousa.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re comfortable with a long travel day and want a combination of history, scenery, and beach time, this tour is a solid choice. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of a routine—long bus rides are part of the package—and who are eager to see some of Crete’s most photogenic spots.

Those looking for a laid-back, beach-focused day might find the long journey a bit taxing, but if they’re prepared, the payoff in views and experiences can be worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This boat trip to Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon offers a good entry point into Crete’s coastal beauty and history. While the long coach ride might be the biggest hurdle, the combination of scenic sailing, the fortress on Gramvousa, and the dreamy waters of Balos makes it a memorable outing. It’s a tour that balances culture and nature without overcomplicating things, making it accessible for most travelers who enjoy exploring at a relaxed pace.

For those who value guided storytelling, stunning vistas, and a comfortable boat ride, this experience is worth considering. Just remember to factor in the travel time and bring plenty of sun protection. If you’re after a laid-back day that mixes adventure with relaxation, this could be your next Crete highlight.

FAQ

• How long is the bus ride to Kissamos?
  Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours each way, passing Rethymnon and the old capital of Crete.

• Is the boat ride comfortable?
  Yes, the boat is equipped for sightseeing, and guides often share commentary during the sail.

• What do I need to bring for swimming?
  Bring shoes suitable for rocky or slippery shore, a towel, sun protection, and your swimwear.

• Are meals included?
  Lunch is optional and paid separately (€10), served as a buffet on the boat with water.

• How much does the entrance fee cost?
  €15 per adult and €7.5 per child, payable on the coach.

• Can I buy souvenirs or snacks during the trip?
  There are stops en route for snacks and shopping, but the main focus is on the islands.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Children can participate, but be aware of the long bus ride and rocky shoreline.

• What’s the best time to go?
  Operates most weather conditions; dress appropriately. Peak summer offers the warmest water and sun.

• Will I have enough time at Balos?
  Around 2.5 hours, enough to swim, relax, and take photos.

• What language do guides speak?
  Guides speak English, German, French, and Polish on different days.

This tour is a decent pick if you’re eager to see some of Crete’s most striking spots and don’t mind the travel hours. Just plan ahead, stay hydrated, and soak in the views.