Kissamos: Balos Lagoon Sunset Cruise with Swimming & Snacks

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Crete, a cruise to Balos Lagoon might just be what you need. We’ve looked into this particular sailing adventure, and it seems like a solid choice for travelers who want a mix of relaxation, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty inviting picture.

One thing we really like about this cruise is how comfortable the boat sounds — a large, modern sailing yacht designed to make your journey smooth and relaxing. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Balos Lagoon and enjoy local snacks with unlimited drinks is quite appealing. On the flip side, a consideration worth noting is that some reviews mention limited swimming time and occasional issues like rough seas or equipment hiccups, so it may not be ideal for everyone.

This experience is most suited for those who appreciate scenic sailing, enjoy water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, and want to catch a memorable sunset over the Greek coast. It’s also a good pick for travelers valuing good food and drinks combined with a relaxed, friendly crew. If you’re after a laid-back day with beautiful views and some quality time on the water, this cruise could be just right.

Key Points

• Comfortable Yacht: The cruise is on a large, modern vessel with plenty of space to relax.
• Beautiful Sights: Expect to see stunning coastline views and a memorable sunset.
• Water Fun: Snorkeling and paddleboarding are available, adding a playful element.
• Local Flavors: Gourmet snacks and unlimited drinks, including wine and beer, are part of the experience.
• Timing: The cruise lasts about 4.5 hours, with some variability depending on sunset times.
• User Satisfaction: Overall high ratings with many praising the crew’s hospitality and the scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey to Balos Lagoon: What to Expect

This cruise begins at the port of Kissamos, where the crew greets you warmly. A short safety briefing kicks things off, during which you’ll get to enjoy a refreshing drink. The boat itself sounds quite inviting — spacious, comfortable, and equipped for a great day at sea. The journey from Kissamos to Balos takes around 1.5 hours, offering plenty of opportunity to soak up the views and relax on sunbeds or in the outdoor cockpit area.

The ride is often praised for its scenic quality, with travelers like Georgia from the Netherlands noting, “the Balos experience, the sunset, and sailing under the moonlight was the ultimate start of our holidays.” The boat’s calm and cozy atmosphere helps you unwind before reaching your destination.

Arriving at Balos Lagoon: The Highlight

Once you arrive at Balos, the yacht anchors in the middle of the bay, allowing you to swim directly from the boat into the crystalline waters. This quick swim is often highlighted as a major perk — a chance to cool off in one of Greece’s most Instagram-worthy spots. According to reviews, the water is clear and inviting, perfect for floating around and snapping photos.

You’ll have approximately an hour of free time here, enough for a swim, some snorkeling, or trying out the paddleboards, weather permitting. The crew serves local snacks and drinks during this time, making sure you stay refreshed and satisfied. However, some reviews mention that the time to enjoy the lagoon can be a bit limited, especially if you want to make the most of swimming or water activities.

The Return Trip and Sunset

After your time at Balos, the yacht sets sail back toward Kissamos. This part of the cruise is often described as magical, especially as the sun begins to dip, casting a golden glow over the water. The experience of watching the sunset from the deck, with a drink in hand and the crew playing music, is what many travelers say they’ll remember most.

Some guests, like Falk from Germany, felt the trip was a bit commercialized and cited some environmental concerns at Balos, noting that “mass tourism has left some traces.” Still, most people appreciate the chance to witness the breathtaking colors during sunset, feeling it adds a poetic touch to the day.

Water Activities and Extra Perks

One of the nice touches of this cruise is the opportunity to try snorkeling and paddleboarding, which are available upon request from the captain. The wind and sea conditions can influence availability, and some reviews mention that equipment use may be tricky in windy conditions. Still, the option to try these water activities is a bonus for those looking to add some adventure to their relaxing day.

The onboard music, friendly crew, and plentiful drinks — including wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water — all contribute to a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The food, described as gourmet snacks made from local ingredients, is another highlight. Many reviews praise the quality and abundance of the snacks and drinks, making the cruise feel like a floating feast.

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Practical Aspects and Considerations

The cruise costs around $96 per person, which may seem reasonable given the included food, drinks, water activities, and scenic sailing. However, some travelers might feel that the limited swimming and water activity time doesn’t fully justify the cost if they’re eager for a longer beach stop. Also, the trip is about 4.5 hours long, with some flexibility depending on sunset timings.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off if you choose that option, which adds convenience. The group sizes seem manageable, and the crew is frequently praised for their helpfulness and friendliness, ensuring you feel well cared for throughout.

A few practical points: bring a towel, sunscreen, and your ID or passport (necessary for check-in). The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those prone to seasickness, as some reviews have indicated.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear this cruise resonates well with those seeking a romantic, scenic, and social experience. Georgia from the Netherlands called it “an absolute amazing evening,” emphasizing the professional crew and the ambiance. Nadia from the US appreciated how smooth everything was, especially the arrangement of transportation, praising Tina for her warm hospitality.

A few reviews mention some downsides: limited time in the lagoon, equipment issues, and environmental concerns at Balos. Falk from Germany felt the experience was a bit overhyped and that the environmental impact was noticeable, suggesting a lower price point might be more fitting.

The mix of breathtaking scenery, fantastic crew, and well-curated amenities seems to make this cruise a popular choice for many visitors, especially those eager to enjoy a classic Greek sunset while relaxing on a boat.

Who Would Love This Experience?

If you’re after a scenic outing that combines sailing, swimming, good food, and sunset views, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate a social atmosphere, water activities, and relaxing aboard a well-maintained yacht. The experience suits travelers who aren’t overly concerned about a tight schedule — an hour at Balos can feel brief, but the overall vibe and scenery compensate.

It’s also great if you want a hassle-free day with hotel pickup and drop-off included, and don’t mind a moderate price for the comfort and amenities provided. If you’re seeking a more secluded or longer beach experience, you might find the one-hour stop in Balos a bit limited. Conversely, if you prefer a lively, scenic cruise with good food and drinks, this is a winner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for children, the cruise might be enjoyable for older kids and teenagers comfortable with boat trips and water activities. Keep in mind the sea conditions and the limited time in the lagoon.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and your ID or passport, as these are necessary for check-in. Water shoes might be helpful if you plan to swim or paddleboard.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, adding extra convenience.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including transportation, sailing, stops, and sunset viewing, though times can vary depending on sunset timings.

Can I do snorkeling or paddleboarding?
Yes, equipment is available and can be requested from the crew. Weather and sea conditions may impact availability, especially for paddleboarding.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, those with mobility issues, and people prone to seasickness are advised against joining. The tour also prohibits pets, alcohol, and drugs onboard.

What’s the cost, and is it worth it?
At around $96 per person, the cruise offers a good value for an all-in experience of scenic sailing, water activities, snacks, and sunset views. Many guests feel it’s worth the price for the memorable day out.

How is the staff?
Reviews consistently praise the crew, especially the captain and staff, for their kindness, helpfulness, and professionalism, making passengers feel like part of the family.

This cruise provides a well-rounded taste of Crete’s beauty — sailing along stunning coastlines, swimming in the famously clear waters of Balos, and ending the day with a sunset that could be straight out of a postcard. The combination of a comfortable yacht, friendly crew, delicious local snacks, and water activities makes it a tempting choice for many travelers.

It’s most suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic day out with a social vibe, good amenities, and a bit of adventure. While the limited time in Balos might be a downside for some, most guests agree that the overall experience, especially the sunset, makes it worthwhile.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy one of Greece’s most iconic spots with a touch of luxury, this cruise could be just what you need. Just keep in mind your personal preferences for water time and sea conditions, and you’re likely to come away with some lovely memories of your Crete trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: