Kissamos: Catamaran Cruise to Balos & Gramvousa with Lunch

Planning a trip to Crete and looking for a way to combine relaxation, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure? This catamaran cruise from Kissamos might just be your answer. While we haven’t personally signed up for this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect, and it’s definitely worth considering if you’re after a laid-back yet enriching day on the water.

What really draws us in is the small group setting—the sense of intimacy with a cozy crew, which tends to make the experience more personal and relaxing. Plus, the promise of exploring Balos Beach, known for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, sounds just about perfect for a day of unwinding and taking in some of Crete’s most iconic sights. That, plus the chance to visit Gramvousa and its old pirate fortress, makes this a varied, memorable trip.

However, it’s worth mentioning that this tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the itinerary involves some walking and hiking around Gramvousa. Also, since it’s a full-day experience, you’ll want to be comfortable with being on the water for several hours. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a leisurely, well-organized day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the views.

If that sounds like your kind of outing, then this cruise could offer a fantastic way to see some of Crete’s most beautiful spots without the hassle of planning logistics or transportation. Now, let’s break down what this trip involves and why it might be just right for you.

Key Points

• Small group or private options make for a more personalized experience.
• Multiple stops at Balos Beach and Gramvousa offer plenty of time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.
• Snorkeling gear, inflatables, and water toys are included, adding fun to the day.
• All meals and drinks are provided, including a traditional Greek lunch, fruits, and unlimited beverages.
• Scenic sailing and picturesque views throughout the day make this a visual treat.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more active adventure involving hiking or extensive walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What’s the Cruise Like?

Imagine starting your day at Kissamos Port around 10am, where the crew welcomes you aboard a sleek catamaran. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and ready for a day of adventure. The journey begins with a sailing duration of about 1.5 hours towards Balos Beach, a highlight for many travelers. The boat itself is comfortable, and the crew often provides a safety briefing to ensure everyone feels at ease before setting sail.

Once you arrive at Balos, you’ll anchor and get the chance to swim and snorkel in the famously clear waters. The tour supplies snorkeling gear, so it’s easy to explore the seabed or just float on your noodles if you’re in the mood. The scenery here is truly captivating—those pink sands and turquoise waters make it one of Crete’s most photographed beaches.

After a couple of hours of relaxing, swimming, and exploring, the boat shifts gears and heads to Gramvousa Island for the next stop. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the ancient pirate fortress, which is perched atop the hill. The climb isn’t strenuous but does involve some walking, so it’s ideal for those able to manage a short hike. The views from the fortress are reputedly breathtaking, offering a scenic overlook of the surrounding sea and islands.

The Food and Drink Experience

A major perk of this tour is the included lunch and unlimited drinks. The onboard meal is typically a Greek-style feast, which travelers say is tasty and satisfying—perfect after a morning of swimming and exploration. Throughout the day, fresh fruits, snacks, and drinks flow freely, making it easy to stay refreshed while enjoying the sun. The crew is often praised for their hospitality and the quality of the food they serve.

For those who love a bit of fun, water toys like noodles, floats, and inflatables are provided to maximize your enjoyment in the water. Depending on the day, you might find yourself relaxing with a cold drink in hand, sunbathing on deck, or splashing around with friends and family.

The Sailing Experience in Detail

The sailing aspect is what really sets this cruise apart. Unlike typical boat tours, a catamaran creates a smoother ride and offers panoramic views from the deck. The crew is generally friendly and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the islands and the sailing route. Several reviews highlight the excellent service and the beautiful scenery seen along the way.

The return trip to Kissamos lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you a relaxed, scenic sail back after a busy day. The crew often keeps the mood light with music and good conversation, making the whole journey feel like a floating social gathering.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day that combines sailing, swimming, and sightseeing. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy water activities but aren’t looking for strenuous hikes or active adventures. Families with older children, couples, and groups of friends tend to appreciate the intimate setting and fun water toys.

If you’re someone who values good value—with meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and water toys included—you’ll find this tour offers a decent bang for your buck. However, if you’re seeking a more active or physically challenging experience, or need wheelchair accessibility, you might want to explore other options.

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Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 7 to 9 hours, depending on the selected option.
• Departure time: Check availability for starting times, typically around 10am.
• Group size: Small groups or private options are available, which enhances comfort and attentiveness.
• Price: While not explicitly stated here, reviews suggest that it offers good value considering the included meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and water toys.
• What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, beachwear, personal medication, and a copy of your ID or passport.
• What’s not allowed: Weapons, sharp objects, shoes indoors, fireworks, or explosives.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, we see that the crew’s friendliness and the beautiful scenery are often highlighted as the trip’s strongest points. One traveler from Poland said, “The cruise was amazing, a small group, great atmosphere, and super friendly crew made the whole experience unforgettable.” They also appreciated the delicious, fresh food and the unlimited drinks, which added to the relaxed vibe.

Another reviewer from Italy mentioned how intimate the experience was—with only about ten people aboard—and appreciated the ample time at both Balos and Gramvousa for swimming and exploring. They particularly enjoyed the Greek-style lunch, which was well-received.

Some minor downsides include the absence of a French-speaking guide, as one traveler from Switzerland pointed out, suggesting that language options may be limited. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges, so plan accordingly.

Wrapping It Up

This catamaran cruise from Kissamos offers a thoughtfully curated way to spend a day exploring Crete’s most iconic spots. The combination of scenic sailing, beautiful beaches, historical sites, and delicious food makes for a well-rounded day. It’s especially attractive for travelers who enjoy water-based activities, want a small-group experience, and prefer a stress-free, organized tour.

While it might not satisfy those looking for intense physical activity or accessibility, it’s a solid choice for anyone craving a relaxing, scenic, and fun day at sea. The positive reviews about the crew’s hospitality, the quality of the food, and the stunning views make it a compelling option—especially if you’re keen on experiencing Crete’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, keep in mind that it involves some walking and a boat ride. The water toys and snorkeling gear are available, making it enjoyable for kids who are comfortable in the water, but it’s best suited for older children.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, fruits, drinks, lunch, snorkeling equipment, inflatables, water toys, and scenic sailing are included. This makes it quite good value, especially considering the full day’s activities.

Can I choose a private or small group experience?
Yes, both private and small group options are available, allowing for a more personalized atmosphere.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, depending on the selected option and conditions.

Where do I meet the boat?
You meet at Kissamos Port, following the signs toward the North harbour arm. The boat is marked “Sailing Cruises Chania,” and the captain and crew will be waiting onboard.

Is there a pickup service?
Pickup is optional and depends on your booking. If available, a minivan will pick you up from designated points, carrying a sign for easy identification.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, beachwear, personal medication, and a copy of your ID or passport.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Also, weapons, sharp objects, and fireworks are not allowed onboard.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English and Greek; no mention of other languages like French suggests it might be limited in that regard.

Overall, if you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and well-organized day in Crete’s waters, this cruise offers a lot of value and memorable views. It’s a solid pick for those who want to enjoy the island’s highlights comfortably, with plenty of time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing on deck.

You can check availability for your dates here: