If you’re dreaming of exploring Crete’s stunning coast from the water, a private boat trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Beach might be just what you need. These tours promise a personalized experience, allowing you to enjoy the swathes of turquoise water, pristine beaches, and scenic views away from crowded spots.
We’ve looked into this popular offering from Seaze The Day, and while we haven’t been on it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed info paint a pretty appealing picture.
What really caught our eye about this experience is how flexible and intimate it sounds—it’s tailor-made for small groups up to 10, so you won’t be stuck with strangers. Plus, the chance to snorkel with top-notch gear and customize your stops makes it stand out from regular boat tours.
Highlight of Our Trip to Crete! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ What an awesome day out on the water! This boat trip was such a hit with both us parents and our teenagers – which honestly says it all. The 11.5m boat was super comfy and gave us plenty of space to chill, jump in for a swim, and just enjoy the ride. The absolute star of the day though was our skipper. He was so friendly, easy-going, and fun to be around, while also making us feel 100% safe the whole time. He really knew his stuff and shared great insights, but at the same time made it feel like we were out with a good friend. We all agreed this was one of the best things we did in Crete – definitely a must-do if you want an unforgettable e…
Very good experience, views are amazing. Captain explained all the history of the sites visited, Balos is beautiful. The site has to be avoided as from 12.00, very crowded.
Our Captain Nick was amazing! Knowledgable, calm, and interested in our family enjoying the area and having a great time. As if Balos and Gramvousa weren’t the most amazing g beaches already, He included a 3rd beach stop for a deep
On the flip side, the booking window is about a month in advance, and the 3 to 6-hour duration might feel a bit short if you’re craving a full-day adventure. Still, if you’re after a semi-private, relaxing day on the water, this trip seems to hit the right notes.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, personalized way to see some of Crete’s most iconic beaches without fighting the crowds. It offers a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and a touch of adventure, making it a good fit whether you’re a couple, friends, or small family.
Just keep in mind that some physical activity (like hiking to the fort) is involved if you choose, so it’s not the best option for anyone with mobility issues.
- Key Points
- A Closer Look at the Experience
- Starting Point and Duration
- What You Can Expect
- Gramvousa Beach and Fortress
- Customization and Flexibility
- Snorkeling and Marine Life
- Food and Drinks
- The Guides and Service
- Practicalities and Considerations
- Booking and Cancellation
- Group Size and Privacy
- Physical Considerations
- Price and Value
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
- More Private Tours in Chania
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Chania
- More Tour Reviews in Chania
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Tours are private or for small groups up to 10, meaning more flexibility and comfort.
- Custom Itinerary: You can tailor the stops and tour length based on your preferences.
- Exclusive Access: Arrive early and avoid the crowds at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Beach.
- Snorkeling & Swimming: Top-quality gear provided, and the waters are great for exploring marine life.
- Expert Guides: Many reviews mention knowledgeable, friendly guides who make the experience special.
- Value for Money: While the price might seem high, the private, flexible nature of the tour offers good bang for your buck.
A Closer Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Chania
Starting Point and Duration
The tour begins at SEAze The Day port in Kavonisi, and it typically lasts between 3 to 6 hours. This flexibility is great, especially if you prefer a shorter trip or want to extend your time in specific spots.
Great trip! It was fun, adventures, and beautiful. The private tour of Balos is the only way to do it. We avoided crowds, swam in clear empty bays, watched sunset from the boat, and had a great time! It was a very special part of our time in Crete!
We had a great captain named Yannis, he drove the boat safely and had great pieces of information to add to the trip to some outstanding beaches
Rough going out to the beaches. Got pounded by the Criten sea for a good 45 minutes but once we reached the beaches it was amazing. Great boat captain!
The price per group is about $674.47, which breaks down roughly to $67 per person if you’re a full group of 10. Considering the personalized service and private setup, that’s a reasonable price, especially as it includes the boat, guide, and entry tickets.
What You Can Expect
Once onboard, the first stop is Balos Lagoon, often called one of Crete’s must-see spots. The lagoon’s vivid blue waters, soft sands, and panoramic scenery make it a highlight.
Many reviews emphasize how arriving early means beating the crowds, which is a real advantage if you’ve visited during peak season. You’ll have around two hours here to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat and soak up the scenery.
The snorkeling gear is provided, and the waters here are described as clear and warm, great for exploring marine life or simply floating lazily. One reviewer, shehzad_a, called it “worth every penny,” noting how the boat was close enough to the beach that they didn’t have to swim far to reach this stunning spot.
Terrific 3 1/2 hour cruise – beautiful beaches, swimming, spectacular views and an excellent captain. Overall a fantastic afternoon with family.
Our guide was wonderful. The boat ride was great, and the guide took the time to explain our surroundings and their significance. It made for a good conversation. The hike to the fort made for a great view!
Beautiful private boat experience. The captain Leveteras worked with us on our own personalized schedule. The boat itself Is nice for a small family. Speed was not bad and wind was ok. The captain for Balos – got close as possible so we didn’t need to swim that long to get onto that amazing beach. Worth every penny. Had a great time. Sincerely, Burn ICU and CRNA from NYC.
Gramvousa Beach and Fortress
Next, you’ll head to Gramvousa Beach, with about an hour allocated for exploring. The island’s fortress offers incredible views, and many travelers mention hiking up to it as a memorable part of the trip. The fortress provides a sweeping overlook of the sea and surrounding islands— a photo opportunity.
One reviewer, Alex_A, called the hike “great,” and appreciated the guide’s explanations, which added depth to the experience. If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry—simply enjoying the views and taking photos works just as well.
Customization and Flexibility
What makes this tour stand out is its adaptable nature. You can decide how long to spend at each location, and the guide will accommodate your preferences. Several reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, including Captain Lefteris, Nikolaos, Dimitri, and Stelios, who all seem to go above and beyond to make sure everyone has a memorable day.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Chania
Snorkeling and Marine Life
Many guests clarify that the waters here are excellent for snorkeling, with sightings of fish, wrecks, and even unusual creatures like lionfish and octopuses. One reviewer, Nancy_P, shared excitement about snorkeling near a wreck and seeing colorful fish, which adds a layer of adventure to the trip.
A group of 5 friends rented the boat for the day and had the best time. We were out to sea before anyone else, reaches destinations before other boats and Lefteris was a great captain who accomadated our requests but always was safe. We had endless beer and a nice sandwich for lunch. Money well spent!
We were very impressed with this trip. This is the second time we have used Viator and we have always found them to be so good. Our captain was Lefteris and he was excellent. Fantastic trip would highly recommend.
Captain Alex's Ballos and Kissamos Speedboat Extravaganza: A Whirlwind of Waves and Wonders! Buckle up, landlubbers! Captain Alex's speedboat tour is not your average lazy river ride. This seafaring superhero navigated us through crowds like a pro, anchored at spots so pristine you'd think he had a secret map, and even rescued my daughter's runaway hat from becoming a fish's fancy fedora! Between serving up delicious sandwiches and drinks, Alex transformed us into mountain goats for our hike to a stunning fort. On the return journey, he unleashed his inner speedboat daredevil. But the real kicker? This eco-warrior paused mid-trip to fish out ocean trash. Talk about a sea-lebrity with a consc…
Food and Drinks
Some guides, like Stelios, are noted for bringing homemade delicacies, and others provide sandwiches and drinks. The inclusion of bottled water keeps everyone hydrated in the Greek sun, which is appreciated by all.
The Guides and Service
Reviewers love the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Captain Stelios, for example, is described as hospitable, fun, and a storyteller, often bringing treats or sharing stories about local life. One guest even mentions a salt collection and octopus catching—small touches that make the trip feel more personal.
Practicalities and Considerations
Booking and Cancellation
You’ll want to book about a month ahead, especially if visiting during the busy season. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, which is convenient if weather or plans change. Keep in mind, since the tour depends on good weather, poor conditions might lead to rescheduling or refund.
Group Size and Privacy
The maximum group size is 10 people, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience. If you’re a larger group, you might need to look for other options, but for small parties, this is a real plus.
What an amazing trip! I rarely write reviews but given the amazing day we had we felt we owed it to Alex and SleazeTheDay to make some comments. We arrived at the port and had Alex for our boat trip and what a great guy. Thrilling boat trip (the kids loved being up front for the spray and speed) and Alex was very happy to go between Balos beach and the lagoon at our leisure within our time. We made some great family memories that were all made possible by Alex and his efforts to please us and charm. We chose the 11 foot boat for five of us and it was perfect. We didn’t expect anything more than water so was pleasantly surprised to also receive sandwiches and soft drinks/beer. We loved ever…
Definitely worth doing this. Balos beach is amazing. Our captain nice and accommodating. We only wish it was longer.
Alexandrios made our experience enjoyable. He tried very hard to make the day perfect. We had a great day swimming and snorkelling.
Physical Considerations
The tour involves some walking to the fortress and swimming, so travelers should have moderate physical fitness. It’s not overly strenuous, but a certain level of mobility is essential.
Price and Value
While $674 might seem steep at first glance, remember that it covers a private boat, guide, all entry tickets, snorkeling gear, and personalized service. Many reviewers agree it’s worth the expense, especially when you consider the exclusive access and tailored experience.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re after a relaxed, personalized day on Crete’s coast, this tour is a winner. It suits adventurous travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and picturesque views, and those who want some guidance and inside knowledge from local guides.
It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or friends looking to avoid the crowds and explore at their own pace. If you’re traveling with family or a group that values privacy and customization, this trip could be your highlight. However, if you prefer longer excursions or are on a tighter budget, you might want to consider other options.
FAQs
Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is private for your group, with a maximum of 10 people, ensuring a customized experience.
How long does the trip last?
The trip lasts approximately 3 to 6 hours, depending on your preferences and how long you spend at each stop.
What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the boat, guide, snorkeling equipment, all entry tickets for Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, and bottled water.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, so you can choose the stops and duration to suit your interests.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity involved suggests it's best for travelers with a decent fitness level. Always check your group’s comfort with swimming and walking.
How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 31 days prior. Booking early ensures availability, especially during peak season.
Are there any hidden costs?
All major costs are included in the price; just prepare for optional extras or personal purchases.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at SEAze The Day port in Kavonisi.
Private Boat Trip Kissamos Balos (price per group – up to 10 people)
"Highlight of Our Trip to Crete! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ What an awesome day out on the water! This boat trip was such a hit with both us parents and our te..."
Final Thoughts
This private boat trip offers a personalized, intimate way to experience some of Crete’s most breathtaking beaches and spots. The flexibility, expert guides, and emphasis on avoiding crowds make it attractive for travelers seeking a relaxed yet adventure-filled day. The reviews are filled with praise for the guides’ friendliness, the stunning scenery, and the quality snorkeling.
While the price might be a consideration, many see it as worth the investment for a hassle-free, memorable experience. If you’re after a day of exploring Crete’s coast with a small, friendly group, this trip could become one of your favorite memories from the island.
Happy sailing, and I hope your Crete adventure is unforgettable!
