Kissamos is a fantastic base for exploring Crete, especially if you’re eager to experience some of the island’s most stunning sights by land and sea. The area’s rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages mean that guided tours aren’t just a convenient way to see Crete—they often turn into memorable adventures. We’re particularly smitten with options like the Balos Lagoon Jeep Safari for its rugged scenic drives, and the Luxury Catamaran Cruises which combine comfort, swimming, and breathtaking views. Whether you want a full-day tour, a luxurious sail, or a small-group wine tasting, Kissamos offers something for every traveler.
Many of these tours focus on the iconic Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, both renowned for their stunning natural beauty. Other experiences highlight private sailing adventures, exhilarating speedboat rides, or cultural tastings—giving you a well-rounded taste of what Crete has to offer. With options ranging from budget-friendly road trips to all-inclusive luxury cruises, there’s a tour to match your style and interest. Now, let’s explore these top picks in detail.
1. Chania: Balos Lagoon 4×4 Jeep Safari Tour from Kissamos
This 6-hour jeep safari whisks you off-road through the rugged western Crete landscape to reach Balos Lagoon, one of the most photographed spots on the island. The tour includes a comfortable 4×4 vehicle driven by an experienced guide, ensuring you enjoy the scenery without the fatigue of driving yourself. What makes this trip stand out is the focus on untouched natural beauty, with scenic viewpoints along the way and ample time to relax at the beach. You’ll visit scenic viewpoints, explore the pink sand and turquoise waters of Balos, and enjoy free time for swimming and lounging on the beach. The tour departs multiple times, with convenient pick-up and drop-off in Kissamos.
Guests praise the tour for its informative guides and the spectacular scenery. One reviewer mentions, “Relaxing and comfortable ride with breathtaking views.” It’s best suited for travelers who want an adventurous, hassle-free trip with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The key is to bring essentials like a hat, swimwear, and sunscreen for a full day of enjoying Crete’s wild side.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who love a combination of scenic drives, natural exploration, and a relaxed beach experience without the crowds.
2. Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise
This luxury semi-private cruise lasts about 7.5 hours and offers a refined way to visit Balos and Gramvousa. The modern catamaran features sunbeds, shaded lounges, and plenty of space to relax. From the start, you’re treated to local snacks, unlimited drinks, and a freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch onboard, making it a true treat for your taste buds. The cruise includes time to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard, plus the chance to capture stunning photos with the inflatable flamingo.
The reviews highlight the exceptional service and the beautiful scenery, with one guest saying, “The food was delicious and the crew friendly—definitely a highlight of our trip.” This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a laid-back, comfortable day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming and lounging. The all-inclusive package offers great value, especially for those seeking comfort and convenience.
Bottom Line: For travelers craving a luxurious, relaxing day with good food and no crowds, this cruise hits all the right notes.
3. Balos & Gramvousa Catamaran Trip: Meals, Drinks & Transfer
At around 8.5 hours, this all-day luxury cruise combines the best of Balos and Gramvousa with onboard dining, drinks, and free transfers. The large, well-equipped catamaran offers plenty of space for sunbathing, snorkeling, and relaxing. The adventure includes snacks, brunch, a regional lunch, and unlimited drinks, all in a scenic setting. The itinerary covers time at Balos Lagoon, a stop at Gramvousa Island’s fortress and shipwreck, and scenic cruising along the coast.
Guests frequently mention the quality of the onboard food and service. “The lunch was fantastic, and the crew made everything smooth,” noted one reviewer. It’s ideal for those who want a full-day experience with culinary delights and sightseeing without sacrificing comfort. The multiple stops mean you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing at a leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers looking for a lengthy, immersive day with plenty of food, drinks, and premium scenery.
4. Luxury Catamaran to Balos: Sunset, Snacks, Drinks & Transfer
This 5-hour cruise is perfect if you’re after Crete’s most stunning sunset. Departing in the late afternoon, you’ll sail on a luxurious catamaran with sunbeds, shaded lounges, and a fun waterslide onboard. The tour includes Cretan snacks, drinks, and water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding. As the sun dips below the horizon, the scenery becomes breathtaking, making it an ideal romantic or tranquil experience.
Reviewers love the combination of a relaxed sailing experience and a spectacular sunset. “Watching the sunset from the boat was unforgettable,” one guest shares. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a shorter, scenic experience with the magic of Crete’s evening sky.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset lovers or those seeking a relaxing end to a day on the water with good food and fun water activities.
5. From Kissamos Port: Boat cruise to Balos lagoon
This shorter, 4-5 hour cruise concentrates solely on Balos Lagoon, making it a straightforward, relaxed way to experience its beauty. The cruise departs from Kissamos Port, passing by a large cave believed to be an ancient shipyard, before reaching the lagoon. Once there, you’ll have roughly three hours for swimming, relaxing, and exploring the stunning scenery.
Many reviewers mention the comfortable boat ride and the beautiful landscape, with one saying, “The cruise offers a peaceful way to see Balos without the crowds of ferries.” This is a great option if you want a focused trip with less time commitment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a simple, scenic cruise dedicated to Balos Lagoon with plenty of time to enjoy the beach.
6. Kissamos: Semi-Private Balos Cruise with Sushi & Drinks
This semi-private cruise lasts 3.5 to 5 hours and offers a more intimate experience. Featuring a spacious catamaran with sunbeds and shaded areas, it includes a welcome glass of Prosecco, sushi, and local wine and beer. Water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming are part of the package. The highlight is visiting Balos Lagoon during sunset, with the added luxury of all-inclusive food and drinks onboard.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized service and the delicious sushi. “The food was outstanding, and the crew made us feel special,” one guest comments. This tour suits travelers who want a more exclusive, relaxed experience with fine food and fewer people.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a quiet, intimate cruise with excellent cuisine and scenic sunset views.
7. Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Speedboat Cruise with Snorkeling
For around 5 hours, this speedboat adventure takes you swiftly to Balos and Gramvousa on a prestigious RIB boat. The thrill of feeling the wind and waves, combined with stops for swimming and snorkeling, sets this apart. You’ll avoid the crowded ferries and arrive early at each site, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and underwater treasures.
Guests rave about the professional captain and comfortable ride. “It’s a faster, more exciting way to see these sights,” noted one review. Perfect for those who want an action-packed, fast-paced day with snorkeling included.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure seekers who want an adrenaline rush and a quick, efficient way to explore Balos and Gramvousa.
8. Kissamos: Balos Lagoon Sunset Cruise with Swimming & Snacks
This 4.5-hour sailing cruise offers a relaxed sunset experience with time for a swim at Balos. The large sailing yacht is equipped for comfort, serving gourmet snacks and unlimited drinks. The highlight is the breathtaking sunset, which turns the lagoon into a fiery spectacle.
Reviews mention feeling pampered with gourmet treats and easy water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. “Watching the sunset with a glass of wine was unforgettable,” one reviewer shares. Best suited for those who want a shorter, scenic, and romantic evening on the water.
Bottom Line: Great for sunset admirers and those seeking a more intimate, gourmet experience.
9. Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal
This 7.5-hour luxury sailing tour combines sightseeing, swimming, and fine dining. Sailing on a modern yacht, you visit Gramvousa with its famous shipwreck and then relax at Balos Lagoon. The meal onboard includes local specialties, with options for all dietary needs.
Guests note the quality of the food and the professional crew. One says, “It was the highlight of our trip—excellent food, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere.” It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a full-day, all-inclusive experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, luxurious day with top-notch food and scenery.
10. Chania/Kissamos: Explore Balos Lagoon on a budget road trip
This budget-friendly 1 to 7-hour trip in an air-conditioned 19-seat bus offers an affordable way to see Balos. The tour includes a scenic 75-minute bus ride, a brief stop for photos, and about four hours to enjoy Balos Lagoon itself.
Reviewers appreciate the value and convenience, with one saying, “Great for a quick visit without the hassle of driving or organizing.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a straightforward experience without splurging.
Bottom Line: Best for budget travelers and those short on time, seeking a practical way to visit Balos.
11. Balos: Private cruise to the famous lagoon of Balos
If privacy matters, this private sailing cruise offers a customizable experience for up to five people. The cruise includes snorkeling, swimming, and a traditional homemade meal onboard. You’ll skip the crowds and enjoy a relaxed, intimate day on the water.
Reviews highlight the personalized service and peaceful environment. One says, “Our captain was very informative and made the trip special for our family.” It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a private, tailored experience with all the comforts.
12. From Rethymno: Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa Peninsula with Pickup
This full-day tour from Rethymno combines a bus ride with a boat cruise to Gramvousa and Balos. It includes hiking, swimming, and exploring the Venetian fortress. The boat ride offers scenic views of the coastline and Aegean Sea, with about 2 hours at each site.
Reviewers mention the well-organized itinerary and beautiful scenery, making it a good choice for travelers based in Rethymno. It’s ideal for those who want to see more of the region in one day.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip with both land and sea activities.
13. Kissamos: Catamaran Cruise to Balos & Gramvousa with Lunch
This 7 to 9-hour sailing adventure includes a served lunch, snorkeling, and multiple stops at Balos and Gramvousa. The comfortable yacht offers lots of space to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery. The trip’s highlight is the onboard lunch featuring fresh local ingredients and the chance to explore the famous shipwreck at Gramvousa.
One reviewer describes it as “a great mix of scenery, food, and comfort,” making it suitable for those who want a relaxed day with premium amenities. The itinerary balances sightseeing, swimming, and dining.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who value a comprehensive, all-inclusive cruise with excellent food and multiple stops.
14. 5-Wine Tasting with Locals in Village near Kissamos
For a different flavor, this wine tasting tour takes you to a mountain village to sample five carefully curated wines and local delicacies. The small-group experience includes visits to artisanal wineries, with a focus on Cretan varietals and sustainable practices.
Guests say, “The wines were fantastic, and the hosts shared insights into local winemaking,” highlighting the personalized experience. It’s perfect for wine lovers or those interested in local culinary traditions.
Bottom Line: Ideal for connoisseurs or curious travelers wanting an authentic taste of Cretan wine.
15. Kissamos: Private RIB Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa
This private 4-hour RIB boat takes up to five guests to the iconic Balos and Gramvousa with snorkeling gear and drinks included. The small-group format guarantees personalized service and flexibility. The captain will tailor the trip to your interests, and you’ll avoid the crowds while exploring the pristine waters and underwater sights.
Reviews highlight the informative captain and the luxury feel of the experience. One says, “We loved having our own boat, and the captain’s local tips made it extra special.” It’s perfect for families or small groups seeking a quiet, exclusive cruise.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting privacy, customization, and a luxurious touch.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your perfect Kissamos tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re after a full-day adventure with gourmet meals, the Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal offers great value. Want a quick, scenic trip? The Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon is ideal. For a more intimate experience, the Semi-private Balos Cruise provides privacy and gourmet food, while the Private RIB Cruise guarantees exclusivity.
Consider your fitness level too—those with limited mobility might prefer the luxury cruises with minimal walking, while the jeep safari offers rugged scenery for the more adventurous. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred departure time.
To sum it up, Kissamos offers a wide range of tours tailored to different tastes and budgets. From adventurous 4×4 safaris exploring Crete’s rugged coastline to luxurious sailing cruises with gourmet dining and sunset views, there’s something for all. For the best experience, think about what kind of adventure suits your style—whether that’s relaxing on a yacht, exploring by speedboat, or enjoying a cultural wine tasting. Remember, these tours tend to fill up fast, so planning and booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on the perfect trip.
