From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

A full-day boat cruise from Kissamos Port to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa offers an unforgettable taste of Crete’s natural beauty and history. For roughly 7 hours, you’ll relax on a comfortable boat, visit two iconic spots, and enjoy swimming in some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see. The trip is priced affordably, especially considering the scenic stops and included facilities, making it a popular choice among travelers seeking authentic, laid-back island experiences.

What we really love about this tour is the chance to see Balos Lagoon, often called one of the world’s best beaches, and Gramvousa Island, home to a Venetian castle and a shipwreck that looks like it belongs in a postcard. Both spots are truly picture-perfect, offering an exceptional mix of natural wonder and history. Plus, the boat ride itself is enjoyable, with stunning views of steep cliffs, secluded beaches, and the endless blue sea.

One thing to keep in mind is the timed disembarkation process — it can take a few minutes to get ashore at Balos, since boats can’t dock directly on the beach, requiring you to swim a few meters or walk over rocks. This can be a little tricky if you’re not prepared with water shoes or waterproof bags. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic boat rides, and opportunities for swimming and photo stops. It’s especially great for those who prefer hassle-free transportation and want to experience Crete’s most iconic beaches without renting a car.

Key Points

• Natural Beauty: The trip showcases Crete’s dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and stunning landscapes.
• Convenience: All-in-one day trip with transportation, stops, and optional food and drinks.
• Authentic Sites: Visit the Venetian castle on Gramvousa and see the famous shipwreck.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Ample time at Balos Lagoon for swimming in crystal-clear water.
• Organized & Punctual: Well-run with clear instructions, as many reviews highlight.
• Considerations: Be prepared for some swimming to shore and possibly limited time at each stop.

Exploring the Experience: A Day in Crete’s Most Famous Spots

Embarking from Kissamos Port, the cruise promises a leisurely 7-hour adventure through some of Crete’s most breathtaking scenery and historic sites. We found that the journey begins with a relaxed sail across the bay, where you can take in the views of steep, rocky cliffs and the shimmering sea. It’s a calming way to start the day, with many reviews mentioning how smooth and well-organized the boarding process is, and the friendly crew making everyone feel at ease.

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The Journey to Gramvousa and Balos

Depending on the itinerary, you’ll either visit Gramvousa Island first or end there after Balos. This flexibility is helpful if weather conditions or personal preferences influence your decision. The boat ride itself takes about an hour each way, offering plenty of opportunities for photos of the rugged coastline, sea caves, and the iconic shipwreck that rests on Gramvousa’s beach. Several reviews praise this part of the experience: “The views and the beaches in both places were spectacular,” says one traveler, capturing the essence of what makes this trip special.

Visiting Gramvousa Island

Once at Gramvousa, you’ll have a little over two hours to explore. The island’s highlight is the Venetian fortress perched atop a steep rock, accessible via a short hike of about 15 minutes. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, giving you a clear look at Balos Lagoon’s striking colors and the surrounding coastline. The fortress, built in the late 15th century, offers a tangible link to the turbulent history of Crete, and many visitors enjoy wandering around the ruins, imagining life on this strategic outpost.

Just below the castle, you’ll find the famous shipwreck, an eerie yet beautiful relic that’s become a symbol of this place. Swimmers also enjoy a quick dip near the Church of Agioi Apostoloi, a peaceful spot where you can unwind in the calm waters.

The Highlight: Balos Lagoon

A short boat ride from Gramvousa leads you to Balos Lagoon, ranked among the world’s top beaches. Words can’t really do justice to its beauty — a vast, shallow bay with emerald waters and soft, golden sands. Many reviews emphasize just how stunning Balos is: “Words cannot describe the impressiveness of this place,” and “nothing can describe what you are about to feel when you see this,” capture the universal awe.

You’ll have approximately 2.5 hours here, giving plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the scenery. We loved the way the rocks and cliffs frame the lagoon, creating a sense of seclusion despite the popularity of the site. Keep in mind that the boat cannot dock directly on the shore, so you might find yourself swimming a few meters to the beach — a minor inconvenience that many find worth the trouble.

Practical Details: Timing and Comfort

The itinerary typically includes a ferry ride of about an hour each way, with stops at Gramvousa (around 2 hours) and Balos (about 2.5 hours). This schedule balances enough time to explore without feeling rushed, according to satisfied travelers. The boat itself is described as well-maintained and clean, with toilets and refreshments available. Pricing for food and drinks is reasonable, and some reviews mention that bringing your own snacks and water shoes can enhance comfort.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for anyone who appreciates stunning scenery, history, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, as the trip avoids the hassle of renting a car or navigating busy roads. It also caters well to those seeking authentic experiences, with the chance to walk around historic sites and see natural landscapes that are quite unlike anything else in Crete.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at Kissamos Port

The tour begins early in the morning at Kissamos Port, which is easily accessible by car or bus. The port offers free parking, making it convenient for those traveling independently. Many reviews mention the efficiency of the boarding process — travelers receive an electronic boarding pass the day before, and arriving at least 40 minutes early ensures smooth check-in.

The Boat Ride

The one-hour sail takes you across the calm waters of Kissamos Bay, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The crew provides safety instructions in English, and many reviewers note the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. The boat’s size is just right — not too big, ensuring a cozy atmosphere, but large enough to avoid feeling crowded.

Stop 1: Gramvousa Island

The first destination is the island of Gramvousa, where you disembark onto a small port. The highlight here is the Venetian castle, accessible via a brief hike, which rewards you with panoramic views. Many visitors mention how the shipwreck sitting on the beach adds a surreal element to the landscape — “It was Ana, visited two islands and beaches, amazing colours water, it was definitely worth our time and money,” one review states.

The site’s historical significance, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a highlight for those interested in both history and scenery. The church of Agioi Apostoloi provides a peaceful spot for a quick visit or a photo.

Stop 2: Balos Lagoon

After exploring Gramvousa, you’ll hop back on the boat for the short trip to Balos Lagoon. This is the star attraction — a vast, shallow bay with crystal-clear waters and soft sands. The lagoon’s striking contrast of blue and green hues makes it a photographer’s dream.

You’ll have enough time to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the beach. Many reviews highlight how the rocks and cliffs surrounding the lagoon give a sense of privacy and tranquility, despite its popularity. The experience of swimming in Balos is often described as unforgettable — “Words cannot describe the impressiveness of this place,” many travelers agree.

Returning to Kissamos

The return trip is about an hour, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The crew’s efficiency in managing disembarkation makes the process smooth, though some reviews note that getting off the boat at Balos can involve a swim or walking over rocks — so packing water shoes is advised.

Practical Insights for Travelers

Duration and Timing

At around 7 hours, this tour fits well into a day’s plan. It typically departs in the morning, with specific times varying by day, so checking availability is crucial. The schedule offers a good balance, with enough time at each stop to see the sights and enjoy a swim without feeling hurried.

Costs and Value

The price includes the round-trip boat cruise, the captain and crew, and entrance to both Gramvousa and Balos. Food and drinks are optional but reasonably priced, and a small municipality fee of 1 EUR per passenger over 13 applies at the port. Travelers generally agree that the trip offers excellent value — especially considering the scenery and ease of transportation.

What to Bring

A few essentials enhance the experience: comfortable shoes for hiking, a hat for sun protection, swimwear and a towel for the beach, sunscreen, and waterproof bags for your belongings. While the boat has toilets, packing light makes disembarking easier, especially since you might need to swim to shore.

Who Would Enjoy This

This trip is ideal for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and beach lovers who prefer a relaxed, organized experience. It’s less suited for wheelchair users or anyone who prefers to explore on their own at their own pace, given the boat’s limited docking options and the nature of the stops.

Concluding Thoughts: Is this Tour for You?

If you’re after a stress-free way to see Crete’s most iconic beaches and historic sites, this cruise is a solid choice. The stunning scenery and authentic sites like Gramvousa’s fortress and shipwreck provide plenty of visual and cultural interest. The crystal-clear waters of Balos are a highlight that many travelers remember long after the trip ends, making it worth the effort to get there.

The tour’s organized nature and reasonable cost make it suitable for travelers who want to avoid renting a car or navigating complicated transportation. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy group outings with a friendly crew, scenic boat rides, and ample time for swimming and relaxing.

However, if you’re looking for a very flexible or private experience, or want to explore more hidden spots, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Still, for most visitors wanting a memorable day that combines natural beauty, history, and fun, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
The tour includes food and drinks if you select the option, but many travelers find it convenient to bring their own snacks and water, especially for the time at Balos.

Is the boat comfortable and clean?
Yes, reviews consistently mention the boat as well-maintained and clean, with clean toilets and a friendly crew.

How long do I have at each location?
You’ll typically have around 2 hours at Gramvousa and 2.5 hours at Balos, which provides enough time for sightseeing, swimming, and photos.

Can I rent umbrellas or sunbeds?
Yes, you can hire umbrellas at Balos, but some reviews say prices are high, so bringing your own shade might be better.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, swimwear and towels for the beach, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

Is this tour suitable for young children or seniors?
While the boat ride is smooth, the hike up to Gramvousa’s castle and swimming near rocks might be challenging for some seniors or very young children. Always consider mobility and water comfort levels.

To sum it up, this full-day boat cruise from Kissamos Port to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa offers an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich experience. It’s a perfect choice for travelers eager to see Crete’s most stunning spots without the hassle of driving or complex planning. Just be prepared for some swimming and hiking, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views and a taste of island life that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: