Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal

Imagine sailing on a luxurious modern yacht along the Crete coast, heading toward two of the island’s most iconic spots: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa island. This 7.5-hour tour from Kissamos offers an elegant way to enjoy the crystal-clear waters, scenic views, and a tasty Mediterranean lunch. Priced around €85 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but many reviews suggest it’s well worth the experience.

What we love most is the comfortable, well-equipped boat — perfect for lounging or exploring — and the chance to snorkel and paddleboard in waters praised for their clarity. The knowledgeable crew and the delicious, locally-sourced meal make it feel like a special day out.

One thing to consider is the potential for crowds at Balos, especially in peak season. If you prefer quieter, less crowded spots, visiting in late April might be better, as some reviewers noted fewer visitors at that time.

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy scenic sailing, authentic Greek hospitality, and a blend of relaxation and exploration. If you’re after a memorable, all-in-one day with great food and stunning views, this experience will deliver.

Key Points

• Luxurious boat provides comfort and space for relaxing or enjoying water activities.
• Two main stops at Gramvousa and Balos offer swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
• Authentic Mediterranean lunch with local ingredients, included in the price.
• Flexible water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling, available throughout the day.
• Expert crew ensures safety, answers questions, and creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
• Time-efficient itinerary balances sightseeing and leisure, with around 1.5 hours at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Crete Coast on a Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise

When we think about the best way to experience Crete’s most celebrated sights, hopping aboard this 7.5-hour sailing cruise from Kissamos quickly becomes an attractive choice. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s an opportunity to see two of the island’s most photographed locations—Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa island—from the water, with the added comfort of a modern yacht, delicious food, and an enthusiastic crew.

The Details: What’s Included and How it Works

This cruise departs from Kissamos Port, where the crew greets you with warmth and professionalism. After a brief safety briefing and some refreshments, you’ll settle onto the boat’s sunbeds or sit in the spacious outdoor cockpit, soaking in views of the coast as you sail along for about 1 to 1.5 hours toward Gramvousa. It’s a smooth start that sets the tone for a relaxing day.

Onboard, you’re treated to a Mediterranean buffet featuring shrimp linguine, Greek salad, and Cretan appetizers, complemented by unlimited drinks—wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water. Many reviewers highlight the quality and plentifulness of the meal, considering it good value for the all-inclusive experience.

The Itinerary: Stops and Highlights

Gramvousa Island (1.5 hours)

The first major stop is Gramvousa, famous for its shipwreck and the old fortress atop the hill. You’ll have roughly 90 minutes to explore or simply enjoy the water. You can swim directly from the boat, snorkel around the wreck, or wander the rocky terrain.

Reviewers note that the crew makes disembarking easy, either from the dock or via a tender boat, which adds to the convenience. One traveler remarked, “We jumped into the crystal waters directly from the boat,” emphasizing the access to pristine swimming spots.

You might also want to climb up to the fortress for panoramic views, but be mindful that some reviews mention the rocky terrain and the rocky access as potential hurdles—so good footwear is advisable for those planning to explore further.

Balos Lagoon (about 1.5 hours)

Next is Balos Lagoon, the star of many travelers’ photos. Known for its turquoise waters and striking white sands, it’s often called a “paradise on earth.” The cruise docks nearby, and you can disembark with the tender or swim directly from the boat for an even more private experience.

Many reviews describe Balos as a must-see spot, and some mention that visiting later in the season helps avoid the large crowds of day-trippers arriving on large ships. The lagoon’s shallow, warm waters are perfect for swimming, and the scenery is stunning.

During your time here, you’re free to relax, sunbathe, snorkel, or paddleboard. Water activities are encouraged and made easy thanks to the crew’s equipment. One reviewer said, “We loved the way we could directly jump into the water from the boat and enjoy the silence away from the crowds.”

The Return Journey and Final Relaxation

After your time at Balos, you’ll sail back toward Kissamos, enjoying scenic views and some music. The crew will keep the drinks flowing and continue to entertain. The cruise wraps up with about 1.5 hours of sailing, giving you time to unwind and reflect on your day.

The journey ends back at the port or your hotel if you opted for pickup. As one reviewer enthusiastically put it, “The crew’s friendliness, the beautiful boat, and the delicious lunch made this a perfect day.”

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What It Feels Like to Be on Board

The boat itself is described as clean, comfortable, and spacious, with enough room for everyone to stretch out. The onboard atmosphere is friendly and lively, with many travelers mentioning the crew’s attentiveness and helpful attitude. The music adds a relaxing vibe, and the water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling are easy to request.

The meal, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, is a highlight for many. Several reviews mention that the food exceeded expectations, with some travelers noting they appreciated special options like vegan or gluten-free meals when requested in advance.

The Pros and Cons

Pros include the comfortable boat, excellent value for the all-inclusive package, beautiful scenery, and friendly guides. The food and drinks are consistently praised, making the day feel indulgent but practical.

Potential drawbacks are the possibility of crowds at Balos, especially during peak season, and the rocky terrain on Gramvousa, which might pose a challenge for some. Also, the tour’s length means it’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long boat trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed yet scenic experience with plenty of water activities. If you love a good combo of sightseeing, swimming, and tasty food, you’ll appreciate this trip. It’s also great for those who prefer a well-organized, comfortable boat rather than rougher sea journeys or crowded excursions.

Reviewers highlight its appeal for those seeking authentic Greek hospitality, as the crew’s friendliness shines through. It’s also suitable for couples, groups, or solo travelers who enjoy engaging guides and a lively atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This sailing cruise from Kissamos offers a balanced mix of luxury, adventure, and authentic local flavor. The boat’s comfort, combined with the stunning scenery of Balos and Gramvousa, makes it a memorable day out. The included Mediterranean meal and water activities add value, especially for those who want more than just a sightseeing trip.

While it’s not the cheapest option, most travelers agree it’s a worthy splurge—especially considering the quality of the boat, food, and scenery. It’s a fantastic way to experience some of Crete’s most iconic sights in a relaxed setting, away from the crowds and with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, enjoyable day on the water with friendly guides, delicious food, and breathtaking views, this cruise hits the mark. It’s best suited for those who appreciate comfort, good company, and authentic experiences in a beautiful setting.

FAQ

Is transportation to the port included?
Yes, optional pickup is available from several locations, including Kissamos, Platanias, and Chania, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 7.5 hours, including stops and sailing time, with departure times depending on your chosen option.

What should I bring?
Towels, a passport or ID, and sunscreen are recommended. Towels are not included, so bring your own for swimming and sunbathing.

Are water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment are provided and can be requested from the crew at any time.

Can I disembark at each stop?
Yes, disembarking is easy, either directly from the dock or via tender boat, allowing you to explore or swim at your leisure.

Is food suitable for special diets?
The menu is Mediterranean and made from local ingredients. When booking, you can request vegan or gluten-free options.

What about crowds?
In high season, Balos can be busy with large ships and many visitors. Visiting in late April or early May might offer a less crowded experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activity is generally suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat and who can enjoy a full day outdoors.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users should consider their comfort level, as some terrain might be rocky.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online and choose the pickup option. Payment can be made later, providing flexibility for your plans.

This cruise from Kissamos combines comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek hospitality—an experience that many travelers cherish in their Crete visit. Whether you’re after stunning photo opportunities, relaxing in warm waters, or enjoying a sumptuous meal aboard, this trip delivers.

You can check availability for your dates here: