Balos Beach, with its stunning turquoise waters and pristine sands, is one of Crete’s most iconic sights. What makes it especially appealing is the variety of ways you can experience this natural wonder. Whether you want a full-day boat trip, a private cruise, or an off-road personal tour, there’s something to suit every kind of traveler. We particularly like tours that combine comfort, local insights, and the chance to avoid the crowds, like the Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Meals, which offers a relaxed, exclusive experience with delicious food and plenty of time in the water.
For those who prefer a hassle-free day out, the Rethymno: Gramvousa & Balos Lagoon Day Trip with Boat Ticket hits the sweet spot. It simplifies transportation, includes swim stops, and combines a visit to the Venetian fortress with a scenic cruise. On the other hand, if privacy and personalized service are your priorities, a Private Boat Cruise to Pirate Island provides an intimate escape with a knowledgeable captain and the chance to snorkel in unspoiled waters.
Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of each tour, highlighting what makes them special—and why they might be the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Rethymno: Gramvousa & Balos Lagoon Day Trip with Boat Ticket
At number 1 on our list, this full-day tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and convenience. Starting from Crete’s Rethymno region, you’ll head to Kissamos port, where a boat awaits to take you on a scenic cruise along the northwest coast. The trip includes swim stops in crystal-clear waters, giving you plenty of time to snorkel and relax. A highlight is the optional visit to the Venetian Fortress of Gramvousa, which provides breathtaking views and a peek into the island’s past.
What sets this tour apart is the all-in-one package — roundtrip transfer, boat cruise, and time at Balos Lagoon — all for about $62 per person. The reviews praise its well-planned itinerary and personal touches, with many mentioning how memorable the experience was. The boat crew’s helpfulness and the opportunity to enjoy Balos’s famous sand and waters make this a great value for a full day. Keep in mind, weather can influence the experience, so check the forecast before booking.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive, stress-free day that combines transportation, sightseeing, and relaxation with solid reviews backing up its quality.
2. From Kissamos: Private Boat Cruise to Historic Pirate Island
At number 2, this private boat cruise is perfect if you’re after a more exclusive, tailored experience. For around $768 per group (up to five people), you’ll enjoy a 4-hour voyage on a yacht with an experienced captain. The highlight is a visit to Pirate Island, once home to pirates and revolutionaries, adding a touch of local legend and history.
This tour stands out because of its personalized approach—you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring in a much quieter setting than a group tour. The reviews emphasize the skilled and friendly skipper and the beautiful, uncrowded scenery, making it clear that this is more about quality and intimacy than quantity. The private nature allows for flexible timing and customized stops, which is perfect for couples or small families wanting a unique experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a luxury, private escape and enjoy the idea of exploring at your own pace, this tour offers a memorable day on the water with a touch of adventure.
3. Chania: Private Tour to Balos Lagoon
Number 3 on our list is an 8-hour private tour designed for travelers wanting a luxurious and personalized experience. This excursion allows you to bypass the ferry schedules and explore Balos Lagoon on your own terms. The tour includes off-road driving through scenic villages and countryside, with stops for photo opportunities and panoramic views of Kissamos Bay, Gramvousa, and Balos.
The highlight is the self-guided time at Balos, where you can swim in the crystal waters and relax comfortably. The tour includes a multilingual driver and offers pick-ups from Chania or Platanias, making it flexible for different travelers. Although the reviews are limited, the emphasis on luxury and privacy appeals to those seeking comfort over crowds.
This tour is especially suited for those who want to combine off-road adventure with a relaxed, private exploration. It’s a good value for a semi-custom experience, given the personalized nature and scenic drives.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you prefer a private, flexible day with off-road fun and scenic stops, especially if you’re staying in Chania and want a tailored experience.
4. From Chania: Balos & Gramvousa Day Trip without Boat Ticket
At number 4, this tour offers a cost-effective way to visit Balos and Gramvousa on a 10-hour bus-based trip. It includes door-to-door transportation from Chania to Kissamos port, where you’ll board a boat for a 2-hour cruise to the islands. After the cruise, the bus picks you up for more sightseeing and free time at Balos.
Priced at just over $31, this tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want the basic experience without the extra frills. The reviews mention the convenience of pre-arranged transportation and comfortable buses, with the trade-off being less flexibility and personal space. The itinerary allows for exploration and swimming, but since it’s a group bus tour, it might be less personalized.
This option is ideal if you’re on a budget and don’t mind sticking to a schedule. It’s also a good pick for those who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxing day on the water without extra costs.
Bottom Line: Suitable for budget travelers who want a structured, reliable day trip with good value but less flexibility.
5. Private Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Meals
Number 5 is our top pick for lovers of luxury and exclusivity. This private catamaran cruise lasts about 7.5 hours and includes meals, drinks, and plenty of water activities. You’ll enjoy the spacious decks, stunning views, and the ability to snorkel, SUP surf, or simply relax with your loved ones.
What makes this tour exceptional is its attention to comfort and detail. You’ll start with a welcome snack and refreshments, then cruise to Balos for a few hours of swimming and snorkeling. Further, the boat heads to Gramvousa, offering lunch with Mediterranean flavors. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge in an exclusive experience.
Guests comment on the secluded setting and quality of the food, making it worth the hefty price tag for a special occasion. The only consideration is the cost, which is best justified if you are seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive day on the water.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a luxury, all-in-one experience with privacy, excellent food, and top-end comfort, this cruise is hard to beat.
$3,275 per group up to 10
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Balos Beach experience, consider your budget, time available, and what you value most. If you want full convenience and a well-organized group trip, the Rethymno day trip is excellent. For those seeking privacy and personalized service, the private boat cruise or the luxury catamaran are top choices. Budget travelers might prefer the Chania bus trip, which offers great value for money.
Think about your fitness level too—if you prefer to skip strenuous walks, check the tour details for off-road experiences or self-guided time at Balos. Booking early is advised, especially for the private and luxury options, as they fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Balos Beach is truly a highlight of Crete, and the variety of tours ensures there’s an experience suited for every traveler. From budget-friendly bus trips to luxurious private cruises, each offers a different way to enjoy this stunning location. If you’re after an all-in-one day of sightseeing and swimming, the Rethymno tour is hard to beat. For a more exclusive and personalized experience, consider the private boat or catamaran options.
Whatever you choose, booking in advance will help secure your spot—especially during peak season. With so many choices, your Balos adventure will surely be a highlight of your trip to Crete.