Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise from Kissamos

Experience the Best of Crete with a Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Cruise

Imagine a full day spent aboard a luxury catamaran, gliding across the crystal-clear waters of Crete, with two of the island’s most iconic sights—Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island—serving as your backdrop. For around 7.5 hours, starting at 8:30 am from Kissamos, you’ll be spoiled with personalized service, delicious Greek cuisine, and opportunities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and just relaxing away from the crowds.

What we love most about this trip is how it combines luxury, authenticity, and value. The crew’s reputation for personalized attention and the superior condition of the boat really shine through in reviews, while the inclusion of food, drinks, and water sports ensures you get a lot for your money.

A possible consideration is that this cruise doesn’t include guided tours or entry tickets to Gramvousa Castle, so if you’re after historical context or a more structured itinerary, you’ll need to plan separately.

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, luxurious, and scenic day on the water, especially if you want to skip the crowds and enjoy Crete’s stunning beaches with a bit of style and comfort.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Small group size with fewer than 25 people makes for a more personal experience.
• Authentic Crete: Tasty, homemade Greek food and local drinks add a genuine touch.
• Flexible Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and inflatable flamingos provide fun options in the warm Mediterranean waters.
• Exclusive Experience: Visiting Balos and Gramvousa before large tour ships arrive ensures a peaceful setting.
• Great for Families: Kid-friendly meals, toys, and crew who go out of their way to entertain.
• Excellent Crew: Consistently praised for friendly, attentive service, making everyone feel special.

In-Depth Review of the Catamaran Experience

Setting Out from Kissamos

The adventure begins at DanEri Yachts‘ base in Kissamos, a small town known for its charming port and relaxed vibe. Your departure time is 8:30 am, giving you plenty of the day left to enjoy Crete’s highlights. The boat is described as immaculately kept, with powered toilets and comfortable cushions—a rarity on smaller boats, and a sign of the luxury experience.

The group size is limited to 22 travelers, which is ideal if you prefer an intimate, less crowded atmosphere. This smaller number also means the crew can give more personalized attention, which many reviews rave about.

The First Stop: Balos Lagoon

Within a short cruise, you arrive at Balos Lagoon, often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The reviews describe the water as turquoise and the sand as soft—a true slice of paradise. We love that the trip is timed to avoid the ferry crowds, giving you a peaceful experience when most large boats are still making their way to the site.

At Balos, you’ll have around two hours to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or just lounge. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, SUP boards, and even inflatable flamingos, making it fun and easy to enjoy the water. The shallow, warm waters are ideal for snorkeling, and the scenery makes for fantastic photos.

According to reviewer Molly_D, “We were taken to the most amazing beaches,” and many mention how the exclusive access makes for a more authentic experience, free from the typical tourist crush.

The Second Stop: Gramvousa Island

Next, the boat moves to Gramvousa Island, an island with both natural beauty and a dash of history. The island features clear waters perfect for swimming, as well as opportunities to explore Gramvousa Castle (though entry tickets are not included). Visitors can opt to explore on their own or relax on the deck soaking up the sun.

This part of the tour lasts approximately two hours. It’s a chance to refuel with a Mediterranean-style lunch prepared on board—a highlight praised by many travelers. The lunch menu includes fetas, seafood, meats, and fresh salads, with a dessert of seasonal fruits. The fact that the food is homemade on the boat adds a special touch, making the experience feel both luxurious and authentic.

A standout from reviews is how the crew’s attention to detail makes the meal memorable—Jessica, in particular, is called out for her impeccable cooking and warm service. Kids also get a special meal, ensuring the whole family stays happy.

Water Sports and Relaxation

Throughout the day, water activities are a big selling point. The snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and fishing equipment allow for varied fun, catering to different tastes. Many reviews highlight how the warm Mediterranean waters are perfect for swimming, with some describing the experience as surreal due to the crystal clarity of the water.

For those who prefer to simply relax, the luxurious boat offers plenty of comfortable seating, music, and a chilled atmosphere. Reviewers frequently mention how the crew’s friendliness and personalized service elevate the day—making it feel more like a luxury getaway than a typical boat trip.

The Return and Overall Experience

As the cruise winds down, most guests agree that the quality of the boat, the attentiveness of the crew, and the delicious food make this a top-tier experience. The small group size means you never feel overwhelmed, and you get to enjoy the scenery, water, and company at your own pace.

Many travelers comment that this trip exceeds expectations and is worth every penny, especially compared to larger, more crowded tours. The reviews are full of praise for the friendly crew, excellent food, and unbeatable views.

Practical Details and Considerations

While the price of around $190 per person may seem high, most reviews emphasize the value for money. The package includes snorkeling gear, SUP boards, water, drinks, and a full meal, which many other tours charge extra for. Plus, the small group size and personal service add to the sense of luxury.

Note that the tour does not include entry tickets to Gramvousa Castle, nor does it provide hotel pickup—so plan to meet directly at the dock in Kissamos. The confirmation process is straightforward, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, couples, and solo adventurers.

The weather can impact the trip—if poor weather cancels, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Always check the forecast and dress comfortably for a full day on the water.

The Sum Up

This catamaran cruise offers a luxurious, relaxed, and authentic way to see some of Crete’s most stunning sights. You’ll love the small-group atmosphere, the delicious homemade Greek food, and the unspoiled beaches that are free from the crowds typical of larger tours. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate personalized service, water-based fun, and breathtaking scenery.

If you’re looking for a special day out that combines adventure with comfort, and want to see Balos and Gramvousa away from the tourist hordes, this cruise could be your perfect match. It’s especially recommended if you value friendly guides, great food, and a peaceful, scenic environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 7.5 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Kissamos around 4 pm.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is kid-friendly, with special kid meals and toys available. Many reviews mention enjoying it with families.

What is included in the price?
The price covers use of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, fishing equipment, Wi-Fi, drinks (including unlimited beer and white wine), light snacks, and a full Mediterranean lunch.

Are guided tours or castle entry tickets included?
No, the tour does not include guided tours or entry tickets to Gramvousa Castle**.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start. If canceled then, you’ll get a full refund.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, guests meet directly at the DanEri Yachts dock in Kissamos.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. The boat provides waterproof gear for water activities, but you might want to bring your own waterproof case for electronics.

How crowded is the trip?
With a maximum of 22 travelers, it’s considered an intimate experience—a big plus for avoiding large tour crowds.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The small group size, luxurious boat condition, personalized crew service, and timing to beat crowds make this a uniquely enjoyable way to experience Crete’s beaches.

Is there any additional cost I should be aware of?
Not on this tour—everything from water sports to drinks and meals is included in the price, ensuring no surprises.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Crete eager to combine luxury, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek hospitality, this catamaran cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island is hard to beat. It’s a well-organized, small-group adventure with excellent reviews that highlight friendly guides, delicious local food, and stunning scenery that will stay with you long after you leave the boat.

Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family wanting a fun day on the water, or a solo traveler craving a relaxed yet memorable experience, this cruise offers a bit of everything—at a price reflecting its quality and intimacy. If you value personalized attention, gorgeous views, and unique access to Crete’s natural wonders, this trip is worth considering.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before your trip and arrive promptly. With its blend of comfort, scenery, and authentic touches, this cruise is sure to be a highlight of your Crete holiday.