Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise (small group up to 12)

Experience Crete’s Iconic Beaches with a Small-Group Catamaran Cruise

Imagine spending a full day on a 46-foot yacht, sailing across crystal-clear waters around Crete, with no more than 10 fellow travelers by your side. This Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise offers a relaxed escape to the famous Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, home to a pirate fortress and stunning scenery. For just $231.24 per person, you’ll enjoy around 7 hours of sailing, swimming, and snacking, with the added comfort of pickup options and a small group size that ensures a personal touch.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are its intimate atmosphere—which means more space and personalized attention—and the quality of food and drinks provided. The homemade Greek lunch and local snacks stand out, especially when paired with the beautiful views and good company. The honesty here is that it’s a well-priced way to see some of Crete’s most beautiful spots without the hassle of crowded beaches or large tour buses.

A possible consideration is the group size limit—which is 10 people on a yacht that can hold up to 12—meaning it might feel a bit snug for those expecting more space. Also, travelers should bring essentials like sunscreen, a swimsuit, and towels, since these aren’t provided. This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, enjoy relaxing on the water, and want a personalized day exploring Crete’s coast away from busy crowds.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized service and fewer crowds
• Stunning scenery of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island with excellent photo opportunities
• Quality food and drinks, including homemade Greek lunch and local snacks
• Snorkeling equipment available to explore underwater life
• Flexible timing and pickup options make planning easier
• Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and unique views without large tour crowds

A Deep Dive into the Crete Catamaran Experience

When you sign up for this Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise, you’re signing up for a leisurely, scenic day that balances adventure with comfort. The journey begins around 10:00 am from Kissamos, with pickup options available if you’ve selected that in your booking. The yacht, despite being 46 feet long, is intentionally limited to 10 guests, even though it’s technically capable of fitting 12. That’s a smart move—keeping the group small means you won’t be elbow-to-elbow with strangers, and you’ll get more attention from your crew, which many reviews praise highly.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

First Stop: Balos Lagoon
The first highlight is the world-famous Balos Lagoon, known for its pristine white beaches and turquoise waters. We loved the way the tour emphasizes a secluded experience—you’ll anchor relatively close to the beach, but thanks to the yacht’s privacy, you’ll feel like you have your own stretch of paradise. The water here is described as crystal-clear, perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The review from Jacob B mentions that the food was a pleasant surprise—they received an incredible assortment rather than just a simple sandwich, making this stop a real highlight.

Second Stop: Gramvousa Island
Next, you’ll sail over to Gramvousa Island, famous for its pirate fortress perched atop a hill. This gives a wonderful opportunity to explore a piece of history while soaking in spectacular views. The fortress is free to visit, and it offers an immense sense of adventure—just like the reviewers who appreciated the chance to explore a historical site with a stunning backdrop. You’ll have about 2 hours at each stop, which is enough to swim, explore, or just relax on the deck while sipping wine or local drinks.

Food and Beverages

One of the standout aspects of this cruise is the quality of food. Guests consistently praise the homemade Greek lunch and local snacks, which are served with seasonal fruits and refreshing drinks like beer, wine, or soft drinks. Cindy S describes the crew as friendly and attentive, ensuring everyone’s needs are met while enjoying the meal. That personal touch makes the whole experience feel more like a day spent with friends than on a commercial tour.

Snorkeling and Water Fun

The use of snorkeling equipment is included, giving you the chance to explore the underwater world of Crete’s coast. Many reviews highlight how the water is beautiful, and the crew’s friendliness extends to helping guests with equipment and tips. Because the boat offers shade and comfort, you can comfortably spend hours floating or lazing in the sun.

Crew and Personal Attention

Reviewers consistently praise the top-notch crew, describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to ensure guests have a memorable day. Cindy S noted that the crew answered questions immediately and made their day special. Likewise, Susan P appreciated how the crew went out of their way to ensure her family had fun, especially with kids, by providing extra activities and great food.

Practical Details & Considerations

The duration of around 7 hours suits travelers seeking a full-day adventure without rushing. The price, which includes snacks, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and pickup, offers good value, especially considering the small group size and personalized service.

However, keep in mind that this is a small yacht, meaning space is limited. As Andrew H pointed out, 10 people can feel a bit cramped, so if you’re used to more room or traveling with a larger group, this might be something to consider. Also, travelers should prepare by bringing sunscreen and towels, as these aren’t included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to explore Crete’s famous beaches without the crowds. It’s also ideal if you appreciate personalized service and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere**. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the homemade lunch adds to its appeal for those who value authentic local experiences. Families with kids, or those who enjoy learning about local history, will enjoy the visit to Gramvousa’s fortress.

On the flip side, if you prefer more spacious or luxury-oriented boat trips, or have mobility issues, the small group size and limited space might be less suitable. But for most, this experience hits a sweet spot between adventure and comfort.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Stands Out

The Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise balances stunning scenery, authentic experiences, and personalized service—all at a reasonable price. The small group size ensures you’ll feel more like a guest than a passenger, and the quality of food and snorkeling equipment** keeps everyone engaged and comfortable throughout the day.

If you’re after a relaxed yet memorable way to experience some of Crete’s best beaches and historical sites, this cruise offers a well-rounded day out. The reviews make it clear that guest satisfaction is high, with many citing it as a highlight of their trip.

This experience suits independent-minded travelers who want to see Balos and Gramvousa with personal attention and authentic hospitality. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning guest, this cruise promises a beautiful, fun-filled day—and one you’ll likely remember long after you leave Crete.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Kissamos.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers snacks, seasonal fruits, drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks), a homemade Greek lunch, snorkeling equipment, and pickup service if you booked that option.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, giving you a chance to explore the waters around Balos and Gramvousa.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is suitable for those comfortable on small boats.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a swimsuit, towels, and possibly a hat. These aren’t included in the tour.

How many people are on the boat?
Although the yacht can hold up to 12, the maximum number of guests is 10, ensuring more space and comfort.

Is there a pickup service?
Yes, if you select the option during booking, pickup from a central meeting point in Chania is included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this small-group catamaran cruise around Crete offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery, personalized service, and authentic experiences. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water with the bonus of exploring historical sites and enjoying local food. With consistent praise from past guests and a manageable group size, it’s a memorable way to discover Crete’s beautiful coastline—without the crowds and with plenty of room to enjoy the sun and sea.