From Rethymno: Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa Peninsula with PickUp

A day exploring Crete’s most photogenic spots promises unforgettable moments — and this tour combines natural beauty with a touch of history. Starting from Rethymno, the journey takes you to the Kissamos port, where you’ll board a ferry to Balos Lagoon and the Gramvousa Peninsula. Priced at just $12 per person, this tour delivers a surprisingly rich experience, considering the price, with highlights like swimming in turquoise waters, climbing to a Venetian fortress, and enjoying panoramic coastal views. We love the chance to swim directly from the boat into Balos’s shallow, clear waters — it’s a refreshing adventure that truly immerses you in the scenery. The visit to Gramvousa offers both a chance to relax and a hike to a historic fortress with spectacular views.

However, a point to consider is that due to recent government restrictions, there’s no direct shore landing at Balos Lagoon. Instead, you’ll anchor about 300 meters out and swim to the shore, which can be a bit intimidating for weaker swimmers or less confident water lovers. This is a good tour for those who appreciate natural beauty and a bit of adventure, but perhaps less ideal for travelers seeking a fully accessible experience. The tour is perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a full day of Cretan coastal charm.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon and panoramic views from Gramvousa Fortress are breathtaking.
• Value-packed: At just $12, it offers a full day of activities, including boat rides, swimming, and sightseeing.
• Guides and staff: Reviewers generally praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, despite some language barriers.
• Swim and explore: Opportunities for swimming from the boat and hiking up to the fortress ensure varied experiences.
• Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned bus transfers are included, but note some reviews mention variable comfort levels.
• Timing: Around 1.5 hours at Balos and ample free time at Gramvousa make for a relaxed pace, with some comments about logistics.

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The Complete Experience

Starting Point: Rethymno to Kissamos

The tour kicks off early in the morning with a comfortable bus pickup from Rethymno, a town known for its Venetian architecture and lively harbor. The bus ride to Kissamos port takes about an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic Cretan countryside. The buses are air-conditioned, which is a relief during the summer months, but a few reviews mention that the air conditioning could be better, so dressing in layers is wise. Your guides, whose knowledge is generally appreciated, will handle the logistics and provide insights about what’s to come.

The Ferry Ride and Its Unique Charm

Once at Kissamos, you’ll board a ferry that will take you out to the coast. One of the tour’s distinguishing features is that, due to government restrictions, you won’t be able to set foot directly on Balos Lagoon; instead, the ferry anchors about 300 meters away. This means you’ll get to swim from the boat into the shallow, crystal-clear waters — which many travelers find refreshing and fun. The reviews echo this enjoyment, with one stating, “We loved the way we could swim from the boat and feel the warm waters.”

The ferry ride itself offers beautiful views of the coastline and the open Aegean Sea, providing ample photo opportunities and moments to relax on deck. It’s a peaceful way to connect with the natural environment and appreciate Crete’s rugged coastline.

Balos Lagoon: A Photogenic Paradise

The highlight for many is Balos Lagoon, often described as a place that looks like it belongs on a postcard. The lagoon’s shallow waters are perfect for wading and swimming, especially in the warm Cretan sun. You get about 1.5 hours to enjoy the water — enough time to relax, soak up the scenery, or even paddle around on a snorkel if you bring your gear or buy some onboard.

Some reviews point out the logistical challenge of not docking directly at the shore, but most agree that swimming from the boat compensates for that. “It’s a great thing to do and see,” one reviewer says, “but it’s a shame that guides don’t speak much French,” highlighting that language barriers can sometimes make the experience less smooth if you’re hoping for detailed explanations.

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Gramvousa Peninsula: History and Hike

Next, the ferry heads to Gramvousa Island, where the ship docks directly on the shore. Here, you have free time to explore — whether you want to relax, swim, or hike up to the ancient Venetian Fortress. Reaching the fortress takes about 20 minutes of rocky walking, so sturdy shoes are recommended. The views from the top are described as spectacular, offering a panoramic vista of the Aegean and the rocky coast.

One review notes that the guide was friendly and helpful but also highlights that not all guides speak French fluently, which can be frustrating if you’re traveling with limited English. Still, most travelers find the mix of historical intrigue and natural beauty worth the effort.

Return Journey and Practicalities

After several hours exploring, swimming, and taking photos, the boat departs for Kissamos port. The bus then takes you back to Rethymno, with a few travelers mentioning that some are dropped off a bit farther from their hotels, or that the transfer could be more punctual. The entire day is planned to maximize sightseeing with a reasonable pace, but be prepared for some variability.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included services—pick-up in Rethymno, transportation, and the ferry ticket—provide solid value. The ferry ticket costs €38 for adults and €19 for children over 3 years old, and the €1 administrative fee for Balos is paid on-site. The tour guides are knowledgeable, which makes a difference, especially when navigating the logistics of the day.

However, lunch isn’t included, and there are no sunbeds or umbrellas provided, so bringing your own beach gear is wise. Food options are available for purchase onboard, but many travelers prefer to pack a picnic or buy food at Kissamos port before boarding.

Who Would This Tour Suit Best?

This experience is ideal if you’re eager to see Crete’s most iconic seaside spots without the hassle of planning multiple transport stages. It’s perfect for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those keen on swimming in crystal waters. If you’re comfortable with a bit of walking and water activity, you’ll enjoy the day immensely.

On the flip side, if language barriers are a concern, or if you’re looking for a more luxurious or fully accessible experience, this might not be your top choice. Some reviews mention that guides speak mainly English, and the boat anchoring method might be challenging for less confident swimmers.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a fantastic snapshot of Crete’s coast, blending natural beauty, history, and fun. The prices are very reasonable for the full-day experience, and the opportunity to swim directly from the boat adds a memorable touch. It’s a well-organized outing for those who enjoy adventure, scenic views, and a relaxed pace.

The guides, despite some language limitations, are generally friendly and knowledgeable, helping you get the most out of the day. The scenery is stunning, and the chance to see Balos Lagoon’s iconic sands and Gramvousa’s fortress makes it a trip worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who want a value-packed day with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and light trekking, and who don’t mind the occasional logistical hiccup. It’s a great way to tick off some of Crete’s most famous sights in one go, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the coast’s best.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off services from Rethymno and a comfortable, air-conditioned bus.

How much do the ferry tickets cost?
The ferry tickets are prebooked for €38 for adults and €19 for children over 3. The €1 fee for visiting Balos Lagoon is paid at the site.

Can I swim at Balos Lagoon?
Absolutely. Due to restrictions, the ferry anchors 300 meters from the shore, so you’ll swim from the boat into the lagoon’s shallow waters.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Yes, you get about 1.5 hours at Balos Lagoon and ample free time at Gramvousa to explore, relax, or hike to the fortress.

Are guides fluent in French?
Most reviews note that guides speak primarily English, and French explanations are limited, which may affect non-English speakers.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sun protection, a hat, and perhaps a picnic or snacks, as lunch isn’t included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 3 are welcome, but consider the swimming and walking involved. The boat ride and some walking may be less suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I buy food onboard?
Yes, snacks and beverages are available for purchase on the boat, but many travelers prefer to bring their own food.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the rocky paths and the nature of the boat landing process.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with “reserve and pay later” options.

In sum, this tour is a gem for those eager to experience some of Crete’s most beautiful coastal sites, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and photo-taking. While it has some limitations—mainly related to language and accessibility—it offers great value and a memorable day out. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of history, this trip is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: