Kissamos: Afternoon Luxury Catamaran to Balos & Refreshments

If you’re dreaming of soaking in the beauty of Crete’s famous Balos Lagoon while enjoying a touch of luxury, then the Kissamos afternoon catamaran cruise is worth your consideration. For around $123 per person, you’ll spend a relaxing few hours on a brand-new, custom-designed luxury catamaran, departing from Kissamos port. The trip lasts roughly four hours, with plenty of time to swim, snack, and marvel at the scenery.

What makes this experience stand out is not just the destination but the quality of the vessel and the thoughtful amenities—from the open bar to snorkeling gear and a fun waterslide. We especially appreciate the VIP flybridge option, offering the best panoramic views and ultimate relaxation, perfect if you want to enjoy the sunset in style.

However, a word of caution—since the cruise is weather-dependent, it might be rescheduled or canceled if conditions turn rough. This is a common consideration with any sea-based activity on Crete. Finally, this trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy luxury experiences, beautiful scenery, and social atmospheres with good value. If you’re after a serene, well-organized outing with plenty of amenities, this cruise checks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Luxurious vessel: A brand-new, custom-designed catamaran ensures comfort and style.
• Scenic highlights: The stop at Balos Lagoon is a highlight, with options to swim, snorkel, or simply relax.
• Amenities galore: Open bar, gourmet snacks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a waterslide make for fun and convenience.
• Flexible options: Choose between comfort and VIP flybridge seating, with reserved sunbeds and extra amenities.
• Ideal for sunset lovers: The return cruise offers stunning views of the Cretan sunset.
• Weather dependency: Be aware that the schedule can change if weather conditions are poor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure and Setting Sail

Your day begins at Kissamos port, a charming starting point that’s usually easy to access, depending on where you’re staying. The departure time at 4:00 PM is perfect for catching the late afternoon sun and arriving at Balos in the early evening. As you board the luxurious catamaran, the crew provides a quick safety briefing—nothing too heavy, just enough to make you feel confident and comfortable.

What immediately strikes us is how modern and well-maintained the vessel is. The custom design isn’t just for show—every aspect of the boat seems tailored for comfort, from wide decks to shaded areas. This sets the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable outing, free from the cramped feeling of larger, overcrowded boats.

The Journey to Balos Lagoon

Once underway, you’ll enjoy the gentle sea breeze and panoramic flybridge views if you’ve opted for the VIP experience. This deck offers sweeping vistas—perfect for taking photos, chatting, or simply soaking in the scenery. The crew often plays music and keeps the mood lively, adding to the sense of a special occasion rather than just another boat trip.

The approximate 1-hour sail to Balos Bay is a good time to settle in, feel the wind, and enjoy the onboard Wi-Fi if you want to share a few shots in real-time.

Balos Lagoon Stop

Around 5:15 PM, the catamaran anchors near the famous Balos Lagoon. While you won’t disembark directly onto the beach (unless you take the optional small boat transfer), you’re free to swim, snorkel, or lounge on deck. The turquoise waters and white sands make it one of Crete’s most iconic sights, and many reviews highlight the stunning setting. “Drop anchor in Crete’s most stunning bay,” as one reviewer describes it, and it truly lives up to its reputation.

The snorkeling gear is handy, and if you’re feeling more adventurous, you might paddle around on the standup paddleboards. For families or kids, the inflatables and toys provide additional fun. We loved the way the crew encourages swimming and relaxing, but it’s worth noting that disembarkation on the beach isn’t included, so if you want to explore the shore more extensively, you’ll need to arrange the small boat transfer available.

Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

Back onboard around 6:00 PM, the snacks—including fresh fruits and light bites—are a hit, especially after a swim. The open bar offers white wine, beer, and soft drinks, which many reviewers find to be a good value considering the quality and quantity. The gourmet snacks and refreshing drinks make the experience feel more like a celebration than just a sightseeing tour.

One frequent compliment from guests is the friendly, attentive staff who make sure everyone is well taken care of. “The team is welcoming and very attentive,” one guest remarked, which significantly adds to the overall enjoyment.

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Sunset and Return Journey

As the sun begins to set around 6:45 PM, the cruise turns back toward Kissamos, and the colors over the sea become truly spectacular. This is a favorite part of the trip for many, with reviews describing the “unforgettable sunset” as a highlight. The calmness of the sea, combined with the gentle rocking of the boat, creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere—perfect for reflection or just soaking in the moment.

The return cruise lasts about an hour, giving you more chances to enjoy the views, music, and comfortable surroundings. The boat’s Wi-Fi and the ambient music keep the vibe lively yet relaxing.

Arrival Back at Kissamos

By 8:00 PM, you’ll be back at the port, with plenty of memories of a luxurious afternoon filled with stunning scenery, good food, and great company. Many guests, as one review notes, feel it was “a very beautiful day they’ll remember for a long time,” which speaks to the quality of the experience.

This luxury catamaran experience is well-suited for travelers who want more than just a standard boat ride. If you enjoy beautiful vistas, comfortable amenities, and good value for money, you’ll find plenty to love here. Families with kids will appreciate the inflatables and toys, while couples or groups seeking a more relaxed, upscale outing** will enjoy the VIP options.

Those who value friendly, knowledgeable staff and fresh snacks and drinks will find this cruise hits the mark. Be aware, though, that if you’re looking for a longer, beach-disembarking experience or prefer a more adventurous, less curated trip, other options might suit you better.

The Kissamos luxury catamaran to Balos offers a well-rounded experience that balances luxury, scenic beauty, and authentic relaxation. The vessel’s modern design and amenities make it stand out from typical sailing trips, and the attention to detail by the crew is evident in reviews. The stunning sunset, open bar, and snorkeling opportunities mean you’ll likely leave with a smile and plenty of great photos.

The price reflects good value considering the quality of the vessel, the inclusions, and the unforgettable views. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a relaxing escape from the busy tourist spots, this cruise offers a memorable way to experience some of Crete’s most iconic scenery.

In short: If you love beautiful settings, luxury touches, and a friendly atmosphere, this tour is worth every euro. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with comfort and a touch of elegance.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included unless you select that option. The meeting point is at Kissamos port.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and sports shoes for getting around comfortably on deck and in the water.

Can I disembark at Balos Beach?
You can swim and snorkel near the boat, but the cruise does not include disembarking on the beach unless you opt for the small boat transfer.

What is the VIP option?
The VIP ticket grants access to the flybridge with reserved sunbeds, a complimentary towel, and a bottle of water, offering an elevated view and extra comfort.

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts about four hours, including sailing time, swimming, snacks, and the sunset return.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, with inflatables, toys, and snorkeling gear provided, kids tend to enjoy the fun onboard atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent; it may be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This well-appointed cruise combines the best of Crete’s scenery with comfort and fun, making it a standout choice for a memorable afternoon on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: