Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Imagine cruising across crystal-clear waters aboard a spacious, modern catamaran, with the sun warming your skin and a gentle breeze in your hair. For about 7.5 hours, from Kissamos port, you’ll visit two of Crete’s most iconic spots: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Starting at just $220 per person, this tour offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and superb scenery — all served with plenty of Mediterranean food and drinks.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines luxury with authentic Crete charm. The semi-private nature means avoiding the crowds that often flood Balos and Gramvousa, giving you more space to breathe, swim, or simply soak in the views. Plus, the onboard crew’s attention to detail — from freshly cooked meals to water sports gear — makes the day feel indulgent without breaking the bank.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency — as with all outdoor activities, bad weather could mean rescheduling or cancellations. Also, if you’re a history buff eager to explore Gramvousa Castle, keep in mind that entry tickets are not included, so you might need to budget a little extra.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate comfortable, well-organized trips with a bit of luxury — perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers who want an hassle-free way to see Crete’s best spots without fighting the crowds. With rave reviews praising the crew and scenery, it’s easy to see why many consider this a highlight of their visit.

Key Points

• Comfortable Luxury: Spacious, modern catamaran with amenities like Wi-Fi and music.
• Exclusive Experience: Smaller groups mean less crowding at popular sites.
• Delicious Food & Drinks: Fresh Greek cuisine, unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer.
• Variety of Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, inflatables, and photo opportunities.
• Flexible & Family Friendly: Kid meals and safety gear included.
• Weather Sensitive: Tour may be rescheduled or canceled in case of bad weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deeper Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Kissamos and the Day’s Flow

Your day begins at Kissamos port, where the crew, identifiable by their DanEri t-shirts and red DanEri flag, welcomes you onboard. Arriving 15 minutes early is wise — the boat departs promptly, and the crew’s briefing covers safety, schedule, and what to expect. Parking at the port is straightforward, and the vibe is friendly and relaxed from the get-go.

The luxury catamaran offers a spacious deck, perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or just watching the scenery glide by. We loved the free Wi-Fi and music, which set a casual, cheerful tone. The crew, all certified by the Red Cross, are attentive but not overbearing, making sure everyone feels comfortable and taken care of. They serve fresh coffee, tea, and local pies as a light breakfast, which is a nice touch.

First Stop: Balos Lagoon — A Slice of Paradise

After about 1.5 hours sailing, your first stop is Balos Lagoon, renowned for its turquoise waters and soft sandy shores. It’s a well-deserved highlight, often crowded, but thanks to the small-group approach, you arrive early enough to beat the crowds. The reviews are almost universally glowing: “The beach was just for us” (from one guest), and “The views from Balos were some of the best we saw” (another).

Here, you have about 2 hours to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or relax. The crew makes it easy to enjoy the water, offering snorkeling gear, standup paddleboards, and inflatable floats, including the popular inflatable flamingo. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for a peaceful swim, and the scenery invites countless photos. Light snacks, Greek cheeses, and seasonal fruits keep your energy up while you soak in the view.

Scenic Ride and the Historic Gramvousa

Next, the boat departs for Gramvousa Island (about 15 minutes away). This spot combines natural beauty with a dash of history. You can explore the island at your own pace, relax on deck, or paddle around. The crew’s hospitality shines here, with beer, wine, and a delicious Mediterranean lunch served on board, featuring fresh seafood and meats, plus a homemade dessert. Several reviews mention the high quality of the gourmet meals, especially Jessica’s culinary skills — “Jessica cooked the most amazing meals,” one happy guest says.

If you’re feeling energetic, you might hike up to Gramvousa Castle for incredible views, but note that entry tickets are not included, and the hike can be steep. Many visitors take advantage of the swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the deck, enjoying the scenic vistas.

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Return Journey and Final Relaxation

The boat spends about 1.5 hours cruising back, giving you plenty of time to unwind, reflect, or share photos. You’ll again have access to snacks, drinks, and music. The crew’s attentiveness — making sure glasses are topped up, and everyone is comfortable — earns consistent praise. Many reviews mention how the friendly staff and well-maintained boat enhance the trip.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $220, this cruise provides a comprehensive experience: transportation, multiple stops, gourmet meals, and water activities. Compared to taking a ferry or public boat, the luxury catamaran offers a more comfortable, intimate environment and the chance to avoid the crowds. The small group size (usually under 20) means more space and a more personalized experience.

The all-inclusive drinks and fishing gear add extra fun, and the onboard Wi-Fi is a thoughtful touch for sharing photos on the go. The professional crew — many of whom are praised in reviews for their hospitality and knowledge — can make or break your day, and here, they make it memorable.

Who Will Love It?

This trip is ideal for people who want a luxurious, hassle-free day with plenty of water-based activities and excellent food. Families with kids will appreciate the kid-friendly meals and safety gear, while couples or solo travelers will enjoy the relaxed, intimate atmosphere. If avoiding crowds and enjoying stunning scenery with good company sounds appealing, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off unless you select the optional transfer service. The meeting point is at Kissamos port.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You get about 2 hours at Balos Lagoon and roughly 2.25 hours at Gramvousa, with additional sailing time in between. The schedule is designed to maximize time on the islands while minimizing crowds.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat are must-haves. Bringing a camera and some cash for extras is also a good idea.

Are vegetarian or special diet options available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special meal requests can be accommodated upon request.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Definitely. Kids will enjoy the water activities and the onboard toys. A kid-friendly meal is provided.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the activity might be rescheduled or canceled, and you’ll receive guidance on alternative options.

Final Thoughts

This luxury catamaran cruise from Kissamos offers a thoughtfully organized way to see Crete’s most celebrated spots without the hassle of crowds or rough transportation. The delicious food, water activities, and stunning scenery create a balanced day of adventure and relaxation. The small-group environment and attentive crew ensure you feel cared for and have space to enjoy the natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a high-quality, all-inclusive day trip that combines comfort, scenic views, and excellent service, this experience is well worth considering. It’s especially suitable for those who want a more exclusive, less hectic way to explore Balos and Gramvousa, making it a memorable highlight of any Crete itinerary.

Enjoy your day on the water, and don’t forget your camera — or your sense of adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: