Kissamos: Balos Lagoon Sunset Cruise with Swimming & Snacks

Imagine sailing across the clear waters of Crete, heading towards one of its most iconic spots, Balos Lagoon, with the promise of a peaceful swim, delicious local snacks, and a breathtaking sunset. This cruise, offered by Cretan Sailing Cruises, costs around $95 per person and lasts approximately 4-5 hours, depending on sunset timing. You’ll hop aboard a modern, comfortable sailing yacht, setting out from Kissamos port, where the crew will warmly welcome you.

What we love about this experience is the chance to sail in style while enjoying gourmet snacks and unlimited drinks, including wine, beer, and soft drinks. Plus, the opportunity to try water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling adds a playful, active element. The highlight? Watching the sunset light up the sky over Balos Lagoon — an image you’ll carry with you long after the day ends.

One consideration is that the duration of the cruise can shift slightly due to sunset times, and some reviews mention that sea conditions can be a bit rough, so if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering. Plus, since swimming in the lagoon involves disembarking by swimming, it’s best to be comfortable with a quick dip in open water.

This tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a blend of relaxation, stunning scenery, and light adventure. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate excellent hospitality and want to experience Crete’s natural beauty in a laid-back, intimate way.

Key Points

• Comfortable Sailing: The boat is large and modern, ensuring a relaxed cruise experience.
• Balos Lagoon Access: Swim in crystal waters with the boat anchored in the bay, in a setting praised for its natural beauty.
• Gourmet Snacks & Drinks: Enjoy local, high-quality snacks along with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Sunset Views: Witness a spectacular sunset, often described as breathtaking and memorable.
• Water Activities: Try paddleboarding or snorkeling, with equipment available upon request.
• Authentic Experience: Small group size and friendly crew foster a warm, familial atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail from Kissamos

Starting at the Kissamos port, the cruise begins with a friendly crew welcoming you aboard a spacious yacht. The first moments include a quick safety briefing, after which you can settle onto the deck sunbeds or sit in the outdoor cockpit area to soak in the views of Gramvousa cape.

What truly sets this cruise apart is the personalized service. Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides like Michalis and Giannis, who made guests feel like part of the family. They also serve as informal storytellers about Crete’s coast and Balos Lagoon, adding depth to your experience.

The Scenic Sail

The journey to Balos takes about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, chat, or simply enjoy the stunning coastline along the way. We loved the way the vast sea and rugged shoreline unfold from the deck, making each moment a visual feast. The large yacht ensures plenty of space for everyone to find their favorite spot, whether lounging on deck or sitting in the shaded cockpit.

Reaching Balos Lagoon

Once at Balos, the yacht anchors in the bay, allowing for disembarkation by swimming — a highlight for many. You can dive into the crystalline waters, which are often described as surprisingly warm and inviting. According to reviews, guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, especially since the timing often means Balos is less crowded than during peak hours.

Some guests have expressed that most of their time was on the boat rather than on the shore, especially if weather conditions are rough or if the boat’s equipment has limited availability. For example, one reviewer pointed out that winds could make paddleboarding tricky, and a broken ladder or boat equipment issues might cut short swimming plans.

The Food and Drinks

The crew serves plentiful gourmet snacks made from local products. Guests rave about the quality and variety of the food, describing it as delicious, fresh, and well-portioned. Unlimited drinks, including local wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water, add to the relaxed, party-like atmosphere. This combination of good food and drinks makes the experience feel both indulgent and authentic.

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Sunset and Return

After about an hour on the lagoon, the yacht begins its return journey. As we sail back, the sun begins to lower, casting a golden glow over the landscape, which many reviews describe as breathtaking. The captain often points out the best spots for viewing the sunset, making this a romantic or contemplative moment.

Some guests mentioned that the moonlit sail back was just as memorable as the sunset, with the crew playing music and creating a festive vibe on board. Water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling are available again during the return, depending on weather conditions and crew instructions.

Final Thoughts

This cruise offers a balanced mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and light adventure. The friendly crew, comfortable yacht, and delicious onboard offerings make it a great value, especially considering the small group size and personalized service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience works best for those who value a relaxed, scenic outing with good food and are comfortable with swimming in open water. It’s perfect for couples seeking romance, families wanting a gentle adventure, or solo travelers looking for a memorable way to see Crete’s coast. Keep in mind that it’s not suited for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those prone to seasickness.

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the hotel pickup option, your transport to and from the port is covered, making the start and end of your trip hassle-free.

What should I bring?
A towel and your passport or ID are recommended. Bring a swimsuit if you want to swim, and consider extra sun protection like sunscreen and a hat.

Can I participate in water activities?
Yes, paddles and snorkeling gear are available upon request. The crew is happy to assist with instructions, but note that wind and equipment issues might limit some activities.

What about seasickness?
Sea conditions can be a bit rough, and if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering. Several reviews advise being cautious, especially during windy days.

How long do I get at Balos Lagoon?
You typically have around 1 hour to enjoy swimming, take photos, or relax on the beach before heading back.

Is the sunset view guaranteed?
While weather can affect visibility, most trips are scheduled to coincide with sunset times, and guests frequently praise the spectacular views.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness.

A sunset cruise from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon offers more than just a boat trip — it’s a chance to relax in style, soak up stunning scenery, and enjoy authentic Greek hospitality onboard a well-equipped yacht. The friendly crew, delicious local snacks, and unbeatable sunset views make this a memorable experience for many travelers.

If you’re after a laid-back yet visually spectacular outing that combines sea, sun, and culture, this cruise is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and personalized service, making it a highlight of any Crete itinerary.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 4-5 hours, depending on sunset time and weather conditions.

What’s included?
Sunset sailing, certified captain and crew, gourmet snacks, unlimited drinks, snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment (upon request), and music.

What’s not included?
Towels and disembarkation to the beach (disembarking by swimming only).

Can I cancel?
Yes, up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an age limit?
Not specified, but the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness.

Are there language options?
The tour is conducted in English.

What if I am late or have special needs?
The crew is accommodating but requires your booking details at least one day before the trip to ensure access.

This cruise combines the joys of sailing, stunning natural beauty, and authentic Greek hospitality — a perfect way to wind down and soak up the magic of Crete’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: