Private Sailing Cruise, Balos and Gramvousa with meal and drinks.

A Day on the Water: Private Sailing to Balos and Gramvousa

Imagine a perfect day spent aboard a comfortable sailing boat, cruising along the coast of Crete, with the wind in your hair and the smell of salty sea air. This private sailing tour, costing about $974 for up to 10 guests, takes you to two of the island’s most celebrated spots: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. You’ll spend roughly 8 hours exploring, swimming, and eating delicious local food, all with a well-informed skipper guiding the way.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized nature of a private tour means you set the pace, enjoying the flexibility to linger or move on. Second, the chef-curated Cretan lunch served on board, paired with unlimited drinks including wine and beer, adds a relaxed, indulgent touch.

A possible consideration? The price tag is higher than some group tours, but the exclusivity, comfort, and tailored experience often justify the cost. This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate a blend of luxury, authentic scenery, and the chance to create personal memories away from crowds — especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.

Key Points
– Private & customizable: Perfect for those wanting a tailored day out.
– Stunning scenery: Visit iconic spots like Balos Lagoon and the Venetian castle on Gramvousa.
– Comfort & convenience: Boat features include a restroom, shower, and shaded cabin.
– All-inclusive meal: Enjoy traditional Cretan cuisine, soft drinks, and alcohol.
– Ideal for swimming: Multiple swim stops with snorkeling gear and sun umbrellas.
– Excellent reviews: High ratings for boat condition, crew friendliness, and scenery.

What to Expect from Your Crete Sailing Day

Starting from the port of Kissamos, the journey begins around 10 a.m., giving you plenty of daylight to soak in the sights. The vessel, named “Izabela,” is praised for being spacious, clean, and well-equipped — with two rooms, two bathrooms, and covered areas that shield you from the sun when needed. This is not a cramped day boat but a comfortable platform to relax and enjoy.

The Route and Stops

First stop: Balos Lagoon
After about an 90-minute cruise, you’ll arrive at Balos Lagoon, often called one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. The vivid turquoise waters, soft white sands, and scenic surroundings make it easy to see why travelers fall for this spot. We loved the way the skipper uses their local knowledge to find the safest, most scenic swimming and snorkeling spots. You’ll have about two hours here to dip in the water, lounge on the sand, and take photos of the incredible scenery.

Lunch on board
A highlight is the lunch served aboard — a light, traditional Cretan meal. Reviews rave about how good the food is, especially noting catering for vegetarians and gluten-free diets. You can relax, sip a glass of wine or beer, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere as the boat gently sways.

Second stop: Gramvousa Island
Next, the boat moves toward Imeri Gramvousa, famous for its old Venetian castle perched atop the rocky island. The castle offers breath-taking views and a chance to explore a piece of history. The island’s beaches and crystal-clear waters also beckon for a swim. As one reviewer noted, “Gramvousa is beautiful, a 1968 shipwreck is nearby to explore,” adding a touch of shipwreck fascination for those interested in maritime stories.

The Crew and Comforts

Throughout the day, you’ll appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable crew — many reviews highlight how polite and accommodating they are. The boat features a shaded cabin where you can rest or nap, a bathroom with shower, and snorkeling gear for underwater exploration. The availability of umbrellas ensures you can find shade on the beaches, making the day comfortable even in the heat.

The Experience Value

For about $974, you’re paying for a luxurious, private experience that mixes scenic beauty, comfort, and local cuisine. Several reviewers mention the quality of the lunch and drinks, with one describing it as “delicious Greek dishes” served while they relaxed on deck with a chilled glass of wine. The all-inclusive drinks, including soft drinks, water, beer, and wine, make it easy to unwind without worrying about extra costs.

An Honest Look at the Downsides

While the tour receives glowing reviews, the price might be a barrier for some. It’s a premium experience, and that reflects in the cost. Also, the tour relies on good weather — cancellations due to bad weather are possible with full refunds or rescheduling. It’s worth planning this trip for a clear, sunny day to maximize comfort and views.

Perfect for…

This cruise appeals most to small groups, families, or couples seeking an intimate, relaxed day on the water. It suits travelers who value high-quality food, scenic landscapes, and personalized service. If you appreciate authentic Cretan cuisine, the freedom of private tours, and stunning sea vistas, you’ll find this experience well worth the investment.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Kissamos Port
The day begins with a 10 a.m. departure from the port of Kissamos. The boat, “Izabela,” is described as larger than expected, well-maintained, and equipped with two private rooms and bathrooms, making the journey comfortable.

Cruise to Balos Lagoon
The 1.5-hour journey along the coast offers remarkable views of the rugged Crete shoreline. The crew uses their local knowledge to find the best swimming spots — an important detail, as many reviewers appreciate their expert guidance. Expect to arrive around midday.

Time at Balos
You’ll spend approximately two hours at Balos, with ample opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the sands. The turquoise waters are inviting, and the setting is picture-perfect. Many mention how peaceful it is, especially compared to crowded public beaches.

Lunch & Relaxation
Back aboard, a light, traditional Greek meal is served. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy some wine or beer, and chat with your companions or crew. Reviewers frequently comment on how delicious and generous the meal was.

Visit Gramvousa Island & Castle
After lunch, the boat heads to Gramvousa Island. The highlight is the Venetian fortress, which offers stunning panoramic views. The island’s beaches are also perfect for more swimming and sunbathing. Several reviews mention the “beautiful views,” the “amazing castle,” and the opportunity to explore a historic site elevated above the sea.

Return to Kissamos
As the day winds down, you’ll head back to port, arriving around 6 p.m. The journey promises a mix of scenic vistas, swim stops, and relaxing moments.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

The reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, high-quality trip. One traveler noted, “The crew was very polite and served everything we needed,” emphasizing attentive service. Others appreciated the opportunity to skip the busy public beaches, instead enjoying the tranquility of the sea with fewer crowds. The snorkeling equipment allows you to explore underwater life — a favorite feature for many.

The scenery is consistently praised, with comments like “the views from the castle are breath-taking” and “Gramvousa is beautiful.” The food also receives high marks, with descriptions of “delicious Greek dishes” that exceed expectations. The flexibility of the private tour means you can customize your day, spending more or less time at each stop depending on the conditions or your preferences.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

In essence, this private sailing cruise offers a luxury experience with authentic Greek scenery. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, personalized day on the water with minimal crowds and maximum comfort. If you love beautiful beaches, historical sites, good food, and a bit of luxury, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile splurge.

While the price might seem steep, the exclusive access, quality of service, and opportunity for memorable photos and swims make it a value for those wanting a special day. This tour is especially suited for those who want to avoid crowded public beaches and prefer a tailored experience with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, with only your party participating, providing a personalized experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 10 a.m. and returning around 6 p.m.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat cruise, lunch, unlimited soft drinks, beer, and wine, snorkeling equipment, and umbrellas.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
Yes, the boat features a restroom with shower facilities.

Can I swim and snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. The crew guides you to safe swim spots, and snorkeling gear is provided for underwater exploration.

What should I bring?
While towels aren’t included, bringing your own beach towels, sunscreen, and a hat is recommended. You might also want to carry a dry change of clothes.

Is the boat comfortable and clean?
Yes, reviews confirm the boat is spacious, well-maintained, and very clean, with covered areas for shade and rest.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable. It’s weather-dependent, so if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention trips being good for kids, especially with swim stops and a relaxed pace.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 24 days ahead, so planning early is wise to secure your preferred date.

To sum it up, this private sailing tour offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural interest, and comfort suited for those looking for an authentic, relaxed day on Crete’s waters. If you prioritize personalized service, excellent food, and stunning natural vistas, this experience promises to be a highlight of your trip.