Crete: Balos and Gramvousa Cruise

Travel lovers looking for a full-day adventure around Crete’s most stunning coastal sights will find this cruise to Balos and Gramvousa quite appealing. Covering around 15 hours, this tour offers a mix of scenic boat rides, visits to historic islands, and ample opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters. With roundtrip transportation, expert guides, and carefully curated stops, it’s a well-organized way to see some of the most photogenic spots Crete has to offer.

One thing we particularly like is how the tour balances natural beauty with manageable sightseeing. You’ll get a chance to relax on Balos Lagoon’s famous sands, explore the rugged terrain of Gramvousa, and enjoy informative commentary from guides who seem genuinely passionate about the area. However, the long day can be tiring, especially with the busy boat and transport schedules, so it’s best suited for travelers who love full-day outings and are prepared for some logistics.

If you’re keen to explore Crete’s most iconic beaches, love discovering small islands, and don’t mind a packed day, this cruise could be a highlight of your trip. Just be ready for some crowds on the boat and at the busiest spots — it’s popular for a reason.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery: Expect incredible views of the coastline, turquoise lagoons, and rugged islands.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned buses and a roundtrip ferry make the long day manageable.
• In-depth exploration: You get about 2 hours at Gramvousa and 3 hours at Balos Lagoon for swimming, photo stops, and relaxing.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides provide interesting insights, enhancing the experience.
• Value for money: At roughly $45 per person, including transport and ferry, it’s a good deal for a full-day adventure.
• Crowded spots: Be prepared for some busy moments, especially on the boat and at popular photo stops, as reviews mention crowding.

A Detailed Look at the Crete: Balos and Gramvousa Cruise

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off early with pickup options from multiple locations across Crete, including Heraklion, Malia, Stalis, and other popular spots. This flexibility is a real plus, saving you the trouble of arranging transport yourself. The coach ride to the west of Crete is about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and your pickup point—keeping in mind that Crete’s roads are often winding and not always fast-moving, which can add to travel times.

Once aboard the air-conditioned coach, you’ll settle in for the scenic drive with some light commentary. Several reviews note the guides, such as the friendly and professional team from TOURLINE, make the journey comfortable and informative, despite inevitable delays caused by local traffic or the island’s narrow roads.

First Stop: Skaleta Village for Coffee or Breakfast

The tour includes a brief stop at the charming village of Skaleta, where you can grab a coffee or a quick breakfast. It’s a nice touch—just enough time to stretch your legs and enjoy some local ambiance before hitting the sea.

Heading to Kissamos and the Boat Ride

Next, you’ll make your way to Kissamos, the main port for departures to Gramvousa and Balos. Here, you’ll board a boat, and from the reviews, it’s clear that this part of the trip is a highlight. The boat ride offers impressive views of the coastline, with the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles playing in the water—an experience we can imagine delighting most travelers.

However, some reviews mention that the boat can get crowded, especially during peak season. The ship’s popularity means you may be sharing the deck with many others, which can slightly diminish the feeling of serenity. Nevertheless, the friendly crew and scenic sailing compensate for this.

Exploring Gramvousa: “Pirates’ Island”

Disembarking on Gramvousa, you’ll have about 1.5 hours for exploration and leisure. The island is known as “Pirates’ Island,” thanks to its historical fortress and rugged terrain. You can climb the steep hill for panoramic views over the Aegean—a bit of a workout, but well worth it for the spectacular vistas.

Reviews highlight the island’s rich bird and plant life—over 100 bird species and 400 plant varieties—making it an interesting stop for nature lovers. Some mention encountering sea birds and enjoying the unspoiled landscape, while others take the chance to snap photos from the vantage points.

Free Time on Gramvousa

The free time here is ideal for relaxing, taking photos, or even snorkeling if you’re feeling adventurous. You can explore at your own pace or simply soak in the atmosphere. Some travelers choose to walk around, while others rest on the rocky coast.

Lunch Options: Onboard or On Land

The tour offers an optional onboard lunch, with reviews indicating that the food is good, and the crew are friendly. If you prefer, you can bring snacks or eat elsewhere on the island, but with limited time, the onboard meal offers convenience.

The Marvel of Balos Lagoon

The main attraction—Balos Lagoon—is next. You’ll arrive there after a short ferry ride, and the scene is nothing short of breathtaking. The lagoon’s shallow, turquoise waters and white sand beaches create a picture-perfect setting.

With about 3 hours allocated for this stop, you’ll have plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, or snap photos. Reviewers consistently mention the stunning views and the reward of swimming in Balos’ crystal waters. Some noted that it can be quite crowded, but many still find it a worthwhile experience.

Return Journey: On the Ferry and Bus

After enjoying Balos, you’ll take a ferry back to Kissamos and then board the coach for the return trip to Crete. The total ferry time is about 50 minutes each way, with the journey back taking approximately 1.5 hours. Be prepared for the long day and possible delays, especially in high season.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Based on reviews, guides like “George” and others seem well-informed, adding stories and insights that enrich the trip. Guests appreciate the professional attitude and the friendly service, which balances the busy schedule.

One review from Bogdans mentions the boat was crowded, and the food queues were long—signs of high popularity. While some found the crowds overwhelming, others still described the cruise as “great” and “worthwhile.” The key here is patience and embracing the lively atmosphere.

The Value and Practicalities

For just over $45, this tour offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring, with transport, guide, and ferry included. The only extra costs are the boat ticket (around €22 for adults), optional lunch, and a small municipality fee. This makes it accessible for budget-conscious travelers who want a full experience without hidden expenses.

The tour is perfect for those who enjoy structured days, scenic boat rides, and the chance to visit iconic beaches. Although it might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or young children under 5 (who are not permitted), it suits active explorers and nature enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

This Crete: Balos and Gramvousa Cruise delivers a well-rounded experience of some of Greece’s most photogenic and memorable spots. The combination of scenic boat rides, historical islands, and the stunning Balos Lagoon makes for a packed but rewarding day. The guides and crew seem to do their best to keep everyone comfortable and informed, which adds value for travelers.

While it can get crowded, especially at Balos, the overall experience remains highly appealing for those wanting to see Crete’s natural beauty and taste a bit of local maritime charm. The long hours are a small trade-off for a day packed with scenery, swimming, and memorable views.

If you love full-day adventures, are comfortable with crowds, and want a reliable, organized way to explore Crete’s coast, this cruise is an excellent choice. It offers not just sightseeing but an opportunity to relax by the sea, learn about the area, and escape into some of the island’s most stunning landscapes.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from multiple locations around Crete, including Heraklion, Malia, and others. The provider will confirm your exact pickup time and point 24 hours before the tour.

How long is the bus ride?
The journey from your pickup point to the coast of Crete takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and location.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended. The tour is outdoors most of the time, so prepare accordingly.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional at an extra cost (around €10), and you can also bring your own snacks.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 5 are not suitable for this tour, and it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues.

What’s the cost for the boat ticket?
The ferry ticket costs around €22 for adults and €11 for children (4-12 years).

Can I snorkel or swim at Balos?
Yes, there is plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling, and reviewers confirm the waters are clear and inviting.

How crowded does it get?
The tour is popular, and reviews mention crowded boats and busy spots, especially during peak season. Arriving early and staying flexible helps.

What makes this tour worth it?
Besides the stunning scenery and well-organized itinerary, the guides’ knowledge, the opportunity to see wildlife, and the chance to explore Gramvousa and Balos in a single day provide great value for explorers.

In summary, this cruise combines natural beauty, history, and leisure in a way that makes it a memorable part of any Crete itinerary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, it offers a relaxed but comprehensive way to experience some of the island’s most iconic sights.