From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

Experience the Beauty of Crete’s Iconic Beaches and Islands on a Kissamos Port Boat Cruise

This 7-hour boat trip from Kissamos Port to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa is frequently praised for its stunning scenery, well-organized itinerary, and the chance to experience some of Crete’s most postcard-worthy sights. Whether you’re after incredible photo opportunities, a relaxing day by the sea, or a taste of local history, this cruise offers a balanced combination of all three.

What really shines about this tour is the opportunity to explore the legendary Balos Lagoon, renowned worldwide for its striking turquoise waters and expansive sandy beaches. Plus, the visit to Gramvousa Island, with its historic Venetian castle and the wreck of an old ship, adds a dash of legend and adventure.

One thing to keep in mind: this is a full-day cruise, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water and don’t mind a bit of boat travel. It’s worth noting that the cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers, and there’s a small municipal fee at the port, but the overall value, especially considering the reviews praising the staff and scenery, makes it a popular choice.

If you love scenic boat rides, exploring unique beaches, and soaking in the sun while surrounded by spectacular landscapes, this tour is likely a good fit. However, those who prefer more flexibility or are sensitive to boat movement might want to consider the timing and duration carefully.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Expect views of steep cliffs, turquoise waters, and dramatic rocks.
• Two Major Highlights: The iconic Balos Lagoon and the historic Gramvousa Island with its Venetian castle.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring ancient ruins.
• Organized Itinerary: Well-structured stops with duration tailored to maximize sightseeing and relaxation.
• Value for Money: Includes boat, crew, and visits, with optional food and drinks for purchase.
• Practical Tips: Bring water shoes, sunscreen, and a hat for comfort and safety.

A Closer Look at the Cruise Experience

This cruise from Kissamos is designed for those who want to see some of Crete’s most remarkable natural and historical treasures without the hassle of renting a boat or driving. Starting from Kissamos Port, the journey begins with a relaxed, approximately one-hour sail in the bay. The boat’s departure process is smooth, with guests receiving their boarding passes the day before, ensuring a hassle-free start.

The Journey in Detail

The cruise’s route varies depending on the day’s itinerary, either heading directly to Gramvousa first or to Balos, but both options are equally rewarding. The voyage is against a backdrop of towering cliffs, rocky outcrops, and deep blue sea, making it a visual feast.

One of the most intriguing features of the trip is the large cave believed to have been an ancient shipyard. From the boat, you’ll get a glimpse of this impressive natural formation, adding a layer of history to your scenic cruise. The boat cruises between Gramvousa and the cape of Vouxa, offering superb views of Valenti, Pontikonisi, and the famous Balos Lagoon.

Exploring Gramvousa Island

Once docked at Gramvousa, visitors are treated to a scene straight out of a travel magazine. The island’s rugged charm is accentuated by a solitary shipwreck resting on the beach — a haunting reminder of past maritime stories.

You’ll also find the Venetian castle, perched atop a steep rock at the island’s highest point. The hike up takes around 15-20 minutes, and the views from above are breathtaking. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, with visitors describing the climb as “breathtaking” and the vistas as “stunning.” The visit to the Church of Agioi Apostoloi next to the beach adds a peaceful, spiritual ambiance, and swimming nearby offers a refreshing break.

The Marvel of Balos Lagoon

After leaving Gramvousa, the boat heads to Balos Lagoon, arguably the star of the tour. Often listed among the world’s best beaches, Balos’s vast, shallow bay with crystal-clear emerald waters and soft sandy shores creates a dreamlike setting.

Tourists often mention that words are insufficient to describe Balos—“nothing can describe what you are about to feel when you see this,” as one reviewer put it. The shallow waters make it perfect for relaxing in the sun, swimming, or snorkeling. You’ll love the way the rocks and cliffs frame the lagoon, creating a natural amphitheater of beauty.

Most visitors get about two hours here, which is enough time to take photos, wade in the water, and enjoy the scenery. Some reviews suggest that staying longer would be ideal, but the scheduled stops are designed to give a fair taste of the area’s magic. Keep in mind that the boat can’t dock directly on the beach, so swimming or wading ashore is part of the experience, often requiring waterproof bags and water shoes due to the rocky shoreline.

Practical Aspects & Onboard Experience

The boat itself receives praise for its cleanliness and organization. The crew is described as polite and helpful, making sure everyone is clear on timings and safety procedures. Many reviews mention the convenience of onboard toilets, which are air-conditioned and well-maintained.

Food and drinks are available for purchase on board; some reviews recommend bringing your own snacks or even a packed lunch, especially since the on-board meal options can run out early or be limited. The boat size is just right—not too crowded, allowing for a comfortable experience, even on busy days.

Guests are advised to arrive at least 40 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding, and the journey includes a small fee at the port (1 EUR per passenger over 13) for administrative purposes.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

• Timing & Duration: The full trip lasts about 7 hours, with specific departure times depending on the day. Expect roughly an hour sailing in the bay, two hours on Gramvousa, and 2.5 hours at Balos, plus travel time.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes for hiking, swimwear, towel, water shoes (highly recommended due to rocky shores), waterproof bags, and a credit card for purchases.
• Accessibility: This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as some walking and climbing are involved.
• Weather & Safety: The trip is generally smooth, but windy days can make the boat slightly choppier — bring motion sickness medication if needed.
• Cost & Value: The tour includes the boat, crew, and stops, with optional food and drinks. The municipal fee at the port is small but worth noting. Most reviews agree it offers good value for what you get in scenery, experience, and convenience.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, with many mentioning the guides’ helpfulness and the clarity of safety instructions. Visitors appreciated the well-organized timetable, which balances sightseeing with relaxation.

The scenery at both stops consistently wows travelers. As one reviewer exclaimed, “Balos is unbelievably beautiful,” and many mention the stunning hike up to Gramvousa’s castle as a major highlight. The shipwreck at Gramvousa is often described as hauntingly beautiful, making it a favorite photo spot.

Food options are generally well-received, although some suggest bringing own snacks to skip lines or if specific dietary preferences aren’t met. The onboard environment is described as clean and comfortable, with many appreciating the availability of toilets and shaded areas.

The Sum Up

This boat cruise from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa is a fantastic way to experience some of Crete’s most iconic sights without the hassle of self-driving or booking separate excursions. The combination of breathtaking scenery, historical sites, and relaxing swimming opportunities makes it ideal for travelers wanting a full day of natural beauty and light adventure.

It’s especially suited for those who love scenic boat rides, are comfortable with a bit of walking and hiking, and value the convenience of a guided, organized day out. The reviews suggest that you’ll come away with unforgettable photos and stories, making it a worthwhile investment for your Crete itinerary.

While not for everyone—especially those sensitive to boat movement or seeking a more flexible schedule—the overall experience delivers excellent value, friendly staff, and memories that last well beyond the trip itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
No, hotel transfers are not included. You need to make your way to Kissamos Port, which is accessible by car or bus from Chania.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire cruise lasts about 7 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day.

Is food provided?
Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but some reviews recommend bringing your own snacks or packed lunch to avoid limited options or lines.

How long do I get at Balos Lagoon?
Most guests enjoy about 2.5 hours at Balos, which is enough for swimming, photos, and relaxing, though some wish they had more time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, water shoes, waterproof bags, and credit cards for purchases are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the trip is generally family-friendly, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to walking and hiking involved.

What are the main highlights of the stops?
At Gramvousa, expect to see the Venetian castle, the shipwreck, and enjoy a short hike. At Balos, indulge in swimming in the clear waters and marvel at the landscape’s natural beauty.

How clean and organized is the boat?
Guests frequently comment on the boat’s cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and polite staff, making for a comfortable day.

Can I swim to shore at Balos?
Yes, since the boat can’t dock directly on the beach, swimming or wading to shore is typical, so waterproof gear and water shoes are useful.

This boat cruise from Kissamos offers a well-rounded, authentic way to experience Crete’s stunning beaches and historic islands. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, it’s sure to become a highlight of your trip.