Kissamos: Balos and Gramvousa Sailing Trip with Meal

Kissamos: Balos and Gramvousa Sailing Trip with Meal — A Complete Guide to Crete’s Most Scenic Spots

Travelers seeking a taste of Crete’s breathtaking natural beauty and a fun day on the water will find this sailing trip from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa an appealing option. This 8-hour excursion offers a balance of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing onboard, with highlights like snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring a Venetian fortress, and enjoying a hearty Cretan meal. What makes this experience particularly attractive is the chance to see some of Crete’s most iconic landscapes from a boat, combined with the comfort of a small group and the guidance of knowledgeable crew members.

One thing to consider is the pace—while the itinerary is leisurely and designed for relaxation, it does involve some walking uphill to visit Gramvousa’s fortress, so it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues. Still, if you enjoy scenic boat trips with opportunities to swim and explore at your own pace, this tour is a fantastic way to spend a day. It suits travelers who love natural beauty, cultural points of interest, and good food, all wrapped into one memorable outing.

Key Points

• Stunning Locations: The trip covers Balos Lagoon, renowned for its white sand and turquoise waters, and Gramvousa Island with its Venetian castle.
• Authentic Experience: Includes a traditional Cretan lunch and drinks, giving you a taste of local flavors.
• Flexible Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and sightseeing are all part of the itinerary.
• Expert Guidance: The crew and guides are knowledgeable, enhancing the safety and enjoyment of the trip.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Great Views & Photo Opportunities: From the boat and the top of Gramvousa, you’ll capture some of Crete’s most striking scenery.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Starting Point and Setting Sail from Kissamos

The adventure begins at Mikros Naftilos Cruises, with the boats “Izabela” and “Poseidon,” both featuring convenient grey biminis for shade. Expect a relaxed boarding process, as you meet fellow travelers and the friendly crew. The departure from Kissamos Port is straightforward—just a short drive or bus ride from the town.

Once underway, you’ll quickly feel the gentle ocean breeze and see the coast receding behind you. The crew, often praised for being approachable and informed, will share insights about the areas you’re passing, making the trip both fun and educational.

Cruising to Balos Lagoon

After about 1.5 hours of sailing along Crete’s rugged coast, Balos Lagoon appears like a mirage—its shallow, bright turquoise waters and white sandy beach beckon. Known as one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, Balos is a picture-perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers appreciate the ample time (around two hours) to relax, sunbathe, or explore the shallow waters, which are ideal for both adults and kids.

The water clarity is frequently highlighted, with many guests describing it as “crystal clear” and perfect for underwater photography. The shallow nature of the lagoon makes for safe, enjoyable swimming, even for less confident swimmers.

The Onboard Cretan Meal

A highlight for many is the traditional Cretan meal served onboard. It’s a short, 30-minute break, but the quality of the food is noteworthy. Expect a hearty and authentic spread of local delicacies, paired with drinks, which helps refuel after swimming and sunbathing. Several reviews mention the meal as “delicious” and “generous,” making this not just a sightseeing trip but also a tasty cultural experience.

Exploring Imeri Gramvousa Island

Next on the agenda is Gramvousa Island, a short 15-minute sail away. This island is famous for its Venetian fortress and stunning beaches. The crew often recommends taking a leisurely walk or hike up to the fortress—an easy 20-minute incline—that rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands. Many travelers say this is the most photogenic part of the trip, with views that seem almost unreal.

The fortress itself, built into the rocky top of Gramvousa, offers a glimpse into the island’s strategic past. From here, the photos of Balos Lagoon and the surrounding sea are truly spectacular—perfect for that post-card shot.

Free Time and Exploring the Island

Guests are given about two hours to explore Gramvousa, swim, snorkel, or just wander around. The clear waters around the island beckon for more swimming, and the small coves are perfect for snorkeling if you have your gear. Reviewers appreciate that this part of the trip allows for a relaxed pace—some even remark that they could spend longer here if time permitted.

Heading Back to Kissamos

The return journey takes around 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, nap, or chat with your companions. The crew’s friendly service continues on the way back, and many guests note the smooth sailing and the calming atmosphere onboard.

Practical Details & What to Know

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Mikros Naftilos Cruises—easy to locate near Kissamos port.
• Cruise to Balos Lagoon—perfect for swimming and photos.
• Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch onboard—local flavors in a relaxed setting.
• Sail to Gramvousa Island—visit the fortress, hike, or swim.
• Return to Kissamos Port—after a full day of sun and sea.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The price ($142 per person) covers everything essential: the shared boat trip, crew and skipper, a traditional meal and drinks, and access to swimming and snorkeling gear. There’s no need to worry about bathroom facilities onboard, as a shower and toilets are available. Towels are not included, so bringing your own is recommended.

Considerations for Travelers

• Timing: Check availability and start times, as they vary.
• Mobility: The hike up to Gramvousa’s fortress might be challenging for some, as it involves some walking uphill.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and a camera are must-haves.
• No Pets or Smoking Allowed: To keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.
• Small Group: With a limit of 10 participants, expect a personal and friendly atmosphere, but book early to secure your spot.

Value for Money

Compared to private cruises or land-based tours, this experience offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration. The inclusion of a hearty local meal and drinks enhances the overall value, making it a well-rounded package.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who love natural beauty and want to see Crete from a different perspective—out on the water, with the chance to snorkel and relax. If you enjoy small groups and personalized service, you’ll appreciate the limited number of participants. It’s especially suited for travelers who are comfortable walking uphill and want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural sightseeing.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking a very leisurely or fully accessible experience, or want a private tour, you might find this trip somewhat limited in flexibility. But for most, it offers a fantastic balance of fun, scenery, and authentic local flavor.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Kissamos Balos and Gramvousa Sailing Trip is a wonderfully balanced day out on the water that captures the essence of Crete’s stunning coastline and historic sites. You’ll love the chance to snorkel in Balos Lagoon, hike up to the fortress for unmatched views, and enjoy a homemade Cretan meal. The smaller group size and knowledgeable crew make it feel personal, not just another touristy boat ride.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full, active day with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and cultural exploration. It’s a good pick for those who value authentic experiences and scenic views over luxury or exclusivity.

Overall, if you’re visiting Crete and want a well-rounded, memorable day that combines nature, history, and local cuisine, this sailing trip offers serious value and unforgettable moments.

FAQ

How long is the sailing trip?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with most of the day spent cruising, swimming, and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the shared sailing trip, crew, skipper, traditional Cretan lunch and drinks, and access to swimming and snorkeling gear onboard.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, transportation to the meeting point at Kissamos Port is not included, so you’ll need to arrive by car or regional bus.

Do I need to bring towels?
Towels are not provided, so bringing your own for swimming and sunbathing is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, the hike up Gramvousa may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Swimwear, comfortable walking shoes for the hike, and sunscreen are essential.

Can I take photos of Balos Lagoon from the boat?
Yes, the views from the boat are stunning, and you’ll also have the chance to photograph Balos from the top of Gramvousa after a short hike.

Embark on this scenic sailing adventure for a full taste of Crete’s natural and historic treasures, all while enjoying good food and warm Greek hospitality.