Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise from Kissamos

If you’re dreaming of a day on Crete where you can escape the crowds, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a touch of luxury, this Balos & Gramvousa catamaran cruise from Kissamos might just be your perfect match. Rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from over 50 reviews, it’s clear that travelers appreciate the combination of personalized service, stunning scenery, and tasty Greek cuisine. The experience is carefully curated to maximize comfort and authenticity, making it a standout option for those wanting to explore Crete’s most iconic spots in style.

What we love about this cruise is how it offers a luxurious yet authentic day out — from the well-maintained vessel with quality cushions and powered toilets to the knowledgeable crew who go above and beyond to make your day special. However, a small consideration is the lack of a guided tour or castle entry, which means history buffs need to plan their own exploration if they want to delve deeper into Gramvousa’s past. This trip suits travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic, and well-organized day with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy Greek hospitality.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: The boat is praised for its pristine condition, comfortable seating, and high-quality amenities.
• Authentic Experience: Friendly, attentive crew members like Dimitri, Jessica, and Yanni are highlighted for their care and humor.
• Stunning Scenery: The stops at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa deliver crystal waters, soft sands, and breathtaking views.
• Excellent Food and Drinks: Guests rave about the home-cooked Greek meal, fresh salads, seafood, and a fine selection of wine and beer.
• Crowd Avoidance: Smaller group size (max 22) ensures a more intimate experience and avoids the hustle of large tourist boats.
• Family Friendly: The crew is accommodating for kids, with toys, kid-friendly meals, and engaging service.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

Your adventure begins at 8:30 am at DanEri Yachts in Kissamos, a convenient spot for travelers staying in the area. The cruise lasts approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, giving you ample time to explore, relax, and enjoy a leisurely day on the water. The relatively short booking window—most travelers plan around 48 days in advance—means it’s popular and well-reserved, especially during peak season.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Balos Lagoon (2 hours)

The first stop is the iconic Balos Lagoon, a site travelers often describe as a dreamscape. The shallow, turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the soft, white sands—perfect for a refreshing swim or a snorkel to see the underwater world. Reviewers mention that the boat’s timing allows you to beat the ferry crowds, which can turn Balos into a chaotic scene if you’re not early.

Guests love the relaxed vibe here, with the crew providing light snacks like Greek cheeses and fresh fruits to keep you energized for your swim. The addition of inflatable flamingos and paddleboards makes the experience playful and Instagram-worthy. One reviewer called it “a gorgeous, almost private beach experience,” emphasizing how the cruise’s timing makes it feel exclusive.

Stop 2: Gramvousa Island (2 hours)

Next, the crew takes you to Gramvousa Island, renowned for its rugged beauty and historical remains, like the fortress ruins (though entry is not included). Many guests appreciate the freedom to explore at their own pace—whether swimming, sunbathing, or wandering around.

The crew prepares a Mediterranean-style lunch on board, featuring fresh salads, seafood, meats, and homemade desserts. The reviews highlight how much guests enjoyed the food, describing it as impeccable and plentiful. One guest notes, “The homecooked Greek meal by Jessica was stupendous,” and another mentions the excellent wine and beer as a highlight.

Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, and Relaxing

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and SUP boards offers plenty of ways to enjoy the water. Reviewers mention spending hours swimming in the clear waters, with some even saying they felt like they had the beaches entirely to themselves—thanks to the small group size and timing.

Jessica and Dimitri, the crew members, are repeatedly praised for their warm, personable attitude and their efforts to make everyone comfortable. One guest appreciated how they even brought toys for kids and made the experience engaging for all ages.

The Value of the Experience

At $190 per person, this cruise offers exceptional value when you consider what’s included: full-day boat trip, two prime swimming spots, a delicious Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks (including wine and beer), snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and Wi-Fi on board. The smaller group size (max 22) ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, which is a common complaint on larger tours.

Guests often mention that the quality of the boat and the attentive staff elevate this beyond a typical boat ride. The luxurious touches, such as powered toilets and comfortable cushions, make a difference when you’re spending hours at sea. The included meals and snacks ensure you’re nourished without needing to bring your own food, and the unlimited drinks—both soft drinks and alcohol—are a bonus, especially given the warm Crete sun.

The Crew and Service

Multiple reviews highlight Dimitri, Jessica, and Yanni for their friendly, professional, and humorous service. Jessica’s home-cooked meals are repeatedly praised, with guests describing her as going “above and beyond” to ensure everyone is well-fed and happy. Dimitri’s knowledge about the area shines through, making the experience more engaging, even if the boat isn’t focused on detailed history.

The Food

The lunch is a standout feature, with guests raving about fresh salads, seafood pasta, and meats. The dessert with seasonal fruits is a sweet way to finish the meal. The kid-friendly options also mean families can relax without worrying about picky eaters.

The Atmosphere

What sets this cruise apart is its relaxed, luxurious atmosphere. Guests mention that even on a full boat, social distancing is manageable due to the well-planned itinerary. The music on board adds a fun vibe, while the Wi-Fi means you can share your stunning photos in real-time.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking romance, families wanting a safe and fun water day, and groups of friends looking for a laid-back yet upscale experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy pristine beaches in a more intimate setting. If you’re a foodie, the Greek-inspired meals and unlimited drinks make it even more appealing.

However, those looking for historical guided tours or castle visits will need to plan separately, as these are not included. Also, guests with mobility issues should note that the stops involve some walking and swimming, but the crew’s friendly attitude helps everyone feel comfortable.

The Sum Up

This Balos & Gramvousa catamaran cruise from Kissamos offers a blend of luxury, authenticity, and breathtaking scenery. The small group size, attentive crew, and high-quality amenities make it stand out among Crete excursions. With generous inclusions of food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a leisurely pace, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to explore two of Crete’s most iconic beaches without the hassle of large crowds.

While it might be a bit pricier than some basic boat trips, the level of comfort, personalized service, and the chance to relax in spectacular surroundings justify the cost. It’s especially suited for travelers who value a relaxed, well-organized, and scenic day out, with plenty of opportunities to swim, eat, and soak in the views.

If you love beautiful beaches, delicious Greek food, and a touch of luxury, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your Crete holiday.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop, eat, and relax.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket includes use of snorkeling equipment and SUP boards, fishing gear, Wi-Fi, traditional coffee and tea, unlimited soft drinks and alcohol (beer and white wine), and a full Mediterranean lunch with starters, main courses, and dessert.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids loved the experience. The crew is accommodating, with kid-friendly meals and toys, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it suitable for families.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel. Snacks and drinks are provided, but you might want your own camera or waterproof case for valuables.

Can I visit Gramvousa Castle?
No, entry tickets to Gramvousa Castle are not included. You’re free to explore the island, swim, and relax, but if you want to visit the castle, plan for separate arrangements.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This cruise is a fantastic way to see Crete’s most iconic beaches in comfort and style, with friendly service and unbeatable scenery. It’s a strong choice for anyone wanting a memorable, hassle-free day on the water.