Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise (small group up to 12)

If you’re looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Crete away from busy beaches and crowded tours, the Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise offers a peaceful, scenic way to experience some of the island’s most iconic spots. This full-day adventure, limited to just 10-12 travelers, combines stunning vistas, authentic Greek cuisine, and plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. From the moment you step onboard, you’ll quickly notice the intimacy of a small-group experience, which makes all the difference for a relaxed, personalized day out.

One feature that really shines is the knowledgeable crew—reviewers highlight how friendly and attentive they are, often going above and beyond to ensure guests feel comfortable and well-cared for. The cruise’s well-paced itinerary means you get ample time at each stop, allowing you to truly soak in the scenery and the sun. However, some travelers mention that the boat’s small size can feel cramped if the maximum capacity is reached, which is worth considering if travel comfort is a priority for you.

This tour is ideal for those who want to combine adventure with relaxation, appreciate authentic local food, and enjoy engaging with friendly guides. Families, couples, or solo travelers who love a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration will find this cruise particularly appealing. If you prefer large, busy tours, this might not be the best choice, but for those seeking a more intimate experience, it delivers excellent value.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures a relaxed and personalized experience.
• Stunning stops at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island with time for swimming and snorkeling.
• Authentic Greek lunch and snacks included, with options for wine and beer.
• Knowledgeable crew dedicated to making your day enjoyable and comfortable.
• Excellent reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness and the boat’s comfort.
• Timing and duration allow plenty of time at each site without feeling rushed.
• Price for value reflects the inclusive meals, snorkeling gear, and personalized service.
• Limited capacity means a more exclusive, less crowded experience but may feel a bit tight on the boat.

An In-Depth Look at the Catamaran Adventure

Booking and Practical Details

Price at $231.24 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider what’s included—snacks, a full Greek meal, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a dedicated transfer from Chania—it becomes a well-rounded deal. The tour runs for about 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the sights and sounds of Crete’s coast. The boat departs from the Kissamos area, with pickup offered if you select that option during booking, easing transportation worries.

The vessel itself is a 46-foot-long catamaran, designed for comfort and stability, but with a maximum capacity of 12 guests. Interestingly, the operator prefers to keep the tour to 10 guests at most, which is a thoughtful touch that ensures guests aren’t squeezed onto a crowded boat. This small group size fosters a friendly, engaging atmosphere, where you can ask the guides plenty of questions and get tailored recommendations.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

First Stop: Balos Lagoon
This is the star of the tour. The reviews consistently mention that Balos is even more beautiful than pictures suggest, with its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. We loved the way the boat anchors close enough to the shore, allowing guests to swim or walk right into the shallow waters. One reviewer noted that on board, you enjoy the privacy of being away from the crowds—something that’s hard to find on the busy beaches on land.

The crew ensures you’re comfortable, offering secured sunbeds and shade—sometimes a rarity on boats. Whether you want to soak up the sun or take a peaceful star-bathing experience at night, the boat’s design supports both. The approximately two hours here are just enough to relax, take photos, and enjoy the peace of the lagoon.

Second Stop: Gramvousa Island
After Balos, the adventure continues with a sail to Gramvousa for about two hours. Here, the highlight is exploring the old pirate fortress perched atop the hill, which offers panoramic views of the sea and the island. Many travelers mention that the crew provides snorkeling equipment, and reviews praise the quality of the gear, allowing for enjoyable underwater exploration.

One guest shared that they were surprised by the surprisingly good lunch made onboard, with some describing it as one of the best meals they had in Crete. The crew’s attention to detail shines through in their homemade Greek dishes, seasonal fruits, and local snacks, paired with beer, wine, or soft drinks. This makes the experience feel genuinely local and heartfelt.

The Experience: What Makes It Special

What truly sets this tour apart is the balance of leisure and active exploration. The stops are long enough to relax, swim, and even explore the seabed, thanks to snorkeling gear. The crew’s friendliness and depth of knowledge are frequently praised—guests mention how guides like Natassa and her team are eager to answer questions and make the day memorable.

Guests also appreciate the quality of food and drinks onboard. Many reviews highlight how the lunch exceeded expectations, with one traveler mentioning it was “some of the best food in Crete.” The inclusion of local snacks and seasonal fruit turns what could be a simple boat trip into a true taste of Crete.

What to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention that the boat’s small size can feel a bit tight if more than 10 guests are onboard. One traveler suggested that the boat could feel cramped with a full capacity, so if you’re especially conscious of space, this is worth considering.

Plus, travelers should bring essentials like towels, swimsuits, and sunscreen. The tour doesn’t provide these, but given the stops for swimming, they’re a must-have. The timing is well-organized, but because it’s a full-day tour, be prepared for a long but rewarding day out.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you love the idea of exploring Crete’s natural beauty in a relaxed, personal setting, this cruise delivers. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and quality food makes it a strong choice for those who want to experience the island’s highlights without the chaos of larger tours. Its quiet, intimate nature means you’re more likely to meet fellow travelers and enjoy meaningful conversations or peaceful solitude.

For families with kids, the calm waters and snorkeling options are perfect, although you should keep in mind the boat’s size and limited space. Couples seeking a romantic day on the water will also find this to be an ideal setting—imagine swimming in Balos or exploring Gramvousa with just a handful of others.

Finally, this tour offers excellent value when you factor in transportation, meals, drinks, and snorkeling gear. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time boat-goer, the crew’s attentive service ensures you’ll have a comfortable, memorable experience.

FAQs

How many people are on the boat?
The boat’s maximum capacity is 12, but the operator prefers to keep it to 10 guests for extra comfort.

Is pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option during booking, transportation from Chania is provided, simplifying your day.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, swimsuits, sunscreen, and possibly a hat for sun protection. The tour does not provide these essentials.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks, a Greek homemade lunch, drinks including alcohol, snorkeling equipment, and transfer from Chania if selected.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, but given the nature of the activity, it’s suitable for most ages.

What is the quality of the food?
Guests frequently mention that the onboard lunch is surprisingly good, with some describing it as one of the best meals they had in Crete.

Can I snorkel at the stops?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and reviews praise the quality and ease of use, making underwater exploration a highlight.

Final Thoughts

The Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise offers a wonderfully balanced day of relaxation, exploration, and authentic Greek hospitality. Its small-group setup ensures a peaceful, personal experience, perfect for travelers who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger tours. The stunning views, quality food, and friendly crew make this a memorable way to see Crete’s famed beaches and islands.

This tour is best suited for those who value comfort, authentic local experiences, and a relaxed pace. Couples seeking romance, families wanting safe swimming, or solo travelers eager to meet others will all find something to love here. The price reflects the inclusive nature of the tour, with meals, snorkeling gear, and transport adding excellent value for a full day of adventure.

If you’re after a stress-free, scenic, and intimate day out on Crete’s waters, this cruise is a fantastic pick. Just remember to pack your sunscreen and a sense of adventure, and you’re all set for an unforgettable journey.

Enjoy your trip to Crete, and may your day on the water be as spectacular as the scenery itself!