From Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch

Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch — A Deep Dive Into Crete’s Nautical Gem

Taking a boat trip around Crete’s northwest coast is one of those bucket-list adventures that promises a blend of scenic beauty, authentic local flavors, and a touch of adventure. This particular cruise from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, offered by Falasarna Sailing, scores highly—boasting an impressive 4.9-star rating from 177 reviews. It’s a full day of gentle sailing, swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring historic ruins, and enjoying a homemade Cretan meal. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it’s a fantastic way to see some of Crete’s most iconic spots while unwinding on a well-appointed sailboat.

One of the things we love about this experience is the carefully curated itinerary, which balances time on the water with stops for exploration and relaxation. Plus, the onboard lunch, cooked fresh, is a highlight. However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can impact the schedule—a common caveat for any outdoor adventure on the sea. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy being on the water, are curious about sailing, and want a manageable day trip without the crowds of large tour boats.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, smaller-group experiences and values knowledgeable guides, this cruise checks all the boxes. But if mobility is an issue or you’re looking for a fully inclusive door-to-door service, you’ll want to plan accordingly. Now, let’s get into the details.

Key Points

• Authentic Sailing Experience: Led by experienced skippers, with options for private or small group tours.
• Stunning Locations: The calm waters of Balos Lagoon and historic Gramvousa Island are the stars of the show.
• Flexible Schedule: Plenty of time for swimming, hiking, photos, and enjoying the scenery at each stop.
• Gourmet Onboard Lunch: Traditional Cretan dishes cooked fresh on the boat, with options for dietary preferences.
• Avoid the Crowds: The tour’s timing helps you skip the masses of larger ferries and tour boats.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments, as some activities involve walking and hiking.

An Authentic Crete Sailing Adventure

This cruise offers more than just a scenic boat ride; it’s a chance to explore Crete’s iconic sights from a uniquely peaceful perspective. Starting from Kissamos port, the boat — often the elegant Electra or similar vessels — whisks you away into the open waters of the Aegean. You’ll be guided by an experienced skipper and crew who know the waters intimately, helping you get a feel for sailing if you’re interested, or just relaxing into the cruise if you prefer.

The overall duration is about 8 hours, providing a relaxed pace that allows you to soak in the views and enjoy each activity without feeling rushed. The journey is planned to maximize comfort and enjoyment, with various stops at key locations: Balos Beach and Lagoon, Gramvousa Island, and scenic cruising along the coast.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Kissamos Port

Your day begins at one of three possible meeting points, depending on your booking. From there, you’ll board a well-maintained sailboat, often with a small, intimate group of travelers. The crew, led by a knowledgeable skipper like Vasilis or George, kicks off with a brief safety orientation and some sailing basics, which many guests find fun and informative. The boat’s amenities include air-conditioned cabins, which come in handy if the heat gets intense, as well as fresh water, shampoo, and towels.

Scenic Cruising to Balos Lagoon

The first leg of your journey is roughly 1.5 hours, cruising along the coast with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the rugged landscape and clear waters. As you sail, you’ll be served soft drinks, beer, and fresh fruit, making it all the more relaxing. This part of the trip is often praised for the spectacular views and the peaceful atmosphere. Reviewers note that the crew provides a calm, professional environment that helps you unwind from daily stresses.

When you arrive at Balos Lagoon, you’ll have around 2.5 hours to enjoy the beach and the water. The shallow, turquoise waters of Balos are well known for their sandy shores and vibrant sea life, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews mention how the tour timing allows you to avoid the big crowds of larger ferries, giving a more intimate experience of this stunning spot. You’ll love the way the water looks like a painting—shades of blue and green blending seamlessly.

Gramvousa Island: Hiking and History

Next, the boat heads to Gramvousa Island, famous for its fortress and rugged terrain. Here, you have about 2.5 hours to explore. The highlight is hiking up to the fortress, which offers panoramic views over the sea and surrounding islands. The trail is manageable but involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Reviewers are enthusiastic about the “spectacular” vistas and describe the castle as an “extraordinary” site to visit.

Many guests also enjoy snorkeling on the beaches below the castle ruins. The waters are calm and inviting, and some reviewers mention that the rocks washing up on the beach are incredibly interesting, adding to the adventure. The guides give plenty of time for photos and exploring, so there’s no rush.

Lunch on Deck

Midday, the boat anchors in a shaded area on deck, where a delicious, freshly prepared lunch awaits. The onboard cooks serve up traditional Cretan dishes, with vegetarian options available. Guests consistently rave about the meal, describing it as flavorful and well-prepared. One reviewer highlighted that the lunch included local ingredients and even their own olive oil, adding a genuine taste of Crete.

Return to Kissamos

After a leisurely afternoon, the boat heads back to Kissamos, often with scenic views along the way. The last stretch lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax, sip drinks, and perhaps chat with fellow travelers about the highlights of the day. Many reviews mention how the crew ensures everyone feels well cared for, with particular praise for the friendly and professional guides.

Why This Tour Works Well

One of the standout features of this cruise is the careful planning to avoid the crowds. Reviewers like Margarita and Elizabeth note how the timing and itinerary allow them to experience Balos and Gramvousa with fewer visitors, making the experience much more peaceful and special.

The small group or private options also add a layer of intimacy — many guests mention how being one of only a handful of passengers makes the journey feel more personal and relaxing. The skilled skippers and friendly crew, like Jo and Vasilis, are praised for their professionalism and attentive service, turning a simple boat trip into a memorable adventure.

The food, a major highlight, is authentic and delicious, often cooked on the boat with local ingredients. Guests also appreciate the smaller boat size that allows for easier movement, better sightseeing, and less crowding at stops.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the experience is generally excellent, a few practical points are worth mentioning. The weather plays a role; if conditions are rough or stormy, the cruise may be rescheduled or refunded—so flexibility is essential. Since the tour involves hiking on Gramvousa Island, comfortable shoes are advisable. Also, note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, as walking and some hiking are involved.

Pricing is seen as good value by many, considering the inclusive lunch, snorkeling gear, and smaller group experience. Keep in mind, the cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from Kissamos port.

Guests frequently mention the importance of bringing a passport or ID card for the trip, and if you want to make the most of your time, arriving early and prepared for sun exposure is recommended. Sunscreen, hats, and water are essentials, especially during the hot summer months.

The Sum Up

This sailing cruise from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island offers a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic local flavor. With the guidance of skilled and friendly skippers, you’ll get to enjoy the stunning scenery and crystal waters, all while savoring a delicious homemade meal. The small-group or private options ensure a peaceful, personalized experience—perfect for those who want to sidestep the crowds and enjoy Crete’s natural beauty more intimately.

Ideal for sea lovers, explorers, and anyone craving a genuine taste of Crete’s coastline, this tour is about creating memories—whether you’re swimming in Balos’ famously clear waters, hiking up the fortress for panoramic views, or just soaking up the sun on deck. The combination of scenic beauty, excellent service, and authentic cuisine makes this trip a standout option.

For travelers craving a well-planned, high-value day on the water—minus the hassle of large tours—this cruise offers a compelling choice. It’s an experience that balances adventure with relaxation, giving you a genuine taste of Crete’s most iconic sights in comfort and style.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a sailboat with an experienced skipper, soft drinks, beer, fruit, a traditional onboard lunch, towels, snorkeling gear, and access to two air-conditioned cabins with double beds.

Are there options for private or small group bookings?
Yes, both private and small group options are available, which enhance the personal feel of the experience and often lead to better service and a more relaxed atmosphere.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience runs about 8 hours, with about 1.5 hours cruising to Balos, 2.5 hours at each major stop (Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island), plus time for lunch and return.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), water, and swimming gear. Comfortable shoes are recommended for hiking on Gramvousa.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to walking and hiking involved. The tour relies on good weather, so check the forecast before booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans shift unexpectedly.

What happens in case of bad weather?
In poor weather conditions, the cruise will be rescheduled or refunded, as sailing is weather-dependent.

In summary, this cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, small-group adventure that combines scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and a touch of sailing fun. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience the best of Crete’s coastline with knowledgeable guides and a delicious onboard meal, this tour is well worth considering.