Details
Explore the stunning Bay of Kissamos with this boat trip to Balos and Gramvousa that will take you to the best spots of Crete. We depart from the port of Kissamos and sail for one hour, passing through cliffs and secluded beaches that meet the Mediterranean Sea. You will be amazed by the clear turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery that surrounds Crete. We will also pass a large cave thought to be an ancient shipyard.
At this point, we will sail to the islet of Agria Gramvousa and Cape Vouxa, where we will anchor for 2 hours. Known as the island of pirates, Gramvousa is an unpopulated island with rocky cliffs, azure waters and a beautiful natural landscape. Once there, you can go hiking to the highest point of the island and see the famous castle of Gramvousa built by Venetians in 1579. You can also opt for a relaxing swim next to Agoio Apostoloi Chapel and even visit an abandoned shipwreck that lies just next to the coastline. At lunchtime, you can eat in our self-service restaurant or bring your own food. Keep in mind there are no shops at either of our stops.
Our second stop will be at Balos Lagoon for 2.5 hours. This exotic beach-lagoon is listed as one of the best beaches in the world and included in the European initiative Natura 2000. Here you can go swimming or snorkeling at Balos Beach in the shallow and turquoise blue waters. You can also lay in the white sand beach while you sunbathe next to the rocks and cliffs that rise above the island. At the end of the trip, we will head back to the port of Kissamos.
Highlights
- Visit to the Gramvousa Island for 2 hours
- Swimming & snorkeling in Balos, in several of the most beautiful beaches of the world
- Spacious and comfortable boat
- Traditional Cretan lunch by the sea (to be purchased on-site)
Departure & Return
We will meet at Kissamos port 40 minutes before departure time. You can either get here by car and park for free outside the port, or take a bus from Chania. Once the trip is over, we will return to the same port to disembark.
Characteristics of the boat
- Number of passengers: 300 to 1000 (depending on the boat)
- Two self-service bars
- Sun-protected area
- Restrooms
- Two open decks
- Air-conditioned main hall
- TV and stereo music
- Small pets allowed
Additional services
- The ship's self-service restaurant-bar is open throughout the cruise, so you can enjoy a delicious meal (souvlaki, roast chicken and potatoes, stuffed tomatoes, spaghetti, etc.), Greek salad, snacks, drinks, ice creams, and much more on board. If you choose the lunch option, this will allow you to take one main course, a salad and bottled water.
- Rent a parasol for €7
Bring along
- Swimsuit
- Sun protection
- Cash
- Snorkeling equipment
Good to know
- The municipality of Kissamos, before boarding, collects €1 as an administrative fee for passengers over 13 years old visiting Balos Lagoon.
- You don’t need to swim to reach Balos Beach — there’s a platform you can walk on.
- Accessible to strollers