Chania & Reth: Balos with Guide and Transfer

Traveling to Crete? The Chania & Rethymno: Balos with Guide and Transfer tour promises a day filled with scenic views, beachside relaxation, and a taste of Greece’s iconic coastline. But does it truly deliver value and memorable experiences? We’ve gathered all the details to help you decide if this trip is right for you.

Our focus here is on the practicalities, authentic insights, and honest assessments drawn from actual reviews and tour descriptions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Crete or a seasoned island hopper, this guide aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect — the highlights, the pitfalls, and the overall worth of the experience.

What We Like About This Tour

First, let’s highlight some of the standout features that make this tour appealing. The stunning coastal views are a major draw — sailing past cliffs, secluded beaches, and tiny islands offers endless photo opportunities. Next, the chance to relax at Balos Beach with its soft sands and shimmering waters makes for a true escape from daily life. Lastly, the organized transfer service from popular locations like Rethymno and Chania simplifies logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your day without hassle.

However, a couple of considerations should be kept in mind. Most notably, the additional costs for food and drinks aboard the boat can catch travelers off guard, as they are not included in the initial price. Also, with a mixed review score of only 2.3 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, it’s clear that this experience isn’t for everyone. This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize scenic cruising and beach time over luxury or a perfectly smooth experience.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want a cost-effective way to see Balos and the surrounding coastline, especially if they enjoy being on the water and relaxing at a beautiful beach. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with some uncertainties in service quality and who are okay with paying extra for onboard snacks and beverages. Plus, with wheelchair accessibility and guides speaking English and German, it’s accessible for a variety of guests.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal sailing offers incredible views of cliffs, beaches, and islands.
• Balos Beach is a highlight — soft sands and clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• The transfer service from Rethymno and Chania adds convenience but may not be seamless.
• Be prepared for additional costs for onboard food and drinks, which are payable by credit card.
• The tour duration of 8 to 10 hours gives plenty of time but can feel lengthy if you’re not a big sea or beach fan.
• Reviews highlight inconsistent service and hidden costs, which affect overall value.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Transfer

The day begins with a pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point in Rethymno or Chania. The exact time varies, so you’ll want to check your booking confirmation. The transfer service is designed to make your journey smoother, but some guests note that schedules can be tight or delayed, so arriving on time is key.

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Embarking on the Boat

Once aboard the vessel, you’ll notice the relaxed vibe with soft music playing in the background. The boat is equipped with a self-service restaurant-bar, where you can purchase snacks and drinks via credit card. It’s worth noting that, unlike some tours, food isn’t included in the ticket price — a point some reviewers, like Emilie, found frustrating, especially when the onboard meal cost more than expected.

Coastal Views and Sightseeing

As you sail along the coast, keep your camera ready. The route includes views of dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and small islands like Valenti and Pontikonisi. The boat glides between Agria Gramvousa and Cape Vouxa, revealing sights of Gramvousa Island and the famed Balos Lagoon. The experience of cruising with gentle music and panoramic views is often highlighted as a relaxing and visually rewarding part of the trip.

Reaching Balos Beach

After approximately 2.5 hours on the water, the boat anchors near Balos Beach. Here, you’re free to disembark and enjoy the soft sands and emerald waters. The beach itself is a top recommendation — a naturally unspoiled paradise that’s part of the NATURA 2000 network, which emphasizes conservation.

The Experience at Balos

Once on land, your time is your own. Many travelers choose to swim, sunbathe, or take photos of the scenic surroundings. The towering cliffs and turquoise waters create a postcard-perfect setting. Remember, swimming in the lagoon itself is not permitted, but the shoreline offers plenty of opportunities to cool off.

Return Journey

After around 2.5 hours of leisure, the boat departs back to the meeting point, retracing the scenic route with views of Agria Gramvousa, Cape Vouxa, and the surrounding islets. The return trip is usually relaxed, with the option to purchase more snacks or simply enjoy the scenery.

The Realities: What the Reviews Tell Us

While the views and beaches are generally praised, some reviews point out issues that are worth considering. Emilie, for example, was surprised to find that her meal onboard, costing €73 per person, was not included as she expected. This highlights the importance of reading the fine print and preparing for extra costs.

Another aspect frequently mentioned is the variable quality of organization. Some guests report that pickup times and schedules can be inconsistent, which might affect your overall experience. Plus, the overall rating of 2.3 indicates that some travelers were disappointed, whether due to service issues, overcrowding, or unmet expectations.

How to Get the Most Out of This Tour

• Bring your own snacks and drinks if you prefer to avoid paying premium prices onboard.
• Arrive early for pickup to avoid missing your transfer or feeling rushed.
• Wear comfortable shoes and swimwear, plus sunscreen — the Greek sun is unforgiving.
• Stay flexible and open-minded, especially if weather causes delays or schedule changes.
• Respect the environment to help preserve this fragile natural site.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip to Balos offers a straightforward way to see some of Crete’s most striking coastlines, especially if you’re eager to relax and enjoy a day on the water. The views of cliffs, beaches, and islands are genuinely stunning, making it an attractive choice for photo enthusiasts. The beach at Balos is a genuine highlight — soft sands and crystal waters perfect for unwinding.

However, the experience can be marred by hidden costs and inconsistent service, so it’s best suited for travelers who are budget-conscious and flexible. If you’re seeking a more curated or luxurious experience, you might want to explore other options. But for those wanting a simple, scenic day out that highlights the natural beauty of Crete, this tour offers good value — as long as you’re prepared for the cost and some unpredictability.

This trip is a solid choice if your focus is on seeing Balos in a relaxed setting and enjoying the coastlines. Just remember to account for extra expenses and set realistic expectations about service quality.

FAQ

Is transportation provided from Rethymno and Chania?
Yes, the tour includes a transfer service from hotels or selected meeting points in those areas, making logistics easier.

What is included in the price?
The transfer service, boat trip, and an expert tour guide are included. Food and drinks are not included and are available for purchase on board.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving plenty of time for sailing, relaxation, and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended.

Are there any accessibility options?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wider range of travelers.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is allowed on the beach, but not in the lagoon itself. The shoreline offers safe swimming spots.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. There is a self-service restaurant-bar where you can purchase snacks and drinks with a credit card.

What do reviews say about this tour?
Reviews are mixed, with some travelers loving the scenery and beach, while others mention hidden costs and organizational issues.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature suggests it could be suitable for families, provided children are comfortable on boat rides.

How do I confirm my booking or cancel?
You can reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Navigating tours like this requires balancing expectations with practicalities, but if you’re after a scenic day with some beachside R&R in Crete, this cruise to Balos might just tick the boxes — just go in prepared!

You can check availability for your dates here: