Balos Beach is one of Crete’s most stunning spots, famous for its turquoise waters and white sand. But beyond just soaking up the sun, many travelers seek memorable tours and experiences that add a deeper layer to their visit. Whether you’re eager to explore hidden islands, cruise in style, or enjoy a personal adventure, Balos offers options that make the most of its natural beauty. Our favorite? The Private Boat Cruise to Historic Pirate Island — it combines scenic sailing with a dash of local lore, making it a perfect way to see the coast with comfort and exclusivity.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best tours available at Balos Beach and nearby, helping you pick the right experience based on your preferences — whether that’s luxury, adventure, or cultural discovery.
Quick Overview
Our list features three standout options:
- A private boat cruise that takes you safely off the beaten path to pirate history and snorkeling [].
- An offroad private tour perfect for those seeking a personalized, scenic day exploring the Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island [].
- An ultra-luxury private catamaran cruise with meals, drinks, and water activities, designed for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting to indulge in style [].
1. From Kissamos: Private Boat Cruise to Historic Pirate Island
Rating: 4.8/5 (based on 5 reviews)
Price: $768 per group (up to 5 people)
Duration: 4 hours (check availability for start times)
Location: Crete, Greece
This private boat cruise is your best choice if you want an intimate, customizable adventure on the water. Led by an experienced captain, this 4-hour trip departs from Kissamos and whisks you along the coast, offering spectacular views of Balos Lagoon and beyond. The highlight? Visiting an island that once hosted pirates and revolutionaries—an intriguing slice of history you can explore from a boat, with plenty of opportunities to swim or snorkel in the clear waters.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized experience. Unlike large group excursions, you’ll enjoy dedicated attention and the ability to tailor stops. The reviews mention a “skilled and friendly skipper” and praise the quiet, uncrowded surroundings, which means you get to explore with ease. It’s perfect for families or small groups wanting an authentic cruise with history, swimming, and scenic views.
The price is reasonable given the exclusivity, especially if you’re traveling with a small group. Keep in mind, the four-hour duration means you’ll have time to relax, enjoy the water, and soak up the local atmosphere.
Bottom line: For a private, flexible, and historically interesting day on the water, this cruise hits the mark.
2. Chania: Private Tour to Balos Lagoon
Rating: 4.7/5 (based on 3 reviews)
Price: $452 per group (up to 4 people)
Duration: 8 hours (check availability for start times)
If comfort, scenery, and a personalized Balos experience appeal to you, this private offroad tour is an excellent pick. It offers a full-day adventure starting from Chania or Platanias, taking you in a rugged jeep or SUV to the lagoon and Gramvousa Island. The tour includes self-trekking options, giving you the chance to hike or relax as you prefer, plus a swim in the well-known Balos Lagoon waters.
What makes this tour distinct is the scenic drive through traditional villages and panoramic viewpoints of Kissamos Bay. The multilingual driver means you get insightful commentary without the rush, and the offroad experience adds a touch of adventure that larger bus tours can’t match. The five-hour free time at Balos means you can take photos, swim, or just lounge without feeling hurried, which is a rarity in popular destinations.
Reviewers note the overall “good” value for money, especially for a private tour. It’s best suited for travelers who want a more active, flexible day with personalized attention and scenic views. The 8-hour duration is perfect for those with a full day to explore in comfort.
Bottom line: This tour balances adventure, comfort, and a private feel, ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with the landscape.
3. Private Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Meals
Rating: 5/5 (based on reviews)
Price: $3,275 per group (up to 10 people)
Duration: 7.5 hours
For those looking to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy luxury in style, this private catamaran cruise offers an unmatched experience. It departs from Crete and takes you along the coast to the Gramvousa and Balos, avoiding the crowds that flock to these spots. The boat’s spacious decks provide room to relax, sip drinks, and soak up stunning Aegean views.
One of the main attractions is the onboard Mediterranean lunch prepared by a chef, paired with drinks like wine and beer. Water activities such as snorkeling and SUP surfing ensure you stay entertained in the clear waters. The itinerary is flexible and includes stops at Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island, where you can swim, explore, or simply enjoy the scenery.
This tour stands out not only for its exclusivity but also for the attention to detail and comfort. It’s perfect for couples celebrating anniversaries, families, or groups of friends wanting a memorable day at sea. The reviews confirm it’s a top-tier experience that feels indulgent but worth the splurge.
Bottom line: If you’re after a luxurious, all-inclusive day on the sea with privacy and high-end amenities, this cruise is hard to beat.
How to Choose
Choosing the right experience depends on your budget, interests, and how active or relaxed you want your day to be. If you prefer a personalized, historical, and watersports-focused afternoon, the Private Boat Cruise to Pirate Island offers great value. For a full-day scenic adventure with a focus on comfort and off-road exploration, the Chania Private Tour fits the bill. And if your budget allows for a luxurious splurge, the Luxury Catamaran Cruise provides a high-end, unforgettable experience.
Consider your group size, whether you prefer a private or shared experience, and your interest in history, adventure, or luxury when selecting. Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular luxury cruise, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Balos Beach offers a range of tours and experiences that cater to different tastes. For those seeking a relaxed, private sailing adventure with history and snorkeling, the Private Boat Cruise delivers in style. If you want a full-day exploration with scenic drives and hiking, the Chania private tour is ideal. For travelers celebrating a special day or wanting a touch of luxury, the catamaran cruise provides an elegant, all-inclusive option.
Whatever your choice, each experience promises a memorable way to enjoy the stunning scenery and clear waters of Crete’s most iconic destination. Be sure to book early, especially for the luxury options, so you don’t miss out on these exceptional adventures.
Enjoy your trip to Balos — it’s a place that’s worth experiencing from all angles!