Crete: Gramvousa & Balos Cruise With Hotel Pickup

Crete’s Gramvousa and Balos Cruise is a must-do for any traveler seeking breathtaking natural beauty. With convenient hotel pickup, visitors embark on a 16-hour adventure that whisks them to a Venetian castle, crystal-clear lagoons, and diverse wildlife. This all-inclusive experience promises an unforgettable day of exploration, swimming, and soaking in Crete’s stunning landscapes. But what makes this cruise truly special lies beyond the itinerary – the chance to uncover the island’s rich history and cultural heritage that have captivated visitors for centuries.

Key Points

• A cruise tour to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon in Crete, starting from $43.78 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Pickup service available from 58 locations across Crete, with a 3-hour drive to the port and 20-minute water transfer to Gramvousa Island.
• Explore the historic Venetian castle on Gramvousa Island and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
• After Gramvousa, take a 30-minute boat trip to the Balos Lagoon, renowned for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
• Tour not recommended for individuals with mobility issues or wheelchair users, and participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and beachwear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The cruise to Gramvousa and Balos in Crete offers an activity-packed day at a reasonable price, starting from $43.78 per person.

The 16-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve your spot without upfront payment.

Departing from 58 locations across Crete, the tour transports you by bus, boat, and water taxi to explore the historic Gramvousa Island and the stunning Balos Lagoon.

Along the way, you’ll have time to swim, snorkel, and take in the natural beauty of the region’s protected coastline and marine life.

Itinerary and Transportation

Pickup is available from 58 locations across Crete, including popular resorts like Annabelle Beach Resort, Hersonissos, and Civitel Creta Beach.

From there, guests board an air-conditioned luxury bus for the 3-hour drive to the port. A 20-minute water transfer takes them to Gramvousa Island, known as "Pirate Island" due to its historic Venetian castle.

After exploring, they board another boat for the 30-minute trip to the famous Balos Lagoon. Following a break, the return journey includes a 1-hour water transfer back to the mainland.

The tour allows time for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

Highlights of Gramvousa Island

One of the main highlights of the cruise is the visit to Gramvousa Island, also known as "Pirate Island".

The island is home to a stunning 16th-century Venetian castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and learn about its history as a former pirate stronghold.

The island’s rugged landscape and crystal-clear waters also make it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, allowing travelers to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

With its rich history and breathtaking scenery, Gramvousa Island is a must-see destination on this Crete cruise.

Exploring the Balos Lagoon

After exploring the historic Venetian castle and scenic landscapes of Gramvousa Island, the cruise continues its journey to the renowned Balos Lagoon.

Famed for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Balos Lagoon is an idyllic destination for swimming and photography. Visitors can wade in the shallow, turquoise waters, observe the diverse marine life, and soak in the stunning vistas of the rugged coastline.

With its protected status, Balos offers a peaceful escape to nature. The cruise provides ample time to relax, swim, and capture the breathtaking beauty of this picturesque lagoon before the return journey.

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Natural Beauty and Biodiversity

As visitors explore the Balos Lagoon, they’ll be captivated by the stunning natural beauty and diverse biodiversity of the region. The protected marine environment is home to a variety of sea life, including the endangered Mediterranean monk seal. Snorkelers can discover vibrant coral reefs and schools of colorful fish. The surrounding landscapes feature rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush coastal vegetation. This unique ecosystem is a true natural wonder, offering visitors unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and immersion in the serene beauty of Crete’s coastline.

| Marine Life | Coastal Landscapes | Conservation Efforts |

| — | — | — |

| Mediterranean Monk Seal | Rugged Cliffs | Protected Marine Areas |

| Coral Reefs | Pristine Beaches | Endangered Species Monitoring |

| Diverse Fish Species | Lush Vegetation | Sustainable Tourism Practices |

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The cruise package includes a comprehensive set of inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants. The ticket price covers the boat ride, a multilingual guide, a professional driver, air-conditioned bus transfers, and liability insurance.

While the main inclusions are covered, there are a few additional costs. Visitors must pay a €1.00 entrance fee to access Gramvousa Island. An optional €7.50 lunch is available for those interested. Participants should also budget for tips and any other personal expenses.

Important Information for Participants

Though the Gramvousa & Balos Cruise is an exciting and picturesque excursion, it may not be suitable for all participants. The tour isn’t recommended for individuals with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, pack sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and beachwear. After booking, travelers will receive an email confirmation within 24 hours with their specific pickup location.

The bus transportation takes around 3 hours, depending on the starting point. Travelers should be prepared for the lengthy travel time to reach the islands and lagoon.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking the Gramvousa & Balos Cruise is easy and flexible. You can reserve your spot with no upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Here’s a quick overview of the booking and cancellation policy:

| Booking | Cancellation | Refund |

| — | — | — |

| Reserve online with no deposit | Cancel up to 24 hours before | 100% of total |

| Secure your spot now, pay later | After 24 hours, no refund | No refund |

| Email confirmation within 24 hours | | |

The process is straightforward, allowing you to plan your Crete adventure with ease. Explore the stunning Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon without any booking hassles.

Things To Know

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The cruise may not be suitable for young children as it involves long boat rides and hiking. However, older kids interested in nature, history, and swimming may enjoy the tour’s highlights. Parental discretion is advised.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. The tour allows participants to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the cruise and while exploring the islands.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography?

There are no restrictions on photography during the tour. Visitors are encouraged to take photos of the stunning natural scenery, historic sites, and marine life they encounter throughout the Gramvousa and Balos cruise experience.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Tour?

No, a visa isn’t required for this tour. The trip is open to travelers from most countries, and the tour operator will provide any necessary information for participants to enter and enjoy the destinations.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Have an Emergency?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing travelers flexibility in case of emergencies. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur fees, so it’s best to communicate any changes as soon as possible.

Sum Up

The Gramvousa and Balos Cruise offers a chance to experience Crete’s breathtaking natural beauty. From the historic Venetian castle on Gramvousa Island to the stunning Balos Lagoon, this tour provides an opportunity to explore the island’s natural wonders. With convenient hotel pickup and transportation, it’s an ideal way to discover the island’s highlights in a comfortable and efficient manner.

You can check availability for your dates here: