Chania’s Gramvousa and Balos Beach offer a day of adventure and relaxation. This full-day bus and boat trip takes explorers to a historic Venetian castle, pristine beaches, and stunning natural scenery. With convenient pickups, flexible cancellation, and high-rated reviews, it’s no wonder this tour attracts nature lovers seeking an unforgettable Cretan experience. What awaits beyond the castle walls and along the crystalline shores of Balos Beach?

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Key Points

A full-day trip from Chania to Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach, including transportation by bus and ferry, costs $34.95 per person.
The trip duration is 10 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and pickup is available from 25 locations around Chania.
The Venetian-built Gramvousa Castle on a hilltop offers panoramic views, while Balos Beach features pristine white sands and azure hues.
Onboard amenities include a self-service bar, cafe, and opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and photography.
Customer feedback highlights the scenic views and beach time, but transportation issues have been noted in some reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This full-day bus and boat trip to Gramvousa and Balos Beach costs from $34.95 per person.

It lasts 10 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup is available from 25 locations around Chania.

The journey includes a 40-minute bus ride, 15-minute ferry to Gramvousa, and 1.5 hours at Balos Beach. Visitors can explore Gramvousa Island and its hilltop Venetian castle, and enjoy the white sands and azure lagoon of Balos.

Food, snacks, and drinks are available for purchase onboard. A range of reviews cite scenic views but note variable experiences and additional costs.

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Pickup Locations and Transportation

The trip offers pickup from 25 different locations around Chania, including popular hotels like Creta Palm, Minoa Palace Resort, and the Old Chania Market. After a 40-minute bus ride, the journey continues with an 80-minute scenic drive through Crete’s stunning landscape to the boat departure point. The 15-minute ferry ride delivers guests to Gramvousa Island, where they can explore the hilltop Venetian castle.

| Transportation | Duration | Highlights |

|—————-|———-|————|

| Bus/Coach | 40 minutes | Pickup locations |

| Scenic Drive | 80 minutes | Crete’s landscape |

| Ferry | 15 minutes | Gramvousa Island |

The return journey by bus takes 45 minutes back to Chania.

Exploring Gramvousa Island

After disembarking from the ferry, visitors can explore the picturesque Gramvousa Island.

The island’s main attraction is the Venetian-built Gramvousa Castle, perched atop a rugged hilltop. Hiking up to the castle rewards travelers with panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and Balos Lagoon. Along the way, visitors can spot remnants of the castle’s fortifications and stone structures.

Beyond the castle, the island offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and discovering hidden coves. With free time allotted, guests can enjoy the natural beauty and history of this remarkable Cretan destination.

Relaxing at Balos Beach

Following a scenic boat ride across the turquoise waters, visitors arrive at the stunning Balos Beach.

This famous lagoon features pristine white sands and mesmerizing azure hues. Travelers can spend 1.5 hours swimming in the inviting waters, sunbathing on the beach, or snapping photos of the breathtaking landscape.

The unique geological formations and tranquil atmosphere make Balos a premier destination for relaxation. Guests are advised to bring comfortable beach attire, sunscreen, and water to make the most of their time at this picturesque Greek gem.

Refreshments are available for purchase onboard the boat.

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Onboard Amenities

Although the boat ride to Gramvousa and Balos Beach takes several hours, travelers need not worry about going thirsty or hungry.

On board, a self-service bar offers a variety of refreshments, including beer, wine, and soft drinks. Snacks like chips, cookies, and sandwiches are also available for purchase.

A self-service bar ensures travelers can refresh themselves with beer, wine, and soft drinks, complemented by tasty snacks like chips and sandwiches.

For those seeking a heartier meal, the boat’s onboard cafe serves up hot dishes and salads.

With these amenities, passengers can refuel and rehydrate as they take in the stunning Mediterranean scenery during the journey to and from these idyllic destinations.

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What to Bring and Suitability

To make the most of the Gramvousa and Balos Beach excursion, travelers should come prepared.

Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must for hiking on Gramvousa Island. Swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes will be necessary for enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Balos Lagoon.

Don’t forget sun protection like sunscreen and a hat. Bringing cash is advisable, as there are food, snacks, and drinks available for purchase onboard.

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, active adventurers will relish the stunning scenery and the chance to explore these coastal gems of Crete.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can cancel their Gramvousa and Balos Beach trip up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Between 24-12 hours before the trip, a 50% refund is offered. However, cancellations made less than 12 hours prior are non-refundable.

This flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can get a full or partial refund if their plans change.

It’s important to review the policy carefully and make any necessary changes well in advance to avoid disappointment or additional fees.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

The Gramvousa and Balos Beach trip has received a 3.7/5 overall rating based on 24 reviews.

While some customers praised the scenic views and beach time, others noted issues with the transportation and value for money. The transportation rating is 3.4/5, and the value for money rating is 3/5.

Common feedback suggests experiences can vary:

Some enjoyed the trip, while others had problems with pickup and additional costs.
The scenic drive and boat ride were highlights for many.
The beach time at Balos was a major draw for most.
A few reported logistical challenges and unexpected expenses.

Things To Know

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though not recommended for wheelchair users. Participants should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, and other essentials for the beach and outdoor activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the boat. The tour allows passengers to bring their own snacks and beverages, so you don’t have to purchase items onboard if you don’t want to.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is multilingual, fluent in both English and the local language. They’ll provide commentary and information throughout the day’s activities, ensuring all participants can fully enjoy the trip’s highlights regardless of their native language.

What Is the Seating Arrangement Like on the Bus and Boat?

The bus has comfortable, spacious seating. The boat has both indoor and outdoor seating areas, allowing passengers to enjoy the views from different vantage points. There’s ample room to move around during the ferry ride.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book this tour for a private group. The tour operator offers customizable options to accommodate larger parties and can arrange private transportation and exclusive experiences upon request.

Sum Up

The Chania: Gramvousa and Balos Beach Full-Day Bus and Boat Trip offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of Crete. With convenient transportation, ample time to discover Gramvousa Island and relax at the breathtaking Balos Beach, and a range of onboard amenities, this tour provides an unforgettable day of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply seeking a memorable experience, this trip is not to be missed.