Exploring the stunning landscapes of Crete is an unforgettable experience. This private day trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island promises breathtaking scenery and adventure. Travelers will enjoy comfortable transportation, a scenic drive, and a boat ride to two of Crete’s most captivating destinations. With the option to hike and explore, this excursion offers a chance to take in the natural beauty and rich history of western Crete. Whether seeking relaxation or excitement, this day trip provides an opportunity to discover the enchanting wonders of this remarkable island.
Key Points
- A private day trip from Crete to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, lasting 9 hours with hotel pickup and comfortable Mercedes Vito transportation.
- Boat tickets and fortress entry fees are additional, with an option to purchase onboard lunch and rent sun umbrellas.
- The tour includes a scenic drive, a 1-hour boat trip to Balos Lagoon, and a 20-minute boat ride to Gramvousa Island with time for exploration.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on reviews, with praise for the comfort and natural scenery.
- Recommended items for the trip include sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen, as the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
Trip Overview and Pricing
Though this private day trip from Crete takes travelers to the stunning Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, the price starts from a reasonable $229.86 per person.
The full-day excursion lasts 9 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.
The full-day excursion lasts 9 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.
The trip includes private transportation and hotel pickup, but boat tickets and Venetian Fortress entry are additional costs.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on reviews, the tour is praised for its comfortable ride, knowledgeable guide, and breathtaking scenery.
Looking for more options in Rethymno Regional Unit? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Transportation and Pickup Details
The private day trip includes a comfortable Mercedes Vito for the road journey from the Rethymno area to Kissamos Port.
Pick-up is available from hotels, villas, or Airbnbs in specified Chania areas, including Perivolia, Halepa, Chania center, Nea Chora, and Agioi Apostoloi.
The activity provider will email you the specific pick-up details.
This convenient transportation provides a seamless start to your adventure, ensuring a stress-free transit to the departure point at Kissamos Port, where you’ll board the boat for the next leg of your private day trip to Balos and Gramvousa Island.
Itinerary Highlights
The private day trip begins with a scenic drive along the new national road towards the westernmost tip of Crete.
Passengers then embark on a 1-hour boat trip to the stunning Balos Lagoon, where they’ll have 2.5 hours to enjoy the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.
Next, they’ll take a 20-minute boat ride to Gramvousa Island, home to a Venetian fortress atop a 137-meter peak.
Travelers can swim, explore the island, and optionally climb to the fortress before returning to Kissamos, completing the approximately 1.5-hour visit to Gramvousa.
Included Services and Costs
This private day trip includes a range of services to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as luxury transportation, are provided. Liability insurance coverage is also included for peace of mind.
The boat ticket to Balos Lagoon and entry to the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island aren’t bundled in the tour price, but can be purchased separately.
Onboard lunch is available for purchase, and sun umbrellas can be rented.
More Great Tours NearbyTraveler Feedback and Recommendations
Travelers have provided overall positive feedback on this private day trip to Balos and Gramvousa Island. Based on 3 reviews, the tour received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5.
Highlights included the comfortable ride and knowledgeable guide, as well as the stunning natural beauty of the locations visited.
To fully enjoy the trip, travelers are advised to bring essential items like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.
It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Exploring Balos Lagoon
After departing from Kissamos Port, visitors embark on a one-hour boat journey to the breathtaking Balos Lagoon.
This unique coastal landscape features crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and impressive rock formations. Guests can spend 2.5 hours exploring the lagoon, swimming in its inviting waters, and taking in the stunning scenery.
Balos is a protected nature reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and serene atmosphere. Visitors are advised to bring sun protection and comfortable beach attire to fully enjoy this natural wonder on Crete’s western coast.
Adventure at Gramvousa Island
From Balos Lagoon, visitors board a 20-minute boat ride to the rugged Gramvousa Island.
This former Venetian fortress island offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, and exploring the historic ruins. Adventurous travelers can climb the 137-meter summit for sweeping views of the dramatic coastline.
The island’s isolation and natural beauty make it a highlight of the day trip.
After exploring the island for around 1.5 hours, the boat returns visitors to Kissamos port, concluding the excursion’s adventurous second half.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Boat Trip to Balos and Gramvousa Included in the Price?
The boat tickets to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island are not included in the trip price. Travelers will need to purchase these separately, which cost €38 per adult and €19 per child aged 5-12 for the Balos boat ticket.
Can I Book This Trip With a Larger Group?
Yes, you can book this private day trip with a larger group. The provider offers transportation and pickup services for groups, with the price per person decreasing as the group size increases.
Are Water and Snacks Provided During the Excursion?
No, water and snacks aren’t provided during the excursion. Travelers can purchase lunch onboard the boat, and sun umbrellas are available for rent, but bringing your own food and drinks is recommended for this full-day trip.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?
There’s a discount for children aged 5-12, who pay €19 per child for the boat ticket. However, the activity doesn’t mention any discounts for seniors. The price is the same for all adult travelers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the boat. Passengers are allowed to bring their own packed lunches and snacks to enjoy during the trip. However, refreshments are also available for purchase onboard.
The Sum Up
This private day trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island offers a chance to experience Crete’s stunning natural beauty. With comfortable transportation, a scenic boat ride, and time to relax on the beach and explore the historic fortress, this excursion provides an unforgettable way to discover the region’s highlights. Rated highly by previous travelers, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable adventure in western Crete.
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