From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

Taking a boat trip from Kissamos to visit Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa has become a favorite for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxing seaside fun. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Cretan explorer, this kind of tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, scenic views, and a chance to tick off two iconic spots in one go.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the stunning landscapes—crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and the famous shipwreck at Gramvousa. Second, the informative guides who share tidbits about the area’s turbulent past and natural features. Third, the value for money, with all essentials like transportation, sightseeing, and sometimes food bundled into a single day.

Of course, there’s a small consideration: timing can be tight. The tour’s schedule means you’ll get limited time at each site, especially Balos. If you’re keen to stay longer or explore independently, this could feel a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who love scenic boat rides, quick visits to iconic beaches, and a touch of history—perfect for those who want to squeeze the most out of a single day in Crete.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary that covers both Gramvousa and Balos in about 7 hours.
• Inclusion of guides and crew enhance the experience with helpful insights.
• Stunning views of cliffs, turquoise waters, and natural formations.
• Swim opportunities at Balos with crystal-clear waters, sometimes with a short climb.
• Well-organized logistics ensure smooth boarding, navigation, and disembarking.
• Good value with options for food and drinks on board, plus entrance fees included (except a small municipal fee).

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Cruise

The day begins at Kissamos Port, a lively hub easily accessible by car or bus from Chania. You’ll receive your boarding pass the day before via email, and it’s best to arrive at least 40 minutes early to avoid last-minute stress. With a well-organized check-in process, the start of your day feels smooth, and the crew is known for being friendly and helpful, making you feel welcomed from the get-go.

The Boat Journey

The cruise itself takes about an hour in the bay, offering a chance to soak in the views of steep cliffs, secluded beaches, and rocky formations. Expect a comfortable, clean vessel with amenities like clean toilets and a reasonable selection of snacks and drinks for purchase. Reviewers mention that the crew is efficient and friendly, and many appreciate the commentary and information provided during the trip, enriching the sightseeing experience.

Gramvousa Island: A Historic Highlight

Once you arrive at Gramvousa, the focus shifts to exploring its wild natural environment and the historic fortress atop a steep, rocky hill. The Venetian castle at Gramvousa is the star attraction—standing on its ramparts, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea and Balos Lagoon.

Many reviews highlight the shipwreck on the beach as a photographer’s dream and a reminder of the island’s turbulent past. You’ll have around two hours here, which allows for a quick swim in the emerald waters near the church of Agioi Apostoloi and a hike up to the castle if you’re feeling energetic. Reviewers like Aleksandra mention the amazing colours of the water and how the shipwreck adds a haunting beauty to the scenery.

Balos Lagoon: The Picture-Perfect Beach

After Gramvousa, the boat heads toward Balos Lagoon, one of the world’s most photographed beaches. With listed rankings among the top beaches worldwide, it’s easy to see why. Your arrival here is usually a photo stop and allows for free time to swim and relax.

The crystal-clear, emerald waters are what draw visitors. As Neil describes, the views are some of the most beautiful he’s seen, with rock formations and cliffs creating a postcard-perfect setting. The water is shallow and perfect for swimming, and some reviewers mention bringing water shoes because of the rocky entry.

While the time at Balos is typically about 2.5 hours, some do wish for longer. Emmanouil notes it would be ideal to have more time at Balos, but overall, the experience is unforgettable. The climb up to the viewpoint offers stunning vistas, and many, like Caroline, remember the peaceful feeling of floating in the calm waters.

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Full Itinerary Breakdown: Making the Most of Your Day

Stop 1: Kissamos Port

Your adventure kicks off here with an easy check-in and a friendly crew. The departure times are flexible depending on availability, but arriving early guarantees a relaxed start.

Stop 2: Ferry Ride (1 Hour)

The boat ride is a highlight, offering panoramic views of cliffs, beaches, and rocks. Many reviews mention the well-maintained boat and friendly staff. Some travelers suggest bringing a hat or sunglasses to enjoy the scenery comfortably.

Stop 3: Gramvousa Island (Approx. 2 Hours)

Once docked, you’ll be greeted by a picturesque environment of wild natural beauty and historical ruins. The highlight here is the Venetian castle on the hilltop, which you can hike up in about 15-20 minutes, according to reviews. The shipwreck on the beach adds to the charm. Reviewers like Aleksandra mention the amazing colours of the water and the sense of history and legend that the island radiates.

Stop 4: Balos Lagoon (Approx. 2.5 Hours)

Arriving at Balos, you’re met with a magical landscape—crystal waters, soft sands, and dramatic rocks. The scenic views and the calm, shallow waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing with your toes in the sand. Neil suggests bringing your own lunch if you want to avoid the limited options on board, as the food can sell out or be less appealing during busy times.

Return Journey: Ferry Ride Back (1 Hour)

Sailing back, many travelers reflect on the breathtaking scenery and well-organized process. As Deborah notes, the boat is well-run and clean, making for a comfortable return trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour features a round-trip boat cruise with a captain and crew who provide insights along the way. Entrance to Balos and Gramvousa is included, with a small municipal fee of 1 EUR per person over 13 for Balos and Gramvousa. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but reviewers recommend bringing your own snacks or lunch, especially for those wanting more flexibility or specific dietary preferences.

Not included are hotel transfers, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the port. The tour also does not cater to wheelchair users, given the nature of the stops and the terrain.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Arrive early to avoid last-minute rushes and to secure a good spot on the boat.
• Bring water shoes—the rocky entries can be uncomfortable without them.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and a towel—the sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
• If you’re hungry or want a more flexible schedule, consider bringing your own lunch and drinks.
• For those interested in photography, the shipwreck at Gramvousa and balconies at Balos are perfect subjects.
• Remember that swimming with your belongings can require a waterproof bag or waterproof pouch, as you may need to swim ashore.

Reviews Reflecting Honest Experiences

Many travelers praise the professional and friendly crew, mentioning how smoothly the day unfolds. Neil highlights the “perfect weather” for his trip, and Deborah appreciates that the boat was very well run and stocked with good food and drinks.

Some mention the limited time at each location—a common trade-off for such a packed schedule. Emmanouil notes that more time at Balos would be ideal, but he still considers it a worthwhile experience. Aleksandra describes the water colours as “amazing,” and Caroline recalls the memorable hike up to the fortress, which added an extra layer of adventure.

A recurring theme in reviews is the value for money, especially considering the included entrance fees, guide insights, and the stunning scenery.

The Sum Up

This boat cruise offers an excellent way to see two of Crete’s most breathtaking sites without the hassle of driving or organizing separate excursions. The organized itinerary, helpful guides, and scenic beauty make it a solid choice for travelers looking for a memorable day trip. If you’re after beautiful beaches, historical sights, and well-maintained transportation, this tour delivers all that in a manageable format.

While the limited time at each stop might not suit those wanting to linger or explore independently, most find the value and experience well worth it. It’s especially suitable for visitors who want a relaxed, scenic, and informative adventure that covers the highlights efficiently.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride from Kissamos?
The boat ride in the bay lasts about an hour each way, providing scenic views of cliffs, beaches, and the sea.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers a round-trip boat cruise, visits to both Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island (if selected), the captain and crew, and entrance fees for the sites. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Is there a guide onboard?
Yes, there is a host or greeter who provides commentary in English, sharing insights about the scenery, history, and landmarks.

How much time do we spend at each site?
Expect approximately 2 hours at Gramvousa and 2.5 hours at Balos, depending on the itinerary route.

Can I swim at Balos Lagoon?
Absolutely. Many reviewers mention swimming in the clear waters, and some even suggest bringing water shoes for rocky entries.

Are there any extra costs?
A small municipal fee of 1 EUR per passenger over 13 applies for Balos and Gramvousa. Food and drinks onboard are extra.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s more suited for those in good health, as there’s some walking and climbing involved, especially to the Venetian castle. Not recommended for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towel, water shoes, waterproof bags for belongings, and possibly your own snacks or lunch.

How do I get to Kissamos Port?
The port is accessible by car or bus from Chania, with free parking available. You’ll receive your boarding pass via email the day before your trip.

In essence, this boat cruise balances stunning scenery, history, and relaxation—perfect for anyone wanting to experience Crete’s iconic beaches with minimal fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: