Gramvousa & Balos Cruise From Heraklion

The Gramvousa & Balos Cruise from Heraklion promises an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery. For just €45.00 per person, travelers can explore the historic Venetian castle on Gramvousa, unwind on the stunning Balos Beach, and enjoy Crete’s natural beauty. With convenient transportation and ample free time, this tour offers the perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxation. But to truly experience the captivating landscapes and rich history, you’ll have to embark on this remarkable journey.

Key Points

• This 14-hour tour from Heraklion takes visitors to the stunning Balos Beach and the historic Venetian castle on Gramvousa Island.
• The tour includes transportation via air-conditioned bus and a short boat trip, with 10 available pickup and drop-off locations around Heraklion.
• At Gramvousa, visitors can explore the 16th-century castle, known as a former hideout for pirates, and enjoy free time for swimming and photography.
• Balos Beach, ranked 8th best in Europe, offers visitors the opportunity to experience its turquoise waters and pink-white sand.
• An environmental fee and a separate boat ticket are required to access Balos Beach, but these contribute to maintaining the area’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Gramvousa & Balos Cruise from Heraklion is an activity priced from €45.00 per person.

This 14-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour includes transportation via air-conditioned bus and a short boat trip.

Customers can choose from 10 pickup and drop-off locations around Heraklion. The tour highlights the 8th best beach in Europe, Balos Beach, where visitors can swim and explore the romantic lagoon.

Customers can choose from 10 convenient pickup and drop-off points around Heraklion to visit the stunning Balos Beach, Europe’s 8th best.

At Gramvousa, guests can visit the historic pirate castle and swim at the beach. Reservations can be made with a pay later option.

Itinerary and Transportation

The tour begins at the Port of Kissamos, where participants board an air-conditioned bus for a 3.5-hour journey to Gramvousa.

Along the way, they can be picked up from one of the 10 available locations, including Limenas Chersonisou, Stalida, and Heraklion.

After exploring Gramvousa, guests take a short boat trip to Balos Beach.

At the end of the day, the bus drops them off at the same locations as the pickup points.

The transportation provides a convenient and comfortable way to experience the stunning Gramvousa and Balos destinations.

Gramvousa: Exploring the Pirate Castle

Upon arriving at Gramvousa, the real adventure begins. Visitors can explore the impressive Venetian castle that sits atop the rugged island.

This 16th-century fortress once served as a hideout for pirates, offering stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters. Guests can wander through the castle’s winding paths, discovering ancient ruins and imagining the lives of the former inhabitants.

With ample free time, travelers can snap photos, soak in the serene atmosphere, and even go for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear coves.

Travelers can snap photos, soak in the serene atmosphere, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear coves of Gramvousa.

Gramvousa provides a unique glimpse into the island’s captivating history and natural beauty.

Balos Beach: Discovering the Romantic Lagoon

After the visit to the impressive Venetian castle on Gramvousa, the journey continues to the stunning Balos Beach.

Nestled in a romantic lagoon, Balos is renowned for its turquoise waters and pink-white sand. Visitors can explore the shoreline, swim in the refreshing waters, and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

The beach offers excellent opportunities for photography, with the distant Gramvousa peninsula and Tigani Cape providing a picturesque backdrop. Guests can spend their free time relaxing on the beach or hiking along the coastal trails.

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Activities and Highlights

Visitors can look forward to a variety of activities and highlights during the Gramvousa & Balos Cruise. The expedition includes:

• A photo stop and free time to explore the historic Gramvousa Pirate Castle, offering stunning views of the coastline.

• Swimming in the refreshing waters of Gramvousa Beach.

• A visit to the 8th best beach in Europe, Balos Lagoon, where guests can stroll along the romantic shoreline.

• Another opportunity to swim in Balos’ cool, inviting waters.

• Sightseeing throughout the cruise, taking in the breathtaking coastal landscapes.

The cruise offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty of this Cretan paradise.

What to Bring

To make the most of the Gramvousa & Balos Cruise, visitors should come prepared. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the rocky terrain and exploring the sites.

Sunglasses and a hat will protect against the Mediterranean sun. Swimwear is essential for those who want to take a dip in the refreshing waters of Balos Beach and Gramvousa.

Sunscreen is also crucial to prevent sunburns during the extended time outdoors. Lastly, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking coastal views and stunning landscapes.

With the right gear, travelers can fully enjoy the natural beauty of this unique excursion.

Environmental Fee and Boat Ticket

There’s a 1€ environmental fee that must be paid for this cruise.

In addition, a 15€ boat ticket is required to access Balos Beach. This fee covers the boat transportation from the port of Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and back. The boat ticket isn’t included in the base tour price.

The key takeaways regarding the additional fees are:

• 1€ environmental fee

• 15€ boat ticket to Balos Beach

• Boat ticket not included in tour price

• Environmental fee and boat ticket must be paid separately

• Fees help maintain the natural environment and provide boat access to Balos

Customer Reviews

Customers seem to have had a mixed experience with the Gramvousa & Balos Cruise. According to the 3.3/5 star rating based on 3 reviews, the feedback highlights both positive and negative aspects.

| Feedback | Rating |

| — | — |

| Positive | Hotel pickup, beautiful coastal views, relaxing boat ride, stunning beaches |

| Negative | Not available |

| Neutral | Not available |

| Positive | Not available |

| Negative | Not available |

While the cruise offers picturesque scenery and activities, the limited number of reviews suggests room for improvement in the overall customer experience.

Things To Know

Is the Cruise Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The cruise may be suitable for families with young children, though it involves a boat trip and hiking at Gramvousa. Parents should consider the children’s stamina and whether they’ll enjoy the activities. The long duration may also be challenging for young kids.

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

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The tour operator doesn’t provide meals, so bringing a packed lunch and refreshments is recommended to fully enjoy the experience.

Is There a Guide to Provide Commentary During the Cruise?

Yes, there’s a guide who provides commentary during the cruise. The guide shares information about the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Gramvousa and Balos regions throughout the tour.

Are There Any Restrictions or Age Limits for the Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the activities, though children must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should be able to walk and swim independently. Any medical conditions or mobility issues should be disclosed when booking.

What Happens in Case of Bad Weather During the Cruise?

If the weather is poor, the cruise may be cancelled or altered. Customers will be informed of any changes and offered options such as a full refund or rescheduling. The operator prioritizes safety and adjusts the tour accordingly.

Sum Up

The Gramvousa & Balos Cruise from Heraklion offers a captivating day of exploration, combining a historic castle, stunning natural landscapes, and ample time for relaxation and photography. With a convenient bus transfer and included boat ticket, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover Crete’s breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, this cruise is an unforgettable way to experience the island’s treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: