Kissamos: Afternoon Luxury Catamaran to Balos & Refreshments

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back afternoon out on the water in Crete, this luxury catamaran cruise to Balos Lagoon might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally boarded this vessel, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that balances comfort, fun, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a lover of scenic views, good drinks, or just want to see one of Crete’s most famous spots from an exclusive perspective, this cruise offers quite a bit.

What really catches the eye are the luxury features of the boat—a brand-new, custom-designed vessel with a VIP flybridge—and the thoughtfully curated onboard amenities like an open bar and water slide. Plus, the chance to enjoy a beautiful sunset while cruising back is a definite highlight. However, there’s a small consideration for travelers who prefer a more active or beach-based experience, as you won’t disembark on the sands of Balos but are free to swim and relax in the lagoon’s turquoise waters.

This cruise is best suited for those who value comfort and scenic beauty over long beach stays and are happy to spend a couple of hours on the water with plenty of added perks. Families, couples, and groups looking for a relaxed yet luxurious outing will appreciate the balance of social atmosphere and exclusive touches.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: A new, custom-built catamaran offers a premium sailing experience with VIP options available.
• Stunning Scenery: The trip to Balos Lagoon includes spectacular views and a memorable sunset.
• Comprehensive Amenities: Open bar, snacks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and inflatables cater to a variety of water fun.
• Flexible Booking: Options for comfort or VIP tickets, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Family-Friendly: Kid-friendly amenities like inflatables and toys are provided.
• Weather Flexibility: The itinerary may change based on weather conditions, ensuring safety remains a priority.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure and Setting Sail

The cruise begins at Kissamos Port, where the vibe is casual but anticipatory. The boat departs around 4:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to settle into your chosen seating—either the open lower deck or the more exclusive upper flybridge. The crew, known for their friendly and accommodating nature, offers a brief safety demonstration before setting sail.

Travelers have noted that the vessel’s new, tailor-made design makes the experience feel upscale yet relaxed. The boat’s spacious layout and panoramic views from the flybridge provide an excellent vantage for capturing photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

The Journey to Balos Lagoon

The approximately 75-minute cruise to Balos is smooth, with gentle breezes and an upbeat soundtrack making it feel more like a mini-adventure than just transportation. As you cruise, you’ll get to enjoy the Starlink Wi-Fi onboard, so sharing photos or just checking in with friends is easy. Depending on the weather, the crew might adjust the schedule, but most reviews mention a relaxed, enjoyable sail.

Balos Lagoon: The Highlight Stop

Once arrived, the boat doesn’t disembark on the beach but anchors nearby, allowing you to swim in the famous turquoise waters. If you’re feeling more active, snorkeling gear and paddleboards are available, letting you explore the bay at your own pace. Many reviews mention the stunning beauty of Balos, and quiet moments of sunbathing or swimming are common highlights.

One guest described the experience as “not just a cruise, but a memory to treasure,” emphasizing how the calm waters and scenic backdrop make it feel special. The water slide and ladder add extra fun for kids and the young at heart, making it a family-friendly option.

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Food and Drinks Onboard

Back on the boat, the open bar is a crowd favorite. Unlimited soft drinks, beer, and white wine are included, making it easy to toast to the sunset. Snacks and fresh fruits are served, adding a gourmet touch to the afternoon. Reviewers loved the quality and variety of the snacks—simple but satisfying—perfect for snacking while gazing at the view.

Sunset and Return Journey

As the boat starts heading back to Kissamos around 6:45 PM, the real magic begins. The sunset cruise is a major highlight, with colors shifting over the sea and creating picture-perfect moments. Many travelers have raved about the “spectacular colors of the Cretan sunset,” making this an ideal time for photos or just quiet reflection.

The return journey lasts until about 8:00 PM, with the crew playing music and ensuring everyone feels relaxed. The overall experience is described as “more than just a boat ride,” with the sunset providing a fitting, unforgettable finale.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

The Itinerary and Duration

The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, with the main focus on sailing, swimming, and relaxing. The schedule begins with departure at 4:00 PM, and the return to Kissamos is around 8:00 PM. You can choose between Comfort tickets, which include open seating on the lower deck, or VIP tickets for upper deck access with reserved sunbeds, towels, and bottled water.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This cruise offers quite a bit for its $123 price tag. Included are the brand-new, tailored catamaran, an experienced crew, the Balos Lagoon stop, unlimited drinks, snacks, fresh fruit, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, inflatables, and Wi-Fi. Kids get toys, and safety equipment like life jackets is also provided.

Not included are hotel transfers, so plan accordingly if your accommodation isn’t within walking distance. You might find the convenience of pickup and drop-off packages useful, especially if you’re staying farther from the port.

What to Bring and Wear

Pack light but smart: a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel are essentials. Wear sports shoes if you plan to explore around Balos or use water equipment, but inside the boat, shoes are not permitted. A sense of adventure and a camera are also highly recommended.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the cruise depends on weather conditions, plans can shift last minute. The itinerary might be altered or canceled if weather turns bad, ensuring safety always comes first. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if plans change.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly crew, with some mentioning specific guides like “Kostas,” who made sure everyone had a good time. Many also appreciated the good value for money, especially given the luxury amenities and all-inclusive drinks. One traveler shared that “the staff made sure we had a good time and were very friendly and accommodating,” highlighting the personal touch that sets this cruise apart.

The scenic views and unforgettable sunsets are a common theme. Guests noted that they enjoyed the music and Wi-Fi, which helped create a festive atmosphere. Kids and families appreciated the safety gear, inflatables, and toys, making it a family-friendly outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those seeking a luxurious, all-in-one experience—combining scenic sailing, swimming, and sunset viewing—without the hassle of organizing individual arrangements. It’s especially suitable for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed but upscale outing. Families with children will also find it accommodating.

However, if you prefer beach disembarkation or longer on-shore activities, this might not be the best fit. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Crete’s beauty aboard a comfortable boat with plenty of amenities and a fun, social atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This Afternoon Luxury Catamaran to Balos offers a blend of style, comfort, and unforgettable scenery. The experience’s strengths lie in its new, high-end vessel, friendly crew, and the stunning sunset views that make the journey truly special. The inclusive drinks, snacks, and water equipment cater well to a laid-back vibe, ensuring you’ll spend your time relaxing and soaking up Crete’s natural beauty.

While the price might seem on the higher side, the value for money is justified by the premium amenities, scenic stops, and overall quality of the experience. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to indulge a little, enjoy a scenic cruise, and make lasting memories on the island.

If you prioritize comfort, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury, this cruise could be the highlight of your Crete holiday. Just remember to bring your camera, your sunhat, and your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included unless you select an option that offers this service. Be prepared to meet at the designated port or arrange your own transportation.

What is the best time to go?
The cruise departs at 4:00 PM, aligning with the late afternoon sun and leading into the sunset, making it an ideal time for photos and enjoying cooler temperatures.

Can I swim in Balos Lagoon?
Yes, you are welcome to swim in the turquoise waters—though you won’t disembark on the beach, the boat anchors nearby, allowing safe swimming and snorkeling.

Are there options for VIP seating?
Yes, VIP tickets grant access to the flybridge with reserved sunbeds, towels, and bottled water, providing a more exclusive experience.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and sports shoes if you plan to explore around the bay. Inside the boat, shoes are not allowed.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, kids are welcome. The boat provides inflatables, toys, and safety equipment, making it family-friendly.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the cruise for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Will the itinerary change due to weather?
Yes, the schedule is weather-dependent and might be altered or canceled if conditions are unsafe. The crew prioritizes safety above all.

This afternoon cruise to Balos Lagoon combines luxury, scenic beauty, and good old-fashioned fun—perfect for those wanting a memorable Crete experience without sacrificing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: