Chania Areas/Kalyves:Gramvousa Island & Balos,Boat Tkt Extra

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Crete’s westernmost tip with a full-day tour that combines scenic bus rides, boat trips, and plenty of time to enjoy iconic spots like Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay. For just $22.25 per person, this carefully organized excursion offers a mix of natural beauty, historical exploration, and relaxing beach time, making it an appealing choice for travelers who want a well-rounded experience without long hikes or complicated logistics.

The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off in multiple locations including Chania, Kalyves, and Almyrida, simplifying your day. You’ll enjoy a modern, air-conditioned coach, a guided narration in English, and the chance to purchase optional tickets for the Venetian Fortress and boat rides—ensuring flexibility based on your preferences. With an average rating of 4.2 from 967 reviews, this trip demonstrates consistent satisfaction, especially for those seeking scenic vistas and easy access to Crete’s highlights.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from various locations around Chania and nearby areas
• Price is just $22.25 per person, with additional costs for boat tickets and fortress entry if not included
• Duration of 10-12 hours, with flexible start times depending on the day
• Visit Gramvousa Island to hike up the Venetian fortress or relax on the rocky beaches
• Swim in the clear waters of Balos Bay, a lagoon famous for its stunning color and shallow, warm waters
• Enjoy a scenic ferry ride that offers panoramic views of Crete’s rugged coastline and cliffs
• Guided commentary throughout the trip provides context and enhances understanding of each location
• Good value for money, with options for private groups and easy logistics

You can check availability for your dates here:

Pickup and Journey to Kissamos Port

This tour begins with a pickup from a wide range of locations, including Kondomari, Stalos, Galatas, Chania, Stavros, Tavronitis, Halepa, Souda, Platanias, Kalyves, Perivolia, and Almyrida. The modern coach is fully air-conditioned, making the roughly one-hour drive to Kissamos port comfortable and smooth.

Once at the port, the guide collects your boat tickets—saving you from lining up—and provides a briefing about the day’s schedule. Those who opt for the Kalyves or Almyrida pickup will find that boat tickets and fortress entrance are included in the price for added convenience. This setup allows you to skip lines and start your day more efficiently.

The Ferry to Gramvousa Island

At around 10:40 AM, the ferry departs for Gramvousa Island, a journey of approximately 45 minutes. The ferry features a self-service kitchen with snacks and meals available at your own expense, and plenty of deck space for enjoying the scenery. During the cruise, you get a chance to see Crete’s coastline from a new perspective, with microphones explaining the land’s elevation changes, which have occurred over 2000 years.

The ferry ride offers stunning views of the cliffs and rugged landscape, making it a captivating part of the trip even before reaching the island. Passengers can sit in the lounge or on deck, with space to relax and take photographs of the picturesque surroundings.

Exploring Gramvousa Island and Its Venitian Fortress

Upon arrival on Gramvousa Island, visitors can choose to swim in the shallow waters or hike up to the Venetian fortress. The fortress is a highlight, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding sea and coast. The 2.5 hours allocated here give ample time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the rocky landscape.

The island’s terrain is rocky, and the walk up to the fortress requires sturdy shoes and some physical effort. The views from the top are described as amazing, with many noting the worthwhileness of the hike despite the brief time available. Afterward, travelers can relax and soak in the unique atmosphere of this rocky, historically significant spot.

Balos Bay: Crystal Waters and Beach Relaxation

From Gramvousa, the boat departs for Balos Bay, a journey of about 20 minutes. Once at the lagoon, visitors have around 1.5 to 3 hours to swim, relax, and take photos. The beach is famous for its colorful, clear waters, with many reviews praising its beauty and ideal swimming conditions.

Facilities include umbrellas for rent and food options on the boat, though it’s wise to bring your own essentials such as beach shoes—the rocks can be sharp—and dry bags for valuables. The shallow waters and warm climate make Balos perfect for lazy lounging, snorkeling, and enjoying the stunning scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return Journey and Drop-off Locations

After enjoying Balos Bay, the ferry returns to Kissamos port in around one hour. The journey back offers more scenic views, and the guide continues providing commentary. The 6:00 PM arrival time ensures travelers return in time for dinner, with ample opportunity to explore nearby areas afterward.

The coach then takes passengers through a one-hour ride back to the initial pickup points, with drop-offs at over 26 locations—including Kalyves, Almyrida, Chania, and surrounding villages—making the return trip convenient and organized.

The Optional Fortress Entry and Boat Tickets

This tour offers optional tickets for the Venetian fortress at extra cost (around €30). The price does not include the boat tickets to Gramvousa and Balos, which are paid cash on site for €34 per adult and €17 per child aged 5-12. Many reviews suggest that buying the tickets through the guide simplifies the process and helps skip long lines.

Visitors should note that lunch is available for purchase on the boat, and beach towels, sun umbrellas, and food are not included in the standard package. Bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and swimwear enhances the experience.

The Value and Overall Experience

Priced at just $22.25, this tour provides good value given the full-day itinerary, guided commentary, and organized logistics. The long duration allows plenty of time to enjoy both culture and relaxation. The reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and smooth organization.

However, some mention crowding at Balos due to its popularity, and a few note that time on Gramvousa can feel rushed, especially if climbing the fortress. Bringing beach shoes and extra snacks can improve comfort, but overall, the trip is well-reviewed for its stunning locations and ease of access.

Crete’s West Coast: A Scenic Day Trip with Plenty of Highlights

This tour showcases Crete’s most iconic coastal spots, with scenic ferry rides, hiking opportunities, and crystal-clear waters. It’s ideal for those who prefer a structured day with guided commentary and convenient transportation. The included pickup and drop-off streamline the experience, making it accessible without renting a car.

While crowds and limited time at some stops are points to consider, the amazing scenery and history make this trip worthwhile. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with beach relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $22.25 per person, with optional additional tickets for the fortress and boat rides paid on site.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes 10 to 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa.

Are there any included tickets?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off, bus transfers, and a guided narration are included. Boat tickets to Gramvousa and Balos are not included but can be purchased on the day.

Can I visit the Venetian fortress?
Yes, the fortress entry ticket is optional and paid in cash on site. Climbing the fortress is a highlight, offering great views, but requires sturdy shoes.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection gear, swimwear, towel, water, and beach shoes for rocky areas.

Is there food available during the tour?
Light snacks and meals are available for purchase on the ferry. It’s advisable to bring extra water and snacks if needed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children must be able to handle walking/hiking up to the fortress and swimming in the lagoon. Beach shoes are recommended.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and hiking involved, especially for the fortress climb.

What do reviews say about the experience?
Most reviews praise the beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and good organization. Some mention crowds at Balos and wishing for more time on Gramvousa.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are available through the provider, PLATANOS TOURS, with options for private groups and flexible availability.

Is this tour recommended?
Yes, especially for travelers seeking a full day of scenic views, historical sites, and beach relaxation with easy logistics and professional guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby