Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon Day Tour from Rethimno

Discover the Beauty of Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon on a Day Tour from Rethimno

This 8-hour tour from Rethymno offers an effortless way to explore some of Crete’s most iconic sights. For $48.98 per person, travelers enjoy a roundtrip bus transfer to Kissamos port, followed by a scenic cruise to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon. It’s a hassle-free way to see these stunning locations without the worry of arranging transport or tickets.

The tour features visits to Gramvousa’s Venetian fortress, the legendary pirate hideout, and the turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon, famous for their vivid colors and shallow, warm sea. While admission tickets to specific sites are not included, this tour offers a rundown of these highlights, with pickup and drop-off included. With a maximum group size of 50, it maintains a personal touch and ease of travel.

Key Points

• All-inclusive transportation from Rethymno to Kissamos port
• Visit Gramvousa’s Venetian fortress and Balos Lagoon’s vivid waters
• Two hours at each location for relaxed exploration
• Ferry tickets are not included, costing approx. 29 EUR per person
• Guided experience with helpful commentary and scenic views
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with a long day and some rocky terrain

Departure and Transportation from Rethymno to Kissamos Port

This tour starts with hotel pickup from Rethymno, where an air-conditioned bus transports travelers to Kissamos port. The roundtrip transfer ensures a smooth start and end to the day, removing the need to navigate local transport or parking.

The journey from Rethymno to Kissamos lasts around an hour, giving guests time to settle in and enjoy the scenery on the way. The bus is spacious and comfortable, making the long day more manageable. Pickup and drop-off are included, which adds to the convenience.

Scenic Cruise to Gramvousa and Balos

Once at Kissamos port, the group boards a scenic cruise that offers striking views of the coastline. The cruise is the highlight, taking travelers across crystal-clear waters towards Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon.

The cruise itself is considered stress-free, with no need to worry about local transportation or boat tickets. The ferry to Gramvousa costs about 29 EUR per person, paid separately, but the cruise offers a comfortable vantage point for sightseeing.

Exploring Gramvousa’s Venetian Fortress and Shipwreck

The first stop is Gramvousa Beach, home to the famous Venetian fortress perched at 137 meters above the beach. Built during the Venetian era, the fortress still stands tall, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into history.

The legend of buried treasure adds a fun twist, while the abandoned shipwreck nearby has become a striking part of the landscape. Visitors spend about two hours here, giving enough time to walk around, take photos, and admire the fortress from different angles.

Note: Entrance fees for Gramvousa Beach are not included. It’s wise to bring good walking shoes and cash for the ferry ticket.

Balos Lagoon’s Exotic Waters and White Sand

The next major stop is Balos Lagoon, renowned for its turquoise waters and white, pinkish sand. The shallow, warm sea makes it ideal for young children and those wishing to relax in the gentle surf.

The exotic scenery includes pinkish sand created by millions of crushed shells, with vivid blue waters beyond the rocks at the lagoon’s edges. Visitors have about two hours to swim, relax, or walk along the shoreline, soaking in the natural beauty.

Note: Entrance fees are not included, and the waters are deeper beyond the lagoon’s rocks. The area is generally accessible, but some rocky terrain means decent shoes are recommended.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Beaches

Since little shade is available at both stops, travelers should bring sun protection, hats, and plenty of water. Wearing decent shoes is advisable, especially if planning to visit the fortress or explore rocky parts of the beaches.

It’s advisable to bring cash for ferry tickets and sunbeds, as these are paid separately. The sea is warm and shallow in Balos Lagoon, making it perfect for a relaxing swim but caution is recommended for deeper waters at the edges.

Guide and Group Experience on the Tour

While the specific guide’s name isn’t mentioned, the tour guide is described as helpful and friendly. They lead the group through each stop, providing insights into the sites and tips for making the most of the visit.

The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly and manageable atmosphere. The tour’s pace is designed to allow ample time at each location without feeling rushed, although it is a long day.

Cost and Booking Details

The total cost for this tour is $48.98 per person, which provides transportation, cruise, and guided visits to both significant sites. The ferry ticket is an additional 29 EUR, payable on the day, so travelers should budget accordingly.

Most bookings are made about 20 days in advance, indicating high interest and demand. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, adding flexibility for travelers.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

This all-in-one day trip shines due to its comprehensive itinerary and stress-free logistics. The roundtrip transfer and scenic cruise eliminate the hassle of local transportation planning, making it ideal for visitors wanting a smooth experience.

The two-hour stops at Gramvousa and Balos allow enough time for relaxed exploration, while the helpful guide enhances the experience with useful insights. The cost is reasonable considering the included transportation and scenic cruise, although additional expenses like ferry tickets and sunbeds are paid separately.

Limitations and Considerations

The admission to Gramvousa Beach and fortress is not included, requiring travelers to bring cash or pay on-site. Since little shade is available at the stops, sun protection is essential. The long duration and rocky terrain might not suit everyone, particularly those with mobility issues or sensitivity to the sun.

Weather can impact the tour, as it requires good weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, guests are offered alternative dates or refunds.

Final Thoughts on the Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon Tour

This tour offers a beautiful and relaxed way to enjoy Crete’s most picturesque beaches and historic sites. The combination of scenic cruise, fortress exploration, and beach time makes it a well-rounded day out.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a convenient, guided experience without the stress of organizing transport or tickets. The friendly guide, stunning scenery, and reasonable price make it a worthwhile choice, provided visitors are prepared for a long day and some rocky terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, along with air-conditioned bus transport to Kissamos port.

How much does the ferry ticket cost?
The ferry to Gramvousa Beach and Balos Lagoon costs about 29 EUR per person, paid separately on the day.

How long are the stops at Gramvousa and Balos?
Each stop lasts approximately two hours, giving enough time for exploration, swimming, and photos.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for ferry tickets and sunbeds, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and water for the day.

Is there any food included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most, especially since the water in Balos Lagoon is shallow and warm, child-friendly.

What’s the guide’s role during the tour?
The guide provides helpful commentary, assists with logistics, and ensures the group stays on schedule.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled, guests are offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While most stops are accessible, some rocky terrain at the fortress and beaches might be challenging for those with mobility concerns.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 20 days ahead to secure their spot.

This detailed overview underscores the value of this well-organized and beautiful day tour, perfect for anyone looking to explore Crete’s stunning beaches and historic sites with ease.