Agioi Apostoloi : Balos Beach and Gramvousa island boat trip

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and air-conditioned transportation for a comfortable start and finish.
• Visit Gramvousa Island’s historic Venetian fortress, built in 1579, with panoramic sea views.
• Experience Balos Lagoon’s white sands and shallow turquoise waters ideal for family swimming and relaxation.
• One-day tour offering scenic cruising, exploration, and leisure, perfect for travelers seeking a mix of history and natural beauty.
• Boat tickets cost around 25 euros per adult, with optional purchases, but lunch, drinks, and towels are not included.
• Support a local travel agency with over 10 years of experience offering reliable and well-organized trips.

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Discover the Crete Coastline: From Pickups to the Port of Kastelli

This full-day tour begins with hotel pickups in the northwest Crete area, using a spacious air-conditioned bus. Travelers can choose between two pickup points: Lidl or Pergola, making it easy to start the day comfortably. The journey to Kastelli port takes approximately an hour, offering glimpses of the scenic northern road along Crete’s coastline.

Once at the port, the adventure continues with a 30-minute boat cruise across crystal-clear waters toward Gramvousa Island. This part of the trip offers a chance to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and stunning views of the surrounding sea before reaching the island’s historic fortress.

Exploring Gramvousa Fortress: A Venetian Stronghold from 1579

The highlight on Gramvousa Island is the imposing Venetian fortress, built in 1579 to defend against pirates and Ottoman threats. Perched about 137 meters above sea level, the fortress boasts impressive views of the Cretan Sea and surrounding landscape.

Visitors have ample time to explore the fortress, walking through its walls and imagining the strategic importance it once held. The fortress played a key role in Greek history, serving as a refuge during the Greek War of Independence and later as a pirate base after Crete’s revolution. In 1830, it was handed over to the Ottomans as part of the treaty that placed Crete under their rule.

Balos Lagoon: A Tropical-Looking Paradise on Crete’s Northwest Coast

After exploring Gramvousa, the tour moves to Balos Beach, often described as a tropical paradise because of its white sands and shallow, turquoise waters. Accessible by boat from Kissamos or by hiking from Kaliviani, the lagoon is the perfect spot for swimming, wading, and relaxing.

The shallow waters make Balos especially family-friendly, offering a safe environment for children to splash and float with ease. The rugged landscape surrounding the beach adds to the sense of escaping to a remote, untouched corner of Crete.

Indulge in Greek Cuisine at the Dockside Restaurant

While lunch and drinks are not included in the tour price, there is a convenient ship’s restaurant docked at the port of Balos. This spot offers a delightful selection of traditional Greek dishes, perfect to satisfy hunger after hours of exploring or relaxing on the sands. The restaurant’s location makes it easy to enjoy a meal without missing out on the beautiful scenery.

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The Scenic Return: From Balos to Kissamos Harbor

The tour wraps up around 5:00 PM at the port of Kissamos. After disembarking, travelers board the air-conditioned bus for the ride back to the original pickup points, completing a well-paced day of adventure, history, and leisure.

This organized return ensures a smooth ending to a day packed with highlights, making it suitable for those who prefer a structured, hassle-free experience.

The Rich History of Gramvousa Island’s Fortress

The Venetian fortress on Gramvousa is a central feature of this tour, built in 1579 during the Venetian occupation of Crete. Its strategic position at 137 meters above sea level provided control over the surrounding seas and protection from pirates and Ottoman invasions.

During the Greek War of Independence in 1821, the fortress became a rebellion base after being captured in 1825, with rebels using it to attack Ottoman forces and serve as a refuge. Later, after the Revolution, Gramvousa gained a reputation as a pirate haven, with ships passing by often falling prey to raiders.

In 1830, the fortress was handed over to the Ottomans, marking a significant change in control. Today, the ruins serve as a historic reminder of Crete’s turbulent past and offer panoramic views that captivate visitors.

The Charm and Practicalities of the Tour Itinerary

The itinerary includes two main stops: Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach. You start with a scenic boat cruise from Kastelli port, giving you time to enjoy the sea views. The visit to the fortress offers a glimpse into Venetian architecture and strategic military history.

The second stop at Balos Lagoon is all about relaxation and natural beauty. The shallow waters are perfect for families, and the white sands provide a scenic backdrop for photos and leisure. The lunch option at the dockside restaurant is a convenient way to enjoy local Greek cuisine without straying far from the beach.

Logistics and Comfort: From Pickup to Return

The tour provides hotel pickups from select locations, making transportation straightforward. The air-conditioned bus ensures a comfortable journey along Crete’s scenic routes. The boat ride across the clear waters lasts about 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to relax and take photos.

The return trip departs around 5:00 PM from Kissamos port, with the bus returning to the starting points. This schedule balances sightseeing and leisure, offering a relaxed pace with enough time at each location.

Supporting Local Crete Tourism with Reliability

Operated by Travel in Chania, a company with over 10 years’ experience, this tour emphasizes reliability and local knowledge. The guides speak English, Greek, and Swedish, providing accessible commentary and assistance throughout the day.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later, adding convenience and peace of mind for travelers planning ahead.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This trip appeals to those interested in history, scenic beaches, and natural beauty. It’s particularly suitable for families thanks to the shallow waters at Balos, as well as history buffs intrigued by the fortress. The inclusion of hotel transfers and a well-organized schedule makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a stress-free, guided experience.

The cost for boat tickets is approximately 25 euros per adult, with additional costs for food and towels, which are not included. This straightforward price structure makes budgeting easy.

The Sum Up: A Balanced Day of Crete’s Best

This Balos Beach and Gramvousa island boat trip offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation with the convenience of hotel pickups and comfortable transport. The highlight remains the Venetian fortress on Gramvousa, paired with the stunning lagoons of Balos.

While the lack of included lunch and towels might be a drawback for some, the opportunity to enjoy Greek cuisine at the dockside restaurant compensates for this. The scenic boat cruise, historical exploration, and beach leisure combine to create a well-rounded day suited for travelers seeking a mix of cultural sights and natural scenery.

This tour provides a reliable, enriching experience that captures the essence of Crete’s coast—perfect for history lovers, beachgoers, and families alike. The support of a seasoned local agency ensures a smooth, enjoyable day on this beautiful Greek island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup, transfer by air-conditioned bus, and the boat cruise. The boat ticket costs around 25 euros per adult and is not included in the base price.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there is a dockside restaurant at Balos offering traditional Greek dishes.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat cruise from Kastelli port to Gramvousa takes approximately 30 minutes each way, allowing time for sightseeing and enjoying the sea.

What are the main stops on this tour?
The key stops are Gramvousa Island’s fortress and Balos Lagoon’s beach, giving a balance of history and relaxation.

Are towels provided?
No, towels are not included, so guests should bring their own if they plan to swim or sunbathe.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak English, Greek, and Swedish, ensuring clear communication throughout the day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility for planning.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with starting times varying based on availability.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Travel in Chania, a reputable local company with over 10 years of experience in Crete tourism.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially because of the shallow waters at Balos and the organized schedule, making it a great option for families with children.

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