Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise from Kissamos

Key Points

• Luxury catamaran cruise departing from Kissamos for a 7.5-hour trip costing $190.01 per person
• Includes snorkeling, paddleboarding, and unlimited drinks with Greek snacks and a full Mediterranean lunch
• Stops at Balos Lagoon for swimming and photos, then at Gramvousa Island for exploration and relaxation
• Small group size with a maximum of 22 travelers ensures a personalized experience
• Highly praised for friendly staff, exquisite food, and breathtaking scenery

Starting Point and Departure Time in Kissamos

This luxury catamaran departs from DanEri Yachts in Kissamos at 8:30 am. The meeting point is straightforward to find, situated at Kissamos 734 00, Greece. The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, making it a substantial full-day trip perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet exciting experience on the water.

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-offs, so travelers should plan to arrive at the meeting point on their own. The mobile ticket feature allows for easy access and confirmation, ensuring a smooth start to the day.

The Luxurious 7.5-Hour Catamaran Experience

This tour stands out for its luxury approach, with a well-maintained vessel that offers powerful toilets, comfortable cushions, and an impeccably kept interior. The semi-private nature of the cruise, with fewer than 25 passengers, helps avoid the crowded atmosphere of larger boats, allowing for more space to relax, sunbathe, or socialize.

The crew is often praised for being exceptionally friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming environment. The interior amenities, combined with the beautiful deck, offer options for lounging, swimming, or simply enjoying the stunning views of Crete’s coast.

Stops at Balos Lagoon: The Gem of Crete

The first stop on the cruise is at Balos Lagoon, a famous natural wonder with turquoise waters and soft sandy shores. Here, visitors can swim in warm Mediterranean waters, with snorkeling gear provided, or paddle on SUP boards. The lagoon’s secluded nature offers a contrast to more crowded beaches, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.

During the 2-hour stay, light Greek snacks—including cheese and seasonal fruits—are served, maintaining energy levels. The scenery and water clarity are often highlighted as spectacular and perfect for photos.

Exploring Gramvousa Island and Its Historic Charm

Following Balos Lagoon, the cruise visits Gramvousa Island, notable for its beautiful scenery and rich history. Passengers can explore the island at their own pace, swim in its inviting waters, or relax on the deck in the sunshine.

While on Gramvousa, guests enjoy a full Mediterranean-style lunch prepared on board. The menu features fresh salads, seafood, meat dishes, and homemade desserts. A kid-friendly meal is available, ensuring families with children are well catered for. The 2-hour stop allows ample time for exploration, swimming, or simply soaking up the views.

Food and Drinks: Quality and Variety

The lunch experience is consistently praised, with fresh, flavorful dishes including cheese platters, shrimp pasta or rice with feta, mussels in turmeric sauce with ouzo, and chicken with oranges. For kids, options like pasta and chicken nuggets are available.

The beverages include unlimited beer, local dry white wine, and soda or water. Coffee and tea are also provided, along with traditional cheese pies and biscuits as welcome drinks at the start. The snacks feature local cheese and fruit platters, ensuring a variety of tasty options throughout the day.

Water Activities and Equipment

This tour is ideal for water lovers. You get snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and even fishing equipment to enhance your time on the water. The snorkeling spots at both Balos and Gramvousa are among the highlights, with many reviews emphasizing the crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Guests find the equipment easy to use, and the crew often provides guidance, increasing confidence for those new to water activities.

The Crew and Service

The crew is frequently described as personable, professional, and attentive. Reviews mention staff members like Jessica, Dimitri, and Yanni as making the experience extra special through friendly service and knowledgeable commentary.

Guests note that the crew goes above and beyond to ensure comfort, offering helpful tips and a warm attitude. Many reviews highlight the personalized feel of this semi-private tour, with crew members engaging with guests throughout the day.

Scenic Routes and Avoiding Crowds

One of the key benefits of this smaller vessel is the ability to beat the crowds at popular spots like Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa. Reviews mention that the timing of the trip helps avoid the ferry influx, providing a more peaceful and private experience.

The cruise offers stunning views of Crete’s coastline, with many travelers emphasizing the breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear waters that are less accessible via larger, busier tours.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour is kid-friendly and suitable for most travelers, it does require good weather for a safe and enjoyable experience. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is available.

Guests should arrive at the meeting point promptly at 8:30 am. The limited group size ensures a personalized experience, but it’s recommended to book 48 days in advance due to high demand, with most bookings made around that time.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This full-day cruise offers a luxury experience that focuses on comfort, quality food, and spectacular scenery. With unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, and a small group, it blends relaxation with adventure. The professional, friendly crew and carefully curated itinerary make it a top choice for those wanting to explore Balos and Gramvousa without the hassle of crowded boats or long hikes.

The high ratings and glowing reviews underscore its value, especially for travelers seeking a more exclusive and comfortable boat trip in Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a full Mediterranean-style lunch, with cheese, seafood, meat dishes, and desserts. Light snacks and unlimited drinks are also provided throughout the day.

Are water activities available?
Yes, snorkeling equipment and SUP boards are included, giving guests plenty of opportunities to enjoy the crystal waters at each stop.

What is the group size?
The tour maintains a maximum of 22 travelers, providing a personalized and less crowded experience compared to larger boats.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, or you can reschedule for another date.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, and towels are recommended. The vessel provides Wi-Fi and refreshments on board.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Ideal for water lovers, families, couples, and anyone wanting a luxury, relaxed day exploring Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island with excellent food and service.