From Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch

Discover the Scenic Sailing Adventure from Kissamos to Balos and Gramvousa

The From Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch offers an immersive day on the water, exploring two of Crete’s most iconic spots. Priced with options for shared or private groups, this tour lasts around 8 hours, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a full day of relaxation, scenery, and Cretan flavor. The tour departs from Kissamos port, with flexible starting times, and is operated by Falasarna Sailing.

What makes this trip stand out is the combination of stunning scenery, personalized service, and delicious, on-board traditional lunch. While the experience is generally accessible, it involves some walking and swimming, suited most for active travelers comfortable with boat excursions. With high praise for the guides’ expertise, this cruise promises a memorable way to enjoy Crete’s coast.

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Key Points

• 8-hour sailing trip from Kissamos, including visits to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island
• Shared group or private options available to suit different preferences
• A traditional Cretan lunch cooked on board, with fruit, soft drinks, and beer included
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Beach
• Hike to the historic castle on Gramvousa Island for panoramic views
• Expert skippers and friendly crew ensure a safe, relaxing experience

The Exact Departure and Arrival Points

The tour begins at Kissamos port, with departure times depending on your booking. The meeting point varies based on your chosen option but guarantees a convenient start. The tour concludes back at Kissamos, with drop-off at three locations: GJ8Q+FR Trachilos, E65 18, or E65 18.

No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so travelers must arrange their own transport to the port. The departure includes a safety briefing followed by setting sail aboard an elegant sailboat, giving guests a chance to observe or try their hand at sailing with the guidance of an experienced skipper.

Navigating the Itinerary and Location Highlights

The day’s route features two main stops: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, with carefully timed visits to avoid crowds and maximize enjoyment.

Balos Lagoon is renowned for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Here, visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in a setting often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Despite potential crowds from large ferries, the tour’s timing helps bypass peak congestion, offering a more relaxed experience.

Gramvousa Island provides a mix of adventure and history. Guests can hike to the fortress, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea. The rugged terrain and scenic vistas are complemented by opportunities to snorkel or explore the island’s natural beauty. The stopping time here is about 2.5 hours, giving plenty of space for activity and sightseeing.

Each location features photo stops and leisurely exploration opportunities. The cruise’s schedule is designed to balance time on land with ample sailing, ensuring a relaxed but engaging pace.

The Sailing Experience and Crew Expertise

Guests enjoy the chance to practice sailing with the help of the skipper, adding an interactive element to the trip. The crew members are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, with many reviews highlighting their skillful handling of the boat and attention to guests’ needs.

The boat itself, often described as gorgeous and well-maintained, provides comfortable spaces for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze. The two air-conditioned cabins with double beds are perfect for resting during breaks or when seeking shade. Snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to dip below the surface and explore underwater.

The sailing component is a highlight, with many appreciating that the guides explain sailing techniques and timed the cruise to avoid the busiest times, ensuring a peaceful experience at both stops.

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Onboard Cuisine: Traditional Cretan Lunch at Sea

One of the tour’s standout features is the lunch served onboard, cooked in the kitchen area of the boat. The meal is described as delicious, with many reviewers praising the fresh, flavorful dishes prepared by the crew. Options for vegetarian meals are available, reflecting thoughtful catering.

Guests can dine in the shaded deck area, enjoying their meal while taking in spectacular sea views. The lunch includes local ingredients and is complemented with fruit, soft drinks, and beer. If desired, travelers are encouraged to bring their own wine, as only beer and soft drinks are provided.

During the meal, guests can relax in comfortable cabins or on the deck, soaking up the sun or chatting with fellow travelers. The quality of the food consistently earns high praise, with many describing it as one of the best parts of the trip.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Water Activities at Balos and Gramvousa

Both Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Beach are perfect spots for swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters invite guests to dive in and explore marine life. Snorkel gear is included, allowing for easy underwater discovery.

At Balos, the shallow waters and white sands create a paradise for sunbathers and swimmers, while Gramvousa Beach offers a rugged coastline and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Many reviews highlight the beauty of the waters, with unbelievable colors and visibility.

Guests also appreciate the flexibility to stay longer at these stops or return to the boat to relax, with free time allocated for personal exploration or just lounging on the deck.

Hiking to the Fortress on Gramvousa Island

A major highlight is the hike to the fortress on Gramvousa Island. The path leads to panoramic viewpoints, revealing spectacular views of the horizon and the surrounding sea. The historic fortress adds a sense of adventure and curiosity, making it a memorable activity during the visit.

The about 2.5 hours allocated for this stop gives enough time for exploration and photography. The terrain is rugged, so comfortable shoes are advisable. Many reviews refer to this hike as worthwhile, noting the unbeatable views and the sense of history at the summit.

Relaxation and Scenic Sailing on the Return Trip

After exploring and swimming, the return sailing toward Kissamos offers a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. Many guests mention beautiful views of the Cretan coast and marine life sightings during the cruise back.

The cruise concludes with a smooth sail back to the port, where scenery and camaraderie continue until disembarkation. The friendly crew often provides soft drinks and fruit during the return, ensuring everyone feels refreshed.

Who Will Love This Crete Sailing Trip?

This tour suits active travelers who enjoy sailing, swimming, and hiking. The small group or private options create an intimate atmosphere perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking a personalized experience. The professional and attentive crew ensure safety and comfort, making it suitable even for those new to sailing.

While the boats are well-equipped, those with mobility impairments might find access limited, as the activity involves some walking and physical activity. The timed stops and avoidance of crowds make it particularly appealing for travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic day off the busy tourist routes.

Crete’s Best Sea Views and Delicious Food Await

The From Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch delivers stunning scenery, delicious traditional cuisine, and interactive sailing experiences. The well-organized schedule ensures you have enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, while the expert crew makes safety and comfort their priority.

This tour offers excellent value for money, with many reviews praising the high quality of food, service, and scenery. It’s perfect for those looking to combine adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights in a single day on Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes sailing onboard a boat, an experienced skipper, soft drinks, beer, and fruit, a traditional onboard lunch, snorkeling gear, beach towels, and two air-conditioned cabins with double beds.

Are there any optional extras?
Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Travelers should arrange their own transportation to and from Kissamos port.

How long is the sailing part of the trip?
The overall cruise lasts about 8 hours, with approximately 1.5 hours sailing to and from the stops, plus time spent at Balos and Gramvousa.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and hiking involved. Children who enjoy water activities and outdoor adventure will find it enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Travelers need to bring passport or ID, and should prepare for sun exposure with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. It’s recommended to bring own wine if desired, as only beer and soft drinks are provided.

What happens in bad weather?
Cruises are dependent on weather conditions. If the weather turns poor, the trip will be rescheduled or refunded.

Can I customize the experience?
Private group and small group options are available, allowing for some flexibility in scheduling and activities.

How is the lunch served?
The lunch is prepared onboard and served in the shaded area of the deck, with vegetarian options available. Many reviews highlight the delicious, freshly cooked food.

What makes this tour different from others?
This cruise offers the advantage of timed stops to avoid crowds, personalized service, and the chance to sail with an experienced crew who are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.

Is the sailing experience authentic?
Yes, the skipper helps guests practice sailing, and the boat’s gorgeous appearance and well-maintained condition contribute to an authentic maritime adventure.

How do the reviews rate this tour?
The tour holds an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from 177 reviews, with many praising the guides, food, scenery, and overall value.

This Kissamos sailing tour combines the thrill of sailing with the beauty of Crete’s coastline, making it an ideal choice for adventure lovers and seafood enthusiasts alike. With excellent reviews and a carefully crafted itinerary, it promises a memorable day at sea.

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