From Kissamos Port: Balos and Gramvousa Private RIB Cruise

Explore Crete’s Iconic Coasts on a Private RIB Cruise from Kissamos

This private RIB cruise offers an exclusive way to enjoy Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island in just 4 hours. For $768 per group (up to 5 people), you get a personalized boat experience departing from Kissamos Port, guided by an experienced skipper. The tour combines scenic rides, swimming, snorkeling, and history, making it ideal for those seeking a flexible, intimate adventure with friends or family.

What makes this tour stand out is the customizable pace—whether you want to relax in the sun or explore the surroundings more actively, your skipper adapts to your preferences. The crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches of Balos, plus the medieval fortress atop Gramvousa, make this cruise a highlight for visitors wanting a personalized Crete experience. While the price reflects its exclusivity, it’s a convenient and luxurious way to see these popular spots without the crowds.

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Key Points

• Private RIB cruise departs from Kissamos Port and lasts 4 hours.
• Group size limited to 5 people for a personalized experience.
• Visit Balos Beach for white sands and turquoise waters, with 1.5 hours to swim and sunbathe.
• Explore Gramvousa Island including the medieval fortress with another 1.5 hours for relaxation and snorkelling.
• Snorkeling gear available upon request; drinks and snacks included on board.
• Weather policy offers rescheduling or full refund if conditions are poor.

Meeting Point at SEAze The Day in Kissamos

The tour begins at SEAze The Day, located at Kissamos Port. Travelers can enjoy free parking or take a bus from Chania. The skipper greets guests here for a prompt start. The end point is back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

What to Expect During the 4-Hour Private Cruise

This customizable cruise allows you to decide whether you prefer a relaxed or adventurous ride. The skipper leads the boat over the western coast of Crete, stopping at Balos Lagoon first. Here, you’ll anchor around the famous pink sands and turquoise waters, with 1.5 hours for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the beaches.

Next, the boat heads to Gramvousa Island, home to a medieval fortress at the top of the hill. Passengers have another 1.5 hours to snorkel around wrecks, sunbathe, or walk up to the fortress for panoramic views. The skipper provides drinks and snacks during the trip, ensuring comfort and refreshment.

The Unique Charm of Balos Beach and Its Pink Sands

Balos Beach is renowned for its white sand and vivid, shallow waters. The tour offers ample time—1.5 hours—to enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters or simply relaxing on the soft sands. Visitors can help themselves to drinks on the boat, making the experience both luxurious and laid-back.

The pink sands of Balos are a highlight, visible when swimming close to the shoreline or walking along the beach. The crystal waters invite snorkeling, especially around wrecks near Gramvousa. The small group size ensures a personalized experience free from large tour crowds.

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Gramvousa Island and the Fortress at the Top

The second stop is Gramvousa Island, famous for its medieval fortress. The hilltop fortress offers sweeping views of the coast, and visitors can explore the ruins or walk up for photos. The 1.5 hours here give enough time to sunbathe, snorkel, and take in the **historic sights.

The island’s waters are ideal for snorkeling around wrecks, with the crystal clarity making it easy to spot marine life. The relaxed pace and friendly guide make this stop feel intimate, perfect for those wanting to avoid the crowds of bigger tours.

The Skippers Who Make the Difference

Guides such as Lefteris, Dimi, and Nikos are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and approachable manner. They explain the history of Gramvousa’s fortress, point out interesting wrecks for snorkelers, and adjust the ride style based on passenger preferences—whether adventurous or relaxed.

The skippers also handle the safe navigation across waves, ensuring a smooth journey. They provide drinks and snacks, adding a personal touch to the trip, and are attentive to guest comfort throughout.

Practical Details: Booking, Accessibility, and Weather

The tour is available with a “reserve now, pay later” option, offering flexibility for travel plans. Cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance. The small group size limits it to 10 participants, creating an intimate atmosphere.

The activity is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers, but it not recommended for pregnant women. Travelers should bring passport or ID, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. In case of bad weather, the cruise is either rescheduled or fully refunded.

Cost-Effective Luxury with a Personal Touch

At $768 for the entire group, this private cruise delivers an exclusive experience focused on personalized service and flexibility. The price covers the skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment (upon request), and drinks. Not included are meals or hotel pickup, so plan accordingly.

Compared to larger group tours, this private option ensures more space, less crowding, and the chance to tailor the experience to your preferences, making it ideal for those seeking luxury and privacy.

Why This Tour Is a Top Choice for Crete Visitors

This private RIB cruise combines the beauty of Crete’s coastline with personalized attention from experienced guides. The timing, with 1.5 hours at each stop, lets you relax or explore as much or as little as you like. The safe, fast transfer means you cover both Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island efficiently, without the hassle of large tour groups or crowded boats.

While it costs more than regular tours, the private experience and high-quality service justify the investment. It suits travelers who value flexibility, comfort, and in-depth exploration of Crete’s most iconic spots in a short but memorable window.

From the Meeting Point to Memorable Crete Moments

Starting at SEAze The Day in Kissamos, the meeting process is straightforward. The port offers free parking and easy access, and the skipper welcomes you for a prompt departure. The return is to the same location, simplifying logistics.

This tour’s short duration makes it a great addition for travelers with limited time or those who want a personalized, hassle-free experience without sacrificing quality.

This 4-hour private RIB cruise from Kissamos to Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island offers an exclusive, customizable way to enjoy Crete’s stunning coastline. With small group sizes, friendly guides, and the chance to swim, snorkel, and explore historical sites, it provides a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.

While the cost may seem high, the personalized service, flexibility, and luxury make it well worth considering for those who want a tailored experience away from the crowds. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or small groups looking for a premium day out.

If you value quality, comfort, and personalized attention, this tour delivers an authentic Crete experience that you’ll remember long after the trip ends.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is suitable for families, but details about age restrictions are not specified. The trip is wheelchair accessible and friendly to most travelers.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring your passport or ID, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen for comfort and safety.

Can I request snorkeling equipment?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available upon request as part of the tour.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the activity starts at SEAze The Day at Kissamos Port; hotel pickup is not included.

What happens in bad weather?
If the weather is poor, the cruise is either rescheduled or fully refunded.

How flexible is booking and payment?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour different from other Crete cruises?
The private, small-group setting and the personalized guidance from experienced skippers make this experience more relaxed and tailored compared to larger tours.

How long do stops at Balos and Gramvousa last?
Each stop lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to swim, relax, or explore.

Is there parking at the meeting point?
Yes, free parking is available at Kissamos Port.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is conducted in Greek and English.

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