From Kissamos Port: Boat cruise to Balos lagoon

A trip to Balos Lagoon from Kissamos Port offers a scenic boat cruise that combines comfort, natural beauty, and practical accessibility. For around 5 hours in total, this tour takes travelers directly to one of the most photographed beaches in the world—a lush, turquoise paradise nestled between the Gramvousa peninsula and Cape Tigani. The journey is popular among those seeking a hassle-free way to visit Balos without the challenge of a mountain hike or navigating dirt roads. The tour is especially appealing for families, casual day-trippers, and anyone eager to enjoy Balos’s crystal-clear waters and spectacular landscapes with minimal effort.

While the experience is generally praised for its value and ease, potential travelers should keep in mind that time at the lagoon is limited to about 2.5 to 3 hours, and the ferry ride can be affected by weather conditions. This tour suits visitors who want a comfortable, straightforward, and cost-effective way to see this natural wonder. It’s a practical choice for those who prefer to avoid the long walk or mountain drive but still want to witness Balos’s incredible scenery.

Key Points

• Departure from Kissamos Port with a ferry ticket that includes roundtrip transportation.
• Approximately 5 hours total, with around 3 hours allocated for enjoying Balos Lagoon.
• Scenic boat ride past steep cliffs and secluded beaches, with a chance to see a large cave believed to be an ancient shipyard.
• The crystal waters of Balos are perfect for swimming and relaxing, with an option for snorkeling in the deeper areas.
• The tour features informative commentary about the geological phenomena of Crete’s coast and the tectonic activity shaping the landscape.
• Affordable compared to private boat options, with no extra charges apart from a small administrative fee collected by the municipality.

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Starting Point at Kissamos Port and Boarding Details

The meeting point is directly opposite the office in Kissamos port, with boarding passes sent via email the day before. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes early to present their boarding pass and avoid missing the departure. The coordinates are 35.5175, 23.6373 for easy navigation.

The ship’s ambiance is relaxed, with soft music providing a pleasant background as the boat departs. This straightforward process makes it easy for first-time visitors to get on board without fuss. The tour provider, CRETAN DAILY CRUISES, offers flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and the ability to reserve without immediate payment.

The Scenic Journey to Balos Lagoon

The boat departs from Kissamos and spends about an hour cruising through Kissamos Bay. During this time, travelers enjoy views of steep cliffs, rocky formations, and secluded beaches. One of the highlights along the way is the large cave, believed to be an ancient shipyard, which adds an element of historical curiosity to the natural scenery.

The ride offers a peaceful atmosphere with gentle music, making it ideal for relaxing and taking photos of the stunning coastline. The boat’s design and smooth ride ensure comfort, even if the sea is a little wavy on some days, as noted in reviews. The geological phenomenon observed at the end of the bay—where Crete’s western side rises while the eastern side sinks—provides a fascinating insight into the island’s **tectonic activity.

The Unique Landscape of Balos Lagoon

Balos Lagoon deserves its reputation as a spectacular natural site. Situated between the Gramvousa peninsula and Cape Tigani, it is renowned for its turquoise waters, white sand, and rock formations. The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming, relaxing, or snorkeling in the shallow areas.

The natural beauty of Balos is often described as impossible to capture in words. Its rare geological features and vibrant colors make it a must-see destination for visitors to Crete. The water depth varies, with shallow zones perfect for children paddling, while deeper areas provide opportunities for snorkeling.

How Much Time Do You Have at Balos?

The tour provides approximately 3 hours on the beach-lagoon, which many reviewers find to be sufficient for a good swim and some relaxation. However, some note that this duration can feel a little rushed, especially if you want to explore more thoroughly or sunbathe longer. The walk from the boat drop-off point to the lagoon is about 15 minutes along rocky terrain, which travelers should consider.

Several comments mention that more time would enhance the experience, but the convenience of the boat overrides that limitation for most. The timing is generally aligned with the ferry schedule, with the boat returning around 4:30 pm to 5 pm, depending on the weather and sea conditions.

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Snorkeling and Beach Amenities at Balos

The crystal waters are praised for their clarity, making snorkeling an enjoyable activity. The left side of the lagoon is highlighted as a good spot for snorkeling, especially in deeper waters.

While the beach itself is crowded during peak summer, there are beach chairs available, and a small café onboard offers food and drinks for sale. Many reviewers appreciate the availability of bins and cleanliness, adding to the overall comfort of the visit. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a towel, and comfortable clothes to maximize the experience.

The Geological Phenomenon and Natural Sights

A notable feature of this tour is the geological phenomenon observed at the end of Kissamos Bay, where the landscape is changing due to tectonic movement. The western side of Crete is rising, while the eastern side is sinking, a process linked to the African and Eurasian plates. This geological feature is visible along the rocky shores and adds an educational element to the trip.

A large cave believed to be an ancient shipyard is another intriguing sight along the cruise route, offering a sense of history blended with the natural scenery. These geological and historical features distinguish this tour from others that might focus only on the beach.

Practical Considerations and Tips

The ferry ride typically lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes, with some variability depending on wind conditions. On rare occasions, the ferry may be canceled due to high winds, so it’s wise to check weather forecasts beforehand.

The cost includes the ferry ticket, but a small administrative fee of 1 euro per ticket is collected by the municipality of Kissamos for passengers over 13. The return bus from Kissamos to Chania always waits for the last ferry, ensuring travelers are not stranded.

For those driving to Kissamos, parking is accessible near the port. Just remember to bring sunscreen, beachwear, and a towel for your time at Balos.

The Overall Value of the Tour

This boat cruise offers excellent value, especially when compared to private boat charters that can cost hundreds of euros. Many reviews highlight the cost-effectiveness of the tour, with no hidden fees aside from the municipal tax. The upfront simplicity—a straightforward ferry ticket—makes it easy to plan.

While the time at Balos may be shorter than some would like, the ease of access, scenic boat ride, and beautiful scenery make this tour a popular choice for visitors who prefer a relaxed, hassle-free experience. The organized nature and professional service from CRETAN DAILY CRUISES contribute positively to the overall experience.

Visiting Balos Lagoon by Boat: Final Thoughts

The Kissamos Port boat cruise to Balos Lagoon combines ease and beauty, allowing visitors to enjoy the spectacular landscape without the stress of a mountain hike or long drive. The scenic route past cliffs, caves, and rock formations enriches the journey, while the crystal waters of Balos provide a perfect setting for swimming and relaxing.

The duration strikes a balance, though some might wish for more time at the beach to soak up the scenery. The value for money and comfort of this tour make it especially appealing for families, first-time visitors, and those seeking a convenient way to experience Crete’s natural treasures.

This tour offers a reliable, enjoyable experience that highlights Balos Lagoon’s beauty in a way that’s accessible and straightforward. It’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see the famous Crete beach with minimal hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat ride from Kissamos to Balos?
The boat ride typically lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on weather conditions.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers roundtrip ferry transportation from Kissamos to Balos, with the municipal fee of 1 euro collected at the port.

How much time do I have at Balos Lagoon?
You generally get about 2.5 to 3 hours on the beach, enough for swimming, relaxing, and exploring the scenery.

Is there a guide or commentary during the cruise?
Yes, the tour features informative commentary about the geological phenomena and natural sights along the way.

What should I bring for the trip?
It’s recommended to bring a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear for enjoying Balos.

Can I snorkel at Balos?
Yes, the crystal waters make for good snorkeling, especially in the deeper waters on the left side of the lagoon.

Are food and drinks available on board?
There is a small café onboard where you can buy food and drinks during the trip.

What if the weather is too windy?
The ferry may be canceled due to high winds, so it’s wise to check the forecast before booking.

Is parking available at Kissamos Port?
Yes, parking is accessible near the port, making it convenient for those driving.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve online with free cancellation up to 24 hours, and boarding passes are emailed the day before the trip.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by CRETAN DAILY CRUISES, known for reliable service and clear communication.

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