Gramvousa Island & Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Rethymno English & German guide

Exciting Crete Adventure: Gramvousa Island & Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Rethymno

This full-day tour from Rethymno offers an effortless way to explore some of Crete’s most spectacular beaches—Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island—without the hassle of self-driving. For $19.67 per person, travelers enjoy door-to-door transfers, a guided experience with multilingual guides, and plenty of time to relax on white sands and marvel at the dazzling water colors. The trip lasts around 11 hours, making it a comprehensive day out that suits those seeking natural beauty and ease of planning.

One notable aspect is the small-group setup, with no more than 15 participants, providing a more intimate experience. While the boat to Gramvousa is not included in the tour price and costs extra, the itinerary ensures plenty of time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and take photos. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, guided day trip for exploring these Crete highlights comfortably.

Key Points

• Affordable price of only $19.67 per person for an 11-hour trip
• Door-to-door transfers from select hotels for convenience
• Small group size limited to 15 travelers for personalized attention
• Includes guided commentary in English and German by experienced guides
• Visit Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon with ample time to relax and swim
• Boat to Gramvousa is at your expense, not included in the tour fee

Pickup and Transport from Rethymno to the Westernmost Crete

This tour departs early from Rethymno, with pickup starting up to 90 minutes before the tour begins. The bus travels along the new national road, passing by Chania and the bay of Souda before reaching Kissamos, where the boat cruise starts.

Transport is in a modern, air-conditioned coach, and the entire journey includes hotel pickup and drop-off in several areas, such as Panormo, Scaleta, Adele, Platanias, Missiria, Rethymno town, Atsipopoulo, Kavros, and Georgioupoli. For those staying in more remote hotels, like Grand Rimondi, pickup is from nearby Creta Star bus stop. The drive offers scenic views of Crete’s coastline, building anticipation for the beaches ahead.

The Scenic Journey to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon

The trip begins with a scenic bus ride toward the port of Kissamos, approximately 30 minutes from Rethymno. The journey offers a glimpse of the westernmost part of Crete, with the landscape gradually opening up to views of cliffs and the sea. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride, aided by the professional driver and guide, who provides valuable information along the way.

Once at Kissamos, the group boards the ferry to Gramvousa, with the ticket purchased in advance—the guide collects the fee on-site, helping avoid long lines. The journey to Gramvousa takes about 45 minutes, during which passengers can relax on the deck with self-service snacks and meals, or simply take in the panoramic views of the cliff-lined coast.

Exploring Gramvousa Island: The Fort and the Beach

Arriving at Gramvousa Island at around 10:20 AM, visitors find a small historical Venetian fortress on the hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the sea below. The white sandy beaches at the island’s western tip are perfect for wading and relaxing after the boat ride.

The free time on Gramvousa is approximately 2 hours. Visitors can choose to explore the clifftop ruins, stroll along the beach, or simply enjoy the scenery and take photos. The elevation of the land makes for a striking backdrop, with the cliffs dropping into the sea. The self-guided visit allows for flexibility, but travelers should keep track of time to ensure they return to the boat for the next leg.

Balos Lagoon: The Highlight of the Day

The next stop is the famous Balos Lagoon, where travelers typically arrive around 1:30 PM. Here, you get about 3 hours to unwind on soft white sands, take a swim in the crystal-clear waters, or pose for photos with the multicolored water as a stunning backdrop.

Balos Beach is renowned for its seven distinct water colors, a feature that makes it a top photo spot. The heat can be intense, so visitors often hire umbrellas or bring their own shade. The lagoon’s shallow waters are ideal for swimming and relaxing, and the area offers plenty of space for lounging. There is an option to return to the boat at any time for food or drinks, making it flexible for different pace preferences.

Return Journey to Kissamos and Rethymno

After enjoying Balos Lagoon, the boat heads straight back to the port of Kissamos. The ferry arrives around 6:00 PM, marking the end of the sea portion of the tour. The group then re-boards the bus for the return trip to Rethymno, with an estimated arrival back around 7:00 PM.

This timing allows for a relaxed end to the day, with plenty of opportunities for photographs during the cruise, especially as the sun sets behind the scenery, creating ideal lighting for pictures.

The Cost of the Boat to Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon

The tour price does not include the boat tickets to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon. Guests need to pay separately for these at the port, which adds to the overall cost. The boat ticket price is payable per adult and is not included in the initial booking fee, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Additional Inclusions and Practical Details

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from multiple locations, making it a convenient option for visitors staying in the Rethymno area. The guide provides commentary in English, German, and French, and the professional driver ensures smooth transportation throughout the day.

Participants are advised to bring swimming suits for the beaches and dress comfortably for the active day. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved at the stops, especially on the beaches and around Gramvousa.

Real-World Ratings and Feedback

The tour carries a 3.5 out of 5 rating based on 15 reviews, with positive comments highlighting well-organized plans and friendly guides, especially praising George for his fluent multilingual explanations. Travelers particularly enjoy the stunning scenery of Gramvousa and Balos and appreciate the flexibility at each stop.

However, a few reviews mention issues with the boat ticket purchase and pickup delays, which are important to keep in mind. Still, overall, the tour is seen as a good value for exploring these Crete highlights comfortably.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This guided day trip is perfect for travelers who want to avoid the logistical hassle of driving and navigating to Balos and Gramvousa on their own. The small-group setting provides a more intimate experience, and the door-to-door transfers add convenience. It suits anyone interested in beach relaxation, scenic views, and guided commentary in multiple languages.

While the boat to the islands is not included in the fee, the overall experience offers plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and photos, making it a solid choice for a relaxing yet active day on Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include the boat tickets to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon?
No, the boat tickets are not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately at the port.

What is the duration of the entire trip?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 7:00 PM.

Is hotel pickup available in my area?
Pickup is available from several locations including Panormo, Scaleta, Adele, Platanias, Missiria, Rethymno town, Atsipopoulo, Kavros, and Georgioupoli. Some remote hotels may require pickup from nearby bus stops.

How many people are in each group?
The tour group is limited to 15 participants for a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimming suits, sunscreen, hat, and water. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the beaches and the fortress.

Can I hire umbrellas at Balos Lagoon?
Yes, umbrellas are available for rent if needed, as the area can get quite hot.

What is the guide’s language availability?
Guides speak English, German, and French fluently, providing helpful commentary throughout the day.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information does not specify accessibility features; travelers with mobility concerns should consider this.

What is the price for children?
Child tickets for the boat are available per child (ages 5-12), but the tour fee for the overall trip is not specified separately.

How do I cancel this tour if needed?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Where can I get more information or book the tour?
Contact PLATANOS TOURS at +30 6946041330 or via email at [email protected] for bookings and inquiries.