Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal

Key Points

• Luxury sailing yacht offers a comfortable and modern experience for exploring Crete’s most iconic spots.
• Two major stops: Gramvousa island with its famous shipwreck and Balos Lagoon, renowned for its stunning waters.
• Includes a full Mediterranean meal with fresh ingredients, plus unlimited drinks like wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Water activities such as snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding are available upon request.
• Perfect for those wanting a scenic, relaxing cruise with plenty of time to swim, explore, and enjoy the views.
• Not suitable for pregnant women, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users due to rocky beaches and boat access.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience a Luxurious Sailing Adventure from Kissamos

This 7.5-hour cruise departs from the port of Kissamos and features a modern, luxurious sailing yacht designed for comfort and style. The tour is led by a certified captain and friendly crew who ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. The journey begins with a warm welcome and a brief safety talk, after which you can relax on sunbeds or sit in the spacious outdoor cockpit as the yacht glides along the coastline.

The focus on comfort and quality stands out, as reviews highlight the well-maintained, clean boat with ample space for all guests. The overall vibe is relaxed, with music and unlimited drinks making it easy to unwind. The cruise is well-paced, with approximately 1.5 hours of sailing to each major destination.

Exploring Gramvousa Island and the Shipwreck

One of the main highlights of this cruise is visiting Gramvousa island, which offers about 1.5 hours of free time. Visitors can explore the island’s hidden sights, visit the famous shipwreck, or simply enjoy a swim in the inviting waters right from the yacht or dock. The shipwreck of Gramvousa is a significant attraction, and snorkeling around it reveals underwater treasures that add to the adventure.

A small tender boat facilitates easy disembarkation from the dock or yacht, providing accessible options for exploring the island. The island’s rugged charm and scenic views make it a favorite stop, especially for those who appreciate a mix of history, nature, and water fun.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Balos Lagoon

After visiting Gramvousa, the cruise continues to Balos Lagoon, often described as a paradise on earth. The boat docks nearby, and guests can disembark via the tender boat to reach the famous beach. Alternatively, those seeking more privacy can enjoy the waters directly from the yacht by diving in.

With around 1.5 hours of free time at Balos, visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on the sand, or snorkel with provided equipment. The scenery includes the iconic, shallow turquoise waters, and the shallow water lagoon is perfect for relaxing or exploring marine life. The timing of the stops allows for a leisurely experience without feeling rushed.

Fresh Mediterranean Cuisine on Board

A standout feature of this cruise is the included full meal, freshly prepared by the crew using local ingredients. The menu features shrimp linguine, Greek salad, and Cretan appetizers, ensuring a flavorful dining experience. The meal is served buffet-style, allowing guests to choose their favorite delicacies.

Complementing the meal is a selection of unlimited drinks, including wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water. The reviews praise the quality of the food and the generous drinks service, which helps guests unwind and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

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Water Activities: Snorkeling and Paddleboarding

Guests have the opportunity to try snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding, with equipment available upon request from the crew. These water activities are designed to enhance the experience, allowing guests to explore underwater scenery or enjoy some light exercise.

The crew provides instructions for safe use, and the equipment is well-maintained. The availability of paddleboards and snorkeling gear makes the tour more interactive, especially for those who want to spend extra time in the water.

Scenic Sailing and Beautiful Views

Throughout the day, the yacht cruises along the scenic coastline of Crete, offering stunning views of Gramvousa cape and the surrounding landscape. The scenic sailing is a key part of the experience, with ample opportunities to relax on deck, take photos, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

The cruise back to Kissamos is equally picturesque, with the crew sharing insights and ensuring everyone enjoys the trip. The boat’s design and amenities contribute to a smooth, comfortable ride, even if the weather isn’t perfect.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour begins at the port of Kissamos, where guests wait at the sailboats dock following instructions provided by the crew. Optional hotel pickup and drop-off are available from multiple locations including Kissamos, Kolimvari, Platanias, and Chania, making logistics easier.

The tour can accommodate private groups, offering a personalized experience. However, it is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users due to rocky beaches and access limitations. Passengers must bring their passport or ID, as access to the boat is guarded by security checks.

Value and Overall Experience

While the tour offers a premium experience with a full meal, drinks, water activities, and scenic stops, it is noted as not the cheapest option. However, reviews consistently highlight excellent value for the inclusions, especially considering the long duration and high-quality amenities.

Guest feedback emphasizes the friendly, knowledgeable crew, the delicious food, and the amazing locations visited. The relaxed pace and comfortably sized yacht contribute to a positive experience that appeals to travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The Sum Up: A Memorable Crete Adventure on the Water

This Balos & Gramvousa sailing cruise from Kissamos offers a well-rounded day of exploration, relaxation, and good food. The luxury yacht, combined with beautiful destinations and a generous meal, makes it stand out among Crete’s boat tours.

It suits travelers who enjoy scenic sailing, water activities, and quality dining, particularly those looking for a comfortable, high-end experience. The stops at Gramvousa island and Balos Lagoon provide picture-perfect moments and plenty of swimming opportunities, while the friendly crew ensures everyone feels cared for.

For those unable to access rocky beaches or with mobility issues, this tour may not be ideal due to the nature of the beaches and boat landing points. This tour provides a memorable day on Crete’s most famous waters, combining scenic views, history, and leisure in one package.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price? The cruise, a full meal, unlimited drinks, snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment, and transfer if the option is selected.
• How long is the cruise? The total duration is 7.5 hours, with around 1.5 hours at each major stop.
• What are the main stops? Gramvousa island with its shipwreck and Balos Lagoon, each offering swimming, exploring, and water activities.
• Is hotel pickup available? Yes, pickup is provided from multiple locations including Kissamos, Chania, and nearby areas.
• Are water activities free to try? Equipment is available upon request, and participation depends on crew instructions.
• Can I go to the fortress on Gramvousa? Tickets to Gramvousa Fortress are not included.
• What should I bring? Towels and passport or ID are recommended; no mention of additional gear needed.
• Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women? No, it is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.
• How is the food quality? The food is freshly prepared and well-reviewed, with a variety of Mediterranean and Cretan dishes.
• Do I need to book in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended, with options to cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.