Rethymno Area: Gramvousa Island & Balos, Boat Ticket Extra

Discover Crete’s West Coast with a Day Trip to Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay

This full-day tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of Crete’s most iconic natural and historic attractions. For only $19.20 per person, you get a scenic journey that includes bus transfers, boat rides, and free time at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. The tour lasts 10 to 12 hours, making it a comprehensive experience suitable for travelers eager to explore the western tip of Crete.

Starting early in the morning, this trip takes you from Rethymno, passing through scenic landscapes, and arriving at Kissamos port. From there, a boat trip whisks you across the turquoise waters to explore Balos Bay and Gramvousa Island, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and a bit of hiking. It’s a well-organized day, praised for its helpful guides and breathtaking vistas, though the boat can be crowded during peak times.

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Key Points

• Cost-effective experience at $19.20, with hotel pickup and transfers included in many locations
• Two main highlights: swimming in Balos Lagoon and visiting the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island
• Boat tickets are purchased separately at 36 euros per adult or 19 euros per child; this is not included in the base price
• Early start around 7:45 AM, with a full day of sightseeing and beach time
• Guided commentary available in English, German, and French on specific days
• Practical tips include bringing comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and cash for additional expenses
• Not suitable for wheelchair users, and long walking up to the fortress requires some fitness
• Crowded boats are common, so expect some standing during the boat rides during busy seasons
• Flexibility with optional activities like hiking to the Venetian Fortress or relaxing on the beaches

From Pickup to Scenic Journey: How the Tour Begins

The adventure begins with hotel pickup options from up to 21 locations in Rethymno, including popular spots like Platanes, Atsipopoulo, and Perivolia. Pickup times start early, around 7:45 AM, ensuring you beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful start to the day.

Once aboard the air-conditioned bus, a two-hour scenic drive takes you along the coastal route past Souda Bay and through Chania, offering views of Crete’s diverse landscape. This part of the trip is praised for its smooth organization and the friendly attitude of the driver and guide.

Crossing the Waters to Balos Lagoon

After arriving at Kissamos port, your group boards a ferry for approximately one hour across the sea to Balos Bay. The boat is sizable but can be crowded, especially during high season, so expect to stand at times and prepare for a lively atmosphere.

Upon reaching Balos Lagoon, you spend about 2.5 hours relaxing on the white sand and crystal-clear waters. This area is famous for its stunning blue and green hues, and it offers excellent opportunities for photos, swimming, and soaking up the sun. Keep in mind that the beach terrain features rocks and shells, so wearing swimming shoes is recommended for safe entry into the water.

Exploring Gramvousa Island and Its Venetian Fortress

Next, a 20-minute boat ride takes you to Gramvousa Island, where you have around 1.5 hours to explore. The island’s highlight is the Venetian Fortress, built in the 16th century, which requires a moderate 137-meter climb. The ascent is physically demanding but rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding seas and landscape.

Many choose to hike up to the fortress, while others prefer to relax on Gramvousa’s beach. The water here is also perfect for swimming, and the scenery is described as truly unforgettable. Afterward, the boat returns to Kissamos, giving you more scenic views and a chance to enjoy the sea breeze.

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Return Journey and Final Drop-offs

Following the boat trip back to Kissamos, around one hour of bus travel takes you through more of Crete’s landscapes toward Rethymno, with a planned 30-minute break at the port. The tour concludes with drop-offs at the original pickup points, providing a convenient end to a full day of exploration.

What the Tour Includes and What You Pay Extra For

The included services feature bus transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off at designated locations, and a guide available in English, German, and French on certain days. The boat ticket and Venetian Fortress entry are not included in the base price, and must be purchased separately—costing 36 euros for adults or 19 euros for children (5–12).

Extras like lunch, sun umbrellas, or photography services are additional and available for purchase onboard. The tour also offers a private group option for those seeking a more tailored experience.

Pacing and Physical Demands

This tour is designed to be a full-day experience with a mix of bus travel, boat rides, and free time at each stop. The long drives and walking involved, especially for the fortress climb, mean a moderate level of fitness is necessary. Comfortable walking shoes are advised, and sun protection is essential due to the exposed nature of the beaches and fortress.

While the schedule is busy, reviews highlight that the logistics are well-organized, allowing ample time at each site without feeling rushed, provided you are prepared and willing to move at a steady pace.

The Crowds and Best Time to Visit

Boat rides and popular beaches like Balos Lagoon tend to be crowded, especially during peak summer months. Reviewers note that traveling early in the morning helps avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. The overcrowding on the boats is a common issue, so expect some standing and crowded conditions during peak times.

Who Will Love This Tour

This trip is perfect for adventurers who enjoy beach days, light hiking, and historic sites. The scenic boat rides and breathtaking views appeal strongly to nature lovers. It suits those comfortable with long walks and standing on boats, while travelers seeking a more relaxed experience might prefer to skip the fortress hike.

The tour provides great value for its price, especially considering the included transfers and guided support. However, those who dislike crowds or are seeking luxury amenities might find the overcrowded boats and rocky beaches less ideal.

Concluding the Crete Adventure at Gramvousa and Balos

This full-day tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and beach relaxation. Its well-organized schedule earns praise, as do the professional guides and stunning vistas. The separate boat ticket cost and physical demands are important considerations, but for many, the spectacular scenery outweighs these minor inconveniences.

Travelers seeking an active, authentic experience of Crete’s coastlines and fortresses will find this tour well worth the effort. It provides a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s natural and cultural treasures in one memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to purchase the boat ticket separately?
Yes, the boat ticket for Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island is not included in the base price and costs 36 euros per adult or 19 euros per child.

Is there a guide available during the trip?
Yes, a guide is provided in English, German, and French on specific days (Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday).

How early does the tour start?
The tour departs from Rethymno around 7:45 AM, with pickups available from multiple locations.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, water, towel, beachwear, and cash for extras.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking demands and terrain.

Can I hike up to the Venetian Fortress?
Yes, the climb is around 137 meters and requires some physical effort, with walking shoes recommended.

How crowded are the boat rides?
Boat rides can be crowded during peak season, and passengers sometimes need to stand. It’s best to arrive early to avoid the busiest times.

How long is the time spent at each location?
You get about 2.5 hours at Balos Bay and 1.5 hours on Gramvousa Island, with additional time allocated for boat rides and transfers.

What is the overall duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts 10 to 12 hours, ensuring a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring.

Is this tour customizable?
Yes, a private group option is available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

This well-structured tour provides a reliable and scenic way to experience Crete’s spectacular west coast, combining natural beauty, history, and comfortable transfers.

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