Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Introduction

Thinking about a day on the water in Crete? This Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise promises a laid-back yet luxurious way to explore two of Crete’s most iconic spots. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, plenty of reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect, and it’s impressive.

What makes this experience stand out? First, its focus on avoiding crowds at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island—those places can get hectic with large tour groups. Second, the combination of a luxurious, semi-private atmosphere with fun water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. And third, the delicious Mediterranean meals and unlimited drinks served onboard, which make the day even more enjoyable.

Of course, no trip is perfect. One thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickups, so you’ll need to arrive at Kissamos port on your own. It’s best suited for travelers craving comfort, stunning scenery, and a mix of adventure and relaxation. Families, couples, and groups looking for a special day out will find it particularly appealing.

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Good To Know

• Luxurious semi-private experience avoids the crowds at popular spots.
• Expert crew and guides enhance the comfort and enjoyment of the day.
• Delicious Mediterranean cuisine and unlimited drinks keep everyone refreshed.
• Water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling add a fun, active element.
• Flexible stop times allow for swimming, exploring, or relaxing onboard.
• Great value for the price when you consider the amenities, locations, and food.
• Weather-dependent schedule means occasional rescheduling in bad weather.
• Ideal for all ages with options for families, couples, and solo travelers.

The Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point and Journey Logistics

The cruise begins at Kissamos port where friendly crew members, easily recognizable by their red DanEri flag and DanEri T-shirts, greet you about 15 minutes before departure. You’ll need to arrive early to ensure a smooth boarding process, and parking at the port is straightforward. For those opting for transfer services, pick-up from various nearby towns is available if you select the appropriate option.

The boat itself is described as a luxury, comfortable catamaran, spacious enough for all guests to relax, walk around, and enjoy the day. The experience is designed for a small group—often just a handful of travelers—adding to the semi-private feel that many reviews rave about.

The Crew and Guides

Guests highlight the crew’s professionalism and friendliness, often mentioning specific team members like Dimitri, Jessica, and Giovanni. One reviewer notes that Dimitri, a particularly attentive host, kept everyone happy with drinks and snacks, ensuring no one felt left out. Jessica’s culinary skills shine as she prepares fresh, delicious meals, which reviewers say are a highlight of the trip.

The crew’s knowledge of the area adds value, with one reviewer praising Dimitri for his insights into the islands and helping everyone feel safe and cared for. Their extra efforts, such as ferrying guests to shore or making sure kids are comfortable, make a big difference in how relaxed and welcomed everyone feels.

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The Itinerary and Stops

Balos Lagoon

Your first stop is Balos Lagoon, a true highlight. Known for its turquoise waters and soft white sands, Balos is a postcard-perfect spot. What makes this experience special? Tour guides often arrive early to beat the crowds, giving you a quiet moment at this stunning location. Guests consistently mention how their timing allowed them to enjoy Balos in serenity—something not possible with large ferry groups.

Onboard, you can swim in shallow waters, snorkel to discover underwater life, or relax on deck with a drink in hand. The review from Lingxin mentions that the food alone makes this trip worthwhile, with Jessica’s gourmet seafood risotto and fresh salads. Water activities include paddleboarding, snorkel gear, and inflatable floats, such as flamingos, which are perfect for Instagram.

Some guests suggest that a longer time at Balos might be better, as it’s so beautiful that staying longer would allow for more photos or simply more relaxing.

Gramvousa Island

Next, the cruise takes you to Gramvousa Island, famed for its fortress ruins and dramatic cliffs. Guests enjoy exploring at their own pace, with options to hike up to the castle, swim in calmer waters, or lounge on the deck. The reviews capture the island’s beauty, emphasizing that it offers both scenic vistas and historical intrigue.

Lunch is served on the boat during the time at Gramvousa, featuring a Mediterranean spread with seafood, meat, and veggie options. Light Greek cheeses, seasonal fruits, and homemade desserts keep everyone energized. A kid-friendly meal option is available, making it a family-friendly choice.

Water Activities and Relaxation

Throughout the day, you’ll have access to paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and inflatable floats, including the playful flamingos loved by guests. Several reviewers mention that the crew provided blankets and even helped with catching fish—adding a personal touch to the day.

The boat’s Wi-Fi and curated music playlist keep the atmosphere lively without sacrificing comfort. Guests describe the overall experience as a mixture of adventure and relaxation—whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a glass of wine onboard.

The Return and Reflection

As the cruise winds down, you’ll sail back to Kissamos, reflecting on an unforgettable day. Many reviewers mention how the small group setting and attentive crew created a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The stops are timed to avoid the crowds, and the overall schedule balances exploration with downtime.

Food and Drinks

Jessica’s culinary talents shine through the freshly cooked Mediterranean lunch, a generous spread that includes seafood, grilled meats, and fresh salads. Unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer keep guests refreshed without extra costs. The quality of food and drink is often highlighted as one of the best parts of the trip, elevating the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $220 per person, many find the price justifiable considering the inclusive nature of the trip. The cost covers a luxury boat, experienced crew, all water gear, food, drinks, and the unique opportunity to visit two of Crete’s most famous spots without the hassle of crowds and long waits. Guests repeatedly emphasize the well-organized schedule and attentive service as worth every euro.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early at Kissamos port to board smoothly and find parking easily.
• Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat—shade is limited at stops.
• Consider longer at Balos if you love photography or just want more beach time.
• Book in advance especially during peak season, as this trip is very popular.
• Group size tends to be small, meaning more personalized attention.
• Weather considerations: bad weather could cause rescheduling, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is perfect if you’re seeking a luxurious, relaxed day with a touch of adventure in Crete. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy more private access to Balos and Gramvousa. Families with kids appreciated the kid-friendly meal options and safety gear, while couples and small groups loved the intimate atmosphere.

If you’re a water enthusiast, you’ll enjoy the paddleboards and snorkel gear, and food lovers will appreciate the delicious, freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch. The flexible schedule and small group vibe make it an excellent choice for travelers who prioritize comfort, quality, and authentic experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour starts at Kissamos port. However, optional transfer services are available if you select that option during booking.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with specific stops at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.

What is the group size like?
Most trips are small, typically with just a few guests onboard, which creates a semi-private, intimate experience.

Are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available?
Yes, special meal requests can be accommodated, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, upon request.

What water activities are included?
Guests can enjoy snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and inflatable floats like flamingos, all provided onboard.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families with children find it enjoyable, particularly because of the kid-friendly meal options and safety gear.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and a hat are recommended. Also, a passport or ID is required for the port authorities.

What happens in bad weather?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions are unfavorable, the trip may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons.

Final Thoughts

This Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise offers a thoughtfully curated way to explore Crete’s most stunning sights while delivering comfort and style. The small-group atmosphere, combined with excellent food, water activities, and knowledgeable crew, makes it a standout choice for those wanting a special day on the water.

It’s well-suited for travelers who prioritize quality over quantity, and who enjoy the idea of visiting iconic locations without the stress of big tours or crowds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day in Crete, this cruise ticks a lot of boxes.

For anyone looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and excellent hospitality, this trip delivers — and with top reviews backing it up, it’s clear that many guests walk away with unforgettable memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: