Crete: Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa Island

If you’re dreaming of exploring Crete’s most picturesque spots, this cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island offers a chance to see some of the island’s most iconic scenery. While not a perfect experience for everyone, it provides a combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and relaxing water activities that many travelers find worthwhile.

We love the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Balos, climb the historic Venetian fortress for sweeping views, and enjoy a scenic boat ride that captures Crete’s rugged coastline. The guides and commentary add to the charm, making it more than just a boat trip.

However, some reviewers have pointed out issues with crowds and the long travel days, which are important considerations. This tour will suit travelers who value stunning vistas and a bit of adventure, and who are comfortable with busy, full-day excursions.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: The trip offers breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and turquoise waters.
• Historical Interest: Visiting Gramvousa Fortress provides a glimpse into the island’s past.
• Comfortable & Well-Organized: Includes hotel pickup, boat tickets, and recorded commentary.
• Crowds & Duration: Expect a busy atmosphere and a long day, especially during peak season.
• Value for Money: At around $79, it’s a reasonable price for a full-day experience with multiple highlights.
• Authentic Experiences: Friendly guides and tips make the day informative and enjoyable.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: What You Can Expect from This Tour

This cruise from Crete to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island brings together scenic beauty, history, and leisure. It’s a popular way to see two of the island’s most photographed sites, and it appeals to those looking for a full-day adventure that covers both nature and a splash of history.

What we love about this experience is the chance to relax in the pristine waters of Balos, the opportunity to climb Gramvousa Fortress for panoramic views, and the scenic boat ride that makes the journey memorable. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics simple.

That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers find the day long and the crowds overwhelming. If you prefer small groups and quiet retreats, this might not be your ideal choice. But if you’re after value, stunning scenery, and guides who know their stuff, this tour could be just right.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup & Transfer

The tour starts early, with hotel pickup arranged to bring you to Kissamos Port. Punctuality seems to be a strong point, with reviews mentioning that pickups are on time and well-organized, especially with experienced drivers guiding the way.

The journey to the port itself is about four hours if traveling from somewhere like a villa or hotel, so be prepared for a bit of sitting and socializing. It’s a good chance to get excited about what’s ahead or catch up on rest.

The Boat Ride & Scenic Views

Once at the port, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable boat with a recorded commentary providing insights into the sights. The cruise lasts about an hour, giving you time to soak in the views of rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and the rugged coastline.

Several reviews mention how beautiful and peaceful the scenery is—a highlight for lovers of coastlines sculpted by wind and waves. The boat passes between Gramvousa Island and Cape Vouxa, setting the stage for what’s to come.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gramvousa Island & Fortress

Arriving at Gramvousa, you’ll step onto a small port where the island’s Venetian Fortress dominates the landscape. Climbing up to the fortress is both a history lesson and a chance for breathtaking panoramic views.

One reviewer fondly recalls the “magical environment created by nature, legends, and history”, emphasizing that the fortress is the highest point on the island and offers sweeping vistas.

Just below the fortress, you can swim near the historic shipwreck or relax by the Church of Agioi Apostoloi. The island itself feels like a step back in time—rugged, wild, and steeped in stories.

Balos Lagoon & Beach Time

The second part of the day is dedicated to Balos Lagoon, famous for its pink sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. This is the main draw for most visitors, and for good reason.

You can choose to swim in the turquoise water, relax on the sandy beach, or explore the rock formations and cliffs that frame the lagoon. The water is generally calm and perfect for swimming, although some reviews note that the rocks are less abundant in the water during certain times, so bring your water shoes if you want comfort.

You might also want to explore the wreck of a historic ship that rests near the shore—an interesting photo opportunity and a tangible reminder of the area’s maritime past.

Return Journey

After a few hours of relaxation, the boat heads back, passing scenic views of the coast as the day winds down. Some reviews mention that the return journey is smooth, and guides stay attentive, offering tips on relaxing or dining options once back on land.

What’s Included & What to Bring

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, your boat ticket, and recorded commentary to enrich your experience. It does not include food or drinks, so bringing water, snacks, or a packed lunch is advisable. There’s also a small municipality fee of 1 euro to keep in mind.

Travel essentials include comfortable shoes (for walking and climbing), swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for any extras or tips. The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, Romanian, and Russian, catering to a diverse crowd.

The Reality: Pros and Cons from Real Experiences

Pros: Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially those who share stories about Gramvousa Island’s history and nature. One reviewer fondly described Lilly, the guide, as “very sweet and helpful,” adding that she explained the sights well.

The scenery consistently earns high marks, with reviews emphasizing how breathtaking the views are from the fortress and along the boat ride. The value for money is appreciated, with many feeling that $79 covers a full day of engaging experiences, especially with the included commentary and logistics handled.

Cons: Several reviews highlight the crowded nature of the tour, especially during peak season. One traveler described the experience as “a massive ferry with hoards of people,” leading to long queues and limited space on the beaches. This can diminish the feeling of serenity and make swimming or relaxing more difficult.

The long day (up to 16 hours) can be tiring, with some unhappy about the amount of travel time and the busy atmosphere. If you prefer quiet, unpopulated beaches and small groups, this may not meet your expectations.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For around $79, this tour offers a lot of value. You get transportation, a scenic ferry cruise, and the chance to explore two of Crete’s most stunning locations. The opportunity to climb the fortress and swim in Balos Lagoon makes it a memorable day, especially if you’re eager to see iconic sights without the hassle of planning each detail independently.

The tour’s success hinges largely on your expectations. If you enjoy guided experiences with insights into local history, and don’t mind the crowds, it’s a solid choice. On the other hand, if your priority is quiet relaxation or avoiding busy tourist spots, look into less crowded alternatives or private options.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who love scenic boat rides and historical sites. It’s also suited to travelers comfortable with full days and busier atmospheres, looking to maximize their time in Crete.

Those who appreciate guides who share stories and local knowledge will find this particularly enriching. It’s also an excellent option if you want to tick off two must-see destinations in one trip with minimal hassle.

However, if you’re seeking solitude or a more personalized experience, consider other options or private tours. This is a popular, crowd-friendly adventure that delivers fantastic views and fun water activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience spans about a full day, including pickup, the boat cruise, sightseeing, and return. Expect to be back around 9:30–10:30 pm.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easier to start and end the day without extra fuss.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, cash, and beachwear for relaxing on the sand or swimming.

Are there any age restrictions?
Infants must sit with their parents on the bus and do not get separate seats, so plan accordingly for young children.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves climbing the fortress and walking on uneven, rocky paths, so it may be challenging for those with mobility concerns.

What kind of commentary is provided?
Recorded commentary is available in multiple languages, offering insights into the sights and history of Gramvousa and Balos.

Can I buy food on the tour?
Food and drinks are not included, and reviews note limited options available on the boat, so bring your own snacks or plan to eat afterward.

Is the tour crowded?
During peak seasons, crowds can be significant, with some travelers describing it as “a massive ferry with hoards of people,” which can impact the experience.

Final Thoughts

This Crete cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island balances natural beauty, historical intrigue, and convenience. It’s ideal for those craving a full, scenic day with guided insights and a chance to swim in some of the clearest waters in Greece. The guides and organized logistics make it accessible, but be prepared for crowds and a long day.

If you’re after spectacular views, a bit of history, and a relaxed boat ride, this tour offers a solid value for money. For travelers who prioritize peace and quiet, or a more intimate experience, it might be worth exploring alternatives or private options.

This tour stands as a great introduction to the natural and cultural charm of Crete’s coastline, delivering memorable moments along its rugged shores and historic sites.

You can check if your dates are available here: