From Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch

Sailing around Crete’s northwest coast offers a unique way to see some of the island’s most iconic spots — Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. This tour, offered by Falasarna Sailing, promises a day of sun, sea, and history, all while enjoying a freshly cooked Greek meal onboard.

What makes this experience special? First, it’s the personal touch — whether you opt for a small group or a private charter, you’ll enjoy attentive service from knowledgeable skippers like Vasilis and Jo, who truly seem to love sharing their local expertise. Second, the chance to swim, snorkel, and relax in crystal waters that leave others speechless. Third, the carefully planned itinerary helps you avoid crowds and get a more authentic, peaceful experience of these popular destinations.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather conditions can impact the trip, possibly leading to rescheduling or refund — so flexibility is key. Overall, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and culturally rich day on the water, this cruise hits all the right notes for couples, families, or anyone seeking a well-balanced day out in Crete.

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Good To Know

• Personalized experience with options for private or small group cruises
• Expert skippers who guide and assist, making sailing approachable for all
• Stunning stops at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island
• Delicious Greek lunch cooked onboard, with attention to dietary needs
• Opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in clear, inviting waters
• Crowd avoidance through well-timed visits, ensuring a more peaceful experience

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Day on the Water

This full-day cruise from Kissamos provides a well-rounded mix of sailing, sightseeing, swimming, and history. It begins early in the morning at your chosen meeting point, with the boat setting sail for the open water. Throughout the day, the crew — including guides like Vasilis and Jo — ensure your journey is smooth and informative.

Departure and Scenic Sail Along the Coast

Your adventure kicks off with a short safety briefing onboard the elegant sailboat. From here, the focus is on soaking up the scenic views of the Cretan coastline, with the crew sharing tidbits about the area’s geography and sailing tips. The boat’s comfortable amenities, including air-conditioned cabins, fresh fruit, and drinks, make the journey as enjoyable as the stops.

First Stop: Balos Lagoon

Arriving at Balos Lagoon, you’ll understand instantly why it’s a favorite among travelers. The trip is timed to beat the crowds, which the reviews highlight as a major plus — you’ll often find the beaches less busy than big ferry arrivals. Once ashore, you can lounge on the soft sand, take a dip in the famously clear waters, or snorkel to explore the vibrant marine life. Reviewers mention the water’s unbelievable clarity, making for a memorable swim.

Second Stop: Gramvousa Island and its Fortress

Next, the boat heads to Gramvousa Island, where you can hike up to the historic fortress. The walk offers panoramic views that are worth every step — just be prepared for a rugged terrain, as the island is quite rocky. Many reviewers appreciated this hike, with one noting the fortress is built for the view as much as for history. You’ll also have time to swim and snorkel at the beach, with some mentioning rocks washing up on the shore, so snorkeling gear is recommended.

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The Lunch Break

Midday, everyone gathers in a shaded area on deck to enjoy a traditional Greek lunch prepared fresh onboard. The food is a highlight — plenty of reviewers rave about the delicious, homemade meals, with particular praise for the vegetarian options. Vasilis or Elias cook a meal that’s flavorful and satisfying, giving you a real taste of local cuisine. During lunch, you can relax, chat, or even take a short nap in the cabins if you’re feeling lazy.

Return Cruise and Scenic Views

In the afternoon, the boat makes its way back to Kissamos, offering more chances to relax, take photos, and enjoy the sea breeze. Many reviews mention the crew’s friendly attitude and the good value for money considering the inclusions — snorkeling gear, towels, drinks, and an authentic meal.

What to Expect on This Sailing Experience

Duration and Group Size: The cruise lasts around 8 hours, with flexible starting times depending on your booking. Whether you choose a private or small group tour, you’ll find the atmosphere intimate enough to enjoy personalized service. With reviews highlighting the small number of guests (often just seven), you’ll feel like a guest rather than just another ticket-holder.

Sailing and Crew: The skippers, like Vasilis and Jo, are experienced, making the sailing smooth and safe. Many reviews praise their professionalism and friendly approach, with some noting how they timed the stops to avoid crowds — a smart move to make your day more peaceful.

Activities: Expect swimming, snorkeling, exploring, and hiking. The snorkeling gear is provided, and reviewers often mention the crystal waters and marine life, which are a highlight for water lovers. Hiking on Gramvousa is optional but offers stunning views, with some reviewers calling the fortress “an extraordinary sight.”

Food and Drinks: The onboard lunch is prepared fresh, emphasizing local ingredients and flavors. Reviewers love the homemade style, with Elias cooking a meal that many say surpasses expectations. Soft drinks, beer, and fresh fruit are available throughout the day — perfect for rehydrating after swimming.

Facilities: The boat boasts two air-conditioned cabins with double beds, showers, and towels — a thoughtful touch for those needing a break from the sun. The shaded deck area means you can escape the heat during meal times or relax comfortably.

The Authenticity and Value

A major perk of this cruise is its ability to combine sightseeing with authentic local flavors. Several reviewers emphasize how the guides, especially Vasilis and Jo, bring a personal touch to the trip with their knowledge and friendliness. The carefully timed stops help visitors avoid the crowds that flood the beaches with large ferry parties, allowing a more authentic experience of Balos and Gramvousa.

In terms of value, considering the inclusions — lunch, snorkeling gear, soft drinks, towels, and expert guidance — many find it a worthwhile expense. The small group size, sometimes just seven guests, enhances the feeling of exclusivity and intimacy, which many reviewers appreciate.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you prefer a relaxed, scenic day on the water over a hectic, crowded boat tour. It’s perfect for couples, families with older children, or small groups wanting a more personalized adventure. The mix of sailing, swimming, exploring, and eating well onboard makes it suitable for travelers wanting a balanced day of activity and leisure.

However, those with mobility issues might find some aspects challenging, particularly the hike up to the fortress. Weather can also affect the itinerary, so flexible travelers will appreciate the ability to reschedule or get a refund if conditions aren’t ideal.

FAQ

What should I bring with me?
You should bring your passport or ID card for identity verification. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are advisable for sun protection, while swimwear and a towel are essential for swimming and snorkeling.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring onboard?
Yes, weapons, sharp objects, oversize luggage, and shoes indoors are not allowed — this helps keep the boat safe and clean.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point, which varies depending on your booking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if weather conditions look uncertain.

What languages are spoken on the tour?
English and Greek are available, with guides like Vasilis and Jo providing a friendly, informative experience.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop and the onboard amenities.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, and many reviews highlight how the clear waters make snorkeling particularly enjoyable.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments, mainly due to the hiking involved and boat access considerations.

Final Thoughts

This sailing cruise from Kissamos offers a balanced blend of stunning scenery, authentic experiences, and comfort. The knowledgeable guides, delicious onboard lunch, and carefully timed stops help ensure a memorable day that’s often described as well worth the cost.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots or want to explore Crete’s iconic beaches in style, this tour delivers. It’s especially good for travelers who value small-group intimacy, knowledgeable hosts, and the chance to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty without the crowds.

If you’re looking for a memorable, relaxed day at sea with plenty of opportunities for swimming, hiking, and sampling local food, this cruise deserves serious consideration. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a day of scenic delights.

Experience Provider: Falasarna Sailing
Source: GetYourGuide

You can check if your dates are available here: