From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

Taking a boat trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa is often touted as a must-do for visitors to Crete, and based on numerous reviews, it’s easy to see why. This tour promises a full day of natural beauty, history, and relaxation, all wrapped up in a scenic cruise departing from Kissamos. We’re here to give you a clear, honest look at what you can expect, highlighting the highs, the practicalities, and a few tips to make your day even better.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see two of Crete’s most iconic spots in one go—Balos’ famous turquoise waters and Gramvousa’s fascinating Venetian fortress. The onboard experience is generally well-organized, with friendly staff, and the scenery along the way is genuinely breathtaking. Plus, the opportunity to swim in Balos’ emerald waters and explore a shipwreck adds real charm.

One thing to consider is that the trip involves some swimming, hiking, and jumping off the boat into rocky waters, which means packing appropriately (water shoes are a must). Also, timing can be tight—some reviews mention waiting a little longer than ideal at Balos or on the boat, so patience is part of the experience.

This tour suits travelers wanting a hassle-free way to visit Crete’s top beaches without renting a car or navigating tricky roads. It’s perfect for those who love scenic nature, historical sites, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances sightseeing with free time, this could be just right.

Good To Know

• Scenic cruise experience with impressive views of cliffs, caves, and turquoise waters
• Visits two iconic spots: Gramvousa island with its Venetian castle, and Balos Lagoon, famous worldwide
• Includes opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in clear, emerald waters
• Organized with professional staff and generally praised for punctuality and comfort
• A good value for the experience offered, especially with optional food and drinks included
• Some waiting times at Balos and during disembarkation are common—patience is key

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect

Departure from Kissamos Port

The journey begins at Kissamos Port, easily accessible by car or bus from Chania. The port offers free parking, making it straightforward if you’re driving. The day before, you’ll receive a boarding pass via email, and it’s recommended to arrive at least 40 minutes early to check in and settle before departure.

The Scenic Bay and the Cave

Once onboard, you’ll cruise in the bay, which takes around an hour. The highlight here is spotting a large cave, believed to be an ancient shipyard, and appreciating the dramatic landscape of steep cliffs and rocks. Many reviews mention how impressive the scenery is, with some travelers noting that the boat ride alone is worth the price.

Gramvousa: A Historic Island and Its Shipwreck

Your first stop could be Gramvousa Island, depending on the itinerary. Here, you’ll step ashore into a setting that feels like stepping back in time. The island features the Venetian castle perched atop a steep rock, which you can hike up to in about 15-20 minutes, enjoying views that are well worth the effort.

The island’s beach is dotted with a lonely shipwreck, adding to the area’s mystique. Many reviews praise the friendly staff and the clean toilets onboard, which makes the short stop comfortable and enjoyable. The Greek Orthodox church on the seaside adds a charming touch, reflecting the area’s authentic cultural flavor.

Some guests, like Aleksandra, mentioned that the guides (such as Ana) are knowledgeable and make the experience more engaging. Neil appreciated the calm boat ride and enjoyed the included lunch, noting that bringing extra snacks might be wise if you’re hungry.

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The Highlight: Balos Lagoon

After exploring Gramvousa, the boat moves on to Balos Lagoon, often described as one of the world’s most spectacular beaches. The crystal-clear waters, white sand, and rock formations create a visual masterpiece. Words cannot fully capture how breathtaking this place is when you first see it.

At Balos, you’ll have around 2.5 hours for photo-taking, swimming, snorkeling, and just soaking in the natural beauty. Many reviews mention how crowded it gets, especially during peak season, but it never feels overwhelming. If you’re up for a short hike to higher vantage points, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the lagoon and surrounding rocks.

Guests often remark on the rocky shoreline, so water shoes are a smart inclusion—several reviews highlight how the rocky entry can be tricky without proper footwear. Some mention the goats roaming freely around the beach, adding a playful and rustic vibe.

Return Journey and Practical Tips

After your time at Balos, the boat heads back, taking about an hour to return to Kissamos. Some reviews note waiting times during disembarkation, especially at Balos, as the boat cannot dock directly on the shore, requiring you to swim or hop onto small boats to reach the shore. Packing light and waterproof bags is strongly advised.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start at Kissamos: Departure point, accessible by car or bus, with parking and easy access
• Cruise in the bay: Scenic journey, spotting caves, cliffs, and secluded beaches
• Gramvousa stop: 2 hours for exploring the island, castle, and beach, with options for hiking and sightseeing
• Balos Lagoon: 2.5 hours for swimming, photos, and relaxing on a world-famous beach
• Return: About 1 hour cruise back to Kissamos, with some waiting at the shore during disembarkation

The overall duration is around 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Round-trip boat cruise with professional captain and crew
• Visit to Balos and optional visit to Gramvousa, if you select the relevant option
• Food and drinks (if included in your package)—many reviews mention the decent-quality meals like pasta or chicken, with salads and bottled water
• The administrative fee of 1 EUR per passenger over 13, collected at the port

Not Included:

• Hotel transfers (you’ll need to arrange your transport to Kissamos Port)
• Any additional personal expenses or optional purchases on board

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes — especially if planning to hike up to the castle or walk around the beaches
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water shoes to stay protected and comfortable during the day
• Pack a towel and swimwear for swimming in Balos’ waters
• Arrive early to avoid missing the boat and to secure a good spot on deck
• Book in advance to secure your preferred departure time and options for food and drinks
• Bring some snacks if you’re hungry, especially if you prefer to skip the onboard meal—reviews suggest the food is decent but options can run out during busy times

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

This cruise offers a straightforward, well-organized way to see Crete’s stunning beaches and historic sites without the hassle of driving or navigating public transport. The scenery alone makes it worth the price, with many travelers describing the views as “breathtaking” and ” postcard-perfect.”

The staff generally receives praise for their friendliness and professionalism, making the experience comfortable and smooth. The onboard facilities are clean and functional, with food and drinks available at reasonable prices, although bringing your own snacks might improve your experience.

The tour’s biggest draw is undoubtedly Balos Lagoon, which truly lives up to its reputation. Most travelers agree that the swimming in the emerald waters and the spectacular landscape are highlights they will remember for years. The hike up Gramvousa’s Venetian castle is manageable and offers panoramic views that are well worth the effort.

However, the trip does require some flexibility and patience, especially with waiting times during disembarkation and at popular spots. It’s not a tour that will leave you feeling rushed, but you should be prepared for some short waits and rocky entry points.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• Beach lovers eager to visit one of the world’s most beautiful lagoons
• History buffs interested in exploring Gramvousa’s Venetian castle and shipwreck
• Photographers and scenery enthusiasts who want stunning landscapes and ocean views
• Travelers without a car who prefer a pre-organized day trip with everything taken care of
• People seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural sights

If you’re looking for an easy way to tick these boxes, this cruise could be a perfect fit.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The entire trip lasts about 7 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and swimming.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and possibly water shoes for rocky areas.

Is food included?
Food and drinks are included if you select the meal option, with options like pasta or chicken. You can also bring your own snacks if preferred.

Can I stay longer at Balos?
Most reviews note that the allocated time at Balos is around 2.5 hours, which travelers find sufficient, but it’s a quick visit compared to how long it takes to get there.

Is this suitable for children?
While most reviews are positive, the rocky shoreline and swimming require some caution; it’s best for older kids comfortable with water activities.

Are there any accessibility issues?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the rocky terrain and the nature of the disembarkation process.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot and preferred times, especially during peak season.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews describe the boat as well-maintained, clean, and of a good size—plenty of space to relax and enjoy the ride.

What about parking or transport?
Kissamos Port has free parking, and it’s easy to reach by car or bus from Chania. The tour includes no transfers, so plan to arrive on your own.

Final Thoughts

If you dream of crystal-clear waters, historic ruins, and scenic beauty, this boat cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa offers a fantastic way to experience Crete’s highlights in one day. It’s especially valuable for those who prefer a hassle-free, organized trip without sacrificing the chance to explore iconic sights and indulge in relaxing swims.

While some waiting and rocky entries are part of the experience, the overall value, breathtaking scenery, and friendly crew make it well worth considering. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat explorer, this tour delivers a memorable day filled with natural wonders and cherished moments.

For those wanting a balance of adventure, history, and relaxation—this cruise is likely to leave you with lots of happy memories and stunning photos. Just pack your water shoes, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for a truly beautiful journey.

You can check if your dates are available here: