Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of luxury, this Balos & Gramvousa sailing cruise from Kissamos might just be your ideal day out. While we haven’t personally set sail on this journey, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of an experience that combines comfort, adventure, and authentic Greek charm. From the moment you step aboard a modern yacht to the last sip of local wine, this tour promises a memorable way to explore some of Crete’s most iconic spots.

What excites us most about this cruise is how it balances luxury and authenticity—you get to relax on spacious deck loungers, enjoy a freshly prepared Mediterranean meal, and explore hidden gems in crystal-clear waters. We also love the fact that water activities like snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding are included, making it hands-on fun for adventurous travelers.

A possible consideration is the price, which some may find higher than other options, but reviews suggest the overall value makes up for it with quality food, a knowledgeable crew, and well-organized stops.

This tour will appeal to those who love luxury boat experiences, want to see Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island comfortably, and enjoy a blend of scenic sailing, delicious food, and water-based activities. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking a hassle-free day with a touch of refinement, though it’s not ideal for those with mobility restrictions or pregnant women.

Good To Know

• Luxury and Comfort: Modern yacht with ample space for lounging and enjoying scenic views.
• Comprehensive Experience: Includes visits to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon with free time for exploration and swimming.
• Gourmet Meal: Freshly prepared Mediterranean menu with local ingredients, served with unlimited drinks.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment available on request for added fun.
• Expert Crew: Friendly, knowledgeable staff who prioritize guest comfort and safety.
• Flexible Options: Pickup from multiple locations, private groups available, and full-day itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point and Transfer

The adventure begins at the port of Kissamos, where the crew from Cretan Sailing Cruises welcomes you aboard a sleek, comfortable yacht. The departure times are flexible—check availability—so you can plan your day accordingly. If you select the pickup option, transportation from numerous nearby areas like Chania town, Platanias, or local hotels makes your journey seamless. Without this, you’ll need to meet at the dock, where the crew will give a quick safety briefing and answer questions.

The ease of transfer is a big plus, especially if you’re coming from elsewhere in Crete. Plus, reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the crew is from the start, setting a positive tone.

The Scenic Cruise to Gramvousa

Once on board, you’ll be treated to views of Gramvousa cape—an impressive stretch of coastline that looks dramatic from the deck. The sailing itself takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, during which you can relax on the sunbeds or sit in the outdoor cockpit and enjoy the breeze. Many reviewers mention how peaceful and scenic the journey is, with some saying it’s a perfect way to kick off the day.

This part of the trip is more than just transit—it’s a chance to unwind and soak in the Cretan coast’s natural beauty. The crew often plays music and offers drinks, making it feel like a laid-back Mediterranean gathering.

Exploring Gramvousa Island

Arriving at Gramvousa, you’ll have around 1.5 hours of free time to explore. The island is famous for its shipwreck, which lies on the shore and is a magnet for photographers and history buffs alike. You can wander around the wreck and discover underwater treasures if snorkeling, or just relax on the rocks.

The reviews mention that many guests enjoy jumping into the crystal waters directly from the boat, which is about as refreshing as it gets. Some opt for a short hike up to the old fort for panoramic views, though this depends on your energy level and mobility. Disembarking is flexible—either straight onto the dock if unoccupied, or via the tender boat which stays with the cruise, ensuring smooth transfers.

The Culinary Experience Aboard

Back on board, the crew serves a mediterranean feast—the highlight being shrimp linguine and Greek salad, complemented by Cretan appetizers. Several guests note that the meal is delicious and abundant, with some including special requests like vegan or gluten-free options, which the crew accommodated with prior notice.

Unlimited drinks—wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and iced tea—are included, allowing everyone to toast or simply refresh after a swim. The helpful crew, especially Yanni, ensures you’re well looked after, whether you’re enjoying a glass of local wine or just relaxing in the sun.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Cruising to Balos Lagoon

After a satisfying lunch, the yacht cruises for about 15 minutes to the famous Balos Lagoon, often described as a “paradise on earth.” Guests can disembark via the tender or choose to stay aboard and dip into the waters directly from the yacht. The lagoon’s water is, as many reviews highlight, crystal clear and surprisingly warm, perfect for swimming or floating around.

Guests have around 1.5 hours here, which is enough to soak in the scenery, wade into the shallow waters, or take pictures of the vivid landscape. The shallow waters and stunning views make Balos a highlight for many travelers.

Water Activities and Free Time

During the stops, the crew makes snorkel gear and paddleboards available on request. Reviewers mention how easy it is to try these out, with some saying they appreciated the captain’s instructions on safety. It’s a relaxed environment—no pressure, just opportunities to play in the water.

Balos’s shallow waters and transparent sea make it an ideal setting for snorkeling, and paddleboarding adds an extra element of fun. Guests often comment on how these activities enhance the experience, especially since they’re included in the fare.

The Return Journey and Final Stop

As the day winds down, the cruise heads back towards Kissamos, with about 1.5 hours of scenic sailing to enjoy. The crew continues to offer drinks and music, creating a convivial atmosphere. Some guests mention how this part of the trip feels like a relaxing cruise with great company.

The day concludes with disembarkation at the port or your selected drop-off location. The crew’s warm farewell leaves many guests feeling they’ve enjoyed a well-organized, value-packed adventure.

Quality and Comfort: The yacht is described as modern and spacious, ideal for relaxing while enjoying the views. The deck sunbeds and outdoor cockpit make for a comfortable day in the sun.

Authentic and Scenic Stops: Both Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon are must-see spots, and this cruise offers ample time to explore and enjoy them without feeling rushed.

Gourmet Food and Drinks: The Mediterranean menu, prepared with fresh local ingredients, is a notable highlight, especially considering the unlimited drinks and inclusive nature of the meal. Several reviews praise the quality and quantity of the food.

Water Activities: Snorkeling and paddleboarding add a fun, interactive element to the day, catering to both adventurous and relaxed travelers.

Friendly, Knowledgeable Crew: Guests consistently mention the crew’s helpfulness and professionalism, which greatly enhances the overall experience.

Flexibility and Convenience: Pickup options from various locations and private groups make this tour accessible and customizable.

This cruise is best suited to travelers who value comfort and quality, and those who want a stress-free day exploring Crete’s most iconic spots. It’s perfect if you prefer a leisurely pace, well-organized stops, and a gourmet meal onboard.

Water lovers and those interested in snorkeling or paddleboarding will find plenty of opportunities to get in the water. It’s also a good choice for couples, small groups, or families (excluding those with mobility issues or pregnant women).

However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer more adventurous, less structured trips, you might want to compare other options. Still, many reviews confirm that the overall value for money—given the quality of food, crew, and experience—is appreciated.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 7.5 hours, including stops, sailing, and meals.

What are the main stops during the tour?
You’ll visit Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon, with time allocated for exploring, swimming, and water activities.

Is food included?
Yes, a full Mediterranean meal with shrimp linguine, Greek salad, Cretan appetizers, and unlimited drinks are part of the package.

Are water activities provided?
Snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment are available upon request, making it easy to enjoy the waters.

Is pickup included?
Pickup is optional and available from various locations such as Kissamos, Kolimvari, Chania, and nearby areas.

Can I disembark directly onto the beach?
Yes, disembarkation can be either directly onto the dock or via the tender boat, depending on availability.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, as the tour involves some rocky terrains and boat transfers.

What should I bring?
Towels, passport or ID, and sunscreen are recommended. Towels are not provided, so bring your own.

How much does it cost?
Prices vary, but reviews suggest it’s good value for the quality, food, and activities included.

This Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water, providing a fantastic combination of scenic sailing, cultural exploration, delicious food, and water fun. The modern yacht, friendly crew, and thoughtful itinerary make it a standout choice for travelers looking to experience Crete in comfort and style.

Perfect for those who love relaxed luxury, want to explore iconic spots without the hassle of organizing transport or meals, and enjoy a good mix of sightseeing and active water play. If you’re after a memorable, all-inclusive day out in Crete, this cruise delivers on many fronts—just be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.

You can check if your dates are available here: