Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Speedboat Cruise with Snorkeling

Imagine cruising across the crystal-clear waters of Crete on a sleek, powerful speedboat, feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. That’s exactly what this Balos & Gramvousa speedboat tour promises—an exhilarating mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic adventure. We’ve gathered all the details and feedback from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand to help you decide if it’s the right trip for you.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the opportunity to skip the crowds and arrive at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island before the mass tourism hits. Second, the luxury of the speedboat ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, unlike the often cramped ferries. Third, the snorkeling gear, snacks, and unlimited drinks mean you’re well taken care of while soaking up the scenery. But, a word of caution—it’s not ideal for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or travelers expecting a safety briefing (which some reviews noted was missing). Overall, it’s suited best for those craving a fun, scenic, and slightly VIP experience away from the crowds.

Good To Know

• Luxury and speed: Enjoy cruising on Crete’s most prestigious RIB boat, combining comfort and adrenaline.
• Early access: Beat the crowds and visit Balos and Gramvousa before they get overwhelmed with travelers.
• Authentic experience: Snorkeling equipment, local snacks, and unlimited drinks enhance the adventure.
• Flexible options: Choose between private or shared tours, with hotel pickup available.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable crew like Pavlos and Dimitris make the trip informative and lively.
• Great value: Small group sizes (max 11) and all-inclusive extras make for a memorable, hassle-free day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and Pickup

Depending on your booking options, you can be picked up from your hotel or meet directly at Kissamos Port. The pickup service is quite convenient, with reviews highlighting friendly drivers and comfortable vans—one reviewer even praised their “cheerful” driver and the AC working well on their Mercedes Vito.

Safety Briefing and Departure

Once at the port, a quick safety briefing kicks off the adventure—important for peace of mind, especially if you’re not used to boat trips. From here, the crew helps you get on board, provides waterproof bags for your belongings, and gets you ready for the thrill of speed cruising across the Cretan Sea.

The Journey to Gramvousa

In about 30 minutes, the boat slices through the water past the Gramvousa cape, offering stunning views of the coast. The captain, often praised for their skill and storytelling, will navigate to the closest point possible on Gramvousa Island. You’ll likely need to swim or walk a few meters to land, but the crew generally provides assistance and waterproof gear—something frequent reviewers appreciated. Jaka, one traveler, noted how the captain’s safety tips and waterproof bags made the experience seamless.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Gramvousa Island

Once anchored, you have around 1.5 to 2 hours to explore this dramatic island, which features rugged landscapes and historical remnants. The main activity is swimming and snorkeling, with equipment supplied by the crew. Visitors like Kim Bugeja Zammit shared how Pavlos, their guide, timed their visit to avoid the crowds and provided wet bags and goggles. Many people love the chance to enjoy the peaceful, undisturbed scenery here—something not possible on larger, crowded boat tours.

Transition to Balos Lagoon

After returning to the boat, it’s time to cruise to Balos Lagoon, which is often described as a “heavenly” stretch of beach. The boat anchors close enough to swim or walk to the shore, allowing plenty of time (around 1.5 to 2 hours) for swimming, relaxing, or simply taking in the surreal scenery. Carolin mentioned how she appreciated the lack of crowds, with the crew giving tips to avoid tourist-filled areas. The turquoise waters and expansive sandy beaches make a perfect backdrop for photos or just unwinding.

Final Stop and Return

After soaking up Balos, the boat departs back to Kissamos, with the journey taking about 30 minutes. The return cruise offers a chance to enjoy the cool breeze, music, and unlimited drinks—refreshing and relaxing after a busy day of sightseeing. Reviewers like Nicholas and Laura highlight how the timing was perfect to dodge the crowds and enjoy the calm waters.

End of the Tour

The trip concludes back at the port or your hotel if you opted for pickup. It’s a full five-hour adventure packed with scenic views, snorkeling, and a touch of luxury that many travelers find well worth the cost.

Why This Tour is a Great Choice

The combination of luxury speedboat cruising, early access to popular sites, and inclusive amenities makes it a compelling option for those seeking both comfort and adventure. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable crew, like Pavlos and Dimitris, who make an effort to ensure safety and fun. The boat’s size—generally capped at 11 people—keeps it intimate and avoids the chaos of larger group tours, which many travelers appreciate.

You’ll love the way the trip is carefully timed, allowing for peaceful visits and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The provided snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear elevate the experience, making it more than just a boat ride. Plus, the clear instructions from the crew about where to swim and how to avoid the crowds are invaluable tips that enhance your visit.

However, keep in mind that the tour’s focus on speed and luxury isn’t suited for everyone. For example, those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider the physical aspects—swimming or walking in water, and the absence of a designated pontoon at Balos. Also, some reviews pointed out that a safety briefing was missing, so if safety is a concern, it’s worth noting.

Price and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest option, many travelers find it delivers excellent value. The small group size, expert guides, and all-inclusive drinks and snacks make for a hassle-free day. Considering the costs of private transportation, snorkeling gear, and the experience of avoiding the crowds, the price seems justified—especially when compared to larger, more crowded cruises or ferry tickets.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour appeals most to active travelers who enjoy scenic cruising and snorkeling. It’s perfect if you prefer avoiding the chaos of large crowds and want to experience Crete’s natural beauty in comfort. Families with older kids, couples, or solo travelers seeking an authentic, VIP-style day on the water will find it suits their needs well.

For those who want a relaxed, peaceful day without the rush of big tours, this speedboat adventure hits the mark. But if you’re looking for a leisurely, all-day exploration with extensive historical commentary, you might prefer a different type of tour.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, if you choose the option that includes hotel pickup, a friendly driver will collect you from your accommodation and bring you to the port.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, from pickup (if selected) to return, with stops at Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many reviewers loved the chance to explore underwater in the calm, clear waters.

Is there a safety briefing?
A safety briefing is included at the start, but some reviews noted that it can sometimes be brief or missing details. Waterproof bags are provided, and crew members like Pavlos and Dimitris are praised for their professionalism.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, a hat, and your ID or passport. Towels are not provided by the tour, but snorkeling gear and waterproof bags are included.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with swimming and some walking.

How many people are on the boat?
Most trips are capped at 11 passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The Sum Up

This speedboat cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and comfort. With knowledgeable guides, early access to popular sites, and all-inclusive amenities, it stands out as a memorable way to experience Crete’s iconic spots without the hassle of crowds. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who value quality, small-group intimacy, and a touch of luxury on their outdoor excursions.

If you’re seeking an active day filled with stunning views, snorkeling, and a bit of adrenaline, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to consider your comfort with swimming and walking in water, and you’ll have a day to cherish forever.

Whether you’re a couple, a solo explorer, or someone craving a more exclusive experience, this tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Crete’s most breathtaking sights in style and comfort.

You can check if your dates are available here: