Kissamos: Explore Balos and Gramvoussa, supporting a cause

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Crete’s stunning coastline, this cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvoussa Island offers a wonderful mix of scenery, comfort, and purpose. Set aboard a sleek Bavaria 50 Cruiser, this journey promises more than just postcard-perfect views—it’s a chance to relax, indulge, and contribute to a meaningful cause.

Three things we love about this experience are the luxurious yet intimate boat setting, the spectacular natural sights of Balos and Gramvoussa, and the delicious onboard meals and drinks. One possible consideration is the weather dependency, as bad weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellations. The trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with a touch of adventure and a desire to support a good cause—perfect for couples, families, or small groups craving a memorable Crete outing.

Good To Know

• Luxury Sailing Experience: The Bavaria 50 Cruiser offers comfort, style, and ample space for relaxation.
• Breathtaking Destinations: Visit the iconic Balos Lagoon and the historic Gramvoussa Island with its Venetian fortress.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Brunch, main meal, drinks, snorkeling gear, and onboard entertainment are included.
• Support a Noble Cause: All proceeds fund free sea holidays for children with Down syndrome.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, keep your plans adaptable with “reserve now, pay later.”
• Small Groups or Private Tours: Options available for a more personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Crete Day Cruise to Balos and Gramvoussa

Setting Sail on a Well-Equipped Yacht

Imagine gliding across the Aegean on a sleek Bavaria 50 Cruiser. This isn’t just any boat—it’s a spacious, well-designed vessel tailored for sightseeing, comfort, and smooth sailing. Reviewers consistently praise the vessel for its modern amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, cozy saloon, and large outdoor deck for sunbathing or simply soaking in the views. The three bathrooms with showers ensure convenience, especially after a swim or a sun-soaked day.

Guests highlight the professional crew’s friendliness and experience, which makes the entire journey feel relaxed and safe. The crew also takes care of all taxes, port charges, fuel, and safety gear like life jackets, so you can just focus on enjoying the day.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

The trip begins with a meet-up at a convenient dock in Kissamos, marked clearly by a white Almanac Super Heroes flag. The process is straightforward, with a parking area nearby and a friendly welcome from the crew who explain the schedule and safety instructions.

Once aboard, the boat sets sail, and the real fun begins. You’ll feel the cool sea breeze, with plenty of space on deck for lounging and taking in the horizon. The cruise lasts roughly 8 hours, a length that balances ample exploration with enough time to relax and eat.

Highlights of Balos Lagoon

First stop is the legendary Balos Lagoon. Known for its turquoise waters and white sands, it’s a photographer’s dream. Guests rave about the serene atmosphere—a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just unwinding on the beach. The shallow, warm waters make it safe and inviting for all ages, and the natural beauty is truly breathtaking.

A review notes, “Balos is a paradise that looks almost unreal with its perfect blend of blue waters and white sands.” Visitors have the chance to snorkel with provided gear, discovering underwater life, or simply relax with a drink in hand, enjoying the silence broken only by gentle waves.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Gramvoussa Island and Its Fort

The second major stop is Gramvoussa Island, home to a Venetian fortress perched atop a rocky hill. The hike up is manageable for most, and the panoramic views of the Aegean are spectacular. The fortress offers a glimpse into the island’s strategic past as a Venetian outpost, which many find fascinating.

Guests are also free to swim in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island or explore its rugged landscape. One reviewer mentions, “The views from the fortress are worth the climb, and the swim afterwards in the clear waters felt like a reward.”

Meals and Drinks Onboard

A key part of the experience is the onboard brunch and main meal, served with soft drinks, beers, and wine. The food is described as satisfying and well-prepared, giving you enough energy for the day’s activities. Reviewers note that the meals are a good value, especially given the inclusive drinks and snacks.

Music onboard creates a lively, yet relaxing atmosphere, making the cruise feel like a celebration of Crete’s natural beauty. Snorkeling equipment is provided, enhancing the underwater adventure, and the overall onboard environment is described as warm and welcoming.

Supporting a Noble Cause

What sets this cruise apart is its commitment to a meaningful cause. Every booking directly supports a non-profit initiative providing free sea holidays for children with Down syndrome. Guests can feel good about their contribution, knowing that their day of leisure helps bring joy to others.

The reviews emphasize the importance of this aspect, with many expressing satisfaction that their trip made a difference, adding a layer of purpose to their holiday.

Practical Details and Booking

The cruise operates with flexible booking options, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you peace of mind as you plan your trip. The cruise is suitable for small groups or private bookings, making it flexible for families, friends, or couples wanting a more personalized experience.

Basic requirements include bringing sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, towel, and ID or passport. The trip is not suitable for pregnant women, which is typical for sea excursions.

Weather and Seasonality

As with any outdoor activity, the cruise is weather-dependent. Bad weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellations, so it’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

This excursion offers a well-rounded experience that balances stunning scenery, onboard comfort, and a sense of contributing to a worthwhile cause. The inclusion of meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the professional crew makes it a strong value, especially considering the scenic stops and the chance to support children with Down syndrome.

The small group or private options mean you won’t feel crowded, and the spacious yacht ensures a comfortable day on the water. The route to Balos and Gramvoussa is generally praised for its breathtaking views, and the opportunity to explore both natural landscapes and historical sites adds depth to the trip.

Who Will Love This Experience?

Travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water will find this cruise ideal. It’s perfect for those who enjoy comfort and convenience but also want to see Crete’s iconic spots from a unique vantage point. If you’re passionate about supporting charitable causes, this trip provides a meaningful way to give back while exploring the Aegean.

Families with children and small groups will appreciate the inclusive meals and easy access to swimming and snorkeling. The experience is also suitable for those who prefer a less hurried, more intimate adventure.

Final Thoughts

This cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvoussa Island combines luxury, natural beauty, and purpose into a single memorable day. The vessel’s comfort and the thoughtfully planned itinerary make it stand out among typical boat trips. Plus, knowing that your participation supports children with Down syndrome adds a feel-good factor.

The breathtaking views, excellent onboard amenities, and the chance to learn about the history of Gramvoussa make this a compelling choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Crete’s best. It’s a trip that balances relaxation, exploration, and giving back—delivering a well-rounded experience that many travelers will cherish.

If you’re after a scenic, comfortable, and meaningful day out in Crete, this cruise offers excellent value, especially for small groups or those seeking a private experience. Just remember to check the weather and bring your essentials for sun and sea—this is a day you’ll likely remember long after returning home.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?
The trip lasts about 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each destination without feeling rushed.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It begins at a dock in front of the Efkrasia sailing boat at Kissamos port and returns to the same spot at the end of the day.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes, port charges, fuel, life jackets, meals, drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks, water), snorkeling equipment, and onboard music are included.

Is there an option for private booking?
Yes, private and small group options are available, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a passport or ID card (a copy is accepted).

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your travel schedule.

Is the cruise suitable for pregnant women?
No, this activity is not recommended for pregnant women due to the nature of sea travel.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, it may be rescheduled or canceled, so keep an eye on the forecast.

How many people are typically onboard?
The vessel is designed to accommodate up to 8 guests comfortably, fostering a more intimate atmosphere.

This Crete cruise offers a blend of lush scenery, historical exploration, onboard comfort, and meaningful support, making it a standout choice for a day filled with beauty and purpose.

You can check if your dates are available here: