Rethymno: Gramvousa & Balos Lagoon Day Trip with Boat Ticket

If you’re after a day filled with scenic views, a splash of history, and plenty of time to relax on some of Crete’s most famous beaches, this tour offers a lot to consider. We’ve reviewed it thoroughly, based on feedback from travelers and the itinerary itself, to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the hassle-free roundtrip transfer to Kissamos port means no stress trying to organize transport. Second, the combination of boat rides with swim stops and castle visits offers a balanced mix of adventure and culture. Lastly, the generous three hours at Balos Lagoon gives ample time to sunbathe, snorkel, or simply soak in the views.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the early start and the potential for rough seas, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating. This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a full day of exploration and relaxation, comfortable with boat rides and walking.

Good To Know

• Convenient roundtrip transfer from Rethymno simplifies logistics.
• Flexible free time at Balos Lagoon allows for personalized beach experiences.
• Historical highlight: visit and explore the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island.
• Inclusions cover transport and boat tickets, with options for snacks and drinks onboard.
• Weather considerations: rough seas may impact the experience, especially for non-swimmers or those with medical conditions.
• Ideal for those seeking scenic beauty, light adventure, and a taste of Crete’s natural and historical charm.

The trip kicks off early in the morning with hotel pickups at specific points near your accommodation. The air-conditioned bus ride to Kissamos port is comfortable and scenic, offering glimpses of Crete’s rugged landscape. Once at the port, you’ll pay a small eco fee (€1 cash) before boarding the boat. This part of the journey is smooth and well-organized, with the boat departing for Gramvousa Island approximately an hour later.

The Gramvousa Island Visit

The star of this trip is the Venetian Fortress perched atop Gramvousa. This fortress offers stunning panoramic views, and explorers typically spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes wandering the ruins. According to reviews, guides like Lazaros and Konstantinos are helpful and friendly, making the experience more engaging. One traveler noted, “The trip itself was very good; our guide was helpful & friendly.” The fortress provides a perfect photo op and a chance to learn a bit about the island’s past.

Alternatively, if you prefer to relax, you can stay on the boat, enjoy the onboard bar, or lounge at the beachside. The boat crew does their best to ensure safety during the visit, even with some travelers mentioning rougher seas on the day. It’s worth noting that the new vessel used from July 15th onwards offers a more comfortable ride, making the journey more relaxing.

Cruising to Balos Lagoon

After the fortress visit, the boat cruises for about 20 minutes to Balos Lagoon. This is where the tour really pays off. Once docked, you’re free to spend approximately three hours soaking up the sun, swimming, snorkeling, or exploring the dunes. Reviewers consistently mention how Balos Lagoon’s beauty is unmatched, with Megan describing it as “so cool” and “amazing.” The waters are toasty, and the scenery—dunes mixed with turquoise sea—is truly captivating.

Timing and Flexibility

The timing of the trip is designed to give you a generous amount of free time at Balos Lagoon, which many travelers appreciate. The boat departs back for Kissamos in the late afternoon, and the bus then ferry you back to your hotel in Rethymno. The entire experience lasts around 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day of activity.

Transportation & Comfort: The roundtrip bus transfer ensures you don’t need to worry about navigating Crete’s roads. The boat journey, about an hour to Gramvousa and a brief cruise to Balos, is generally smooth. The vessel’s recent upgrade means a more comfortable ride, but rough seas could still cause some motion sickness – pack some seasickness remedies if you’re prone.

Cost & Value: At $62 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the included roundtrip transport, boat tickets, and the opportunity to visit two top spots with minimal hassle. Additional expenses like food and drinks can be purchased on board, and an eco fee (€1 cash) applies.

Practical Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s some walking at the fortress and potentially uneven terrain. Bring sun protection, a towel, and cash for extras. The trip isn’t suitable for small children under one year, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues or medical conditions, as confirmed by reviews and the tour details.

Weather & Seas: The tour provider collaborates with a smaller, better-equipped ship from mid-July, which improves ride quality. Still, travelers should be prepared for the possibility of rough seas, which might affect non-swimmers or those with health issues.

Travelers often highlight the guides’ friendliness and helpfulness. One reviewer mentioned, “Lazaros and Konstantinos did their best and were very helpful,” adding that they felt safe throughout the trip despite some blustery weather. Several enjoyed the personal touches, like the onboard bar and the option to relax at the beachside instead of sightseeing.

The timing at Balos Lagoon is particularly praised, with many saying three hours felt perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, or exploring dunes. Megan described the beach as “amazing” and “so cool,” while others mentioned the scenic views and photo opportunities.

A common tip from travelers is to climb the steps to the fortress—it’s worth the effort for the stunning views, despite some reviewers mentioning it as a bit of a challenge. Jamie said, “It is 100% worth the trouble,” after conquering the ascent.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive day of natural beauty and light adventure. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with boat rides and walking, and you’re eager to see Crete’s famous beaches without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. Nature lovers, history buffs, and those wanting a relaxing beach day will find plenty to enjoy.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues, very young children, or anyone sensitive to sea motion or rough weather. The early start and full-day commitment also mean this is ideal for those prepared for a long, active day.

This tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and convenience. You gain access to some of Crete’s most iconic spots—Balos Lagoon’s dazzling dunes and Gramvousa’s historic fortress—without the stress of organizing transport or navigating unfamiliar roads. The free time at Balos is ample, providing the flexibility to enjoy the beach at your own pace.

While weather can be a factor, the recent vessel upgrade and good guides help ensure a comfortable, enjoyable experience. For under $65, you get a full day packed with stunning views, cultural highlights, and plenty of opportunities to unwind.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a hassle-free way to experience Crete’s natural beauty and history in one day, especially if you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and boat rides.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included at specific points near your accommodation, with some exceptions such as remote hotels or villas.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, cash, and any personal essentials for a day at the beach and exploring.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Kissamos port to Gramvousa is about an hour, with a brief cruise to Balos Lagoon afterward.

Can I stay on the boat during the fortress visit?
Yes, if you prefer, you can stay on the boat, enjoy the onboard bar, or relax at the beachside instead of visiting the fortress.

What’s the weather like?
Weather can impact the experience, especially seasickness or rough seas. The vessel has been upgraded recently to improve comfort.

How much free time do I get at Balos Lagoon?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and explore the dunes, which many find ample for a relaxing beach experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year, children with mobility issues, or those with medical conditions. Non-swimmers might also find some aspects challenging.

What is the price and is it good value?
At $62 per person, the cost covers transport, boat tickets, and guided visits. It’s considered good value for a full-day experience at Crete’s top beaches.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be affected by bad weather, especially rough seas. The provider collaborates with a better vessel from July 15th, but always check the weather forecast before booking.

To sum it up, this trip offers a well-rounded day in Crete—blending history, natural beauty, and beach time with the convenience of guided transport. It’s a great pick for travelers eager to make the most of their day without the hassle, especially those who enjoy a mix of scenic exploration and relaxing on stunning beaches.