Balos & Gramvousa: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Transfer
Swim Balos Lagoon, hike Gramvousa fortress, relax with Cretan food on a catamaran
You’ll board a spacious catamaran from Kissamos for a relaxed cruise through Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Bay. Swim or snorkel in clear water, try paddleboarding or just float around on inflatables while Cretan snacks keep coming. Hike up to Gramvousa’s fortress or unwind on deck before sharing lunch with new friends as music drifts across the bay.
7h
Step-by-step itinerary
Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island Cruise
- Depart from Kissamos Port
- Swim near Balos Lagoon
- Explore Balos Lagoon scenery
- Anchor at Gramvousa Bay
- Swim and hike to Venetian fortress
- Enjoy lunch on board
- Return to Kissamos Port
The Experience
I didn’t expect to start my day in Crete by fumbling with a snorkel mask while the sun was barely up — but there I was, standing at Kissamos Port with coffee still warming my hands. The transfer had been smooth (I always worry about those), and before I knew it, we were boarding this huge catamaran. It smelled faintly of sunscreen and salt. The crew greeted us like they’d known us for years — one of them, Maria, even teased me for wearing socks with sandals. “You’ll regret those in an hour,” she grinned. She was right.
The first stop was Balos Lagoon. Honestly, photos don’t prepare you for how turquoise the water looks when you’re actually there. There’s this weird hush when everyone jumps in — just splashes and the sound of someone laughing nearby (maybe me). I tried stand-up paddleboarding for the first time; lasted about two minutes before falling off and swallowing half the lagoon. No shame. My partner floated around on one of those ridiculous inflatable flamingos and waved at a family from Athens who seemed to be having their own noodle battle. The air tasted like sea spray and something herbal from the brunch snacks they kept bringing out — little bites of cheese pie and olives that somehow made everything feel more local.
After that we anchored at Gramvousa Island. Some people hiked up to the old Venetian fortress — it’s steep but not impossible if you take your time (I did). The view from up there is wild: you see the whole bay stretched out under this crazy blue sky, boats bobbing below like toys. Back on board, lunch was served — three options but I went for whatever smelled most garlicky (no regrets). The entertainer kept things lively without being over the top; at one point he got half the boat singing along to a Cretan song I couldn’t pronounce if I tried.
I still think about that swim in Balos Lagoon — how cold it felt at first and then how you never want to get out once you settle in. Even now, weeks later, I can hear Maria’s laugh echoing when she handed me another towel because “tourists always forget how windy Crete gets.” We sailed back to Kissamos with salty skin and full stomachs, kind of wishing the day had gone slower.
What’s included
- Your day includes complimentary transfer from your accommodation to Kissamos Port and back again after sailing.
- Onboard you’ll find shaded lounges and sunbeds on a modern catamaran plus all your meals—Cretan snacks for brunch followed by a choice of three lunches—alongside unlimited coffee, tea, detox water and soft drinks.
- Snorkeling equipment, SUP boards, inflatable noodles (and even flamingos), plus an English-speaking crew keep things easygoing throughout your Balos & Gramvousa adventure.
Operated by DanEri Yachts - Luxury Catamaran Cruises on Crete & Milos, Greece
Traveler reviews
Top questions
What time does the Balos & Gramvousa cruise depart?
The cruise departs from Kissamos Port at 08:30 in the morning.
Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?
Yes, complimentary transfer is included for your convenience.
Are meals provided during the catamaran cruise?
Yes, brunch snacks and a full lunch are included onboard.
Can I use snorkeling gear or paddleboards during the tour?
Yes, high-quality snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards are available for guests.
How long do we spend at Balos Lagoon?
You will have time to swim near Balos Lagoon after arriving around 09:30.
Is there an option for kids’ entertainment?
A box of toys can be provided for kids by request during the cruise.
What is served for lunch on board?
The menu includes three different options; all are freshly prepared on board.
Do we visit Gramvousa Island on this cruise?
Yes, anchoring at Gramvousa Bay is part of the itinerary where you can explore or hike up to the fortress.
Balos & Gramvousa: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Transfer
7h · at your hotel
from € 133 per person
★★★★★★★★★★4.74207 reviews
