Private Cruise to Balos and Gramvousa from Falassarna

Swim in turquoise shallows, then climb to a Venetian fortress high above the beach

A private speedboat tour departing Falassarna reaches Balos lagoon in 30 minutes, where you spend about an hour in water so shallow and warm it suits young children, then moves to Gramvousa island to explore the ruins of a 137-meter Venetian fortress and an abandoned wreck before returning at sunset. The 11-meter boat carries a small group with an English-speaking guide, snorkelling equipment, and cold drinks on board.

Step-by-step itinerary

Cruise to Balos and Gramvousa

• Depart from Falassarna port
• Arrive at Balos lagoon
• Explore Balos lagoon for one hour
• Travel to Gramvousa island
• Swim, take photos, and relax at Gramvousa
• Return to Falassarna port

The experience

The 11-meter speedboat leaves Falassarna and reaches Balos in half an hour. You'll have roughly an hour in the lagoon itself. The water is so shallow and warm that families with small children find it ideal, and in many places the sand has a pinkish tint from millions of crushed shells. Swim, snorkel with the gear provided, or simply float in water so clear you can see the bottom. The boat crew stays on hand with cold drinks and whatever assistance you need.

Gramvousa island sits just across the water. You'll spend an hour there exploring the Venetian fortress that still stands at 137 meters above the beach: a structure that later served pirates, and according to local legend, marks the spot where treasure was buried. An abandoned ship wreck near the shore has become part of the landscape over the years. The views from the fort reach across the water back toward the mainland.

On the return to Falassarna, the boat makes stops timed to catch the sunset. The whole outing runs about six hours from departure to dock.

What’s included

• Snorkelling equipment.
• beers and bottled water.
• cold drinks on board.
• restroom on board.
• all fees and taxes.
• English-speaking guide for the full six hours.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 14:00

Book up to4h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Falassarna Activities

Is this one for you?The boat leaves from Falassarna port, so you'll need to arrange your own transport there, but if you're staying in the area without a car, public transit reaches the port and this private cruise handles the rest of the day on the water.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

5 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

How long do you actually spend swimming at Balos lagoon?

Balos lagoon gets roughly an hour of your time in the water. The boat takes 30 minutes to reach it from Falassarna, and you'll have that full hour to swim, snorkel or relax before heading to Gramvousa.

What is the Venetian fortress on Gramvousa island like?

The fortress stands 137 meters above Gramvousa's beach and dates to the Venetian era, though it was later used by pirates. You'll have an hour to walk the ruins and take in the views across the water toward the mainland and Balos.

Is snorkelling equipment included, or do I need to bring my own?

Snorkelling gear is provided on board. You can use it in the lagoon at Balos or anywhere else the boat stops.

What drinks and food are available on the boat?

Cold drinks are served on board throughout the day. Beers and bottled water are included. Bring your own food or eat before departure, as meals are not part of the tour.

Does the boat leave from a hotel, or do I need to get to Falassarna on my own?

The boat departs from Falassarna port. You'll need to arrange your own transport there. Public transportation options are available in the area.