Visit two iconic destinations in one day: Explore the legendary Pirate Island of Gramvousa and the world-famous Balos Lagoon, one of Crete’s most spectacular natural wonders
Enjoy a scenic and comfortable cruise: Sail through dramatic landscapes with cliffs, caves, turquoise waters and onboard amenities including a restaurant-bar and shaded seating
Experience unique nature and history: Swim in crystal-clear waters, walk on white and pink-hued sands and discover the historic Venetian castle of Gramvousa with panoramic views
Description
Depart from the port of Kissamos and enjoy a scenic cruise of about one hour through the bay, accompanied by soft music and views of steep cliffs, rocky formations, secluded beaches and the endless blue of the Cretan Sea.
Along the route, you will see a large sea cave believed to have been an ancient shipyard, as well as a striking geological phenomenon at the end of the bay: western Crete is slowly rising while the eastern side is sinking, due to the movement of the African tectonic plate beneath the Eurasian plate. Traces of the ancient coastline remain visible along the rocks.
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The ship's self-service restaurant and bar operate throughout the cruise, offering meals, snacks, drinks available on board or as take-away. Sun umbrellas can be rented. Payments are accepted by credit or debit card only.
The boat then sails between Agria Gramvousa and Cape Vouxa (Trypiti), revealing breathtaking views of Valenti, Pontikonisi, Imeri Gramvousa and the turquoise waters of the Balos lagoon.
Depending on the itinerary, the first stop is either Gramvousa Island or Balos.
At Gramvousa Island, known as the Island of the Pirates, you may visit the beach of Agioi Apostoloi, swim in crystal-clear waters, or hike to the impressive Venetian Castle of Gramvousa (built in 1579) atop a steep rock at 137 meters altitude. The hike takes about 20 minutes and rewards you with panoramic views and a sense of the island's legendary past. The stay on Gramvousa lasts approximately 2 hours.
A short 20-minute cruise leads to Balos Lagoon, one of the most famous beaches in the world. Shallow emerald waters, white sand with pink hues from crushed shells and an exotic lagoon setting between the Gramvousa Peninsula and Cape Tigani create a truly unforgettable landscape.
Time at Balos lasts approximately 2.5 hours, allowing you to swim, relax and experience one of Crete's most extraordinary natural treasures.
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Price list
From 24th of April till 14th of July and 16th of September till 31st of October
Adults (13+ years old) 40 Euros
Children (3-12 years old) 24 Euros
Infants (0-2 years old) Free
From 15th of July till 15th of September
Adults (13+ years old) 45 Euros
Children (3-12 years old) 27 Euros
Infants (0-2 years old) Free
Times
Starts: 10:35 am
7 hrs
Ends: 5:35 pm
Please, arrive 30 minutes earlier at the meeting point.
Your email ticket will contain all the information you need for an easy and smooth experience. You’ll get contact details, meeting point or pick up details with a Google map, our direct line (in case you need it) and much more.
Important information
Free parking area at the port of Kissamos.
Gramvousa and Balos are uninhabited areas and haven't any roads neither shops
The Municipality of Kissamos, before boarding, collects 1 euro additionally from every ticket, as an administrative fee for passengers over 13 years old visiting Balos lagoon
To board the boat, please visit the travel agency on day of your trip to collect your boarding pass using the reservation documents provided by us
Passengers can make purchases onboard only with a card
Please bring with you
Sunscreen
Beach towel
Comfortable shoes and clothes
Includes & excludes
Audio guide in Greek, English, German and French
Onboard Services: self-service restaurant and bar (Chicken with baked potatoes, Soutzoukakia with rice, Stuffed tomatoes with rice and spices, etc.), individual salad and bottled water), all available for an additional cost of 13€ per person. You can also rent sun umbrellas
Transfer
Transfer information
Simple & easy cancellation policy
100% refund if cancelled up to 24 hours before departure
No refund if cancelled within 24 hours or in case of a no-show
Changing your booking date depends on availability and cannot be guaranteed. Prices may also vary depending on the season.
The text 'Free cancellation' refers to the fact that there is no penalty charge from us to process a refund or cancellation. It does not indicate the amount of the refund.
Port of Kissamos Arrive at the port and enjoy the free parking area. Exchange your reservation documents for tickets at the cruise company's office, either in the main offices 1 km from the town square or at the port, in front of the boats
Kissamos Bay Begin your cruise through Kissamos Bay, taking in the stunning views of steep cliffs, secluded beaches, and unique geological formations
Gramvousa (Pirate Island) Explore the pirate island of Gramvousa. Hike up to the Venetian castle for panoramic views, visit the beach with the shipwreck, and relax by the water. You’ll have around 2 hours to enjoy this historic and scenic location
Journey to Balos Lagoon Enjoy a 20-minute boat ride from Gramvousa to Balos, soaking in more breathtaking views of the coast and nearby islands along the way
Balos Lagoon Spend approximately 2.5 hours at Balos Lagoon, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the beach, and take in the natural beauty of the area
Return to Port of Kissamos After your time at Balos, board the boat and head back to the Port of Kissamos, completing your 7-hour excursion and enjoying the scenic views one last time on the way back
FAQs
What happens if the weather is bad?
In case the weather is bad and for your safety your excursion is cancelled you will first be offered the chance to reschedule. If, for whatever reason you can't or don't want to reschedule - including, simply, your wishes, we will then immediately process a 100% refund of your booking. Without any extra fees or charges. No hassle no fuss.
Rarely, bad weather may also mean that, for your safety, a different itinerary is used. Here, no refund is possible. The tour organizer will always offer an equivelant itinerary taking the same amount of time and visiting equally impressive places (just those not so prone to bad weather) and offering an equally enjoyable experience that you are sure to treasure.
Can I pay on arrival?
It is not possible to pay on arrival. The only way to secure a booking is to make a reservation beforehand.
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