Two outstanding boat tours depart from Kolymvari’s charming harbor. I love the Balos & Gramvousa Cruise for its perfect mix of beach time and history – you’ll swim in the crystal-clear Balos Lagoon and climb to a dramatic Venetian castle. The Menies and Chironissia Cruise is equally impressive, taking small groups to hidden coves where ancient ruins meet pristine waters. Both tours use comfortable motor yachts limited to 8 passengers, making them intimate and personalized experiences. Let’s look at these excellent tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Balos & Gramvousa cruise offers a full-day experience with activities like swimming, sunbathing, and visiting a historic Venetian castle.
- The Menies and Chironissia cruise focuses on exploring secluded bays, sea caves, and a vibrant coral reef along Crete’s northwest coast.
- Both cruises are conducted on luxury 55-foot motor yachts with a maximum capacity of 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
- Amenities like snorkeling gear, paddle boards, and a floating island dock are provided, along with refreshments such as salty platters, fruit salads, and cocktails.
- The cruises highlight the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, offering unique experiences and flexibility in tour planning.
Balos & Gramvousa Full Day Cruise
For a truly unforgettable day on the waters off the northwest coast of Crete, the Balos & Gramvousa Full Day Cruise is an absolute must. This 7-hour excursion aboard a luxury 55-foot motor yacht offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore two of the region’s most stunning natural wonders.
The day begins with a departure from Kolymvari, where you’ll embark on a journey to the breathtaking Balos Lagoon. Here, you can swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters and soak up the sun on the sandy Balos Beach.
Next, you’ll head to the picturesque Gramvousa Island, where you can hike to the historic Venetian castle for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy a salty snack platter, fruit salad, lunch, cocktails, wine, and more, all included in the price of $3,023.51 per group (up to 8 participants).
With a skipper, hostess, and a range of amenities like snorkeling equipment and paddle boards, this cruise offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence.
Read our full review: Balos & Gramvousa Full Day Cruise Review
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Menies and Chironissia Private Bays Full Day Cruise
This 7-hour excursion aboard a luxurious 55-foot motor yacht takes guests on an unforgettable journey to explore the secluded bays and hidden gems of Crete’s northwest coast.
Priced from $1,658.73 for up to 8 participants, the Menies and Chironissia Private Bays Full Day Cruise promises an intimate and personalized experience. Guests will visit the ancient city of Diktinna and the temple of Vritomartis, as well as discover stunning sea caves and a vibrant purple coral reef.
The highlight is swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the peaceful bay of Hironisia. The cruise includes a professional skipper, hostess, and an array of amenities such as a salty platter, fruit salad, lunch menu options, cocktails, and selected wine.
Snorkeling gear, paddle boards, and a floating island dock are also provided for maximum enjoyment. With flexible tour options and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the hidden wonders of Crete’s coastline.
Read our full review: Menies and Chironissia Private Bays Full Day Cruise Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get From My Hotel to the Tour Departure Point?
To get from your hotel to the tour departure point, you can either take a taxi, public transportation, or arrange for a shuttle service with the tour company. The best option will depend on the location of your hotel and the tour departure point.
What Should I Bring With Me for the Full-Day Tour?
When going on a full-day tour, it’s best to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a light jacket, snacks, and plenty of water. Don’t forget your camera to capture the day’s adventures.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?
The meals included in the full-day tour may have dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options. It’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure your dietary needs can be accommodated.
Can I Book the Tour in Advance or Is It Only Available on the Day?
You can typically book the tour in advance to secure your spot, though some may be available for same-day booking. It’s best to check with the tour operator to understand their booking policies and availability.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for the Full-Day Tours?
Many tour providers offer discounts for full-day tours, such as bundled packages or early booking promotions. It’s best to check with individual companies to see what deals they have available. Some may even provide group discounts for larger parties.
Recap
Kolymvari offers several full-day tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty. The Balos & Gramvousa Full Day Cruise and the Menies and Chironissia Private Bays Full Day Cruise are two popular options that provide opportunities to discover secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic landscapes. These tours offer a convenient way to make the most of a day in Kolymvari.