Set out on a captivating journey from Kissamos, Crete, to the historic Pirate Island. This 4-hour boat cruise offers a chance to explore the renowned Balos Lagoon and Gramousa Island, swim in crystal-clear waters, and spot a 1968 shipwreck. Savor local Cretan refreshments as you learn about the region’s rich maritime heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you yearning for more.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Balos Beach.
Key Points
- Departs from Kissamos, Crete for a 4-hour journey to the historic Pirate Island, exploring Balos Lagoon and Gramousa Island along the way.
- Offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and observing the remains of a 1968 shipwreck, providing insights into the region’s maritime heritage.
- Includes refreshments such as water, beverages, wine, Cretan salad, and fresh fruits to enhance the overall cruise experience.
- Provides convenient hotel pickup from select areas, ensuring a hassle-free start to the cruise.
- Offers easy availability check and flexible booking process, with several daily departures to choose from.
Overview of the Cruise
The private boat cruise departs from Kissamos, Crete and takes guests on a 4-hour journey to the historic Pirate Island.
During the cruise, visitors will have the chance to explore the stunning Balos Lagoon and the picturesque Gramousa Island.
The pristine waters off the Cretan coast offer ample opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, and guests can even view the site of a 1968 shipwreck.
The cruise includes water, beverages, wine, a Cretan salad, and fresh seasonal fruits, as well as snorkeling equipment, VAT, fuel, insurance, and a skipper.
Hotel pick-up is available from select areas, making this an all-inclusive and convenient way to discover the region’s natural beauty and rich history.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Balos Beach
Visiting Balos Lagoon
One of the highlights of the private boat cruise is the opportunity to visit the stunning Balos Lagoon, a natural wonder renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.
As the boat approaches the lagoon, passengers are greeted by the dramatic landscape of towering cliffs and a pristine stretch of white sandy beach. The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the marine life that thrives in this protected environment.
With its unique geological formations and serene atmosphere, Balos Lagoon offers a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Cretan coast.
Exploring Gramousa Island
Amidst the azure waters off the Cretan coast, Gramousa Island beckons visitors to embark on a captivating journey through its historic past.
Dotted with the remnants of a Venetian fortress, this remote island offers a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime heritage, where the stories of ancient seafarers and fearsome pirates linger in the salty breeze.
Visitors can explore the island’s rugged landscapes, discover hidden coves, and imagine the tales of those who once called this place home.
Whether hiking along the island’s trails or simply basking in the tranquility of its sun-drenched shores, Gramousa Island promises an unforgettable experience, transporting guests back in time to a bygone era of adventure and exploration.
Swimming and Snorkeling
During the private boat cruise, visitors can dive into the pristine waters off the Cretan coast, seeing a world of vibrant marine life and captivating underwater landscapes. The clear, turquoise waters offer excellent visibility, allowing snorkelers to catch glimpses of colorful schools of fish, sea urchins, and other marine creatures. The opportunity to swim and snorkel in these unspoiled waters is a highlight of the cruise, providing a refreshing and rejuvenating experience amidst the natural splendor of the Balos Lagoon and Gramousa Island.
| Snorkeling Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Vibrant Fish Populations | Diverse Marine Life |
| Shallow, Clear Waters | Fascinating Underwater Landscapes |
| Opportunity to Explore Coves and Caves | Chance to Spot Starfish and Sea Turtles |
Shipwreck Site Sighting
The private boat cruise also offers visitors the opportunity to view the site of a shipwreck from 1968, providing a glimpse into the region’s maritime history.
Guests can observe the remains of the vessel, which lies submerged just off the coast. This unique experience allows travelers to imagine the stories and challenges faced by sailors in the past.
The skipper will share details about the shipwreck, ensuring passengers gain a deeper understanding of the area’s seafaring heritage.
Exploring this site is a thought-provoking addition to the cruise, complementing the natural beauty and historic sites visitors will encounter throughout the journey.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Balos Beach
Included Refreshments and Cuisine
On the private boat cruise, passengers can expect an array of refreshments and cuisine to enjoy throughout the journey.
Guests will be provided with water, beverages, and wine to quench their thirst, complemented by a Cretan salad and seasonal fresh fruits for a light, nutritious meal.
These included offerings allow travelers to fully savor the experience while taking in the breathtaking scenery and historic sights.
The cruise ensures that guests can indulge in the local flavors of Crete without having to worry about bringing their own food and drinks.
This attention to detail enhances the overall experience, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the journey to the historic Pirate Island.
Transportation and Pickup Options
Convenient hotel pickup is available from select areas, providing a hassle-free start to the private boat cruise experience. Guests can simply meet the crew at their hotel, eliminating the need to navigate to the departure point. This pickup service is included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless and stress-free beginning to the adventure.
Once aboard the boat, guests will embark on a scenic journey from Kissamos to the historic Pirate Island, taking in the stunning views along the way. The transportation is both comfortable and reliable, allowing guests to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the experience.
Booking and Availability
Conveniently, guests can easily check the availability of the private boat cruise to Historic Pirate Island on the tour’s website.
Once availability is confirmed, they can seamlessly reserve their spot and pay later to secure their preferred date and time. This flexible booking process allows travelers to plan their Cretan adventures with ease.
The tour operator encourages early reservations, as spots tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. With several daily departures available, guests can choose the time that best fits their schedule.
Whether it’s a morning excursion or an afternoon outing, this historic boat tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the stunning Balos Lagoon and Gramousa Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Change the Cruise Itinerary During the Tour?
The cruise itinerary can be changed during the tour, but this is subject to the skipper’s discretion and weather conditions. Passengers should communicate any preferences to the skipper, who will make the final decision to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is There a Limit on the Number of People per Group?
Yes, there is a limit on the number of people per group. The private boat cruise from Kissamos, Crete to historic Pirate Island has a maximum capacity of 9 people.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Cruise?
The minimum age requirement for the cruise is not specified. However, the cruise is suitable for all ages, as it offers activities like swimming and snorkeling that can be enjoyed by both adults and children.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Beverages?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and beverages on the private boat cruise. However, the tour operator provides complimentary water, beverages, wine, Cretan salad, and seasonal fruits as part of the tour package.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
The private boat cruise may offer occasional discounts or special offers, such as group rates or seasonal promotions. To inquire about any current discounts, customers are encouraged to check the company’s website or contact their customer service team directly.
Recap
This captivating boat cruise from Kissamos, Crete, offers a unique opportunity to explore the historic Pirate Island, the renowned Balos Lagoon, and Gramousa Island.
Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and spotting a 1968 shipwreck, all while savoring local Cretan refreshments and seeing the region’s rich maritime heritage and stunning natural beauty.
With transportation and pickup options available, this private cruise is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable Cretan adventure.
You can check if your dates are available here: