The Georgioupolis tour to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island offers a unique opportunity to explore these stunning natural wonders without the hassle and cost of a boat ticket. For a fraction of the price, travelers can enjoy a comprehensive experience that includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and the freedom to wander at their own pace. This option allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, while avoiding the crowded and potentially overwhelming boat experience. With its cost-effective approach and personalized exploration, the Georgioupolis trip promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Crete.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Georgioupoli.
Key Points

- The transportation-only option for the Balos and Gramvousa excursion includes hotel pickup and round-trip bus transportation to Kissamos port, without boat cruise tickets.
- The cost for the transportation-only package is $15.00 for adults, $7.50 for children (3-12 years), and free for infants (0-2 years).
- This cost-effective option allows for personalized exploration of the stunning natural beauty of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.
- The transportation-only package is suitable for individuals who prefer to explore the sites at their own pace, without the boat cruise.
- Booking for the transportation-only option can be done online or at the tour operator’s office, with the flexibility to pay later.
Trip Overview and Pricing

The trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island from Georgioupolis offers an 11-hour excursion priced from $18.45 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a reserve now & pay later option available.
This comprehensive tour provides an opportunity to explore the scenic views of the Sea of Crete, visit the Venetian castle on Gramvousa Island, and enjoy the crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Balos Lagoon.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply breathtaking natural beauty, this trip has something to offer for everyone.
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Transportation Details

For this excursion, the trip includes hotel pickup from Georgioupolis, Kavros, or Dramia, with guests boarding a bus marked ‘Balos Travel Agency’ that takes them to the Kissamos port to board the cruise.
Round-trip bus transportation is provided throughout the day’s activities. The bus ride offers scenic views of the Cretan countryside en route to the port, where travelers will board the boat that will take them to the Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.
This seamless transportation arrangement ensures a stress-free journey, allowing visitors to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the day’s adventures without worrying about navigating the logistics.
Experience Highlights

Visitors can expect to be captivated by the scenic views of the sparkling Sea of Crete throughout the day’s activities.
The highlight of the trip is the chance to explore the Venetian castle on Gramvousa Island. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the ancient fortress offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands and coastline.
After the castle visit, travelers can indulge in a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Balos Lagoon. The white sand beaches provide the perfect setting to relax and soak up the sun before heading back.
With these stunning natural landscapes, the Balos and Gramvousa excursion promises an unforgettable experience for visitors to the Georgioupolis region.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the Balos and Gramvousa trip are hotel pickup and drop-off, an informed tour guide, and boat cruise tickets, which cost €30 for adults and €15 for children.
Conversely, the package excludes food and drinks available for purchase on the boat, as well as the optional rental of sunbeds and sun umbrellas.
Plus, gratuities aren’t included, and the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen, as the tour doesn’t allow pets.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen, as the tour doesn’t permit pets.
The Balos and Gramvousa trip is a full-day excursion, so it’s essential to come prepared. Visitors should also note that the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.
While food and drinks are available on the boat, guests will need to cover these costs themselves. Sunbeds and sun umbrellas can be rented, but these expenses aren’t included in the tour price.
Customer Reviews
The Balos and Gramvousa trip has received an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 30 reviews, indicating that most customers were highly satisfied with the experience.
Positive feedback centered on the knowledgeable tour guide and efficient transportation provided.
However, some reviewers noted disappointment with the overcrowding at Balos Lagoon, particularly during peak seasons.
Many travelers emphasized the breathtaking views from the Venetian castle on Gramvousa Island as a highlight of the tour.
Despite these occasional drawbacks, the vast majority of customers seemed to thoroughly enjoy the scenic coastal landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and historical elements that this excursion offered.
Trip Without Boat Ticket

For those interested in exploring Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island without purchasing the boat tickets, the tour operator offers a transportation-only option. This allows visitors to reach the port and have the freedom to explore the areas on their own. The transportation-only package includes hotel pickup, round-trip bus transportation, and the option to be dropped off at the Kissamos port.
| Transportation-Only Package | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | $15.00 |
| Child (3-12 years) | $7.50 |
| Infant (0-2 years) | Free |
While this option doesn’t include the boat cruise, it provides a cost-effective way to access the stunning natural beauty of these popular destinations and create a personalized experience.
How to Book

Booking the Balos and Gramvousa trip is a straightforward process that can be done online or through the tour operator’s office. Customers have the flexibility to reserve their spot and pay later, making it convenient for travelers.
To book the tour, visitors can follow these simple steps:
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Visit the tour operator’s website or contact their office.
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Select the desired date and number of participants.
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Provide the necessary personal information and choose the payment method.
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Confirm the booking and receive the necessary details, such as pickup time and location.
The tour offers hassle-free transportation, including hotel pickup and drop-off, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a seamless and memorable experience in Georgioupolis.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the trip. While the tour includes a boat cruise, the description indicates that food and drinks available on the boat are not included in the price.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?
Yes, there are discounted prices for children on this tour. The boat cruise tickets are €15 for children, compared to the regular adult price of €30. However, there don’t appear to be any special senior discounts offered.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?
The tour spends approximately 1-2 hours at Gramvousa Island and 2-3 hours at Balos Lagoon, allowing travelers ample time to explore the Venetian castle, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and relax on the white sand beaches.
Are There Any Additional Fees Beyond the Listed Price?
According to the trip overview, the listed price of $18.45 per person covers the hotel pickup, transportation, tour guide, and boat cruise tickets. However, there are additional optional fees for renting sunbeds/umbrellas and gratuities.
Can I Book the Trip Directly With the Travel Agency?
Yes, you can book the Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island trip directly with the Balos Travel Agency. They offer hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and tour guide services, allowing you to conveniently arrange the entire excursion through the travel agency.
Recap
The Georgioupolis trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island offers a cost-effective way to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Providing hotel pickup, round-trip bus transportation, and personalized exploration, this option allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes without the crowds of a boat experience.
At just $15.00 for adults and $7.50 for children, it’s an opportunity to create a memorable adventure in Crete.
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