Kissamos: Gramvousa – Balos Tour on an Exceptional Catamaran

Embarking on a Kissamos: Gramvousa – Balos Tour aboard an exceptional catamaran is a must-do experience for those seeking to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and rich history of the region. This 8-hour excursion promises stunning vistas, refreshing waters, and a culinary journey through the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can expect an extraordinary adventure that delves into the captivating tales of Gramvousa Island and the renowned Balos Beach. As the catamaran sets sail, the stage is set for an unforgettable day of exploration, relaxation, and discovery.

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Kissamos.

Key Points

• An 8-hour excursion from Kissamos Port to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon, priced at $196.77 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour includes a light brunch, a 30-minute safety briefing, and a live English-speaking guide, departing at 11:00 AM.
• Visitors can explore Gramvousa Island, with activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking to the historic Gramvousa Castle.
• The tour includes a 15-minute sail to Balos Beach, where guests can swim, snorkel, and hike along the Poseidonia meadows.
• The return journey to Kissamos Port features scenic coastal views, refreshments, and opportunities for snorkeling and shipwreck exploration.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers an 8-hour Kissamos: Gramvousa – Balos excursion on a catamaran, priced from $196.77 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes a live English-speaking guide and departs from Kissamos Port next to the lighthouse at 11:00. Guests will enjoy a light brunch of sandwiches, traditional pies, and juices upon boarding before a 30-minute safety briefing.

The first stop is Gramvousa Island, followed by a 15-minute journey to the iconic Balos Beach for swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views.

Afterward, there’s time to explore Gramvousa Island further and enjoy refreshments like beer, wine, and a traditional lunch before the return to Kissamos Port around 19:00.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with a departure from Kissamos Port at 11:00, where guests are welcomed aboard with a light brunch including sandwiches, traditional pies, and juices before a 30-minute safety briefing. The first stop is the picturesque Gramvousa Island, where travelers enjoy a 30-minute photo break. Next, the catamaran sets sail for the stunning Balos Beach, offering an hour of swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the breathtaking scenery. Afterward, the group returns to Gramvousa Island, where they can swim, snorkel, and hike to the historic Gramvousa Castle, while enjoying refreshments like beer, wine, and a traditional Greek lunch.

Stop	Travel Time	Activities	Duration
Gramvousa Island	1.5 hours	Photo stop	30 minutes
Balos Beach	15 minutes	Swimming, snorkeling, scenic views	1 hour
Gramvousa Island	N/A	Swimming, snorkeling, hiking to Gramvousa Castle	2.5 hours

Starting Point and Departure

The tour departs from Kissamos Port, next to the lighthouse, in front of Catamaran Lagoon 400 S2 at Agios Nectarios, with a scheduled departure time of 11:00.

Once aboard, guests will enjoy a light brunch of sandwiches, traditional pies, and juices. Before setting sail, the crew will provide a 30-minute safety briefing to ensure everyone is informed and prepared for the adventure ahead.

With the formalities out of the way, the catamaran will depart Kissamos Port, embarking on an 8-hour journey to explore the stunning islands of Gramvousa and Balos.

Guests can look forward to breathtaking scenery, exciting activities, and a taste of traditional Greek hospitality throughout the tour.

Gramvousa Island Exploration

After departing Kissamos Port, the catamaran makes its way to the first stop – the stunning island of Gramvousa. Travelers can look forward to a 1.5-hour journey to this picturesque destination, where they’ll have 30 minutes to explore and capture the breathtaking scenery with their cameras.

Activity	Duration
Photo Stop	30 minutes
Swimming	Optional
Hiking to Gramvousa Castle	Optional

Gramvousa Island is known for its dramatic landscapes, including towering cliffs and a ruined Venetian castle perched atop a hill. Visitors can choose to swim, snorkel, or hike to the castle for panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and diverse marine life.

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Balos Beach Activities

Following a 15-minute journey from Gramvousa Island, the catamaran arrives at the renowned Balos Beach.

Travelers can then spend an hour swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the stunning scenery of the turquoise lagoon and the iconic Gramvousa Peninsula.

The shallow, crystal-clear waters of the lagoon offer excellent conditions for snorkeling, allowing guests to explore the marine life and possibly spot a shipwreck.

Those seeking a more active experience can hike along the beach or venture into the unique Poseidonia meadows.

Throughout the visit, the dramatic backdrop of the rugged Gramvousa cliffs and the picturesque lagoon provide a breathtaking setting for photographs and relaxation.

Return to Gramvousa Island

Upon their return to Gramvousa Island, travelers have 2.5 hours to explore the historic Gramvousa Castle, swim in the clear waters, and engage in snorkeling activities. During this time, they’re provided with refreshments, including beer, wine, and a traditional Greek lunch, allowing them to savor the local cuisine and culture.

The Gramvousa Castle, dating back to the 16th century, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the Aegean Sea. Snorkeling enthusiasts can discover the vibrant marine life and even a shipwreck, while those seeking relaxation can simply bask in the sun and enjoy the scenic beauty of the island.

This portion of the tour provides a well-rounded experience, combining history, adventure, and local flavors.

Return Journey to Kissamos Port

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the catamaran departs Gramvousa Island, embarking on the return journey to Kissamos Port.

The crew ensures a smooth and efficient sail, arriving back at the port around 7:00 PM, completing the full-day adventure.

Along the way, passengers can relax and soak in the stunning coastal views, enjoying the refreshments provided.

The tour offers a perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and traditional Greek hospitality.

Upon disembarking, guests leave with unforgettable memories of the breathtaking Balos Lagoon, the historical Gramvousa Island, and the unique experience of sailing on a modern catamaran.

The Kissamos: Gramvousa – Balos tour is a truly exceptional way to discover the natural wonders of western Crete.

Experience Highlights and Inclusions

The tour offers a variety of highlights that immerse guests in the rich cultural and natural experiences of the region.

Passengers can expect unique stories from a modern pirate escort, captivating scenic views, opportunities for snorkeling and exploring the underwater shipwreck, as well as the chance to wander through the Poseidonia meadows on Gramvousa Island.

Onboard, guests can relax to the sounds of traditional music while indulging in a tasty traditional lunch and excellent bottled wine or beer.

The tour includes a comfortable catamaran with luxury amenities, an expert captain and crew, and all necessary safety equipment, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

With the inclusions provided, guests can fully enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of this breathtaking region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The dress code for this tour is casual and comfortable. Guests should wear lightweight, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes appropriate for outdoor activities and water exposure. Sun protection, such as hats and sunglasses, is also recommended.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Catamaran?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the catamaran. The tour includes a light brunch and traditional lunch, as well as complimentary beverages like beer and wine. All catering is provided by the tour operator.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the length of the excursion and activities involved. Parental supervision is required.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can choose to add extra time at Balos Beach or Gramvousa Island for more swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. Additional fees may apply for the extended time.

How Do I Get to the Starting Point From My Hotel?

Guests can take a taxi or bus to the Kissamos Port, located next to the lighthouse in front of Catamaran Lagoon 400 S2, Agios Nectarios. The trip from most hotels takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on the hotel’s location.

Recap

The Kissamos: Gramvousa – Balos Tour aboard an exceptional catamaran offers an unforgettable adventure.

Departing from Kissamos Port, the 8-hour excursion provides stunning views of Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a light brunch, refreshing drinks, and a delicious traditional Greek lunch.

With a knowledgeable guide and luxurious amenities, this tour promises an extraordinary experience, immersing visitors in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: