Rethymno Area: Gramvousa Island & Balos, Boat Ticket Extra

The Rethymno area in Crete offers a scenic day trip to explore the stunning Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon. Visitors can enjoy a bus and boat excursion, with highlights including the soft white sand beaches and guided tours in multiple languages. While the tour provides convenient transportation and logistics, the boat ticket to access these destinations is an additional cost. Comfortable walking shoes are required for those wishing to climb the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island. To learn more about the inclusions, exclusions, and booking requirements for this unique experience, continue reading.

Key Points

• The tour includes a bus transfer to Kissamos port, a 1-hour boat trip to Balos Bay, and 2.5 hours to explore the lagoon.
• Visitors can take a 20-minute boat ride to Gramvousa Island and have 1.5 hours to explore, including the option to climb the Venetian Fortress.
• The boat ticket to access Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon costs €30 per adult and €15 per child, which is not included in the tour price.
• There is an additional entry fee to climb the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island.
• The tour is only bookable for those staying in specified areas in the Rethymno region.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This scenic bus and boat trip takes visitors on a journey to explore the stunning Gramvousa Island and the breathtaking Balos Bay lagoon.

Guests can dip their toes in the soft white sand of the beautiful beaches and enjoy a guided tour in English, German, or French.

The 10-12 hour excursion includes a 2-hour bus transfer to Kissamos port, a 1-hour boat trip to Balos Bay, and 2.5 hours to explore the lagoon.

Then, it’s a 20-minute boat ride to Gramvousa Island, where travelers can spend 1.5 hours, including the option to climb to the historic Venetian Fortress.

The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the journey convenient and hassle-free.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 2-hour bus transfer to Kissamos port.

Guests then embark on a 1-hour boat trip to the stunning Balos Bay lagoon.

Once there, they’ll have 2.5 hours to enjoy the soft, white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters of this picturesque destination.

Next, it’s a 20-minute boat ride to Gramvousa Island, where visitors can explore the historic Venetian Fortress or simply soak up the island’s natural beauty.

After 1.5 hours on the island, it’s time to board the boat again for the 1-hour journey back to Kissamos port.

From there, the tour concludes with a 2-hour bus transfer back to Rethymno.

Inclusions

In an article titled ‘Rethymno Area: Gramvousa Island & Balos, Boat Ticket Extra’, the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Inclusions’ is now discussed.

The tour includes bus tickets and transfers, hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide in English, German, and French, a driver, and liability insurance, allowing guests to experience the highlights of Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay without additional fees.

The tour provides:

• Free time to explore the soft, white sand beaches and turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon
• An opportunity to visit the historic Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island
• The convenience of having all transportation and logistical details handled by the tour operator.

Guests can focus on enjoying the natural beauty and rich history of these stunning destinations.

Exclusions

Rethymno Area: Gramvousa Island & Balos, Boat Ticket Extra

Exclusions

While the tour includes numerous conveniences, there are several items not covered in the price, such as the boat ticket to access Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon, costing €30 per adult and €15 per child aged 5-12. Plus, an entry fee is required to climb the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island. Guests must also purchase their own lunch, which can be obtained on the boat, and can opt to rent sun umbrellas if desired. Finally, those wishing to have a professional photographer capture their experience on the boat will incur an extra charge.

Item	Adult	Child (5-12)
Boat Ticket	€30	€15
Venetian Fortress Entry	TBD	TBD
Lunch	Varies	Varies
Sun Umbrellas	Rental Fee	Rental Fee
Photographer	Extra Cost	Extra Cost

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Requirements and Notes

Rethymno Area: Gramvousa Island & Balos, Boat Ticket Extra

Comfortable walking shoes are required for those wishing to climb the 137m-high Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island, as the trek involves navigating rocky terrain.

Lunch and water can be purchased on the boat, providing sustenance throughout the day’s activities.

This tour can only be booked by those staying in the specified areas, ensuring a seamless experience for eligible participants.

Recent schedule changes have been announced, with the boat no longer landing directly at Balos Lagoon; instead, it will anchor approximately 100 meters from the coast, allowing guests 1.5 hours to enjoy the area.

Key requirements and notes:

• Comfortable walking shoes for Venetian Fortress climb
• Food and drinks available for purchase on the boat
• Tour only bookable for those in specified areas
• Boat now anchors 100m from Balos Lagoon

Schedule Changes

Recent schedule changes have been announced for the Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon tour, impacting the boat’s approach to the popular destination.

Instead of landing directly at Balos Lagoon, the boat will now anchor approximately 100 meters from the coast, allowing guests 1.5 hours to enjoy the area.

This change means visitors won’t be able to set foot on the iconic white sand beach, but they’ll still have the opportunity to admire the stunning turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs from the boat.

The tour operator cites logistical and safety concerns as the reasons behind this modification.

While it may disappoint some, the revised itinerary still promises a breathtaking experience exploring the natural beauty of this remote corner of Crete.

Boat Ticket Information

Aside from the included bus and transfer services, visitors must purchase separate boat tickets to access the islands of Gramvousa and the Balos Lagoon, costing €30 per adult and €15 per child aged 5-12.

These boat tickets aren’t covered by the tour package, but they provide access to the breathtaking natural wonders that await.

Once aboard, guests can look forward to:

• A 1-hour boat trip to the Balos Bay lagoon
• A 20-minute boat ride to the historic Gramvousa Island
• 1.5 hours to explore the island, including the option to climb to the Venetian Fortress for panoramic views

These boat excursions are an essential part of the overall Gramvousa Island and Balos experience.

Booking Restrictions

This tour can only be booked by those staying in specified areas, as the schedule is designed to cater to guests within a certain proximity. The tour operator has implemented this restriction to ensure efficient logistics and a seamless experience for participants.

Guests from outside the designated areas may not be able to join this excursion, as the pickup and drop-off services are tailored to those residing in the included locations. It’s important to note this booking requirement when planning your trip, as it helps manage group sizes and transportation needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes free time at the destinations, so guests are welcome to pack a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy during their visit.

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for senior citizens or students. The inclusions cover the bus, transfers, guide, and other services, but the boat tickets to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island need to be purchased separately.

Can I Change the Date or Time of My Booking?

Yes, customers can typically change the date or time of their booking, but they should contact the tour operator as soon as possible. Fees may apply, and availability on the new date is subject to change.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Boat?

The tour does not mention a specific weight limit for the boat. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator prior to booking, as they may have restrictions in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers on the boat.

Can I Cancel My Booking and Receive a Refund?

The tour operator’s cancellation policy allows for full refunds if the booking is canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are not available for no-shows or same-day cancellations. Customers should review the policy details prior to booking.

Recap

This Rethymno tour offers a chance to take in the region’s stunning natural beauty.

From the picturesque Gramvousa Island to the serene Balos Bay lagoon, the tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Though the boat ticket is an additional cost, the opportunity to explore these breathtaking destinations is well worth it.

With an English, German, and French-speaking guide, travelers can discover the rich history and striking landscapes that make this area a must-visit destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: