Gramvousa and Balos Tour From Heraklion
Duration
14 hour(s)
Languages
English
Skip the line
Included
Visit Gramvousa island and explore historic Venetian fortress
Enjoy breathtaking views of Balos Lagoon and coastline
Swim and relax at pristine turquoise beach waters
Take a scenic boat cruise from Kissamos port comfortably
€ 45
€ 41.40
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Experience a breathtaking journey to the westernmost point of Crete, where turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and ancient history combine for an unforgettable adventure. This tour begins with a comfortable bus transfer from the main areas of Heraklion to Kissamos port. From there, you can purchase a boat cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. The island of Gramvousa, also known as the “pirates’ island,” features a Venetian fortress built in 1579 atop a rocky hill. Visitors can climb to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea and coastline. After exploring the island, you will have time to swim at the stunning beach or enjoy lunch aboard the boat, soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
Balos Lagoon is one of Greece’s most spectacular locations, with a view that rivals exotic Caribbean beaches. The lagoon’s shallow turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and striking natural landscape make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and travel in an air-conditioned bus for a comfortable journey. Ferry tickets and environmental tax are not included. The tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible, pets are not allowed, and infants must sit on your lap. Travel times between locations are included in the itinerary, and a voucher with pickup details will be sent one day before your tour. This excursion offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing for visitors seeking one of Crete’s most iconic natural wonders.
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Guide
Air-Conditioned Bus
Ferry ticket
Environmental tax
Gratuities
Swimsuit and towel
Comfortable shoes
Sunscreen and hat
Water bottle
No public transportation nearby
Not wheelchair accessible
All travelers can participate
Voucher with pickup details sent one day before transfer
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Type in your hotel/accommodation to see how far the attraction or departure point is.
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Activity Provider: TravelPath
Customer Reviews
Ruth
Super nice and affordable cruise. We had a lovely time. An observation I made which really struck me is how efficient the bar service was for the amount of people aboard. We had a fantastic time. Super affordable. The prices aboard were very reasonable. The time spent at each stop was ample. Lots of seating areas in and out of the sun. No sun loungers but comfortable tables. I recommend nabbing a table at the front of the boat. We came mid October so on the way back after being out on stops for a swim it did get a little nippy with the sea breeze so bring a light jacket and some pocket money for the snack bar on board. Super nice crew, clean toilets where you can also get changed.
Andreas
If you want to visit Balos beach i would recommend to take the boat Tour. You also visit the small Island near balos beach and can Take a Tour to the old Castle on top with a phantastic view
Jo
Great experience, nothing major to complain about apart of really big number of passengers so you sit a bit squeezed. We managed to get seats outside so it was Ok but not everyone was as lucky. There is decent amount of time on both Gramvousa and Balos, the boat leaves on time- they don’t wait for anyone which is fair. There’s drinks and food on board, but better to take some cash in case there is no signal for card payment.
Becky
Mixed views. We came for the Kissamos to Gramvousa and Balos route. It’s good if you want an on-time ship that is mostly indoors with chairs, and the option to have a quick meal, snacks, or rent an umbrella. What we didn’t care for and a little more detail on each is below. Size: It fits a few hundred so mid-range for this route. On-time: It was almost exactly on time for each stop, varying by only 1-2 minutes. I liked the promptness but be sure you’re on time or you’ll be left. Seats: There are four seating areas and get there very early if you have a large group or preference. One bench seating area is outdoors: about 1/3 in shade and 2/3 in sun. There are two areas on the ground floor, where windows a little higher - one has larger booths (near snacks) and the other has chairs. There is then a larger indoor seating area upstairs - with tables and chairs plus benches. We arrived 45 minutes before departure and on the boat 35-40 minutes before (after queue) and there was only one table available against the window with seats for two people. Larger groups after (2+) were usually split up across tables. Getting on & off: Not bad. Though queue guessing 5 minutes for ship to offload at stops, via a small metal gangplank/bridge. AC: There is light AC inside. It consistently felt about 1-2 degrees warmer than I’d like but not bad. I would’ve preferred a little fresh air though. Toilets: Adequate but small and hot. They are definitely ship toilets. Food: Decent mix of snacks and mains - though expensive and vegetarian main options are limited. Main options half gone by 13:00 so get yours early. Veg options: Boureki, stuffed tomatoes, pastries like spinach pie. By comparison, 3-4 meat sandwiches, 5-7 other mains, ham pastries. Snacks: Yoghurt, apple, banana, watermelon, biscuits, crisps, pastries, ice cream, and lots of water and other drinks for sale. Note: Bring cash as there are some places without mobile service where they won’t be able to accept cards. Ceiling height: Low, typical for ships. In some places 6 feet, so taller people were ducking. Staircases: Steep if going to the upper level. If a problem stay on ground where embark/disembark from as few (no?) steps. Umbrellas: Available to rent for €7, plus €10 deposit. Not sure needed. Gramvousa has shaded trees if you arrive early. Balos can be so windy it’s hard to raise - requires stacking some nearby rocks along it to hold in place. Safety: No info provided but clear signs for where lifejackets were. Seas: calm waters there, but higher waves and a bit of movement on the way back. Crew passed out bags in case anyone was ill (but don’t think anyone was).
Mothusi
Great tour! My family took a tour for Balos beach and Gramvousa. Ferry is clean(even in the toilet). Tour is well organised. They are punctual! Staffs are friendly. The price of drinks in ferry bar is reasonable or cheap! But foods are pricey like other vessels and ferries. So preparing your lunch and snacks is recommended. They gave enough time to see beach and castle. From 10:40-17:40. Quiet long journey. I just wonder why they all wastes souvenir made by pictures of customer even only few but them.