Balos & Gramvousa from Chania Area

Rated 5 out of 5
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Overview

Experience the natural wonders of Crete with our boat tour to Gramvousa Pirate Island and Balos Lagoon. Departing from Kissamos, you’ll sail through crystal-clear waters and admire an enormous cave. After approximately an hour, you’ll arrive at the port of Gramvousa, where you’ll explore the island’s impressive castle built by the Venetians. After visiting Gramvousa, the boat will head to the beautiful Balos Lagoon where you can take a refreshing swim and enjoy the stunning views.

  • 8th Best Beach in Europe (TripAdvisor)
  • Walk in the Romantic Lagoon of Balos
  • Swim in the Refreshing Cool Waters of Balos and Gramvousa Beach
  • Explore the Pirate Castle of Gramvousa

Full Description

Departing from the port of Kissamos and while sailing, you will admire a huge cave, that is believed to have been the ancient shipyard of “Tarsanas”. At the end of the Gulf you will notice an impressive geological phenomenon where, as a result of the passage of time, the western part of the island is rising, while the eastern part is sinking. This phenomenon was mainly created by catastrophic earthquakes that took place in 66 BC and 365 BC. According to scientific estimates, this geographical phenomenon still continues today, but at a much slower rate.

After approximately 1 hour, the boat arrives at the port of Gramvousa. The island’s eminent castle was built by the Venetians in 1579 at the highest point of the island, on top of a steep rock at a height of 137m. It is surrounded by a wall of 272m. It has a rough triangular shape, and each side is 1km in length. Gramvousa castle played an important role in the history of the region. The panoramic view, its majesty and the legend of the pirate’s hidden treasure, will tempt you to visit it.

TIP! You should first visit the Castle in Gramvousa and then swim in the cool water.

Following the 2 hour visit to Gramvousa, the boat will depart for the lagoon of Balos, a journey of approximately 15 minutes. The boat will approach the side of the beach where disembarkation can take place directly on the area of the Lagoon. Your stay at the lagoon, where you can enjoy a fantastic swim, will last for about three hours.

Indicative Timetable

  • 10.45: Departure from the port of Kissamos.
  • 10.45-11.45: Crossing the bay of Kissamos.
  • 11.45: Arrival at Gramvousa island.
  • 12.00-13.45: Disembarkation. Visit to the Venetian castle. Swimming time.
  • 13.45: Departure from Gramvousa and head to Balos.
  • 14.00: Arrival at Balos.
  • 14.00-16.30: Our boat will anchor about 10 meters off the coast of Balos and stay there for about 2.5 hours for swimming (weather permitting).
  • 16.30: Departure from Balos and head to Kissamos.
  • 17.45: Arrival at Kissamos port.

* During the season, the times and programs may change.

What's Included

  • Pick-up/Drop-Off
  • Boat ticket
  • Pre-Recorded Instructions on board
  • Air-Conditioned Bus
  • Full Liability Insurance

What's Not Included

  • Please note that Boat Ticket & Municipality Fee are not included and are paid on the spot in cash. 1,00 € per adult. Free up to 11,99 yrs.

Meeting And Pickup

Pick up from the hotel or pick-up point (depending on your hotel).

Available from: Kalyves, Halepa Area, Chania City, Agioi Apostoli, Kalamaki, Stalos, Agia Marina, Platanias, Gerani, Maleme, Tavronitis, Kolimbari

Important information

  • Remember to bring: Sun Cream, Sunglasses and Hat, Long-Sleeved Shirt for Sensitive skin, Swimsuit and Beach Towel, Shoes for hiking to the Gramvousa Castle.
  • Please note that Rubbish disposal apart from the designated areas is strictly prohibited Food & Refreshments are Provided inside the vessel’s restaurants which is not included in the price.

Cancellation policy

You can cancel up to 48 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 48 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Reviews

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Very beautiful places

Rated 5 out of 5
20.03.2023

Very beautiful places. At Balos, the color of the water is stunning, and we found pink sand 😍.

I recommend a visit.

Vanessa