Gramvousa and Balos Boat

Gramvousa Balos Boat Trip

View of Gramvousa and Balos bay from the peninsular

The Trip
The voyage starts from the Port of Kissamos following the coastline on your way to Gramvousa Island. After approx. 1 hour sailing time you arrive at Gramvousa where you have time to visit the Venetian castle built between 1579 & 1584.

The island of Gramvousa is associated with the struggle to liberate Crete from the Ottoman occupation. Three thousand revolutionaries used the island as their shelter for 3 years; to solve the problem of food scarcity, they took to piracy.

Gramvousa nowadays is an importart bird habitat in the Eastern Mediterranean region and is located along one of the bird migration ways in this part of the world. It is the habitat of over 100 bird species and 400 kinds of plants. Built 137m above sea level on this rocky island, it is one of the most impressive castles in Crete and worth the 15 minute hike up the footpath. Appropriate footwear is advisable & a hat.

Upon your return to the beach you will have enough time to swim in the crystal clear waters, while freshly grilled souvlaki is being prepared on board as well as sandwiches & salads available at anytime to purchase. The boat then departs for the lagoon of Balos, the journey is approx 20 mins. The water is warm and the sand has pink coral in parts. The seabed has white sand and makes the water have a shiny jade-like colour.

During your stay at Balos & Gramvousa the boat’s halls and bar will be at your disposal.

Umbrellas are available to rent on the boat and it's a good idea if you don’t bring your own to use on Gramvousa Island.
You will have ample time at Gramvousa Island to explore, relax and swim.
There are NO SUNBEDS & UMBRELLAS on either beach.

Approx. Itinerary for Gramvousa/ Balos Boat Trip
Transfer on coach to harbour
10.40 Boat departs from Kissamos Harbour
11:50 Arrival at Balos Lagoon
13:45 Departure from Balos Lagoon
14.00 Arrival at Gramvousa Island
16.45 Departure from Gramvousa Island
17:45 Arrival at Kissamos Harbour
Transfer back to Accommodation with arrival time Chania town approx. 18.30 -19.00
Weather may change this schedule and they may have to do Gramvousa Island first and Balos second.

Clear waters at Balos beach and enjoy swimming

The view from the castle at Gramvousa island and the boat moored below for the Gramvousa Boat Trip

View from Gramvousa Island

* THIS TRIP IS NO LONGER RUNNING SEE YOU IN MAY 2025*

Details for Gramvousa/Balos

Price for Gramvousa/ Balos Boat Trip:
Adults: €24
Children (4-12 years old) : €12
This trip is a long day in the sun & we do not recommend it for very young children.

Day of Gramvousa/ Balos Boat Trip: Monday & Wednesday
Pick up time: 07:30 - 09:35
(depending on where- see the Pick up Points page )
(If you are staying East of Chania there is an extra cost €3 - €15 per person, for the extra distance for pick up)

Duration of Gramvousa/ Balos Trip:
-10 hours approx.

Price includes:
Coach Service
(on the boat there is an explanation in various languages)

Excludes- Payable on the day(Cash only):
€20 for the boat fare (per person) for adults & €10 for children (4 - 12 years old) which includes the €1 for the town council, which is collected on the bus.
Food & drink not included.

Food & drinks are available at the self-service bar which is open throughout the cruise, offering Cretan traditional delicacies and other dishes (souvlaki, chicken with potatoes, steak with potatoes in the oven, stuffed peppers and tomatoes, Greek salad, pizza, toast, sandwiches, soft drinks, pastries, wine, beer, ice cream, coffee, etc.).

You may also rent umbrellas from the boat which are €4 for the day.

What to wear/bring:
Comfortable shoes for walking up to the castle
Beach wear
Beach Towel
Hat & suntan cream

To book the Gramvousa/ Balos Trip, you will need to book at least 1 day in advance to reserve your seat & make payment.

How to Book