1 / 5Kissamos to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon
About this activity
This mini cruises is one of the standout things to do in Chania, Crete, Greece. it combines the highlights below into a single, easy-to-book experience from €27 per person. An amazing cruise which includes the most stunning beaches and natural scenery of west Crete , visit and admire what you have seen already in films and pictures
Our boats depart from the port of Kissamos (Kavonisi) for Gramvousa and Balos lagoon. Kissamos or Kasteli is a small scenic town, on the northwestern part of Crete, approximately 43 kilometres from the city of Chania (www.kissamos.gr).
Gramvousa and Balos are habitats of stunning natural beauty, included in the European initiative ΝΑΤURΑ 2000.
Α. Tour in the bay of Kissamos
We depart from the port of Kissamos, with soft music playing in the background, and sail for about an hour in the homonymous bay, against a stunning backdrop of steep cliffs and rocks, incredible secluded beaches, and the infinite blue.
You will have the chance to see a large cave, which is thought to be an ancient shipyard. At the end of the bay, you will see an impressive geological phenomenon. Over time, Crete’s western side is rising, and its eastern side is sinking. This phenomenon takes place due to the movement of the African tectonic plate under the Eurasian plate. The ancient coastline can be traced over the rocky shores. At the end of the bay, the boat will sail between the islet of Agria Gramvousa and Cape Vouxa (Trypiti). The landscape is breathtaking, against the backdrop of Valenti, Pontikonisi, Balos lagoon, and Imeri Gramvousa. The boat will approach Gramvousa or the lagoon of Balos (depending on the itinerary you chose) after about 20 minutes.
The self-service bar of the ship shall remain open throughout the cruise, offering light meals, with salads, wine, soft drinks, coffee, ice creams, etc.
During our journey with our ship "GRAMVOUSA" your children are in the hands of an experienced animator. Your little ones will make drawings and participate in group games, face painting etc.
B. Visit Gramvousa-the island of pirates
The boat shall arrive at the small port of Gramvousa, where we shall stay for about 2 hours. The location of Gramvousa, the Cretan nature, the legends and the turbulent history of the area, exude a magical aura. The landscape is spectacular, and the beach of the island is adorned by a lonely shipwreck.
The highest point of the island, atop a steep rock, at an altitude of 137 meters, is dominated by the famous castle of Gramvousa, which was built by the Venetians in 1579. The castle played a significant role in the history of the wider area. The panoramic view, the magnificent nature, and the legend of the pirates’ hidden treasure, allure you to visit it, after a 20-minute hike (it’s essential to wear comfortable shoe
Good to know
- •Duration: approximately 8 hours.
- •Confirmation is instant — your spot is secured the moment you book.
- •Offered in 1 language.
- •Confirm weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear before you go.
Who it's for
Best time to visit
Chania, Crete is rewarding year-round, but spring and early autumn typically bring the most comfortable temperatures and thinner crowds than peak summer. Morning departures tend to be quieter and cooler; booking ahead is recommended in high season as popular mini cruises slots in Chania, Crete sell out.