Balos Catamaran, Meals And Drinks

Balos Catamaran, Meals and Drinks, 6.5 - 8.5 hours, rated 4.8 across 1,153 traveller reviews.

Overview

This full-day catamaran cruise runs from Kissamos Port to two of Crete's most famous coastal spots: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. The sailing plan works in the visitor's favour, because the boat aims to reach Balos early, before the day-trip ferries and other craft arrive. Reviewers repeatedly single this out, saying they had the lagoon almost to themselves and got in a proper swim while the water was still calm.

The day is structured around two long stops, roughly two hours at Balos and a little more at Gramvousa, with sailings in between. A tender boat takes passengers closer to the lagoon for swimming and snorkeling, and the boat carries paddleboards, fins, masks, swimming jackets and inflatable toys, including a pink flamingo that gets its share of photos. Back on board, the food goes well beyond snacks: a light brunch, Cretan finger food and a freshly prepared lunch with three menu options, plus coffee, tea, water and soft drinks all day. Cocktails and other alcoholic drinks cost extra.

An animator keeps the mood going, music plays, and there is even a chance to learn a few steps of Sirtaki. The catamaran itself has sunbeds and shaded lounges, and two ticket tiers are offered: Comfort with open seating on the lower deck, and VIP with a reserved sunbed, towel, souvenir bracelet and a small wine or beer. The trip suits swimmers and sunbathers, families and solo travellers alike; one solo reviewer noted they never felt alone on board. A complimentary transfer is part of the package, and the operator's office contacts travellers with pickup details, usually from the hotel reception.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Kissamos Port boardingMeet at Kissamos Port for a welcome, safety briefing and refreshments. This takes about 15 minutes.
2. Sail to BalosAbout 1 hour of sailing toward the lagoon, with scenic views on the way.
3. Balos LagoonRoughly 2 hours for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, brunch, snacks and free time. A tender boat brings passengers closer to the lagoon.
4. Short sail to GramvousaAround 15 minutes of sailing to the second stop.
5. Gramvousa IslandAbout 2.25 hours for swimming, sightseeing, lunch and dessert onboard. Some activities here carry an extra fee, and entry tickets for the castle are not included.
6. Return sailingAbout 1 hour back to Kissamos Port, where the day ends.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will shape the day, from what to pack to how the group feels on a boat that can carry up to 120 travellers.

• Getting there. A complimentary transfer is included, and the operator's office contacts travellers with pickup details in advance, usually from the hotel reception. One reviewer found the boarding location easy to reach with good parking nearby. The meeting arrangement can vary by option, so check the listing before setting out.
• Food and drink. Brunch, Cretan finger food and a full lunch with three menu options are all included, along with coffee, teas, detox water and soft drinks all day. Several reviewers said there was more food than they could eat. Alcoholic drinks and cocktails are ordered and paid for onboard.
• Swimming and gear. The boat carries paddleboards, snorkeling masks and fins, swimming jackets, inflatable noodles and a flamingo float. Two swims are built into the day, one at each stop. Bring swimwear, a towel and sunscreen, since towels are only provided for VIP guests.
• Group feel. The vessel takes up to 120 travellers, so it is a lively group cruise rather than a private charter. An entertainer runs the atmosphere, with music and a Sirtaki lesson during the day. Reviewers describe the crew as attentive and the mood as sociable, including for solo travellers.
• Weather dependency. The route can change or the trip can be rescheduled or cancelled in bad weather. One reviewer worried after rough days beforehand but got a beautiful day in the end. The operator advises checking the forecast and consulting the team for pregnancy, very young children, seasickness or mobility and health concerns.
• Timing at Balos. The early start is the main draw, and multiple reviewers said the boat reached Balos before any other vessels. Arriving on time matters, since the operator notes it is not responsible for delays caused by late guests.

Common issues. The cruise depends entirely on weather and may be changed without notice or rescheduled and cancelled in poor conditions. Group size can reach 120 travellers, which will not suit anyone expecting a small-boat outing, though some reviewers happened to sail with a smaller group. Alcohol, cocktails, sunscreen, cabin use and the entry ticket for Gramvousa Castle all cost extra, and towels must be bought onboard for non-VIP guests who forget one. A few travellers have also said the listing could be clearer about exactly what the VIP option and the included drinks cover, so it is worth reading the ticket options carefully before booking. Pets, glass objects, red wine, smoking indoors and unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

Common Questions