Gramvousa & Balos Day Tour

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of West Crete with a visit to the pirate island of Gramvousa and the Balos lagoon!
Duration:
11 hours
Destinations:
Balos and Gramvousa
per person 52

This day tour aims to introduce you to an intriguing slice of Cretan history, while you find yourselves in an idyllic setting surrounded by azure waters! You will get to see the rare geological formations of the Western coast of Crete, combined with a visit to the island of Gramvousa, famous for its pirate castle and the lagoon of Balos across from it.

Operated most Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from May to October. For a specific date, check availability starting from Chania or Rethymno.
Only guests ages 5 through 12 are eligible for "children's rates"

From May to October:

  • 52,00 € per adult
  • 26,00 € per child

After we pick you up from various locations around Chania or Rethymno we will drive through the stunning scenery of West Crete until we reach the Kissamos port. From there we will sail to the port in Gramvousa, passing by the huge cave believed to be the ancient shipyard of Tarsanas. At the end of the gulf you will notice an impressive geological phenomenon caused by catastrophic earthquakes that took place more than 2000 years ago. 

After approximately 1 hour, the boat arrives at the port of Gramvousa. On top of a steep rock on the highest point of the island, lays the Venetian castle built during the late 16th century. Surrounded by a wall that still stands today, it has a roughly triangular shape and is rumored to house hidden pirate treasures from eras long gone. It is well worth the 10 minute hike it takes to get there.

You will have plenty of time to explore the island and swim in its coast before we board the boat that will take us to the Balos lagoon. Fantastic azure waters fill the lagoon, creating a sense of serenity and idle natural beauty. Make sure to have a camera with you and take photos that will make even your most well-traveled friends jealous!

At around 16:30 we will board the boat back to the port of Kissamos and eventually return by bus to the designated spots you were picked up from.

  • Pick up & Drop off with air-conditioned bus from select spots in Chania or Rethymno
  • Visit to Gramvousa
  • Visit to Balos
  • Boat tickets to Gramvousa and Balos
  • Pre-recorded guiding on board

Not included:

  • Municipality fee (1 euro for adults, free for children)
  • Personal expenses, extra beverages or meals
  • Customary tips to your driver and escort
  • This tour's duration is approximately 11 hours
  • Pick up & Drop off is conducted only is select spots around Chania & Rethymno. Depending on your location, you will be advised on the time and place after booking.
  • Remember to bring the following items: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, swimsuit and beach towel
  • You are advised to bring appropriate shoes for the hike up to Gramvousa Castle
  • Rubbish disposal as well as removing seashells from the beach is prohibited
  • The Municipality fee is paid on the spot with cash
  • Food and refreshments provided in the vessel are not included in the price.