Cruise to Gramvousa & Balos
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Staring from
Heraklion
Languages
English, German, French, Polish, Italian
Trip highlights
Enjoy a boat ride that offers beautiful views of the Cretan coastline and the Aegean Sea.
Relax and unwind in the serene beauty of Balos Lagoon.
Discover the diverse marine life with a snorkeling experience in the crystal-clear waters of Balos.
Hike to the historic Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island to capture breathtaking views.
Immerse yourself in the clear, inviting waters near Gramvousa for a refreshing swim.
Overview
Duration of trip
Total Duration of the tour: 16 - 17.5 hours
The trip duration varies depending on the location of your hotel.
Mobile ticketing
Simply present your digital voucher to either the guide or the driver, and they will be ready to assist you accordingly.
Pickup - Available
Pick-up and drop-off service are both included in the price of your booking. Our pick-up service covers different points, including hotels and bus stops. After making your booking, we will reach out to inform you about the specific location and time for the pick-up that is convenient for your accommodation.
Free cancellation
Free cancellation 48 hours prior departure.
Covid 19 requirements
Currently, there are no specific requirements for participating. However, if the government's COVID regulations mandate any specific requirements, we will contact you to inform you accordingly.
Tour schedule
05:30 - 7:00
Participants will be collected from designated pick-up points within the specified time frame. The exact pick-up time will be determined based on the location of your accommodation.
Begin with a scenic Bus Drive, averaging around 4 hours, to Kasteli Port. Along the way, enjoy a brief 20-minute stop for restroom facilities and a quick snack.
Once at Kasteli, the boat awaits, ready to sail you to the wonders ahead. Set sail on a memorable Boat Trip, lasting approximately 1 hour, as you soak in the breathtaking views of the Cretan sea. Interesting things you will experience during this scenic boat trip,
- Sailing past a large cave believed to be an ancient shipyard (Tarsanas).
- Learning about the geological changes showing Crete’s rise in the west and sinking in the east.
- Enjoying scenic views as we pass Wild Gramvousa and Cape Vouxa (Trypiti).
11:50 - 14:45
Balos Lagoon, you'll be treated to an ample 3 hours of bliss. Dive into the crystal-clear waters, traverse the golden sand beach, and uncover the natural wonders that surround you. Spend hours exploring this natural wonderland, where the warm sand beneath your feet and the cool sea breeze against your skin transport you to a state of bliss. Whether you're diving into the inviting waters, capturing the scenic beauty, or simply relaxing on the beach, this tour promises a day filled with discovery and relaxation.
Then a brief 15 minutes boat trip and you will arrive in Gramvousa.
15:00 - 16:45
Marvel at the majestic Gramvousa Peninsula, for an enriching 1 hour and 45 minutes. Ascend to the hilltop castle, capturing panoramic views of Balos Lagoon. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, take a dip in the inviting waters, and bask in the coastal splendor.
As you relish in the delights of Balos, the onboard restaurant beckons. Savor a delectable meal at your convenience. Please consult your guide on the bus in the morning, for the option to purchase lunch in advance at a discounted price. Indulge in culinary delights amidst the captivating scenery.
The journey concludes with a Boat Trip back to Kasteli, where you will disembark at the port. Prepare for the return Bus Drive to your resorts, averaging around 4 hours.
En route, enjoy a short 20-minute stop for restroom facilities and a quick snack, ensuring a comfortable journey home.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Gramvousa Peninsula and Balos Lagoon, and create unforgettable memories that will linger long after your adventure ends.
20:45 - 22:00
Upon the conclusion of the tour, participants will board the buses and head back to their respective points, where they were originally picked up in the morning. The duration of the return journey to each hotel may vary depending on traffic conditions and the individual pick-up locations for each participant.
Extra information
Included
- Morning pick-up and drop-off
- Travel in comfort aboard our air-conditioned bus
- Professional trained driver
- Experienced tour guide to provide insightful information
- Boat tickets for the cruise
- All applicable taxes and legal fees
- Entrance fee to the natural park
- Participants covered by Public Liability Insurance
Not Included
- Lunch on Board: Please consult your guide on the bus for the option to purchase lunch in advance at a discounted price.
- Umbrellas, sunbeds
What to bring
- Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
- Swimsuit / Beach Towel for swimming at Balos Lagoon
- Comfortable Shoes. If you plan to hike up to the fortress on Gramvousa Island, wear suitable footwear as the path can be rocky.
Know before you go
- Please note that in Balos, due to local authority regulations, the ferry is not permitted to approach the shore directly. Access to the shore is facilitated as follows: the ferry will get as close to shore as possible, and from there, we will provide transfers via smaller boats to ensure you safely reach the land. This measure ensures compliance with local environmental protection standards while providing you with a seamless transition to enjoy your time on Balos.
- The hike from Gramvousa Port to the castle atop the island of Gramvousa typically takes about 20 minutes to reach the top, depending on one's pace and physical condition. The path is somewhat steep and can be challenging under the hot sun, so it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and use sun protection. The effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding sea and Balos Lagoon, making it a worthwhile trek for visitors.
- The boat tends to get crowded in high-season months. Therefore, embarking and disembarking about 1500 people (or more) turns into a lengthy process.
- Leave No Trace: Remember that these are protected areas. Whatever you bring in, make sure to take it out, including trash, to help preserve the pristine nature of these destinations.
Tips for dining options
- Pack a Picnic: Bringing your own food from your accommodation is a reliable option, particularly for those with specific dietary needs.
- Buy Food in Advance: Consider purchasing food from local bakeries, supermarkets, or delis at Kissamos port before embarking the boat.
- On the Boat: As part of a boat tour, there are food available for purchase onboard. These options can vary but typically include simple meals, snacks, and beverages. For the opportunity to buy your lunch ahead of time at a reduced rate, please speak with your guide while on the bus.
During the entire duration of the journey on the boat, the snack bar will be open, offering refreshments and snacks for purchase.
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