Gramvousa Peninsula & Balos lagoon
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Staring from
Rethymno
Languages
English
Trip highlights
Enjoy a comfortable journey on our air-conditioned bus, driven by a professionally trained driver.
Enjoy a boat ride that offers beautiful views of the Cretan coastline and the Aegean Sea.
Immerse yourself in the clear, inviting waters near Gramvousa for a refreshing swim.
Hike to the historic Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island to capture breathtaking views.
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.
Tour Guide providing valuable insights.
Overview
Duration of trip
11 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 from the areas of Rethymno, Skaleta, Sfakaki, Adelianos Kampos, Panormos, Kavros & Georgioupolis. 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
7:45 - 8:30am
Morning Pick-up:
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.
Kissamos Port Departure Your excursion leads you to the scenic port of Kissamos in Chania, your gateway to an exhilarating cruise adventure. Here, you'll embark on a ferry journey toward the spectacular Gramvousa Peninsula.
Gramvousa Peninsula Exploration At Gramvousa Peninsula, you'll enjoy 1 hour to either climb to the ancient castle for stunning views or enjoy a swim in the inviting blue sea, offering a perfect mix of history and leisure.
Next, a short 20-minute ferry ride brings you to the famous Balos Lagoon
Balos Lagoon Paradise for 2 hours
Spend two delightful hours soaking up the sun, swimming or snorkeling in the clear waters, snacking, or strolling along the sandy shore. Balos Lagoon's exotic allure provides an ideal setting for relaxation and adventure.
Return Journey As the day concludes, we reboard the ferry to Kissamos Port and then take our bus back to Rethymnon. This journey through the heart of Crete's breathtaking natural landscapes and marine beauty is designed to leave you with lasting memories of sunshine, sea, and pristine nature, marking a truly unforgettable day on the island.
19:30
Evening Drop-off
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
- Taxes and legal fees
Not Included
- Boat tickets for the cruise 38€/adult (13 years old and above), 19€/child (3-12 years old)
- Entrance fee to the natural park: 1€ . It is collected before the departure of boat from the Municipality of Kissamos Port
- Lunch on Board or snacks
- 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
- Your tour guide will be there to assist you while on the ferry and on the bus.
- 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 very crowded in high-season months. Therefore, embarking and disembarking about 1500 people (or more) turns into a lengthy process. If crowds are not to your liking, consider visiting in May, early June or late September and October to avoid the peak season crowds while still enjoying good weather.
- 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 is food available for purchase onboard. These options can vary but typically include simple meals, snacks, and beverages.
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