Exploring the stunning landscapes of Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach from the Chania area, including Kalyves, promises an unforgettable adventure. Though the boat ticket to Balos comes at an additional cost, it’s a small price to pay for the chance to discover the historic Venetian Fortress and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast or an adventure seeker, this tour offers an unparalleled experience that will leave you captivated. But there’s more to uncover about this remarkable destination, as the itinerary, pickup locations, and essential tips could make all the difference in your journey.
Key Points
- The tour is available to customers in specific areas of Chania, including Platanias, Kalyves, Agia Marina, and Chania.
- The boat ticket to Balos Beach is an additional cost of €27 per adult and €14.50 per child, payable in cash.
- The tour includes a 1-hour ferry ride to Gramvousa Island, where visitors can explore the Venetian Fortress for 3 hours.
- After Gramvousa, the tour provides 1.5 hours of beach time at the crystal-clear waters of Balos Beach.
- Comfortable walking shoes are necessary for exploring the fortress, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain.
Overview and Pricing
This scenic bus and boat trip to Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay offers an experience that’s priced from $23.32 per person, with a duration of 10 to 12 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The trip includes a bus ride to Kissamos Port, a ferry to Gramvousa Island, and another ferry to the stunning Balos Beach.
At Gramvousa, visitors have three hours to explore the Venetian Fortress and take in the breathtaking views.
The trip then continues to Balos Bay, where travelers can swim in the turquoise waters for 1.5 hours before returning to their pickup locations.
This excursion promises an unforgettable day of scenic beauty and cultural exploration.
Itinerary and Experience
The tour begins with a comfortable bus ride from 26 convenient pickup locations, including Platanias, Kalyves, Agia Marina, and Chania. Travelers are taken to Kissamos Port, where they have a 30-minute break before boarding the ferry to Gramvousa Island.
The 1-hour ferry ride offers scenic views, and once on the island, visitors have 3 hours to explore the Venetian Fortress and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
After the Gramvousa stop, the ferry sails to the renowned Balos Beach, where travelers can spend 1.5 hours swimming in the crystal-clear waters and soaking up the breathtaking scenery.
The return journey follows the same route, with a 1-hour bus ride back to the original drop-off points.
Pickup Locations and Schedule
The tour offers 26 convenient pickup locations across popular areas like Platanias, Kalyves, Agia Marina, and Chania, ensuring easy access for travelers.
After the bus ride to Kissamos Port, there’s a 30-minute break to stretch your legs.
Next, you’ll board the ferry for a 1-hour journey to the picturesque Gramvousa Island. Spend 3 hours exploring the Venetian fortress and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
Then, it’s a quick 20-minute ferry to the breathtaking Balos Beach, where you’ll have 1.5 hours to soak up the sun and scenery.
Highlights of the Tour
Topping the highlights of this comprehensive tour are the opportunity to explore the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island and the chance to swim in the captivating waters of Balos Beach.
During the ferry ride to Gramvousa, guests are treated to scenic views of the rugged coastline. Once on the island, they can ascend to the historic Venetian Fortress, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding turquoise waters.
After this, the tour moves on to the stunning Balos Beach, where travelers can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear lagoon. With its shallow, warm waters and fine white sand, Balos is a true paradise for beach lovers.
Inclusions and Optional Costs
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as air-conditioned bus transfers, an English-speaking guide, liability insurance, and all legal taxes.
However, there are some additional costs that visitors should be aware of, such as the entry ticket to the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island (€1, payable in cash on site) and the boat ticket to reach Balos Beach (€27 per adult, €14.50 per child aged 5-12, also payable in cash on site).
Visitors may also want to budget for:
- Lunch, which can be purchased on the boat
- Sun umbrellas, available for rent
- A professional photographer on the boat (extra cost)
- Any other incidentals or souvenirs.
What to Bring and Recommendations
When it comes to preparing for this tour, visitors should bring along a few key items. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there’s significant walking involved, including a climb up to the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island.
Sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen will also come in handy, given the sunny Mediterranean climate and time spent at the beaches.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain. Visitors should also be prepared to purchase their own boat ticket, as it’s not included in the tour price.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have overall rated this tour a solid 4.2 out of 5 stars based on nearly 1,000 reviews, praising the knowledgeable guides, reliable transportation, and well-organized service.
Reviewers highlight several standout elements:
- The boat trip to Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach, which offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters.
- The informative guide who provides historical context about the Venetian fortress on Gramvousa.
- The seamless logistics of the tour, from convenient pickups to smooth transitions between bus and ferry.
- The stunning natural beauty of the destinations, which many describe as ‘paradise-like’ and ‘a must-see.’
While a few customers wish for more guidance during the boat portion, the tour earns high marks for delivering an unforgettable Cretan adventure.
Important Notes
Visitors must wear appropriate walking shoes to climb up to the Venetian Fortress on Gramvousa Island, as the terrain can be challenging.
Lunch and water are available for purchase on the boat trip, though guests may want to pack their own snacks and hydration.
Lastly, this tour is only bookable for those staying in specific areas of Chania, so travelers should confirm their eligibility before booking.
The climb up to the Venetian Fortress rewards guests with stunning panoramic views of the island and the turquoise waters of Balos Bay.
While lunch can be purchased on the boat, bringing one’s own provisions ensures a more customized experience.
Plus, as this tour is only available to those in select Chania areas, it’s crucial to double-check the tour’s reach before making a booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Boat Trip?
Photography is allowed during the boat trip. A photographer is available on board for an additional cost, allowing travelers to capture the scenic ferry rides and beautiful landscapes of Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach.
Are There Any Restrooms Available During the Tour?
Yes, there are restrooms available on the ferry boat during the tour. Passengers can utilize the onboard facilities during the 1-hour ferry rides to and from Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The operator encourages guests to pack a picnic to enjoy during the free time at Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach. However, meals are also available for purchase on the boat.
Is There Any Safety Information Provided Before the Boat Ride?
Yes, the tour operator provides important safety information before the boat ride. Passengers are briefed on proper boarding procedures, life jacket usage, and emergency protocols to ensure a safe and enjoyable ferry experience to the stunning Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay.
How Frequently Do the Buses and Ferries Depart?
The buses and ferries depart on a regular schedule, with buses leaving every hour and ferries departing every 30 minutes. This ensures a smooth and convenient experience for travelers throughout the day-long excursion.
Recap
The scenic tour to Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach from Chania areas, including Kalyves, offers an unforgettable experience.
Explore the historic Venetian Fortress, swim in crystal-clear waters, and soak up the breathtaking scenery.
While the boat ticket to Balos is an additional cost, the tour’s highlights make it a must-do for beach lovers and adventure seekers visiting the region.
