The Gramvousa & Balos Cruise from Heraklion offers an enticing opportunity for travelers to explore Crete’s stunning natural wonders. With a visit to the historic Pirate Castle on Gramvousa and a chance to unwind at the picturesque Balos Beach, this day-long excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Convenient pickup services, knowledgeable tour guides, and ample time for swimming make this cruise an appealing choice for those seeking to enjoy Crete’s captivating landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or simply seeking an adventure, this cruise may just hold the key to an unforgettable day on the island.
Key Points
- The Gramvousa & Balos Cruise from Heraklion is a 10-14 hour cruise priced from €50 per person, featuring visits to the historic Pirate Castle and the renowned Balos Beach.
- The cruise offers an English-speaking tour guide, convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- At Gramvousa, guests can explore the 16th-century Pirate Castle and witness the remnants of the ancient shipyard of Tersanas.
- Balos Beach, ranked as the 8th best beach in Europe, offers swimming, walking in the lagoon, and scenic views of the unique geological formations.
- The cruise includes air-conditioned bus transportation and allows travelers to focus on the scenic experience, with an overall rating of 4.5/5 from previous customers.
Overview of the Cruise
The Gramvousa & Balos Cruise from Heraklion typically offers an exciting day-long adventure, taking travelers on a journey to explore the stunning islands and beaches of northwestern Crete.
Priced from €50 per person, this cruise lasts between 10-14 hours and is conducted in English by a live tour guide. Pickup service is available from various locations, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.
The cruise departs from the Port of Kissamos, providing opportunities to visit the Pirate Castle of Gramvousa, swim in the refreshing waters of Balos and Gramvousa Beach, and take in scenic views of the ancient shipyard and geological phenomena along the way.
Itinerary and Main Stops
The cruise departs from the Port of Kissamos, taking travelers on a journey to the main stops of Gramvousa and Balos Beach.
The first stop is Gramvousa, where passengers have the opportunity to explore the historic Pirate Castle and enjoy free time for sightseeing and swimming.
Next, the cruise heads to the breathtaking Balos Beach, known as the 8th best beach in Europe. Visitors can walk in the romantic lagoon, take in the scenic views, and cool off in the refreshing waters.
The transportation to and from these destinations is provided by an air-conditioned bus, with multiple pickup and drop-off locations available throughout the region.
Gramvousa: Pirate Castle Exploration
Upon arriving at Gramvousa, visitors can explore the historic Pirate Castle that sits atop the rugged cliffs, offering panoramic views of the surrounding azure waters. The castle, which dates back to the 16th century, was once a stronghold for Cretan pirates.
Today, it’s a popular destination for its rich history and stunning scenery. Here are three highlights of exploring the Pirate Castle:
- Climb to the castle’s summit for breathtaking vistas of the Aegean Sea and the nearby Balos Lagoon.
- Wander through the castle’s crumbling walls and imagine the lives of the pirates who once called this place home.
- Discover the ancient shipyard of Tersanas and the unique geological formations that dot the landscape.
Balos Beach: Lagoon and Swimming
After exploring the historic Pirate Castle at Gramvousa, visitors can look forward to the stunning Balos Beach and Lagoon.
This picturesque area boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and a serene, tranquil atmosphere perfect for swimming and relaxation. Guests can walk along the romantic lagoon, marveling at the unique geological formations and the ancient shipyard of Tersanas.
The beach itself is recognized as the 8th best in Europe, with soft white sand and opportunities to swim in the refreshing waters.
With two swim stops during the cruise, travelers can truly enjoy the natural beauty of this coastal paradise before heading back.
Transportation and Pickup Locations
Reaching the cruise’s starting point in Kissamos involves transportation options, with pickup locations spanning various cities along the northern coast of Crete. Passengers can choose from 10 pickup locations, including Heraklion, Malia, and Stalida.
The cruises offer:
- Air-conditioned bus service for the 3.5-hour journey each way.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off at the selected location.
- The same pickup and drop-off points, ensuring a smooth start and end to the excursion.
The extensive network of pickup options makes the Gramvousa & Balos Cruise accessible to travelers across Crete’s northern region, simplifying the logistics and allowing them to focus on the stunning scenery and activities that await at the cruise’s destinations.
Highlights and Included Activities
The cruise offers a range of captivating highlights and included activities that showcase the natural beauty and historical significance of the region.
Guests can explore the Pirate Castle of Gramvousa, an intriguing landmark with a rich history.
Swimming in the refreshing waters of Balos and Gramvousa beaches is a must-do, as these locations are recognized as some of the best in Europe.
Visitors can also walk through the romantic lagoon of Balos and admire the scenic views of the ancient shipyard of Tersanas.
With two swim stops, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.
The cruise provides an engaging and rewarding experience for all who embark on this memorable journey.
Additional Costs and Information
Along With the included activities, the Gramvousa & Balos Cruise incurs a few additional costs that travelers should be aware of. The boat ticket, priced at €15 per person, and an environmental tax of €1 are required fees for accessing the cruise destinations.
It’s also important to note that booking through the app doesn’t guarantee availability, and confirmed reservations are necessary to secure a spot on the tour.
Other key information to consider:
- Pickup and drop-off are offered from multiple locations, providing convenient transportation options.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning.
- The total duration of the cruise can range from 10 to 14 hours, depending on the pickup and drop-off locations.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback about the Gramvousa & Balos Cruise, awarding it an impressive 4.5/5 rating based on 2 reviews.
Customers have praised the scenic views and relaxing boat ride to Gramvousa, as well as the beautiful beaches and rewarding panoramic vistas from the hilltop.
While the long travel time from hotels in Heraklion was noted, travelers deemed the experience worthwhile, thanks to the convenient hotel pickup and drop-off options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on cruises. However, it’s best to check the cruise operator’s policies, as some may have restrictions or additional fees for outside items. Checking ahead can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Is There a Restroom Available on the Boat?
There are restrooms available on the boat for passengers’ convenience. The cruise operator provides these facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Gear for Swimming?
You don’t need any special gear for swimming, just a swimsuit and towel. The water is warm and refreshing, so light, comfortable clothing is all that’s required. Enjoy your swim at the beautiful beaches on this cruise.
Is the Cruise Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The cruise is generally suitable for families with young children. There are opportunities for swimming and exploring the beaches, which can be enjoyable for kids. However, the long travel time may be tiring for some young children.
Is There an Option to Extend the Time at Balos Beach?
There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the time at Balos Beach. The itinerary specifies a photo stop and free time at the beach, but the overall tour duration is fixed at 10-14 hours with no mention of extending time at this location.
Recap
The Gramvousa & Balos Cruise from Heraklion offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation.
Guests can explore the Pirate Castle on Gramvousa and unwind at the stunning Balos Beach, with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque lagoon.
Convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides ensure a memorable experience in Crete’s breathtaking coastal landscapes.
