Kissamos, a charming port town on the island of Crete, serves as the gateway to the stunning Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Set out on a private sailing adventure to these idyllic destinations, enjoying the turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. This exclusive experience promises a day filled with leisure, exploration, and the flavors of traditional Cretan cuisine. Guided by an experienced crew, you’ll create lasting memories of this breathtaking journey. What awaits you beyond the horizon is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, inviting you to uncover the wonders that lie ahead.
Key Points
- This private sailing trip from Kissamos Port offers a full-day excursion to explore Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, including a traditional Cretan lunch.
- The 8-hour itinerary allows ample time for activities like swimming, snorkeling, and hiking, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights throughout the journey.
- The trip is priced at €900 for up to 7 participants, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
- Highlights include the scenic sailing, turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon, and the opportunity to hike to the Venetian fortress on Gramvousa Island.
- Amenities such as snorkeling gear, a traditional Cretan lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off (if arranged) are included in the package.
Trip Overview and Pricing
This private sailing trip from Kissamos Port offers a full-day adventure to the stunning Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, priced at €900.00 for groups of up to 7 participants.
The 8-hour duration provides ample time to explore these iconic destinations, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Travelers can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option, making it easier to secure their spot on this unique excursion.
Whether seeking a leisurely day on the water or an active adventure, this sailing trip promises an unforgettable experience along the beautiful Cretan coastline.
Itinerary and Activities
The sailing trip starts at Kissamos Port, where participants embark on their journey to the stunning Balos Lagoon, located approximately 1.5 hours away. After arriving, guests will have two hours to explore the breathtaking beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and snorkel at their leisure. Following this, a traditional Cretan lunch with drinks is served aboard the boat, providing a delightful culinary experience.
| Location | Duration |
|---|---|
| Balos Beach | 2 hours |
| Gramvousa Island | 2 hours |
| Sailing | 1.5 hours each way |
The next stop is the picturesque Gramvousa Island, where guests can spend two hours sightseeing, hiking to the Venetian fortress, and swimming in the inviting waters before returning to Kissamos Port.
Highlights and Experiences
Visitors can enjoy a picturesque sailing adventure, gliding across the azure waters and exploring the iconic Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.
Balos Lagoon, with its striking turquoise hues and pristine white sand, offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. Afterward, guests can venture to Gramvousa, where they’ll have the chance to hike up to the impressive Venetian fortress and take in the breathtaking vistas.
Throughout the journey, guests can engage in a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and photography, capturing the stunning scenery.
With the private cruise, travelers can enjoy these highlights at their own pace, away from the hustle and bustle of larger tourist groups.
Inclusions and Amenities
To complement the sailing adventure and shore excursions, the private cruise offers a range of inclusions and amenities that enhance the overall experience.
An experienced skipper and crew are on hand to guide you throughout the day.
Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch with soft drinks, wine, and beer served onboard.
Snorkeling gear is provided, allowing you to explore the marine life around Balos and Gramvousa.
A knowledgeable guide is included, sharing insights into the history and natural wonders of the islands.
For your convenience, hotel pickup and drop-off can be arranged.
The covered cabin, dining area, and bathroom with shower ensure your comfort during the trip.
Meeting Point and Recommended Items
The meeting point for the sailing trip is Kissamos port, near the grey bimini sailboat Izabela.
Travelers are recommended to bring essential items such as a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. This will help protect them from the sun’s rays during the trip’s outdoor activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and hiking.
Plus, parking is available near the port for those driving to the departure location.
The experienced crew will guide participants throughout the day, ensuring they make the most of their time exploring the picturesque Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Based on the 20 reviews, the sailing trip has earned an impressive customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Travelers have consistently praised the beautiful views, professional crew, and tasty meals throughout the day-long excursion.
Guests highlight the flexibility of the itinerary, allowing them to fully enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, and hiking at their own pace.
The opportunity to photograph the stunning Balos Lagoon from Gramvousa Island is also a highlight mentioned by many.
Sailing Route and Destinations
This sailing trip takes guests on a captivating journey through the stunning coastal landscapes of Kissamos, allowing them to discover the breathtaking Balos Lagoon and the historic Gramvousa Island. The adventure begins at Kissamos Port, where guests board the yacht and set sail towards Balos Beach. After a leisurely 1.5-hour sail, they’ll have two hours to explore the crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and unique rock formations of this picturesque lagoon. The journey continues to Gramvousa, where guests can hike up to the Venetian fortress and enjoy swimming in the turquoise waters. Finally, the yacht returns to Kissamos Port, providing guests with a memorable day of sailing, sightseeing, and Cretan hospitality.
| Destination | Travel Time | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Balos Beach | 1.5 hours | Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing |
| Gramvousa | 15 minutes | Sightseeing, hiking to Venetian fortress, swimming |
Duration and Flexibility
The sailing trip offers a flexible 8-hour duration, allowing ample time to explore the stunning coastal sights at a leisurely pace.
The flexible schedule allows participants to fully enjoy the experience, with generous time allocated for activities like swimming, snorkeling, and hiking.
Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring they can plan their trip with confidence.
The option to reserve now and pay later also provides added convenience.
Whether seeking a relaxing day on the water or an adventurous exploration of the region’s natural wonders, this sailing excursion offers the perfect balance of flexibility and duration to suit every traveler’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Trip?
The information provided does not specify a minimum age requirement for the trip. However, the trip may have age restrictions or recommendations based on the activities involved, such as swimming and hiking. Participants should inquire with the tour provider for more details.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?
Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks onboard. The sailing trip provides lunch and beverages, but bringing additional items is permitted. However, glass bottles may be restricted for safety reasons.
Is There an Option to Extend the Trip Duration?
Yes, the sailing trip duration can be extended for an additional fee. Guests interested in spending more time exploring the islands or engaging in other activities can discuss this option with the tour operator prior to booking.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim for the Activities?
No, you don’t need to know how to swim for the activities. The sailing trip provides snorkeling gear, and the swimming at Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island is optional. Participants can enjoy the scenery and activities without swimming if they prefer.
Can the Trip Be Customized to My Preferences?
The trip can be customized to the customer’s preferences. The provider offers flexibility in the itinerary, allowing guests to tailor the activities and experiences to their liking within the overall tour structure.
Recap
This exclusive Balos and Gramvousa sailing trip offers a chance to explore Kissamos’ stunning coastal landscapes.
The leisurely sail, swimming, snorkeling, and hike to the Venetian fortress promise an unforgettable day on the water.
With a traditional Cretan lunch and an experienced crew, this private tour caters to your group’s preferences for a truly memorable Mediterranean adventure.
