Sail into Paradise: Balos Lagoon Tour & Gramvousa Cruise from Heraklion

Uncover the wild beauty of western Crete with this Balos Lagoon tour, a full-day Heraklion to Balos day trip featuring crystalline waters, historic islets, and one of the best beaches in Crete.

Highlights:

• Fantastic cruise from Kissamos port
• Swim in the crystal-clear water of Balos Lagoon
• See the Venetian castle of Gramvousa

• Pick-up and drop-off at the Hersonissos area
• Guide
• Transportation by bus
• Boat ticket

Please note: We pick up and drop off the customers close to their hotel.

Begin Your Journey: Heraklion to Balos Day Trip

The adventure starts with an early morning pickup in Heraklion, where youll travel west toward the Port of Kissamos. This scenic ride reveals the changing landscapes of Crete, from rugged mountains to coastal villages. Once at the port, youll board your vessel and begin the unforgettable Balos Lagoon tour, a voyage across the shimmering Aegean toward two of Crete's most enchanting locations.

As part of your trip, your guide will share interesting insights into the region's natural wonders and legendary past. This isn't just a tour, it's a deep dive into the soul of Balos and Gramvousa.

Explore Gramvousa: Legends Above the Sea

Your first stop is the legendary island of Gramvousa, once home to pirates and Venetian rulers. Climb to the ancient Venetian castle of Gramvous a perched high above the sea, for breathtaking panoramic views. The walk is worth every step, offering a birds-eye perspective of the wild coastline below.

Here, you can also relax at the shore, snorkel, or take photos that feel straight from a postcard. The Gramvousa cruise from Heraklion is both atmospheric and rich in history, perfect for explorers and dreamers alike.

Balos Beach: A Lagoon Like No Other

Next, the boat glides into the world-famous Balos beach, a sparkling lagoon that regularly tops lists of the best beaches in Europe. This protected area is a surreal blend of shallow turquoise waters, pink-tinged sands, and exotic vegetation. It's no wonder Balos Beach is often described as the crown jewel of Crete's coastline.

During your time here, you can swim, sunbathe, or simply walk along the shore where sea meets sky. The Balos beach boat trip offers a few precious hours of complete escape in a setting that feels untouched by time.

Why This Crete Boat Tour to Balos Is One of the Best

This full-day Crete boat tour to Balos is carefully designed for both comfort and discovery. From your Heraklion pickup to your return in the evening, every moment is tailored to give you the best balance of guided exploration and leisure. You'll experience not only one of the best beaches in Crete but also a journey steeped in culture, nature, and breathtaking scenery.

Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone looking for an unforgettable trip, this tour delivers all the elements of a perfect Mediterranean day.

Book Your Balos Lagoon Tour Today

Don't miss the chance to experience Balos and Gramvousa on one of Crete's most spectacular boat tours. Secure your spot on this Heraklion to Balos day trip and get ready for a magical blend of sea, history, and beauty.

Book now and sail into the heart of Crete, where every wave carries a story and every view leaves you breathless.

Itinerary:

Morning Pick-up

• We will start collecting participants from the pick-up points in the morning.
• Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment, the bus ride will differ.
• Bus Drive to Kasteli Port: 3.5 hours(average)
• There will be a short stop on the way for a restroom, a toilet, and a snack for 20 minutes.

1st stop: Kasteli

• The town of Kastelli is at the western end of Crete.
• That's where the boat sails from, to the Gramvousa Peninsula and the Balos lagoon.
• Boat Trip: 1 hour

2nd stop: Gramvousa Peninsula 1 hour 30 minutes

• After the cruise across the western Cretan Sea, the boat arrives at Gramvousa.
• Walk up to the castle on the hill and take photos of the breathtaking panoramic view and Balos lagoon. Enjoy some time to swim and sunbathe by the coast.
• Boat Trip: 15 minutes

3d stop: Balos Lagoon 2 hours 30 minutes

• After the cruise from Gramvousa, the boat will arrive at Balos Lagoon.
• Travelers will have plenty of time to enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of Balos, walk across the golden sand beach, and explore the nature around.
• Lunch: In the meantime, the restaurant of the boat will be open so clients can enjoy their meal any time between 12:00 and 17:00.
• Boat Trip: 1 hour

4th stop: Kasteli

• Arrival by boat back at the port of Kasteli.
• End of the tour Return to resorts:
• Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning.
• Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.
• Return Bus Drive to resorts: 3.5 hours(average)