Boat Rentals Balos

Balos & Gramvousa

A Day in Balos & Gramvousa …

Our boats depart mainly from Kavonisi Kissamos Port to Gramvousa island and Balos lagoon. Kavonisi Kissamos Port is a small scenic port, on the northwestern part of Crete, approx. 43 kilometers from the city of Chania

Gramvousa and Balos are Wildlife Refuges and habitats of stunning natural beauty, included in the European initiative ΝΑΤURΑ 2000. Due to the preservation of its natural environment, there are no roads in these areas. You cannot only reach it by car in a dareroad and then by foot for 25min which can be difficult for people with mobility problems. Therefore rent a bareboat is a great option!

A boat rental from Kavonisi Kissamos Port to Balos and Gramvousa in Crete is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. The journey begins at the picturesque port, where you board a bareboat that will take you on a scenic tour of the stunning coastline.

As you leave the port, you pass by the historic Venetian castle, which stands tall and proud on the rocky hilltop overlooking the sea. The boat then slowly makes its way towards the Balos lagoon, with its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. The scenery along the way is breathtaking, with towering cliffs, rugged coastlines, and crystal clear waters that sparkle in the sun.

Upon arriving at Balos, the boat can dock 500 meters from the beach, and you disembark to explore this magnificent natural wonder. The lagoon is a sheltered bay with shallow, warm waters, perfect for swimming or snorkeling. You can take a leisurely walk along the pink sand beaches, admiring the stunning views of the lagoon and the surrounding hills.

After exploring Balos, you can continues your journey towards Granvousa Island, where you can explore the historic Venetian fortress, built in the 16th century. You can climb to the top of the fortress, which offers panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. The island is also home to a small chapel, where you can light a candle and make a wish.

As the day comes to an end, you board your boat once again for the journey back to Kavonisi Kissamos Port. As the sun sets over the sea, you can relax, savoring the beauty of the coastline and reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the day!

Depending on the weather conditions or your preference, apart from Port of Kavonisi to Balos and Gramvousa we can offer you the following options:

  • From Port of Kavonisi to Skoteini and Ravdoucha beach
  • From Kolibari Port to Choironisia and Menies beach
  • From Kolibari Port to Thodorou Island

Balos

Balos is a breathtaking beach and lagoon situated on the northwestern coast of Crete. It is renowned for its pristine turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and stunning natural beauty. As you approach Balos, you’ll be captivated by the contrasting colors of the sea, ranging from deep blue to vivid turquoise. The shallow, crystal-clear waters gradually deepen, creating a perfect environment for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also known for its unique shape, featuring a large sandbar that separates the lagoon from the open sea. The tranquil atmosphere and untouched scenery of Balos make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a secluded paradise.

Gramvousa

Gramvousa is a small island located off the northwest coast of Crete, near Balos. It is known for its rich history, dramatic landscapes, and a well-preserved Venetian castle perched on its summit. As you arrive at Gramvousa, you’ll be greeted by towering cliffs, rugged coastlines, and a sense of isolation that adds to its charm. The highlight of the island is the imposing Venetian castle, which was built in the 16th century and offers panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding areas. Gramvousa also boasts beautiful beaches with golden sand, where you can relax and soak up the sun. The combination of history, natural beauty, and the sense of adventure make Gramvousa a unique destination for travelers seeking a mix of exploration and relaxation.

Optional Tour Guide 120€ (in English, French, Greek)

The Archipelago on Fire (English)

Take a trip alongside the heroes of Jules Verne to learn on board about piracy in the Aegean and the Mediterranean from the island of Crete.

We jump on board and depart to Gramvoussa islet where we will climb up the imposing fortress to hear its’ story. A Venetian and then Ottoman fortress that fell to the hands of the revolutionaries in 1825. We discuss how Gramvoussa became a hub for corsairs and pirates, a miniscule revolutionary state.

L’Archipel en feu (French)

Embarquez aux côtés des héros de Jules Verne pour vous apprendre à bord de la piraterie a la mer Egée et la Méditerranée depuis l’île de Crète.

Nous montons à bord et partons vers l’îlot de Gramvoussa où nous escaladerons l’imposante forteresse pour entendre son histoire. Une forteresse vénitienne puis ottomane tombée aux mains des révolutionnaires en 1825. Nous apprendrons comment Gramvoussa est devenue un sanctuaire pour les corsaires et les pirates, un minuscule État révolutionnaire.

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