Two lagoons, one fast RIB day. I like how this trip trades slow ferries for a speedboat feel, then still gives you real time in the water at Balos Lagoon and on Gramvousa Island. I also appreciate the comfort touches: easy deck lounging, music, and unlimited drinks from an open cooler. One drawback to plan around: it’s a bouncy, fast ride by design, so it’s not the best pick if you get seasick easily or need very gentle pacing.
From the start, the crew keeps things organized. You meet them at Kissamos/Trachilos port near the sailboats dock, get a quick onboard rundown, and then you’re off—after a short safety briefing, of course. In the reviews, the captain’s name shows up a lot—Dimitrios (also spelled Dimitrij/Dimitris)—and the theme is consistent: he manages the boat confidently, makes people feel safe, and keeps the mood upbeat.
If you want dramatic Cretan scenery but hate standing in ferry lines, this is a strong match. The big consideration is simply suitability: it’s not for wheelchair users, and it’s not for pregnant women, plus there’s water access that can involve walking a few meters.
In This Review
- Key reasons this cruise is worth your time
- Why Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island work so well together
- Getting to the port in Kissamos (and what to watch for)
- The safety briefing and why it matters on a fast RIB
- The thrill of speed cruising to Gramvousa
- Gramvousa Island time: exploring, swimming, and the water-access reality
- The key shift at Balos: from island exploring to lagoon swimming
- Snorkeling gear, snacks, and unlimited drinks that keep the day easy
- Timing and pace: how a 5-hour cruise feels in real life
- Price and value: why $95 can be a fair deal here
- What to bring and the admin detail you can’t ignore
- Who should book, and who should skip
- Booking reality check: should you book this cruise?
- FAQ
- How long is the Kissamos to Balos and Gramvousa speedboat cruise?
- Where does pickup happen, if I choose the pickup option?
- Do I get snorkeling equipment?
- What food and drinks are included?
- Are towels provided?
- Do I need tickets to enter Gramvousa Fortress?
- Where do we meet and where does the tour end?
- What documents do I need, and what admin info is required?
Key reasons this cruise is worth your time
- Speed-first routing that helps you beat the ferry crowd
- RIB comfort with open cooler drinks between high-speed stretches
- Two classic stops in one day: Gramvousa Island plus Balos Lagoon
- Snorkeling equipment included for both sea-time moments
- A short, clear schedule with real break time at each destination
- Captain-led vibe that feels safe and well run (Dimitrios)
Why Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island work so well together
Balos and Gramvousa are the kind of places that look unreal from the water. On a day like this, you get both in roughly the same swing of time, without sacrificing your ability to actually swim and snorkel.
What I like is the contrast. Gramvousa is more rugged and scenic, with the island experience built around stepping off where the boat can reach and then exploring before the light shifts. Balos feels more like a postcard beach-and-lagoon setup, and you’ll have time to get in the water and still enjoy the view from the deck.
This combo also makes sense if you’re short on days in Western Crete. You can’t really “do everything” in the region, but you can cover two headline stops efficiently.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Kissamos
Getting to the port in Kissamos (and what to watch for)
Your meeting point is in the port of Kissamos/Trachilos, at the sailboats dock following the pin location the operator provides. If you choose hotel pickup, the crew may collect you from a list of areas that includes Kissamos, Kolimvari, Maleme, Gerani, Platanias, Agia Marina, Stalos, Galatas, Daratso, and parts of Chania town, plus areas in between.
Two practical notes help here. First, plan to show up with your ID/passport ready—port authorities require passenger details ahead of time. Second, bring a towel and sunscreen, because you’ll be getting wet and then staying out long enough for sun to do its job.
The day starts with organization, not chaos. You’ll meet the crew, get onto the RIB, and get the safety guidance before you’re moving fast across open sea.
The safety briefing and why it matters on a fast RIB
Once you’re at Kissamos Port, there’s a short safety briefing (about 15 minutes). That might sound routine, but on a speed-focused boat, it’s the difference between feeling relaxed and feeling tense.
The experience is clearly designed around controlled speed. The operator says you’ll enjoy unlimited drinks from an open ice cooler, but during the highest-speed stretches you’ll be asked to sit. That small rule tells you a lot: the goal is speed, but safety comes first, and the crew keeps everyone in the right position.
In the reviews, the captain’s competence is a repeat point. That lines up with what you want when you’re bouncing across sea.
The thrill of speed cruising to Gramvousa
After departure, you’ll go for it on the water. Expect a real cruising feel as you head out across the Cretan Sea, and you’ll pass by the Gramvousa cape for some of the best sightline moments before the island stop.
The boat time to the first destination is about 30 minutes. During that stretch, it’s a good moment to do the two things you never regret: adjust your sunglasses and pick a spot on the deck that feels stable for you. If you’re the type who gets motion irritation, this is also the time to be extra cautious with sunglasses, water, and slow breathing.
You arrive at Gramvousa, and the boat docks as close as possible. Then you’re ready for the island part.
Gramvousa Island time: exploring, swimming, and the water-access reality
You’ll have about 1.5 to 2 hours on Gramvousa Island (the schedule lists 105 minutes). The captain will dock at the closest feasible point, but here’s the detail that matters: you might need to walk a few meters in the water to reach land.
That’s not a problem if you’re wearing water shoes or you’re comfortable getting your feet wet for a short stretch. It can be annoying if you’re expecting a clean dock landing.
On the island, you’ll have free time, plus the day includes local snacks at this stop. If you’re drawn to views and want to wander without a tight guided script, this is your window. The captain may also share short context about the places you’re visiting, and the name Dimitrios shows up again in the reviews as someone who keeps the experience friendly and organized.
If you’re planning on snorkeling here, remember you have snorkeling equipment included, but the main opportunity to enjoy the sea-floor is really tied to where you can safely swim during that stop.
The key shift at Balos: from island exploring to lagoon swimming
When everyone is back on board, you head onward. The schedule shows another short speed segment before you reach Balos Beach (the plan includes about 105 minutes there).
Balos is where the day changes from “island break” to “sea day.” The boat docks again as close to the beach as possible, but you’re not locked into a single viewpoint. You can walk in where it’s practical, or stay in the water. The day is set up for swimming and snorkeling, and the boat’s deck makes it easy to switch between in-the-water and out-of-the-water comfort.
If you like a little adrenaline without going too far off plan, this is also where you get the chance to jump from the boat. One review specifically calls out jumping into the sea from the RIB and then swimming toward Balos and back—exactly the kind of freedom a speedboat day can give you.
Snorkeling gear, snacks, and unlimited drinks that keep the day easy
Food and drink are part of what makes this feel like more than a quick ferry replacement. Snacks are included, and you also get unlimited drinks like beer, soft drinks, juice, ice tea, and water.
There’s a subtle rhythm to how you’ll experience it. You can grab drinks between stops and during much of the ride, but when the boat accelerates hard you’ll likely be asked to be seated. That keeps things steady and reduces spill stress.
Music is included too, which might sound small, but it changes the vibe—especially on that return cruise when you want the day to feel like a holiday, not a commute.
Snorkeling equipment is also included. That means you don’t have to hunt for gear in town or pack your own. Bring your towel, rinse anything off when you can, and you’ll be set.
One more point: towels are not included, so plan for that if you forget to pack one.
Timing and pace: how a 5-hour cruise feels in real life
The total duration is about 5 hours, and the schedule is built around two focused visit windows. You do a port check-in, a safety briefing, roughly half an hour to Gramvousa, then around 105 minutes on the island. Then you shift to Balos for another 105 minutes before you return.
The boat ride itself is short but intense enough to feel like you earned the scenery. You’re not spending the day bouncing endlessly. You’re spending chunks of time off the boat, swimming, and exploring.
Also note the logistics flow if you select hotel pickup/drop-off. There can be van segments before and after the sea portion, and the schedule lists van time (about 2 hours on either side). In real terms, that affects your door-to-door day. If you’re trying to keep your schedule tight, check your pickup timing option.
Price and value: why $95 can be a fair deal here
At $95 per person for a 5-hour speedboat day, the value comes from the mix of three things: speed, time in the water, and included comforts.
A ferry day might get you there cheaper, but you often trade that for crowds and longer travel. This cruise is designed to avoid the crowded ferries and to help you reach the destinations before the lines and surge of day-trippers show up.
Then there’s the all-in feel while you’re on the boat: unlimited drinks, snacks, and snorkeling equipment are included. If you end up renting gear or buying drinks, the price gap can shrink fast.
Finally, the boat itself matters. Reviews describe it as luxury and comfortable while still being fast. That’s not a small detail when your day includes two water sessions plus time outdoors under sun.
What to bring and the admin detail you can’t ignore
Here’s the practical checklist that will save you stress:
- Passport or ID card
- Towel
- Sunscreen
Now the part people sometimes underestimate: port authorities require passenger information. You must provide full names, passport/ID numbers, dates of birth, nationality, and gender when booking or at least 24 hours before departure. If that paperwork isn’t successfully submitted in time, nobody can join.
If you’re traveling with a group, double-check spelling. Keep it consistent with your passport. It’s the kind of boring step that keeps the fun from getting delayed.
Also note what’s not allowed: pets and alcohol/drugs are not permitted onboard.
Who should book, and who should skip
This cruise is a good fit if you want dramatic scenery, real swim time, and a day that feels efficient and fun. It’s especially appealing if you dislike crowds and want a speed-first plan that still includes breathing room on each destination.
It’s not a good fit if you need full accessibility support. The operator lists it as not suitable for:
- Pregnant women
- People with mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
Even if you’re physically fine, keep in mind the ride involves speed and the day includes water-access walking at Gramvousa. If you’re nervous about slippery surfaces or sudden motion, plan accordingly.
Booking reality check: should you book this cruise?
Yes, I’d book it if your priority is two top sights in one day, plus swimming and snorkeling without waiting around. The speedboat format is the point, and it’s paired with included drinks, snacks, and gear—so you don’t turn it into a mini budgeting project.
I’d hesitate only if you’re sensitive to motion or you need very gentle, slow transport. Also, if your travel style is strictly hands-off and you hate any walking in shallow water, the Gramvousa landing might not feel comfortable.
For most people heading to Western Crete who want a memorable day at Gramvousa and Balos, this is a solid use of your time.
FAQ
How long is the Kissamos to Balos and Gramvousa speedboat cruise?
The duration is listed as 5 hours.
Where does pickup happen, if I choose the pickup option?
Pickup is optional and may be offered from Kissamos, Kolimvari, Tauronitis, Maleme, Gerani, Platanias, Agia Marina, Stalos, Galatas, Daratso, Agioi Apostoloi, Chania town, Nea Chora, Souda, and other areas in between. If you are unsure about your specific hotel area, you’re asked to contact the provider.
Do I get snorkeling equipment?
Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.
What food and drinks are included?
The cruise includes snacks and unlimited drinks such as beer, soft drinks, juice, ice tea, and water. You can enjoy them throughout the day, except during high-speed cruising when you may be asked to be seated.
Are towels provided?
No. Towels are not included, so you’ll want to bring one.
Do I need tickets to enter Gramvousa Fortress?
Tickets to enter the Gramvousa Fortress are not included.
Where do we meet and where does the tour end?
You meet the crew in the port of Kissamos/Trachilos at the sailboats dock following the provided pin location. The activity ends back at the meeting point.
What documents do I need, and what admin info is required?
Bring your passport or ID card. You also need to provide passenger details (full name, passport/ID number, date of birth, nationality, and gender) when booking or at least 24 hours before departure due to port authority requirements.
