Cretan Daily Cruises — Local services in Municipality of Kissamos

We were on the largest ship called Gramvousa, and it was extremely overcrowded. People were wandering around chaotically in search of seats, but there were none left. All the benches were stuffed. Forget enjoying the views - if you're sitting in the middle of the deck - all you experience is the wind rocking the ship. You probably have to come an hour and a half in advance to get a good seat. It's literally the worst nightmare of an introvert. One table on the upper deck seats 12 people, so if you're traveling alone or as a couple, you'll have to sit with people you don't know. Some people don't leave the ship, even on Balos and Gramvousa, to hold on to their seats or leave their personal things to hold the place, and nothing is done about it. All soft leather seats in the lounge were immediately taken by the people who brought toddlers to the ship AND baby strollers... The only good points were clean and roomy toilets and relatively good food. No changing rooms tho, you'll have to change in the restroom if you want to take a dive. You get 1 free meal on this ship which consists of 1 water bottle, 1 salad bowl, and 1 main dish. There was a choice of chicken leg with steamed potatoes, rice with meatballs, rice-stuffed bell peppers, and baked pies. You can get snacks, but you'll have to pay for them. They have huge sugar-covered doughnuts, a wide selection of good ice cream, Oreo Muffins, and packed sandwiches. Beer and coffee-based drinks aren't free as well. The experience can be pleasant if you're in a good seat, but it's almost impossible to get it if you want to enjoy the destinations and then get back...

As most of the greek companies, they suffer on the operations because of bad organisation. The guys who work there are extremely polite, but as usual companies wants to make most of the money by offering as least as possible.

The food on the boat, is nothing special. I wouldn’t buy it. Also they are missing the prices on the windows they sell the food. The prices are on the side, that is not convenient at all.

They also rent umbrellas for Balos. Believe me you don’t need it because it is always windy there, so you won’t be able to open it. You will be in Balos for about 2:30, just get a hat and drink plenty of water, you ll be fine.

Price for the trip is 28€ per person. A bit overpriced but when there is monopolio you don’t have options.

Keep in mind that Balos and Grambousa trip is not in order to chill out and rest. Most likely you will return to your hotel completely tired but with plenty of pics for your instagram. And you will tick that box on your places to visit in Crete.

Balos has an instagramic view but there is no way to chill out and enjoy swimming there.

Also let’s talk about the Balos view. If you go by car you are able to see the stunning view while you are heading down the sea. If you go by the ship then the view is nothing special(pic attached), that is why you need to climb a bit the hill in order to be able to take some awesome pictures.

Grambousa view, the view from the Fort is super… you just have to get sweaty until you get up...

Thoroughly enjoyed the day to Balos beach and Gramvousa Island.

Went in early may and the weather was just right, but definitely worth bringing a coat or jacket as the wind chill especially on the boat will get you cold.

First stop was Balos beach. New from now on, the boat cannot dock directly onto the beach, meaning you will get transferred via a small boat to and from the boat to the beach.

Unfortunately this means your time on the beach is significantly cut short. Luckily we were sat close to the back of the boat on the lower deck so were able to board the first transfer onto the beach . The small boat can only take about 20 people at a time, so unfortunately if you are on the top deck, you will be waiting a while before you can leave the ship.

The longest amount of time you have for Balos is 1hr 30 including transfer time to the beach. Which means you should choose whether to climb to the viewpoint or go for a swim as you may not have time for both. We swam and we had a great.

Next to Gramvousa and this was by far our preferred stop, a beautiful island with plenty to see and do, we had 2 hours here and the boat was able to dock on the island. Highly recommend snorkeling to the shipwreck as the aquatic life is stunning. Plenty of shade on the beach and stunning views of Balos and the surrounding mountains.

Overall a lovely day out, would recommend but keep in mind where you sit on the ship, the transfer time from ship to balos beach and how long you have...