Spend a full day exploring Balos Lagoon’s turquoise shallows and the historic fortress of Gramvousa. This boat cruise from Heraklion includes time on the island, beach access and an onboard restaurant option.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the ferry and the sea immediately rearranges your plans — shallow water pushes toward the sandbar, wind teases the castle ruins, and a crescent of white beach glows like unfinished glass. This is Balos: a wide lagoon carved by currents and time, with the ruined fortress of Gramvousa perched above, daring you to climb for the view.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–14 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in reasonable shape; short steep hike to the castle and walking on uneven sand and rock required.
Wildlife
History
Gramvousa served as a refuge during Cretan uprisings against Ottoman rule and was used by revolutionaries who sometimes turned to piracy; the fortress dates to Venetian and Ottoman periods.
Conservation
Balos’s sandbar, dunes and coastal vegetation are fragile; stick to marked areas, avoid trampling plants, and carry out all waste to protect habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon Tour from Heraklion With Food Option today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early
Boarding and return involve a long bus ride from Heraklion—leave early to avoid traffic and make the most of your time on Balos.
Sun and heat protection
Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and sunglasses—the exposed sandbar offers almost no shade.
Sturdy footwear for Gramvousa
The path up to the fortress is rocky and steep in sections; closed-toe shoes with grip make the 15-minute ascent safer and faster.
Watch tides and shallow water
Balos has extensive shallow areas—enter the water slowly and use reef shoes if you plan to wade far from shore.
Sturdy walking shoes
Protects feet on the rocky trail to the Gramvousa fortress and on uneven beaches.
spring
High-SPF sunscreen & sun hat
Essential for long exposure on the lagoon’s exposed sandbar and boat deck.
summer
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
For swimming in shallow turquoise water and drying off after wading or snorkeling.
summer
Light windproof layer
The sea breeze can be chilly on the return voyage—pack a lightweight jacket for comfort.
fall