THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Explore Gramvousa’s castle, swim in Balos lagoon’s turquoise shallows and refresh at secluded coves on an 8-hour private boat trip from Kolymbari. Arrive early to avoid the larger ferries and enjoy calmer water and smaller crowds.
Explore Gramvousa’s castle, swim in Balos lagoon’s turquoise shallows and refresh at secluded coves on an 8-hour private boat trip from Kolymbari. Arrive early to avoid the larger ferries and enjoy calmer water and smaller crowds.
Book with Notos Mare Marine Adventures
Book directly with Notos Mare Marine Adventures for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
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Operated by Notos Mare Marine Adventures · Kolymbari, Chania
You step onto the small motorboat in Kolymbari as the sun pries open the northwest Cretan sky, engines ticking to life and the coastline sliding away. The trip moves like a slow reveal: first Gramvousa, its battered Venetian castle sitting high on black rock, then the shallow turquoise sweep of Balos lagoon, followed by quieter coves at Menies and the tiny islets called Choironissia.
easy.
8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short steep walk to Gramvousa castle and swimming from the boat
The trip departs Kolymbari at 10:00 and returns around 18:00; exact times can vary slightly with sea conditions.
Yes—snacks, bottled water and soft drinks are provided; bring any personal refreshments or specialty items you prefer.
Yes—there is free time for swimming at Balos, Menies and Choironissia; bring snorkeling gear if you want better underwater viewing.
The walk from the landing to the fortress is short but steep with uneven stone steps—moderate mobility is recommended.
Gramvousa’s fortress dates to the Venetian period and later saw Ottoman and pirate activity; the islands played roles in coastal defense and local trade.
Balos and its seagrass meadows are ecologically sensitive; avoid anchoring on Posidonia, pack out waste and follow local guidance to reduce impact.
Notos Mare Marine Adventures operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Notos Mare Marine Adventures
Book directly with Notos Mare Marine Adventures for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now