Set sail from Kolymvari on a 9-hour boat journey with Notosmare Marine Adventures to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Swim crystal-clear waters, visit a historic fortress, and savor unmatched coastal views on this signature Crete experience.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for walking on uneven terrain and periods of standing on the boat.
Wildlife
History
Gramvousa’s Venetian fortress was built to defend Crete from pirate raids and played a key role during the island’s 19th-century Greek independence struggles.
Conservation
Notosmare Marine Adventures supports environmentally responsible tourism by limiting group sizes and educating visitors about local marine ecosystems.
Notosmare Marine Adventures
Set sail from Kolymvari on a 9-hour boat journey with Notosmare Marine Adventures to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Swim crystal-clear waters, visit a historic fortress, and savor unmatched coastal views on this signature Crete experience.
Notosmare Marine Adventures is a boat tour operator based in Marathi, Crete, offering a wide range of day trips, private charters and rentals. The company operates from Marathi and runs departures that also originate from Chania, Kolymvari and Sfakia, serving popular destinations such as Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa, Seitan Limani, Gavdos, Menies and Elafonisi. Boats in the fleet named in listings include Saxdor, Axopar, Marvel, RIBs and larger yachts including Bavaria and catamarans, providing options for small groups, families and private charters. Tour formats range from half‑day to full‑day nine‑hour excursions, sunset cruises and specialised routes like Chania to Santorini or Sfakia to Gavdos. Many advertised trips reference complimentary drinks, light snacks or fresh fruit, and several listings specify skipper‑included services or bareboat rental choices. Notosmare offers private boat trips, fishing trips, rentals with and without a licence requirement and a selection of high‑powered RIB and outboard models. The variety of vessel sizes and trip styles supports activities such as swimming in turquoise waters, visiting historic sites like Gramvousa castle and exploring secluded coves accessible only by sea. Booking options cover private charters, shared tours and tailored itineraries. Trip descriptions emphasize picturesque coastlines, hidden beaches and opportunities to relax while sightseeing. With a broad fleet, multiple departure points and both crewed and bareboat offerings, Notosmare Marine Adventures provides practical choices for travelers seeking marine excursions around western Crete.
Seasonal availability applies; bookings are offered for sunrise departures, sunset cruises, family outings, fishing trips and custom itineraries for varying group sizes, locally.
Base Location
Marathi, Crete
Local launch point for many trips
Tours Offered
75
Wide selection across western Crete
Typical Duration
Half‑day & 9‑hour
Flexible half‑ and full‑day trips
Boat Types
Axopar, Saxdor, RIBs
Modern motorboats and RIB options
Reserve a private charter or join a shared tour to Balos, Gramvousa, Seitan Limani or Gavdos — check vessel, duration and skipper options and book now.
Bring Plenty of Sun Protection
Strong Mediterranean sun and minimal shade aboard make sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses essential.
Wear Comfortable Shoes for Castle Hike
The walk up to Gramvousa’s fortress involves uneven stone paths—sturdy, closed-toe shoes improve footing and comfort.
Pack Swimwear and Towels
Plan on multiple swims in Balos Lagoon’s shallow, inviting waters—quick-dry clothing and a towel are handy.
Arrive Prepared for a Full Day
This 9-hour excursion demands energy; bring light snacks if you have dietary needs beyond those provided onboard.
Sunscreen
Protects skin during prolonged sun exposure on deck and at Balos Lagoon.
summer
Sturdy Footwear
Necessary for climbing the uneven paths of the Venetian castle on Gramvousa.
Swimwear
Allows you to enjoy Balos Lagoon’s inviting turquoise waters.
summer
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Useful for cool morning air or sea breezes during the boat trip.
spring