Balos Lagoon - Gramvousa Island - Menies
Uncover the timeless union of nature and history
Renowned across the globe for its mesmerizing turquoise waters, gracefully blending with the white and pink sand, Balos beach offers a scenic getaway unlike any other. Just a short distance away lies Gramvousa island, a rugged paradise steeped in history. Relax on the pebbled Menies beach, delve into the mystical depths of Chironisia caves and discover the rocky beauty of Thodorou island. Enjoy an exclusive and private cruise and avoid the crowds.
Why embark on the Balos-Gramvousa-Menies cruise
As the most popular beach on Crete and one of the most beautiful beaches worldwide, Balos will enchant you with its turquoise waters contrasting against the pinkish white sand. As you approach Balos, your gaze is immediately drawn to the lagoon and the stunning contrast of colors that unfold before you.
Balos lagoon is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and unique landscape with pink-hued sand, colored by crushed shells and coral, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the island of Crete. Its shallow and warm waters are suitable for children, making their swim a heavenly experience.
Although it’s only accessible by boat or a scenic hike, Balos is perpetually bustling with visitors. This private cruise offers access to secluded areas away from the crowds, rewarding you with an air of exclusivity, for a memorable and unique experience.
Our tip: Get ready for amazing photos! If you are a photography enthusiast, the Balos-Gramvousa-Menies cruise is perfect for you. Capture the unique angles and perspectives of the natural wonders of Balos, as you sail around.
The designation of Balos as a Natura-protected area emphasizes its ecological importance and the need to maintain its unspoiled surroundings. Its pristine shores, crystal-clear waters and unique coastal landscapes are not only a haven for beachgoers, but also serve as vital habitats for various marine and terrestrial species.
Discover the vibrant underwater world of Balos, home to a diverse array of marine species. Get a glimpse of colorful fish, sea turtles and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat and live a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Our tip: Grab your underwater camera or GoPro! The waters of Balos provide excellent visibility, allowing you to capture stunning underwater snapshots.
Across the shimmering waters of Balos lies Gramvousa, an uninhabited island, with rich history and panoramic vistas that sweep across the horizon. With its white sand and turquoise waters, it offers a scenery difficult to forget.
If you are an adventure lover, a unique snorkeling experience awaits. Plunge into the pristine waters of Gramvousa for an unforgettable snorkeling escapade and uncover a vibrant underwater realm bustling with marine creatures.
Our tip: Keep your eyes open to spot the 35-metre-long semi-sunken motorship Dimitrios P, which has become an iconic aspect of the region, embedded within its history. Today, it serves as a poignant reminder of the sea’s strength and the passage of time.
For history lovers: You can visit the imposing ruins of the Venetian fortress, perched at a height of 137 meters above the natural harbor of the island. Having been built by the Venetians in the 16th century to safeguard against Ottoman incursions, today it stands as a testament to the military significance of the island.
Over the centuries, Gramvousa has served as a haven for pirates and rebels, its rugged terrain and remote location making it an ideal hideout. Gramvousa’s history is a tapestry woven with tales of conquest, resilience and the enduring spirit.
Located on the northwest coast of Crete, this secluded pebbled beach creates the perfect environment to unwind and recharge. Unlike other crowded tourist beaches, Menies is very hard to reach by car so it’s less frequented by large crowds.
The unspoiled setting of this uninhabited and Natura-protected area makes it a must-visit destination. The cliffs surrounding the beach shelter it from strong winds and waves, making it an ideal destination to cool off and enjoy the views of the endless blue.
Swim, snorkel, discover the ruins of ancient history or just relax and enjoy the breathtaking landscape. If you choose snorkeling in the deep waters of Menies, you’ll be more than excited to explore the lively marine life beneath the surface.
For history lovers: Menies beach stands on the site of ancient Diktinna, the primary sanctuary of the goddess Britomartis, often conflated with Artemis in the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Today, there are still ruins of the ancient Roman temple dating back to 530 BCE, as well as the remnants of an ancient harbor.
Getting there
Our fleet of luxury yachts gives you the chance to get lost in the beauty of Balos lagoon and the rich history of Gramvousa island.
From sleek modern designs to timeless classics, our yachts offer a range of amenities and personalized services tailored to exceed your every expectation.
Our experienced crew adds to this unique experience, guaranteeing a safe and comfortable cruise.
Choose one of our 4 yachts to embark on the Balos-Gramvousa cruise and enjoy a private outing.
All prices below are all-inclusive: they include costs for fuel, VAT, captain and crew, lunch or sandwiches (depending on each yacht menu) and an open bar with wine, beers and soft drinks.
All our guests are offered fresh towels and snorkeling gear and have access to free WiFi.
Axopar 1
Axopar 37
Axopar 2
Axopar 37
What we offer
INCLUDED
EXTRAS
Water sports equipment and water toys can be arranged upon request for an additional fee, paid directly to an independent water sports company.
Contact us to learn more about the extras we can offer for your cruise.