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Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa: Private Luxury Sailing Voyage

Sail to the jaw-dropping turquoise lagoon of Balos and the Venetian island fortress of Gramvousa aboard a private crewed yacht — one of the most photogenic seascapes in all of Greece.

What to expect

Depart Heraklion harbour and sail west along Crete's wild north coast toward the Gramvousa peninsula. Drop anchor in the impossibly clear, shallow waters of Balos — a UNESCO-protected lagoon where the Aegean, Cretan, and Libyan Seas converge. Explore the 16th-century Venetian castle on Gramvousa islet before returning with the golden afternoon light. Lunch, drinks, and snorkelling equipment are provided on board.

Book it with
Withlocals Heraklion Private Sailing (local expert fleet)
EUR 180–250 per person (private crewed sailing, 6–8 hrs; based on 4–8 guests)
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Good to know

This is a full-day excursion (approx. 8 hrs); confirm your ship's all-aboard time before booking — it suits ships with a late departure. Balos is in western Crete; sailing from Heraklion is the most luxurious way to arrive. Book at least 2 weeks ahead in peak season (June–Sept).

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Heraklion — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Oceania · Oceania Regatta
12 nights · calls at Heraklion
from $2,400
View sailing →
Oceania · Oceania Sirena
10 nights · calls at Heraklion
from $2,635
View sailing →
Viking Ocean · Viking Vesta
7 nights · calls at Heraklion
from $2,699
View sailing →
Viking Ocean · Viking Mira
7 nights · calls at Heraklion
from $2,699
View sailing →
See all cruises to Heraklion →
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