Chania to Balos - Gramvousa - Menies - Agii Theodorou trip by boat

Discover the wild beauty of Crete’s northwest coastline on a private sea escape from Chania to Balos, Gramvousa, Menies, and Agii Theodorou. Swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters, explore hidden beaches and historic landmarks, and experience some of the island’s most breathtaking natural landscapes in a single unforgettable journey.

· 24 reviews

4-5 hours

Up to 9 people

Departure: Chania Old harbor

Balos beach, Imeri Gramvousa, Menies beach, Agii Theodori

Description

Your adventure begins at the world-famous Balos Lagoon, a stunning natural paradise known for its shallow turquoise waters, exotic scenery, and soft white sand. Surrounded by Cape Gramvousa and Cape Tigani, Balos is part of a protected Natura 2000 area that shelters rare wildlife, including migratory seabirds and the endangered Mediterranean monk seal. Its remote location and calm waters once made it a refuge for pirates navigating the Cretan coast.

The journey continues to Gramvousa Island, a place where history and dramatic scenery come together. Dominating the island is the famous Venetian fortress, built in the 16th century to protect Crete from invaders and later used by Cretan rebels during the Greek War of Independence. Visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views over the endless blue of the Mediterranean.

Next, unwind at the secluded Menies Beach on the rugged Rodopou Peninsula. Accessible only by sea, Menies offers a peaceful setting with crystal-clear waters and untouched natural beauty. Nearby lie the ancient remains of the Temple of Diktynna, dedicated to the Minoan goddess Britomartis, adding a unique historical touch to this hidden destination.

Your final stop is Agii Theodorou, a protected islet famous for its population of rare Kri-Kri goats, a species found only in Crete. Steeped in local legend and untouched by development, the island offers pristine waters ideal for one last refreshing swim before returning to Chania.

Combining spectacular scenery, secluded beaches, rich history, and unforgettable swimming spots, this private trip is the perfect way to experience the authentic beauty of Crete from the sea.

Boat details

9 People
USB
Crew
Open Bar
Audio System
Snorkeling Gear
Ladder
Shower

Boat 19

Some of the best days on the water happen on a smaller scale. Built for groups of up to nine, this boat offers an intimate and flexible cruising experience — easy to move around, simple to enjoy, and capable of reaching the kind of quiet, out-of-the-way spots that only a boat this size can find. No crowds, no compromise.

Stops along the way

Balos beach
Balos Beach, located on the northwest coast of Crete near Chania, is one of the island's most iconic natural wonders. Known for its exotic turquoise lagoon, soft pink-white sand, and shallow crystal-clear waters, this extraordinary destination feels more like a tropical paradise than a Greek island beach. Whether you arrive by boat from Kissamos or hike down from the Gramvousa Peninsula, the first sight of Balos is genuinely unforgettable.
Imeri Gramvousa
A dramatic island fortress near Balos, crowned by a Venetian citadel, with a shipwreck on its shore and a history of piracy that made it one of the most notorious havens in the eastern Mediterranean.
Menies beach
Menies Beach, located on the northeastern tip of Chania on the Spatha Peninsula, is a remote and unspoiled paradise known for its crystal-clear jade waters and pebbled shoreline. Accessible via a rough dirt road or by boat from Kolymbari, this secluded cove sits near the ruins of the ancient city of Diktynna and its temple to the goddess Artemis — making it as historically fascinating as it is naturally beautiful.
Agii Theodori
The island of Agii Theodori, also known as Thodorou, is a small uninhabited islet nestled just off the coast of Chania, Crete. A protected nature reserve and home to the rare Cretan wild goat, the Kri-Kri, it combines breathtaking natural scenery with centuries of history — from Venetian fortresses to pristine turquoise waters that draw snorkelers and boat trippers from across the island.

Route map

Date:

People:

Boat

€1,150.00

Alexander V. – Rome, Italy

May 18, 2026

We absolutely had the most incredible time on the Chania to Balos trip; it exceeded every expectation! From the moment we sailed past the breathtaking scenery near Gramvousa, we were captivated, and the crystal-clear waters were perfect for snorkeling at every stop. Huge thanks to the crew for their phenomenal service and for arranging such delicious, authentic Greek lunches each day—it was the perfect combination of beautiful beaches and amazing hospitality. If you are considering a trip to see Menies and Agii Theodorou, book this tour immediately; it is pure Greek paradise!

Evelyn N. – Madrid, Spain

April 27, 2026

Honestly, this "Chania to Balos" trip was everything we dreamed of and more! The sheer beauty of the sea surrounding Balos and Gramvousa was breathtaking, and the crew made every moment feel effortless and fun. We spent hours snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters near Menies, and lunch on the boat—paired with the endless scenery—was perfection. If you want to see some of the most incredible spots around Crete, book this; we are already planning our return!

Henry A. – New York, USA

April 25, 2026

This trip was truly everything I could have hoped for—a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation! Seeing the stunning rock formations near Gramvousa and swimming in the unbelievable turquoise waters around Balos was simply breathtaking. The boat crew was absolutely phenomenal, keeping everything running smoothly and providing fantastic suggestions for snorkeling spots, and the delicious lunch made us feel like we were sailing on a floating Greek feast. If you want to experience the best of Crete, this tour hitting Menies and Agii Theodorou is an absolute must!

Sophia M. – London, UK

September 10, 2025

This trip, covering Chania to Balos and exploring Gramvousa and Menies, was absolute perfection! The crystalline turquoise sea was simply breathtaking, and the scenery as we cruised past Agii Theodorou was beyond anything I could have imagined. From the incredible snorkeling spots to the delicious, fresh Greek lunch onboard, every moment was pure bliss; the crew also made us feel so welcome. We truly had the most incredible time and cannot wait to come back to this magic corner of Crete!

David L. – Paris, France

September 6, 2025

This trip was absolutely perfection; navigating from Chania past Gramvousa and visiting Balos was unforgettable. The scenery, combined with the crystal-clear turquoise water at Agii Theodorou, made every moment feel like a postcard. We spent hours snorkeling, and the crew made sure everything was seamless, even the wonderful fresh Greek lunch! If you want the ultimate Cretan experience combining beautiful beaches and incredible natural beauty, this trip is an absolute must-do.

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