Balos and Gramvousa Speedboat Tour from Falassarna Chania

Falassarna and the west coast of Crete

Falassarna lies on the far west coast of Crete, about an hour's drive from Chania. It is known for its long sandy beaches, its spectacular sunsets and the remains of an ancient Greek harbour city whose old port now sits high above the sea, lifted by an earthquake centuries ago. The small fishing port of Limeniskos, at the northern end of the bay, is where your speedboat waits.

From Falassarna the boat heads north along the wild Gramvousa peninsula, a protected area of bare cliffs, sea caves and goats on steep slopes. The speedboat makes this crossing short and exciting, with the wind in your hair and views that are impossible to see from the land. If you are looking for a Balos boat trip from Chania without the big ferry crowds, starting from Falassarna is a smart choice.

Gramvousa island and its Venetian fortress

Imeri Gramvousa is a small uninhabited island off the tip of the peninsula, crowned by a Venetian fortress built in the late 16th century to protect the sea route from pirates and Ottoman fleets. Later, during the Greek War of Independence in the 1820s, the fortress became a base for Cretan rebels and pirates. From the sea you can admire its walls standing high above the water.

You have about two hours on the island. Follow the path up to the fortress, a climb of about 20 minutes, for a wide view over Balos Lagoon and the peninsula, or stay on the small sandy beach near the jetty, where the rusting wreck of an old cargo ship lies close to the shore. Look out for wild herbs, lizards and seabirds, which make Gramvousa a small natural reserve.

Balos Lagoon

Balos Lagoon is one of the most photographed places in Greece: a wide stretch of shallow turquoise water between the Gramvousa peninsula and the rocky headland of Cape Tigani, with white sand tinged with pink from tiny crushed shells. The area is protected as part of the European Natura 2000 network, and the water is so shallow in places that you can walk across the lagoon.

You spend about two hours here to swim, float in the warm water or relax on the beach. Bring snorkelling gear to look for damselfish, wrasse and perhaps an octopus, and if you are lucky you may see a loggerhead turtle gliding past. The best time to visit Balos is from late spring to early autumn, when the sea is warm and the colours are at their brightest.

The speedboat ride and the return to Falassarna

The speedboat carries up to 17 passengers, so the trip feels more personal than the large ferries that serve Balos. Soft drinks and water are included, and your English-speaking driver handles the boat and gives practical tips about each stop. There is no guide on board, so you are free to spend your time on the islands as you wish.

After the second stop, the boat takes you back to the fishing port of Falassarna, about five hours after departure. If you still have energy, stay for a swim at Falassarna's beaches or wait for the sunset, which is one of the most beautiful in Crete. This makes the tour one of the best things to do in Chania's western region for a relaxed summer day.