This day starts with a drive along the north coast. We leave Rethymno 7:30 – 8:30 in the morning, pick up service near the hotel. After 1 hour and 30 min. drive we get to Kastelli- Kissamos, where we take the boat from the port and sail around the peninsula of Gramvousa.

The island of Gramvousa is associated with the struggle to liberate Crete from the Ottoman occupation. Three thousand revolutionaries used the island as their shelter for 3 years; to solve the problem of food scarcity, they took to piracy. Gramvousa nowadays is an important bird habitat in the Eastern Mediterranean region and is located along one of the bird migration ways in this part of the world. It is the habitat of over 100 bird species and 400 kinds of plants. Built 137m above sea level on this rocky island, it is one of the most impressive castles in Crete and worth the 15 minute hike up the footpath. Appropriate footwear is advisable & a hat in summer.

Departing from the port of Kissamos and while sailing, you will admire a huge cave, that is believed to have been the ancient shipyard of “Tarsanas”. At the end of the Gulf you will notice an impressive geological phenomenon where, as a result of the passage of time, the western part of the island is rising, while the eastern part is sinking. This phenomenon was mainly created by catastrophic earthquakes that took place in 66 BC and 365 BC. According to scientific estimates, this geographical phenomenon still continues today, but at a much slower rate.

This cruise combines 2 destinations, the island Gramvousa where we can climb 137 meters to visit Venetian fortress (late 16th century) or stay and relax on the beach nearby for 1 hour and 30 min. The other destination is the lagoon of Balos, there we will stay for 2 hours and 15 min. to enjoy the paradise of the Island of Crete. This really is one of the best beaches on Crete.

After we take the boat back so we can start our return journey. Around 19:15 -20:30 we will have returned to Rethymno.

REMEMBER TO BRING!

Sun Cream (a lot!) - Sunglasses and Hat - Long-Sleeved Shirt for Sensitive skin - Swim Suit and a Beach Towel!