Imeri Gramvousa

Introduction

Imeri Gramvousa is a small, uninhabited island on the northwest side of Crete. Alongside Balos Beach, it’s one of Crete’s most popular attractions. Visitors love its wild landscape, crystal-clear blue-green waters, and sandy beaches. The island is also famous for two iconic sights: the Gramvousa Castle and the mysterious shipwreck on its shores.

In this article, you’ll find all the important information for planning your trip to this amazing island. Keep reading to discover how to get there, what to do, and a few local secrets that will make your visit even more special!

 

Where is Gramvousa?

Imeri Gramvousa is located on the northwest side of Crete, within the Chania Region, in the municipality of Kissamos. By sea, it lies 13 nautical miles from Kissamos Port and 32 nautical miles from Chania’s Old Port. The island is also close to other notable landmarks in the area: it’s situated 1.4 nautical miles northwest of Balos Beach, 1.17 n.m southwest of Gramvousa Cape, and 1.27 nautical miles south of Agria Gramvousa.

Interactive Google Map of Imeri Gramvousa Islet

This whole region—including Balos Beach, Imeri Gramvousa, Agria Gramvousa, and Gramvousa Cape—forms an area of remarkable natural beauty and historical significance, making it one of Crete’s must-visit destinations.

 

How to Get to Gramvousa

Unlike Balos, where several routes are available, reaching Gramvousa Island can only be done by boat. There are three main boat options to choose from: a private boat, the ferry, or a semi-private boat. Additionally, boats to Gramvousa depart from four main ports: Chania, Kissamos, Kolymvari, and the small port of Falasarna.

Getting to Gramvousa by Ferry

Ferries to Gramvousa depart from Kissamos Port (google maps location), offering itineraries that include stops at both Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach. Two main companies operate these routes: Cretan Daily Cruises (google maps location) and Blue Daily Cruises (google maps location).

Below are their schedules and pricing details:

Cretan Daily Cruises (Official Site)

• Operating Season: April 18 – October 31
• Departure Times: Between 10:10 and 12:40
• Return Times: Between 17:45 and 19:40
• Ticket Prices:
  • Adults (13+ years): €38
  • Children (3-12 years): €19
  • Infants (0-2 years): Free
• Additional Fees: €1 per adult as a port fee

 

Blue Daily Cruises (Official Site)

• Operating Season: June 1 – October 31
• Departure Time: 10:50
• Return Time: 16:00
• Ticket Prices:
  • Adults (12+ years): €35
  • Children (3-11 years): €15
  • Infants (0-2 years): Free
• Additional Fees: €1 per adult as a port fee

 

Note: The prices mentioned are based on the official websites as of 16-11-2024 and refer to the 2025 season. Prices and schedules are subject to change, so we recommend confirming directly with the ferry operators before booking.

 

Typical Gramvousa-Balos Ferry Itinerary

The cruise lasts around 6-7 hours in total. The journey to the first destination, either Balos or Gramvousa, takes approximately 1 hour. There’s no set schedule for which stop comes first, as it varies by tour.

At each location, you’ll have time to explore: about 2.5 hours in Balos and 1.5 hours in Gramvousa. The transfer time between Balos and Gramvousa is roughly 20 minutes.

Keep in mind that during high season, disembarkation may take longer—sometimes 15 minutes or more—as all passengers embark and disembark.

During your cruise, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy sights along the Gramvousa Peninsula, including Tersanas Cave, Agios Sozon, and Agria Gramvousa.

 

Getting to Gramvousa on a Semi-Private Cruise

Semi-private cruises to Gramvousa depart from either Kissamos Port or the smaller port of Falasarna (open in google maps). From Kissamos, you’ll find various boat options, including motorboats, mini-yachts, sailing boats, and catamarans. Meanwhile, at Falasarna, you’ll find more traditional options, such as fishing boats and RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats).

Prices vary depending on the duration of the tour, included extras, and type of boat. Typically, prices range from €70 to €200 per person.

 

Getting to Gramvousa on a Private Boat

Choosing a private boat to visit Gramvousa Island is an excellent option for small groups of friends, families, or anyone looking to surprise their loved ones with a unique experience. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

Why Choose a Private Boat to Gramvousa Island?

First, you’ll get to enjoy the island in complete privacy. By avoiding the busy hours when large cruise ships arrive, you can explore Gramvousa with fewer people around, making it a much more serene and exclusive experience. You also have the flexibility to decide how long you want to stay on the island and even visit other hidden beaches nearby.

Surprisingly, the cost for a private boat isn’t as high as you might think. There’s a wide variety of boat types to choose from, including RIBs, sailing boats, catamarans, and luxury yachts, depending on your group size and preferences.

If you’re looking for a shorter trip and want to get to the destination quickly, a RIB or motorboat is your best choice. These boats are fast and ideal for a half-day or shorter excursions in the area.

 

Departure Ports for Gramvousa Private Boat Trips

You can find private boat options to Gramvousa departing from several ports:

• Chania Old Port: Trip durations range from 5 to 8 hours. (Chania Old Port in Google Maps)
• Kolymvari Port: Also a 5 to 8-hour trip. (Kolymvari Port in Google Maps)
• Kissamos Port: Being the closest to Gramvousa, trip durations here range from 3 to 8 hours. (Kissamos Port in Google Maps)

 

How Much Does a Private Boat Trip to Gramvousa Cost?

From Kissamos Port

• Closest to Gramvousa: Ideal for shorter trips or a quick getaway.
• Boat Options:
  • Motorboats and RIBs (6-7m): €480–€680 for 3–6 hours (1–5 people).
  • RIBs (9-11m): €600–€900 for 3–6 hours (1–10 people).
  • Sailing Boats: €800–€1000 for 7–8 hours (1–10 people).

 

From Kolymvari Port

• Longer Trips: Perfect for a more relaxed journey with extra time to explore the scenic Rodopou Peninsula.
• Boat Options:
  • Motorboats and RIBs (9-11m): €1000–€1250 for 5–8 hours (1–9 people).
  • Luxury Cabin Motorboats: €1350–€1750 for 5–8 hours (1–7 people).
  • Yachts (13-17m): €2500–€3000 for 5–8 hours (1–12 people).

 

From Chania Old Port

Longer Tours: Ideal for extended trips, with opportunities to explore additional scenic spots along the way before reaching Gramvousa. Enjoy a picturesque departure from the historic Old Port and discover hidden gems along the journey.

Boat Options:

• Motorboats and RIBs (9-11m): €950–€1250 for 5–8 hours (1–8 people).
• Luxury Cabin Motorboats: €1400–€1800 for 5–8 hours (1–6 people).
• Yachts (13-17m): €2700–€3500 for 5–8 hours (1–12 people).

 

Whether you’re seeking adventure or a romantic getaway, a private boat trip to Gramvousa offers an unforgettable experience with flexibility, privacy, and the chance to see Crete’s beauty on your own terms.

For a tailored and premium experience, check out SEAze the Day’s private boat tours to Gramvousa, offering flexibility and privacy.

 

Top Things to Do in Gramvousa Island

Gramvousa Islet is truly a remarkable destination to visit. Many travelers who have swum in its waters even claim that the sea here rivals—if not surpasses—the beauty of Balos Beach! Beyond the stunning crystal-clear blue-green waters, Gramvousa boasts two iconic attractions that make it a must-visit spot: the Fortress of Gramvousa and the Gramvousa shipwreck.

 

Gramvousa Fortress

Perched atop the rugged cliffs of Gramvousa Island, the medieval castle of Imeri Gramvousa is a remarkable historical landmark that offers not only a glimpse into Crete’s storied past but also breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding sea and coastline. A visit to this fortress combines history, adventure, and unforgettable scenery.

 

What Is the History Behind Gramvousa Fortress?

Built by the Venetians in the late 16th century, the castle served as a strategic defense point against Ottoman invasions. Its position, at approximately 137 meters above sea level, provided an excellent vantage point to monitor the surrounding waters.

Over time, it became a haven for pirates and rebels, adding to its mystique and intrigue. Today, its well-preserved walls and ruins tell the story of a turbulent yet fascinating chapter in Crete’s history.

 

How Do You Reach the Gramvousa Fortress?

Getting to the castle involves a 20-minute uphill hike along a rocky path. The route is divided into two sections: a rugged dirt path leading to the base of the fortress, followed by a series of stone steps winding up to the entrance. While the climb is not overly challenging, it does require some effort, making sturdy hiking or athletic shoes essential. The climb is worth it for the spectacular views waiting at the top—offering a stunning panorama of the turquoise waters and the surrounding islands.

 

Essential Tips for Visiting Gramvousa Castle

Allow about an hour for the entire experience—climbing up, exploring the fortress, enjoying the views, and descending. During the summer months, the hike can be hot, so it’s advisable to bring water, a hat, sunscreen, and even consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day.

Standing atop the walls of the Imeri Gramvousa castle, with the wind in your hair and the endless blue of the sea stretching out before you, is a moment you won’t forget. This medieval marvel is not just a site—it’s an experience that will leave you captivated by Crete’s beauty and history.

 

Gramvousa shipwreck

Were is the Gramvousa Shipwreck located?

The Gramvousa shipwreck is located on the east side of the bay where the ferries dock. It lies about 250 meters east of the dock and just 20 meters from the shore, making it easy to spot. Part of the wreck sticks out above the water, while the rest lies underwater at a depth of 3–4 meters.

 

Things to Do Around the Gramvousa Shipwreck

The shipwreck is an excellent place for snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters allow you to see a variety of Mediterranean fish, like painted combers , saddled seabreams, and white seabreams. Sometimes, you might even spot a lionfish, an invasive species in this area. The shallow depth of 3–4 meters makes it ideal for both beginner and experienced snorkelers.

 

The Story of the Gramvousa Shipwreck

The “Dimitrios P.”, a 35-meter cargo ship built in 1921, was carrying 440 tons of cement from Chalkida, in central Greece, to North Africa when it ran into trouble. During its journey in January 1968, the ship faced bad weather and strong winds. The captain first anchored near the island of Kythira to avoid the storm. Later, he moved to Imeri Gramvousa, near Crete, hoping for safety.

However, on January 8, 1968, the weather worsened, and the ship’s right anchor chain broke. The ship leaned to one side, and water flooded the engine room. Despite the captain’s efforts to stabilize it, the ship became impossible to save. The crew abandoned the ship and took shelter on the uninhabited Imeri Gramvousa island. For two days, they endured difficult weather conditions until the Greek Navy’s “Ierax” ship rescued them.

Today, the “Dimitrios P.” lies near the famous Balos lagoon, slowly deteriorating. Though much of it is underwater now, the wreck remains a popular attraction for visitors.

For more details, check out this article: The Gramvousa Shipwreck.

The Condition of the Wreck Today

Over time, the shipwreck has started sinking deeper into the water. Strong waves and the salt of the sea are slowly wearing it down, making it a unique but ever-changing underwater attraction. The wreck is a reminder of the power of nature, as its condition evolves with each passing season.

 

Tips for Your Visit

Wear snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater. In addition to snorkels and masks, fins are recommended, as underwater currents can occur on certain days.

You have two options to reach the shipwreck:

1. Swim from the beach: Enter the water from the sandy beach and swim to your left for about 5–7 minutes (approximately 200 meters from the shore). While swimming, explore the fascinating bottom morphology, but stay close to the shore, especially during the summer, as many boats pass through the area.
2. Walk and enter from the rocky path: You can walk along the beach until you find a small rocky path that leads to a small peninsula at the edge of the bay. From there, you can enter the water much closer to the shipwreck.

If you are on a private tour, you can ask your friendly skipper to dock near the shipwreck for an even easier and closer experience.

 

The Local Secrets of Gramvousa Island

Although Gramvousa is considered an uninhabited island, from March to late October, two Cretans live there—Michalis and Giannis, two modern-day pirates. These two are the heart and soul of the island, keeping it clean and maintaining its natural beauty by caring for the trees and collecting trash.

 

Michalis, a fisherman by trade, is known as one of the finest traditional chefs of authentic Cretan cuisine. During the summer, he catches fresh fish with his nets to sustain himself. Giannis, on the other hand, carefully gathers coarse salt from natural hollows along the island’s shore. After seawater seeps into these hollows during storms, the strong sun and high temperatures dry the water, leaving behind pure salt. Giannis collects it by hand, removes the moisture, and shares it with visitors who appreciate its unique origin.

Many times, locals and friends of Michalis and Giannis are warmly welcomed to their small, traditional home on the island. There, they enjoy unforgettable feasts prepared by Michalis using the purest ingredients, all while taking in the breathtaking views of Gramvousa.

These two men embody the spirit of Gramvousa, offering visitors not only a glimpse into the island’s secrets but also a connection to its rich traditions and natural treasures. Supporting their efforts means preserving the soul of this extraordinary place.

 

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If you want to experience the true spirit of Gramvousa with your friends, we recommend the private trip “We Fish and You Feast in Gramvousa-Balos beach“ with Seaze the Day. Captain Panos will catch fresh fish through spearfishing, and later, you’ll enjoy the day’s catch, prepared by Michalis himself at his private spot on Gramvousa!

For more ways to explore Gramvousa, check out the tours listed at the bottom of this article.

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Conclusion

Imeri Gramvousa is a one-of-a-kind destination where natural beauty, history, and local traditions blend seamlessly. From the breathtaking views at Gramvousa Fortress to the mysterious shipwreck and crystal-clear waters, the island offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Whether you choose a private trip, a semi-private cruise, or travel by ferry, Gramvousa invites you to immerse yourself in its unique charm. Support its local traditions, respect the environment, and always remember—don’t leave trash behind. By doing so, we can help preserve this extraordinary island for future generations to cherish.