Heraklion:Cruise to Chrissi island natural park with pick up

If you’re exploring Crete and looking for a memorable day trip, this cruise to Chrissi Island might catch your eye. It promises a chance to see some of Greece’s lesser-known natural beauty, combining coastal scenery with a boat adventure around unspoiled beaches. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, the details provided paint a pretty inviting picture—especially if you’re into calm waters, scenic drives, and small-group explorations.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of land and sea—you get to start with a scenic bus ride along Crete’s east coast, followed by a boat cruise around Chrissi Island’s exotic bays. Plus, the fact that the island is completely uninhabited means fewer crowds and more pristine scenery. One thing to keep in mind is the long duration—around 10 to 12 hours—so it’s best for those who don’t mind a full day on the go. If you’re after a chilled, relaxing day with plenty of swimming, this could be a solid choice, especially for travelers who want variety in their Crete experience.

This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy guided excursions, appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup, and want to see multiple highlights in one day. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who love being on the water will likely find it worthwhile, but those looking for a more laid-back, shorter outing might want to consider alternatives.

Key Points

• Convenient pick-up and drop-off from multiple locations around Heraklion and surrounding areas.
• A full-day experience blending land travel and boat cruising, approximately 10 to 12 hours long.
• Uninhabited Chrissi Island offers untouched beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Guided tour with professional guides in English, German, or French.
• Includes transportation, boat cruise, entrance fee, and insurance—making it a well-organized trip.
• Optional lunch on board for 9 euros, adding a simple meal option without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What This Tour Offers in Detail

The Itinerary—A Full Day of Exploration and Relaxation

The day kicks off with hotel pickup from a variety of locations—you’ll be greeted by a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. The journey from Heraklion to Ierapetra takes around two hours, offering a chance to relax and enjoy some coastal views. The bus ride itself is a good time to get some overview of Crete’s eastern coastline.

Once in Ierapetra, you’re granted about 30 minutes of free time to wander around this charming southern city. It’s a nice spot to stretch your legs, take photos, or grab a quick drink before setting sail. Many travelers appreciate this brief pause, as it offers a taste of local life and scenery before the main part of the trip.

The Boat Cruise—A Highlight for Water Lovers

The boat departs from Ierapetra and begins a 4.5-hour cruise across the Libyan Sea. You’ll pass by several notable sights, including Belegrina Beach—also called Golden Beach—and Vougiou Mati Beach. The waters here are described as crystal clear, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing on deck.

One of the most praised aspects of the cruise is the timing and scenery. As one review notes, “We were the only boat at the island, which I thought was great!” This suggests a peaceful experience, free from crowded boats or noisy crowds. For swimming, you’ll anchor about 50 meters from the shore of Belegrina Beach, giving you the chance to dive into turquoise waters and paddle along untouched sands.

The onboard meal, which can be purchased for around 9 euros, is an optional addition. The on-board restaurant/bar remains open throughout the cruise, offering salads, sandwiches, pastries, beverages, and more. Folks often enjoy grabbing a snack or drink while taking in the views, and guides might offer discounted prices if you ask in advance.

Chrissi Island—A Natural Wonder

The main attraction is the uninhabited Chrissi Island, a protected area famed for its vivid natural beauty. After about 4.5 hours cruising around the bays, you’ll have roughly an hour on the island itself. This gives enough time for a leisurely walk, photo opportunities, or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

From the reviews, it’s clear that visitors find the island to be serene and photogenic. One reviewer mentioned, “The island was excellent, and the fact that we were the only boat there made it feel even more special.” That sense of exclusivity and untouched nature is what many travelers seek when visiting remote Greek islands.

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Returning and Reflecting

The return journey includes a 1-hour ferry ride back to Ierapetra and a bus trip home, totaling a full day of activity. The entire experience wraps up with drop-offs at your initial pickup points, making logistics straightforward for travelers. The program’s structure allows you to see multiple parts of Crete’s coastline and enjoy different perspectives—mountains, sea, and small towns.

How to Make the Most of Your Day

• Bring water shoes or flip-flops: The sand can be hot, and there are small cacti and sharp rocks on the island, as one reviewer pointed out.
• Pack sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential when spending hours under the sun.
• Prepare for a long day: The total duration means you’ll want to wear comfortable clothes and be ready for a full day of activity.
• Consider the optional lunch: For just 9 euros, you can enjoy a meal without the hassle of bringing your own food, but it’s also fine to skip it if you prefer snacks or packed lunch.

The Real Traveler Perspective: Pros and Cons

What travelers love most is the guided experience. Knowing you’re in good hands with a professional guide, especially one who speaks your language, adds comfort and insight. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

The peaceful environment on Chrissi Island gets high marks, especially when you’re the only boat there. The clear waters and pristine beaches are perfect for swimming and relaxing—ideal if you’re seeking a break from busy tourist spots.

On the downside, the full-day duration might not suit everyone. If you prefer shorter trips or have limited energy, this could feel a bit too long. Also, the cost of extras—like meals or drinks—adds up, but overall, the value for what’s included is reasonable.

The transportation logistics are smooth, but keep in mind that if your accommodation isn’t accessible by bus, there may be an extra charge, depending on your location.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring natural scenery, and appreciate guided tours for local insight. It works well for those wanting a comprehensive day trip that combines sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. It’s also good for people who don’t mind a long day and want the convenience of organized transport and guidance.

If you’re traveling as part of a group, family, or solo adventure, you’ll find this tour offers a straightforward way to experience some of Crete’s best natural spots without the hassle of planning every detail.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned bus, a professional guide, the boat cruise around Chrissi Island, liability insurance coverage, and the entrance fee to the natural park.

Can I buy lunch on board?
Yes, you can purchase lunch for 9 euros, which includes a variety of salads, sandwiches, and snacks. The restaurant/bar is open throughout the cruise, so you can also buy drinks and other items separately.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience takes approximately 10 to 12 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each part of the trip without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, beachwear, and sunglasses are recommended. Packing light but practical makes the day easier.

Is there time to explore Chrissi Island?
Yes, you’ll have around an hour on the island, which is enough for a walk, photos, or just relaxing on the sands.

Are there options for those with mobility issues?
The tour involves a bus ride and a boat cruise; travelers should consider their mobility levels. It’s best to check specific accessibility options with the tour provider.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and French, making it accessible for many travelers.

What if I cancel my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenic drives, tranquil sea views, and untouched beaches, this cruise to Chrissi Island ticks many boxes. The experience offers excellent value, especially with the included transportation, guided commentary, and the chance to swim in clear waters away from crowds. While it’s a long day, the relaxed pace and natural beauty make it worthwhile for those seeking a genuine escape into Greece’s lesser-visited corners.

For travelers who enjoy guided tours and don’t mind a bit of a schedule, this trip could be a highlight of your Crete visit. Just remember to come prepared with water shoes, sun protection, and a sense of adventure—this is one outing that promises a peaceful, scenic, and refreshing break from the busy island life.

This tour is best suited for those who want an organized, scenic, and natural experience in Crete, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photos. It’s a balanced mix of land and sea, helping you see a different side of Greece’s famous island.

You can check availability for your dates here: