Chrisi Island Afternoon Boat Trip

Chrisi Island Afternoon Boat Trip: A Practical Look at Crete’s Hidden Gem

If you’re after a laid-back yet memorable way to spend an afternoon in Crete, a private boat trip to Chrisi Island might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, based on the details and reviews from fellow travelers, it seems like a solid choice for those craving some quiet beach time and crystal-clear waters.

What really catches our eye about this experience is its private feel—you’re not sharing your boat with strangers—and the opportunity to approach beaches at just half a meter deep. Plus, the chance to snorkel with provided masks and enjoy cold water and fresh juice sounds like a refreshing touch. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the trip doesn’t include fuel, so costs could add up if you’re on a tight budget.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love the idea of a flexible, intimate sea adventure, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family. If you’re looking for a quick escape to relax, swim, and explore in a private setting, this could work well. But if you prefer a longer or more social cruise, some of the yacht or group options might suit you better.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience with a capacity of only 7 people, ensuring a more personal vibe.
• Short, manageable duration of 4 hours, making it an easy addition to your Crete itinerary.
• Clear waters and secret beaches perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and photo ops.
• Includes essentials like masks, snorkels, water, and juice, but fuel isn’t covered, so keep that in mind.
• Approach beaches at just 0.5m depth, ideal for relaxing and safe swimming.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Diving Into the Details of the Chrisi Island Boat Trip

The general idea and pace of the tour

This private RIB boat experience starts at Blue Cruises Ierapetra and lasts about four hours. The main selling point here is its exclusivity—the boat is small, accommodating just up to seven people, which means your crew gets plenty of personalized attention. The tour begins with a quick 30-minute boat ride from Ierapetra to Chrisi Island, so you’re on the water fairly shortly after departure.

What makes this trip attractive is the balance of time spent traveling and exploring. You get roughly three hours on Chrisi Island itself, which may sound brief but often provides enough time to swim, take pictures, or just lounge on the beach. The return journey is equally quick, about 30 minutes, giving you a good chunk of the afternoon free afterward.

The boat: size, amenities, and approachability

The boat is a RIB—a rigid inflatable boat—known for its speed and stability. It has a sun awning and umbrella, so you’ll stay shaded when resting on deck or on the beach. The boat approach is quite intimate: it can approach beaches at just 0.5 meters deep, giving you the chance to step straight onto the sand without a long trek from a crowded dock.

The boat’s capacity of 7 persons ensures that you’ll avoid the crowds typical of larger tours, and it allows the captain to focus on your group specifically. The inclusion of a captain ensures a safe, guided experience, although fuel costs aren’t included in the price, which could influence the overall expense if you’re planning multiple trips.

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What you’ll do on Chrisi Island

Once anchored near Chrisi Island, you’ll have about three hours to do as you please. Pack your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and sun hat, and get ready for some quality beach time. The water is described as crystal clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Masks and snorkels are provided, which is a thoughtful touch for those wanting to explore the underwater scenery.

You can explore the island’s secret beaches—some reviews mention that the beaches are relatively untouched and perfect for relaxing away from the crowds. You’re free to take photos of the striking scenery, lounge on the sand, or simply float in the inviting waters. If you’re into snorkeling, you’ll love the opportunity to see marine life amidst the calm, transparent water.

The itinerary explained

• Start at Blue Cruises Ierapetra: This is where your adventure begins. The location is convenient if you’re staying nearby or in Ierapetra itself.
• 30-minute boat ride to Chrisi Island: The transfer is quick and scenic, giving you a taste of the sea before reaching your destination.
• 3 hours at Chrisi Island: Plenty of time to swim, snorkel, relax, and take pictures.
• Return via speedboat: Another 30 minutes back across the sea, rounding out the experience smoothly.

This straightforward itinerary makes the trip easy to understand and plan around.

What’s included and what’s not

The price covers the 4-hour tour, boat rental, and the captain, which means no surprises there. You’ll also get cold water and juice, a nice touch on a sunny day. However, fuel isn’t included, so you might want to ask about this beforehand or consider it when budgeting.

Reviews and traveler insights

While many travelers express satisfaction with the experience, some note that the trip is relatively short but sweet. Reviewers mention that the boat approaches beaches closely, making swimming more accessible and fun, especially since you can approach at just 0.5m depth.

One traveler noted, “The boat was perfect for our small group, and we loved how quiet and private everything was.” Others appreciated the flexibility to swim and snorkel at leisure without feeling rushed.

On the downside, some reviews suggest that the price might seem steep, especially considering fuel isn’t included, which could add to the final bill if you opt for additional services. But overall, the experience is praised for its intimacy and scenic value.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour is ideal for small groups or families looking for a private, relaxed day on the sea. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and unspoiled beaches without the hassle of large crowds, this trip hits the mark. It’s also suited for travelers who want a quick, manageable excursion without committing to a full-day boat tour.

However, if your ideal trip involves longer periods at sea or more social interactions with other travelers, you might consider larger group tours or yacht options. For those with limited time but a craving for a peaceful escape, this could be just right.

Final Thoughts

The Chrisi Island Afternoon Boat Trip offers a comfortable, intimate way to enjoy some of Crete’s most beautiful waters. Its private setting and approachability make it a good choice if you’re after a personal experience with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities. The short duration is perfect for fitting into a packed itinerary, but those seeking a more extended day at sea might find it too brief.

The value lies in the exclusivity and flexibility—if you’re craving a quiet, scenic break with friends or family, this trip could serve up a memorable slice of Crete’s coastal charm. Just remember to budget for fuel costs and pack your essentials to make the most of those three hours of island bliss.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the boat accommodates up to 7 people, making it a private experience for your group.

How long is the boat ride to Chrisi Island?
It takes about 30 minutes each way, so you spend roughly 3 hours on the island itself.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and protected.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but cold water and juice are provided during the trip.

Does the tour include snorkeling gear?
Yes, masks and snorkels are provided for exploring beneath the water.

Is fuel included in the price?
No, fuel costs are not covered in the tour price, so be prepared for that additional expense.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the departure point?
The tour starts at Blue Cruises Ierapetra, located in the public parking area.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically marketed as family-oriented, the small, private nature and shallow approach beaches could make it suitable for children, provided safety precautions are observed.

If you’re after a quick, private escape to crystal waters and secluded beaches, this boat trip to Chrisi Island ticks plenty of boxes. It offers a relaxed pace, personalized service, and the chance to soak in some truly beautiful scenery—all in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: