Taking a boat trip from Ierapetra to Chrissi Island is a popular way to experience some of Crete’s most beautiful scenery. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, a lot of travelers have shared their experiences, giving us a clear picture of what’s involved. If you’re considering this cruise, here’s what you should know—highlighting what’s great, what could be better, and who this trip fits best.
One thing we really like about this cruise is the opportunity to enjoy crystal-clear waters and panoramic views of Chrissi’s stunning beaches and cedar forest. It’s a low-key, scenic experience that appeals to those wanting a relaxing day on the water. Another plus is the relatively affordable price point—around $45 per person, which offers a decent value for a half-day excursion that combines travel, swimming, and beautiful scenery.
However, there are a few considerations. The lack of disembarkation on the island itself might be disappointing if you’re eager to explore inland or walk through the cedar forest. Also, the food options on board seem to fall short for some travelers, with a few reviewers mentioning that the meals weren’t quite up to par. This trip suits those who enjoy a straightforward scenic cruise with time for swimming, rather than a full exploration of Chrissi Island’s interior.
If you’re looking for a calming day out, enjoy water activities, and want to see Crete’s coast from a different perspective, this tour could be just right. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate relaxed itineraries and aren’t hung up on extensive sightseeing on land.
Key Points
- Relaxing cruise with beautiful sea views of the Libyan Sea and Chrissi Island.
- Swimming in crystal-clear waters near the island is a highlight.
- The onboard bar offers drinks and snacks available for purchase, adding to the comfort.
- No disembarkation on Chrissi Island interior limits exploration but still offers scenic views and beach access.
- The price offers good value for a 6-hour cruise, including water activities and scenic time.
- Some reviews mention crowded boats and inconsistent food quality, so manage expectations accordingly.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
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Starting Point and Duration
The tour kicks off at the Port of Ierapetra, a straightforward departure point accessible by car or public bus from nearby cities like Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos. Parking is free, which makes things easier if you’re driving. The full experience lasts around 6 hours, with check-in and departure times varying based on availability—so it’s worth confirming your slot ahead of time.
The Journey to Chrissi Island
Once aboard the boat, the first stretch takes about 70 minutes across the Libyan Sea. The ferry itself is described as comfortable, with a self-service bar open throughout the trip. You’ll find options like salads, wine, soft drinks, coffee, and ice cream—though you’ll need to pay by card, as cash isn’t accepted. The crew generally earns praise for their professionalism and attentiveness.
What It’s Like on the Boat
Travelers often mention that the staff is very hardworking, with the skipper and crew taking care to make sure everyone feels taken care of. One reviewer highlighted how the crew never stopped working, constantly assisting guests and ensuring safety with life jackets and water equipment. The boat, identified as “ARISTOVOULOS,” is described as good, comfortable, and suitable for the trip.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Views and Wildlife
As you sail, expect stunning sights of the azure waters, turquoise beaches, and the rugged coastline. Seagulls and dolphins are often spotted, adding a lively touch to the cruise. The boat anchors in a sheltered spot near Chrissi, just a short swim from the shoreline, so you can jump in and cool off.
Swimming and Water Activities
The highlight for many is that you can jump off the boat and swim in the emerald waters close to Chrissi Island. The water is refreshing and inviting, perfect for a quick dip. Equipment such as masks, snorkels, flippers, and even balls are provided, giving you options to enjoy the sea at your own pace.
Views of Chrissi Island
While you can’t disembark to explore inland, the boat stays near a designated beach area, offering close-up views of Chrissi’s famous golden sands, blue-green waters, and cedar forest. Some travelers note that the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile—especially if you walk a bit further from the crowded main beaches to find quieter spots.
The Cedar Forest and Landscape
The island’s interior is protected, with access restricted in the summer to preserve its delicate ecosystem. Still, from the boat, you’ll get a good look at the lush cedar forest covering 350,000 square meters, along with the striking rock formations and the golden beaches lining the coast.
Return and Overall Experience
After about 3.5 hours on the island, the boat heads back, with an hour of sailing ahead. Some reviews mention that the return trip can be rough, but overall, most guests found the experience smooth and enjoyable. The crew’s professionalism helps make even less-than-ideal weather manageable.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Looking through the experiences of others, a few recurring themes emerge. Many praise the stunning natural beauty of Chrissi Island, describing the beaches and water as “out of this world.” For example, one reviewer said, “The island is incredibly beautiful! It’s definitely worth it to walk to the other part of the beach for a better view.”
However, not everything is perfect. A common complaint is about crowding and disorganization. One reviewer mentioned that the boat was overcrowded, especially considering COVID-19 safety measures, which can affect comfort levels. As they put it, “the crew waited for anyone who wanted to join, but considering the coronavirus regulations, you might find the boat crowded.”
Food quality also gets mixed reviews. While some found the snacks and salads acceptable, others rated the onboard meals as disappointing, with one noting, “the food was tasty enough—stuffed tomatoes and potatoes, Greek salad, and chicken, but the overall menu wasn’t very satisfying.”
The Guide and Staff
Many travelers highlight the dedication of the crew and skipper, describing them as hardworking and friendly. One review states, “The staff on board were very good, hardworking men. They never stopped working, and they were very nice,” which speaks well to the overall service.
Timing and Organization
Some reviews point out that the organization could be smoother, with confusion over ticketing and boat assignments. For example, one person noted that the voucher process was unclear, and they had to wait longer than expected. Still, overall, most feel the experience offers good value and a memorable trip.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
- Bring essentials: hat, sunscreen, towel, swimwear, and a water bottle.
- Plan for food and drinks: since the onboard menu isn’t included, pack some snacks if you’re hungry.
- Arrive early: to secure your spot and avoid last-minute stress, especially during busy seasons.
- Be prepared for crowds: some reviews mention a lot of people on the boat, so try to get there early if you prefer more space.
- Manage expectations about disembarkation: you won’t be able to walk into the island interior, but the close-up views and swimming make up for it.
- Consider the weather: rough seas might affect the return trip, so keep an eye on the forecast if you’re prone to seasickness.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for those who want a relaxing day on the water and beautiful scenery. It’s ideal if you enjoy swimming, taking photos of scenic beaches, and prefer a straightforward trip without much walking or inland exploration. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner seeking a calm and scenic escape, this is a solid choice.
It’s less suited if you’re looking to disembark and explore Chrissi’s interior or expect gourmet meals onboard. Also, those sensitive to crowds or seeking a more organized, less chaotic experience might want to read reviews carefully or consider other options.
FAQs
Is the boat trip suitable for children?
The tour is generally comfortable for most travelers, but it’s best suited for those comfortable swimming in open water and standing on the boat. The water equipment provided can be fun for kids, but always supervise children around water.
Are there any hotel transfers included?
No, hotel transfers are not part of this package. You’ll need to make your way to the Port of Ierapetra on your own.
Can I pay for drinks and snacks onboard?
Yes, the self-service bar remains open during the cruise, and you can purchase light meals and drinks with your credit or debit card. Cash isn’t accepted.
What should I bring for the day?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, passport or ID (a copy is fine), and perhaps a small cash or card for on-board purchases. Don’t forget your sense of adventure.
Is disembarkation on Chrissi Island allowed?
No, in the summer, disembarkation on the island’s interior or shaded cedar forest isn’t permitted to protect the environment. You’ll anchor nearby, with access mainly for swimming and scenic viewing.
How long is the swimming stop?
The swimming stop near Chrissi lasts for a significant part of the trip, giving plenty of time to cool off. The exact duration is about 3.5 hours on the island, including swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The activity is hosted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
Final Thoughts
This boat cruise from Ierapetra to Chrissi Island offers a relaxed way to enjoy some of Crete’s most beautiful waters and beaches. While it doesn’t include inland exploration, the stunning views, swimming opportunities, and the chance to unwind on the boat make it a worthwhile outing for many travelers. It’s a good pick if you’re after a day of sunshine, sea, and scenic beauty without too much hassle.
If you’re prepared for the crowds and limited inland access, and you’re okay with modest onboard meals, this tour can be a lovely add-on to your Crete itinerary. It’s especially ideal if you want a straightforward, scenic escape with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the water.
From Ierapetra: Cruise to Chrissi Island with Swimming
“Fantastic,except the food,that was horriblewe were hungry in the whole trip because that menu wasnt eatable.”
Summary
In essence, the Ierapetra to Chrissi Island cruise is a well-priced, scenic adventure that highlights the island’s natural beauty, especially the beaches and clear waters. While it has some organizational quirks and restrictions on exploring the island itself, the overall experience is positive for those seeking a calming day at sea. Keep expectations realistic, pack your essentials, and you’re likely to come away with some beautiful memories of Crete’s coast.
Happy sailing!
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