Ierapetra is a fantastic base for boat tours and cruises that showcase the island’s stunning coastlines, turquoise waters, and serene beaches. Unlike more crowded spots in Crete, Ierapetra offers authentic and varied sea adventures — whether you want a lively day on a boat with fellow travelers or a private trip tailored for your group. We particularly like the From Ierapetra: Cruise to Chrissi Island with Swimming, which balances a fun day of swimming, scenic views, and a good chance to relax on board. It’s an easy way to experience one of Crete’s most beautiful islands without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
In this list, you’ll find options that suit different tastes and budgets — from comfortable group cruises to exclusive private RIB trips. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure or a quick escape, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. From Ierapetra: Cruise to Chrissi Island with Swimming
This popular 6-hour boat tour takes you around the famous Chrissi Island, known for its shimmering beaches and clear waters. Starting from Ierapetra’s port, the trip includes a 70-minute ferry ride to the island, where you’ll spend about 3.5 hours exploring, swimming, and snorkeling. The boat features a bar with drinks and snacks, so you can relax comfortably while enjoying the views.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced itinerary: time to swim in the emerald waters, explore secluded beaches, and take in scenic views of the Libyan Sea. Many travelers appreciate the friendly crew, with reviews praising their work ethic, though some mention that the onboard food could be better. The trip is a good value at around $45 per person, especially considering the length and the chance to see Chrissi Island’s unique sandy beaches and pine trees.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a full day of swimming, scenic cruising, and a relaxed atmosphere. Be prepared for a busy boat — but the opportunity to explore Chrissi Island makes it worthwhile.
2. Luxury Yacht Escape from Ierapetra: Transfer & Meals Included
For those seeking a more upscale experience, this 6-hour luxury yacht trip offers a peaceful day on the water. You can choose to explore Chrissi Island, Koufonisi, or secret beaches along Crete’s coast — all with crystal-clear waters as your backdrop. The trip includes meals onboard and a transfer service, making it a hassle-free, all-inclusive option.
This tour is perfect if you want privacy and quiet, without the crowds. The yachts are well-equipped, and the focus is on comfort and exclusivity. It’s a shorter list — only five reviews — but ratings of 4.6/5 show it’s a premium choice. The experience is suited for travelers who value private time and scenic beauty, with the added bonus of spotting local wildlife during the cruise.
Bottom line: Best for couples or small groups who want to indulge in a serene day of sailing with meals included. It’s a more costly option but offers personalized service and a tranquil setting.
3. Chrisi Island Morning Boat Trip
If your schedule is tight but you still want to experience Chrissi Island, this private RIB boat trip is a perfect choice. The 4-hour tour takes you directly to the island’s southeastern seas, with time to swim and explore. The tour cost is about $508 for a group of up to 7 people, making it an intimate experience for friends or family.
The highlight is the private cruise that allows you to dive into the crystal waters and discover secret beaches that are less accessible to larger groups. Micky, the guide, gets rave reviews — one guest called it “absolutely perfect,” highlighting how personalized and fun the trip was. The flexibility of a private boat means you can tailor your stops and pace, which is a big plus.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who prefer a private, flexible adventure with the chance to explore less crowded parts of Chrissi Island. It’s more expensive but offers a level of intimacy and customization unavailable on larger tours.
4. Chrisi Island Afternoon Boat Trip
Similar to the morning trip, this 4-hour private RIB boat tour departs from BLUE CRUISES IERAPETRA and includes a 30-minute speedboat transfer each way to Chrissi Island. The itinerary involves snorkeling and swimming and visiting the island’s secret beaches, all within a compact schedule.
Guests love the exclusivity, with reviews praising the personalized experience and the chance to enjoy the island’s clear waters away from the crowds. The tour’s structure is straightforward: a speedboat ride, a few hours on the island exploring or relaxing, then a return trip. The cost is about $508 for groups up to 7, making it a great option for families or small groups wanting privacy.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who prefer an afternoon escape with flexible timing and private access. The quick trip is perfect if your time in Ierapetra is limited but you still want a meaningful island experience.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, how much time you have, and what type of experience you crave. If you want a full day out and don’t mind a busy boat, the Cruise to Chrissi Island offers excellent value and lively atmosphere. For a more luxurious, private day, the Luxury Yacht Escape is the way to go, especially if peace and comfort matter most.
For those who prefer a tailor-made experience with fewer people, the Private RIB trips — either morning or afternoon — provide flexibility and intimacy. Also, think about your fitness level, as some trips involve swimming or walking on uneven beaches.
Booking early is advised, especially for private trips, to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Ierapetra offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that suit many travelers. Whether you’re after a lively day exploring Chrissi Island or a peaceful private cruise, there’s an option waiting. For a lively group experience, the day cruise with swimming is highly recommended. For those seeking exclusivity, the luxury yacht and private RIB trips are excellent choices.
No matter which you pick, booking early will help ensure you get the best experience. These trips promise a memorable way to enjoy Crete’s beautiful coastline and crystal waters.
