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The 15 Best Tours in Hersonissos
Hersonissos is one of Crete’s most lively coastal towns, famous for its bustling nightlife, beautiful beaches, and access to varied adventures. But beyond the tavernas and bars, it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Crete with a variety of tours that cater to different interests. Whether you want an adrenaline rush, culture, or just a relaxing sunset sail, Hersonissos has a lot to offer. We particularly like the Jet Boat Tour with Snorkeling for its high-speed thrill and underwater discovery, and the Luxury Sunset Catamaran Cruise for a more leisurely, indulgent evening watching the sun dip below the horizon.
For those who want to explore Crete’s natural beauty from a different angle, the Rent a Boat – No License Needed offers a chance to captain your own vessel, while history lovers will enjoy the Spinalonga and Lasithi Plateau Tour for its fascinating sights and stories. Whatever your style, our list below covers the best ways to experience Hersonissos and Crete’s diverse attractions.
1. Hersonissos: Jet Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Experience an exhilarating jet boat adventure along Crete’s coast, departing from Hersonissos. This tour is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to combine speed with the chance to explore underwater life. Traveling at up to 90 km/h, the boat makes high-speed turns, making it one of the most exciting ways to see the coastline.
The tour includes a stop at Saint George’s Bay for swimming and snorkeling, giving you a close-up view of Crete’s marine environment. Reviewers praise the safety and professionalism of the guides, with many calling it a “brilliant experience” for families and couples alike. For around $50, you get a 1-hour adventure that’s packed with fun, scenic views, and marine discovery. The itinerary is flexible, with multiple pickup and drop-off points, making it convenient for most travelers.
Bottom Line: If you’re craving speed and marine life, this jet boat ride offers a memorable and lively way to see Crete’s coast at a reasonable price.
2. Hersonissos: Luxury Sunset Catamaran Cruise Sushi & Open Bar
At number 2, the Luxury Sunset Catamaran Cruise combines comfort, stunning scenery, and fine food. Over 4 hours, you’ll sail from Hersonissos to Saint George Bay on a spacious, modern vessel with plenty of sunbeds and shaded lounges. It’s an excellent choice for relaxing and celebrating the Cretan sunset.
Included in the experience is a welcome prosecco, a sushi platter, and an open bar with Greek wine, beer, and soft drinks. Water activities like stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling gear are available for those wanting some fun in the water. Reviewers love the relaxed atmosphere and the scenic views, especially during sunset, when the sky lights up with colors. The tour is ideal for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a refined evening out on the water.
Bottom Line: For a more upscale, leisurely evening, this catamaran cruise offers great value, exquisite food, and spectacular views.
3. Hersonissos: Rent a Boat – No License Needed
Be your own captain with the Rent a Boat – No License Needed experience. Perfect for a small group or family, this tour lets you explore Crete’s coast on a safe, fully-equipped vessel. You choose where to go, with options including Saint George Bay and its famous pirate cave.
Guests say this is one of the best ways to enjoy Crete’s waters independently—no license required, just a bit of confidence and a sense of adventure. You can stop to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on deck while navigating along the coast. The boats come with all safety gear, and the experience is great value at around $89 for two hours. It’s suited for those wanting flexibility and a touch of independence on their Crete trip.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for confident sailors or families who want to create their own adventure at sea.
4. Hersonissos: Troy Dinner-Show Theatre Experience Tickets
For something different, the Troy Dinner-Show offers a family-friendly night immersed in Greek mythology. Combining dinner and spectacular performances, the show features acrobatics, singing, and dancing that bring gods and heroes to life. You can choose between a dinner with drinks or just the show with a drink option.
Guests praise the cast’s energy and the quality of the food, describing it as “fantastic” and “very enjoyable.” The QR code interaction adds a modern twist to the ancient stories, making it engaging for children and adults alike. The 2-hour experience is a lively way to spend an evening and learn about Greek legends in a fun, theatrical setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or history enthusiasts, this show combines entertainment and tradition for a memorable night out.
5. Crete: Quad Safari with Monastery, Malia Palace and Lunch
If you love off-road adventures, the Quad Safari covers the mountains and countryside of Crete. This 5-hour tour includes visits to a Byzantine monastery, Malia Palace, and olive oil-making demonstrations, all while navigating dirt trails and scenic mountain roads.
Reviewers highlight how fun and easy the quads are to handle, and the tour is praised for its combination of adventure, culture, and food. The lunch in a traditional tavern and the visit to the ancient palace make it a well-rounded experience. Suitable for those comfortable with riding, it’s a great mix of outdoor exploration and cultural insight.
Bottom Line: For an active day combining history, scenery, and local flavors, this quad safari is a top pick.
6. Hersonissos: South Eastern Crete & Sarakinas Gorge Day Tour
Explore the wild beauty of southeast Crete on a full-day jeep tour. Highlights include Sarakinas Gorge, Katharo Plateau, and Voulisma beach. The itinerary features multiple scenic stops, river crossings, and visits to traditional villages.
Rated highly, this tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to see Crete’s rugged side. The guides are attentive, and the day is well-paced with plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and photo stops. The tour allows you to experience lesser-visited parts of Crete, with reviews calling it “fantastic” and “not strenuous.”
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a full day of natural beauty and off-road exploration.
7. Heraklion to Spinalonga and Lasithi Plateau Land of Zeus
For a comprehensive day trip, this tour covers Spinalonga, the Lasithi Plateau, and the village of Psichro. Starting from Heraklion or Hersonissos, it combines boat rides, archaeological sites, and mountain vistas.
Rated a perfect 5/5, travelers love the mix of history and scenery, including the boat cruise around Spinalonga and the visit to the cave where Zeus was born. The tour includes a traditional lunch and stops at picturesque spots like Mochos and Krasi. It’s suited for those interested in culture, history, and stunning landscapes.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, immersive day that combines mythology, history, and scenic beauty.
8. From Hersonissos: Half-Day Pirate Boat Trip with Lunch
Join the Pirates of Crete on a fun-filled half-day pirate-themed boat trip. Expect swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing at Saint George’s Bay, plus a tasty onboard lunch. The crew keeps the atmosphere lively with face painting, music, and dancing, making it great for families.
With a 4-hour duration, the trip combines adventure and relaxation, pleasing both kids and adults. The boat’s professional crew creates a safe and seamless experience, and the pirate theme adds a playful touch. Many reviewers mention how much fun their children had, making it a winner for family vacations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families seeking a lively, themed day on the water with plenty of swimming and entertainment.
9. Heraklion: Cretan Evening with Traditional Dinner & Dance Show
Experience authentic Cretan culture with an evening of food, music, and dance. This tour takes you to Pano Karouzano Village, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner paired with local wine, followed by a lively dance performance.
The mix of cultural activities and genuine cuisine makes this a popular choice for those wanting to connect with Crete’s traditions. The reviews mention how the performances are “unbelievable” and the food “fantastic,” making it an engaging night out.
Bottom Line: An ideal activity for travelers interested in local culture, food, and lively performances.
10. Safari: Juhtas Mount, Raki and Wine Distillery, Explore Crete
If you want to experience Crete’s local flavors, this 7-hour safari tour offers visits to wine and raki distilleries, a mountain hike, and a traditional lunch. Traveling through the central and eastern parts of the island, it combines cultural insight with scenic landscapes.
Rated 5/5, travelers rave about the friendly guides and authentic experiences like tasting local spirits and learning about island mythology. Highlights include visits to the Mount Juktas and ancient caves, making it suitable for those seeking a mix of food, drink, and history.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, full-day tour perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts eager to learn about Crete’s traditions.
11. Crete: Coastline Snorkeling Cruise from Hersonissos Port
For a relaxing water-based activity, this coastline snorkeling cruise offers a 2-hour trip with stops at one or two beaches, including Saint George’s Bay. Ideal for those who want to discover marine life without strenuous activity.
While reviews are mixed with a 3.8/5 rating, the focus is on the tranquil swim spots and the chance to snorkel in Crete’s clear waters. Perfect for families or those short on time, it provides a peaceful way to enjoy Crete’s coastline.
Bottom Line: Best suited for calm, scenic water exploration; simple but enjoyable.
12. Crete: Phaistos Palace and Matala Village Guided Tour
Explore the ancient Minoan site of Phaistos and the bohemian Matala Village on a 9-hour guided tour. This weathered yet captivating tour offers archaeological insights and seaside relaxation.
Rated highly by those who appreciate history, the tour includes visits to Minoan ruins and the famously carved cliffs of Matala. It’s well-suited for travelers fond of archaeology and coastal scenery, with a relaxed pace and expert guides.
Bottom Line: An enriching day for history and beach lovers seeking a cultural and scenic experience.
13. Crete Quad Safari Off-Road, Breathtaking Scenery & Amazing View
This quad safari offers a 5-hour off-road adventure through Crete’s mountains. You’ll stop at scenic spots like the Aposelemis Dam, sunken villages, and traditional mountain churches.
The tour is praised for its spectacular scenery and manageable quads, making it ideal for beginners. Reviewers mention the “amazing views” and “local life stops,” giving you a real taste of Crete’s natural and cultural landscape.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want a mix of adventure, scenery, and authentic encounters.
14. Day Cruise to Dia Island from Heraklion/ Hersonissos port
If you’re after a peaceful escape, this day cruise to Dia Island offers a 6-7 hour sailing adventure with organic Crete food and time for swimming or snorkeling. The small, well-appointed catamaran provides comfort for families and small groups.
While reviews are generally positive, it’s best for those who want a quiet day at sea rather than high-energy activities. The organic food and scenic cruise make it a tranquil, scenic option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors seeking relaxation and scenic beauty at a gentle pace.
15. Hersonissos: Buggy Safari Adventure Tour
Finally, the Buggy Safari Adventure is a 3-hour off-road thrill ride. It covers about 55 km through Crete’s mountainous terrain, stopping at Aposelemis Dam, the sunken village, and historic churches. You’ll learn about local traditions and enjoy panoramic views.
Rated 5/5, reviewers describe it as “amazing fun” with knowledgeable guides and scenic photo stops. It’s perfect for those wanting a shorter, energetic ride with plenty of opportunities to take photos and learn about local history.
Bottom Line: A fun, fast-paced option for adventure lovers who want to see authentic Crete without a full-day commitment.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour in Hersonissos
When selecting the right experience, consider your interests, fitness level, and travel style. For adrenaline and marine thrills, the Jet Boat Tour or the Buggy Safari will satisfy. If you’re after relaxation, the Sunset Catamaran or the Dia Island cruise are excellent choices.
History buffs should consider the Spinalonga and Lasithi Plateau, while families will enjoy the Pirate Boat Trip. Budget, time, and physical ability will guide your best pick, but whatever you choose, early booking is wise, especially in peak summer months.
Final Thoughts
Hersonissos offers a broad spectrum of tours, from high-speed boat rides to cultural excursions and scenic off-road adventures. Two standout options are the Jet Boat Tour with Snorkeling for its adrenaline and marine life or the Luxury Sunset Catamaran for a relaxing, picturesque evening. For active travelers, the Quad Safari and Buggy Adventure provide fun ways to explore Crete’s stunning landscapes.
No matter what you prefer, booking early ensures you get your top choice and makes your trip to Crete smoother. With so many unique ways to see and experience this island, you’re sure to find something that leaves you with fantastic memories of Hersonissos.
