Heraklion:Cruise to Chrissi island natural park with pick up

If you’re visiting Crete and looking for an adventure that combines beautiful scenery, unspoiled nature, and a bit of relaxation, a cruise to Chrissi Island might just be the experience you need. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized day trip that offers a genuine taste of Greece’s natural beauty.

What stands out immediately are the scenic coastal drive, the crystal-clear waters where you can swim, and the chance to explore a completely uninhabited island with protected status. The tour’s moderate price point of $68 per person offers good value considering the included transportation, guided commentary, and the opportunity to spend hours enjoying the Libyan Sea.

One thing to consider is the length—this is a full-day trip, typically lasting 10 to 12 hours, so it suits travelers who enjoy a day packed with sightseeing rather than a relaxed, half-day outing. This tour is perfect for those who want an active yet scenic escape from the busy resorts. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate natural beauty and comfortable logistics will likely find this trip rewarding.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary with scenic drives, boat cruises, and beach stops
• All-in-one experience including transportation, guides, and park entrance fee
• Uninhabited Chrissi Island offers pristine beaches and turquoise waters
• Well-rated with a 4.1-star rating based on 102 reviews
• Flexible options for pickup from multiple locations around Heraklion and beyond
• Optional on-board lunch available for a small fee, enhancing the day

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect From Start to Finish

Pickup and Journey to Ierapetra

The adventure begins with hotel pickup from a selection of locations including Heraklion, Kato Gouves, and several beaches and resorts around the island. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride lasting around 2 hours, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery along the eastern coast of Crete. Many reviews highlight the efficiency and friendly attitude of the professional drivers and guides, with one reviewer noting, “Everything organized down to the smallest detail. Congratulations.”

Exploring Ierapetra: A Brief Stop with a View

Once in Ierapetra, there’s a 30-minute free time to stroll around the southernmost town of Europe. You might find it charming to see the local market or simply take in the views of the Libyan Sea. The tour allows you to appreciate the local atmosphere before heading to the boat. This stop is appreciated in reviews for giving travelers a quick taste of the town, though some mention that the time could feel brief, especially if you want to explore more.

The Boat Cruise Begins

After boarding the ferry, which takes approximately an hour to reach Chrissi Island, you’ll finally get out on the water. The boat cruise itself is a highlight, offering fantastic views of the Libyan Sea. Many travelers say that the boat’s onboard atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of space to sit and enjoy the ride, and some even enjoy the chance to take photos of the coastline from the deck.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Chrissi Island: Unspoiled Beaches and Swimming

Arriving at Chrissi Island, you’ll see why this protected area is such a special spot. The island is completely uninhabited, with lush cedar forests and pristine beaches. The main highlight is the Belegrina Beach (Golden Beach), where the tour anchors about 50 meters offshore, allowing you to swim in the turquoise waters and walk onto the fine, golden sands.

The reviews reveal that the swimming experience is a favorite aspect of the trip. One traveler mentioned, “The crystal-clear waters were perfect for a swim, and it was so peaceful being on a totally untouched island.” The shallow, calm waters make it suitable for families or less confident swimmers, and the natural beauty of the surroundings encourages a leisurely pace.

Optional Lunch and Relaxation

There’s an opportunity to purchase lunch on board for 9 euros, which includes salads, sandwiches, and beverages. According to reviews, the self-service restaurant offers a decent variety of snacks and drinks, with some guests saying they appreciated the discounted meal offer if they requested it in advance. While not included in the base price, the meal adds convenience and value, especially if you want to avoid packing your own food.

Return Journey and Final Stops

After several hours on Chrissi Island, the boat sails back towards Ierapetra, where the bus picks you up for the return trip, with the journey taking roughly two hours. This part of the trip is often a good time for reflection or enjoying the sunset views if the timing aligns.

Overall Experience and Reviews

This tour receives a solid 4.1 out of 5 stars from 102 reviews, with many travelers praising its organization and the natural beauty. Francesco, one reviewer, appreciated the meticulous planning: “Everything organized down to the smallest detail. Congratulations.”

However, some mention that the long travel times can be tiring, especially for those not accustomed to long bus rides or full-day outings. The limited free time in Ierapetra can also feel a bit rushed if you’re keen to explore more.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practicalities

The tour’s use of air-conditioned buses ensures comfort during the long drive, and the professional guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, and French. The group sizes are generally moderate, striking a good balance between social interaction and personal space.

The itinerary’s structure emphasizes timing flexibility with pickups from numerous locations, making it accessible for most travelers. If your accommodation is outside the designated pickup zones, expect an extra charge, so it’s worth confirming your specific location.

Pricing and Value

At $68 per person, the price covers transportation, guide services, park entrance fees, and the boat cruise. When you consider the all-inclusive nature of the trip and the chance to visit a rarely crowded, untouched island, it’s a compelling deal. The optional lunch at 9 euros is a small additional cost that adds convenience but isn’t necessary.

Comparing this to other similar tours (such as day trips to nearby beaches or other islands), this cruise offers authentic natural scenery and the opportunity to connect with nature—something more controlled tours might lack.

This cruise to Chrissi Island is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic boat rides, and unspoiled beaches. If you’re after a relaxed yet adventurous day, this trip offers a perfect mix of exploration and leisure. It’s particularly appealing for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to spend quality time in nature without the hassle of planning every detail.

Those expecting a luxury or gourmet experience might find the meal options simple, but the overall setting and natural beauty more than compensate. It’s ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and see a part of Crete that feels untouched and authentic.

This trip strikes a good balance between organization, value, and natural beauty. The long travel day is a small trade-off for the chance to swim in turquoise waters, walk on golden beaches, and appreciate a quiet, protected landscape. The combination of scenic drives, guided commentary, and free time on a pristine island makes this an enriching experience for those ready for a full day out.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, value-packed day that highlights Crete’s lesser-known natural treasures, this cruise to Chrissi Island will likely meet your expectations. It’s perfect for travelers eager to combine comfort, adventure, and a touch of untouched paradise.

How long is the total tour?
The trip lasts about 10 to 12 hours, including transportation, stops, and the boat cruise.

Are meals included?
No, meals are optional and available for 9 euros on board. The tour provides a self-service restaurant with a variety of snacks and drinks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended to make the most of swimming and lounging on the beaches.

Is pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from multiple locations around Heraklion and nearby areas. Extra charges may apply for accommodations outside the designated zones.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and French, ensuring a clear explanation of the sights and safety instructions during the trip.

This tour offers a wonderful glimpse into Crete’s natural side, making it an appealing choice for anyone wanting a memorable and relaxing day on the water and on a pristine island.

You can check if your dates are available here: