Ierapetra: Chrissi Island Luxury Yacht Cruise with Meal

If you’re dreaming of escaping Crete’s busy beaches and exploring a more secluded paradise, a luxury yacht cruise to Chrissi Island might just be what you need. This tour offers a sophisticated way to enjoy the island’s unspoiled beauty without the crowds that ferry trips often attract. While it’s largely about comfort, stunning scenery, and excellent food, you’ll want to plan ahead, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more flexible itinerary.

What makes this experience stand out are the upscale boat, fresh, delicious cuisine, and the small group setting—a rare find for a boat trip on a popular island like Chrissi. However, keep in mind that the cruise is weather-dependent and may be affected by rough seas, which could limit your plans or access to certain parts of the island. Still, for those who love a bit of luxury, scenic beauty, and water-based fun, this cruise hits many right notes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, good eats, and a relaxed pace—less about rushing and more about savoring the views and flavors.

Good To Know

• Luxury Experience: Enjoy a comfortable yacht with a small group for a more intimate atmosphere.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming allow you to explore Chrissi’s underwater treasures.
• Gourmet Meal: Savor a freshly prepared meal with options including shrimp linguine, risotto, Greek salad, and local appetizers.
• Scenic Journey: Admire the southern coast of Crete and the Libyan Sea during a 30-minute cruise to the island.
• Flexible Exploration: Choose between land excursions or relaxing onboard; weather may influence the timing and availability.
• Authentic Service: Certified crew and personalized touches make for a memorable day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting from Ierapetra’s port—specifically at the bell tower—you’ll be greeted with a few drinks and a safety briefing. It’s a small touch, but it sets the tone for a relaxed, attentive experience. The crew, known for their professionalism and friendliness, will guide you through safety and give tips for your day ahead.

The Journey to Chrissi Island

Cruising along the southern coast of Crete, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the rugged shoreline and azure waters. The 30-minute ride feels short, especially as you chat with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the sea breeze. From reviews, it’s clear that guests appreciate the scenic value—the trip is not just about reaching the island but also about soaking in the marine vistas en route.

Arriving at Chrissi Island

Upon arrival, you’ll have options: disembark via inflatable boat to the beach or swim directly from the yacht if you prefer privacy. The calm, crystalline waters make for fantastic snorkeling and paddleboarding, with gear available for all levels. One guest mentioned how they enjoyed diving into the water right off the yacht, appreciating the quiet and clear environment that’s often hard to find elsewhere.

The island’s beaches are the highlight for many: soft sand, turquoise waters, and minimal crowds. If you decide to explore on land, just remember to keep an eye on your belongings and time—you’ll want to be back for the delicious meal.

Water Activities and Free Time

Guests frequently rave about the water activities. Snorkeling reveals underwater life that’s accessible and inviting, while paddleboarding provides a fun, relaxed way to explore the coastline. Expect around two hours for beach time, swimming, and water sports, with a second bay visit if weather permits. As one reviewer shared, “We sailed along the coast and swam at small, beautiful beaches accessible only by sea.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Gourmet Meal

After working up an appetite, you’ll gather for a well-curated meal that caters to various dietary preferences — gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian options are available. The menu includes shrimp linguine, mushroom/truffle risotto, Greek salad, and Cretan appetizers. One reviewer highlighted the quality of the food: “Excellent food and wine, served in a relaxed setting.”

Return Journey and Relaxation

Post-lunch, you’ll have another brief cruise to enjoy the views and breathe in the sea air. Some guests use this time to relax on the yacht, soaking in the sun or chatting with fellow travelers. The cruise back takes about 30 minutes, and most say the journey leaves them full of joy and great memories.

Practicalities and Logistics

• The tour lasts around 5.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.
• Pickup options are available from Makrys Gialos and Ierapetra, with other locations like Agios Nikolaos upon request for an extra fee.
• The meeting point is at the port of Ierapetra, specifically at the bell tower, and it’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early.
• Bring essentials like a towel, sunscreen, and ID; towels are not included.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.
• Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans.

What We Love About This Tour

Intimate Small Group: With fewer guests, the crew can give more personalized attention, making the experience feel exclusive rather than crowded.

High-Quality Food and Drinks: Freshly made meals, paired with unlimited drinks, elevate this trip from a simple boat ride to a culinary escape.

Water Activities: Access to snorkeling and paddleboarding enhances the sense of adventure, especially when exploring Chrissi’s unspoiled underwater world.

Stunning Views and Secluded Beaches: The cruise offers a chance to see Crete’s southern coastline and visit beaches inaccessible by land, perfect for peace and quiet.

Knowledgeable and Friendly Crew: Reviewers consistently mention the crew’s professionalism and warmth, which makes the day even more enjoyable.

Potential Drawbacks

Weather does play a role—rough seas can hinder access to certain parts of Chrissi or even cause delays. One guest shared how rough conditions prevented them from reaching the island, but still enjoyed the scenic coast and small beaches. Also, since towels aren’t included, packing your own might be a good idea if you plan to swim frequently.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This luxury yacht cruise is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, stylish way to enjoy Chrissi Island’s natural beauty. It suits those who value good food, water activities, and intimate group settings more than a hurried sightseeing rush. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone looking to combine leisure with a touch of luxury.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the optional pickup, it’s available from Makrys Gialos and Ierapetra, with other locations upon request for an extra fee.

How long does the cruise last?
The total experience lasts about 5.5 hours, including transfer, cruise, water activities, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and an ID or passport. Towels are not provided by the operator.

Can I explore Chrissi Island on foot?
Yes, you can disembark and explore the island, but it’s advised not to leave the boat from your sight if you plan on returning to the yacht for lunch.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If seas are rough and access to the island is unsafe, the cruise may be shortened or rerouted—some guests still enjoy scenic coast cruising if land access is restricted.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the meal includes gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, ensuring most dietary needs are met.

Final Thoughts

This Chrissi Island yacht cruise offers a refined way to experience Crete’s stunning southern coast and the island’s pristine beaches. The combination of a luxurious boat, engaging water activities, and a delicious meal makes for a memorable day, especially if you’re after comfort and authenticity. While weather can influence the experience, the overall value lies in the personalized service, beautiful scenery, and the chance to indulge in Greek cuisine in a relaxed setting.

If you’re seeking a more elegant, less crowded way to visit Chrissi Island and enjoy its hidden beaches, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who prioritize comfort, good food, and a calm, scenic journey over hurried sightseeing.

You can check if your dates are available here: