Heraklion:Cruise to Chrissi island natural park with pick up

Heraklion: Cruise to Chrissi Island Natural Park with Pick Up — A Practical Guide to the Crete Day Trip

For travelers seeking a break from the bustling resorts and historical sites, a cruise to Chrissi Island offers a refreshing glimpse of Crete’s lesser-known natural beauty. This full-day adventure takes you from Heraklion through scenic eastern coast roads, onto a boat that promises hours of relaxing swimming, stunning views, and a touch of tranquility on an uninhabited Greek island. We found this tour appealing for its combination of coastal scenery, unspoiled beaches, and the chance to escape the crowds, but the long duration and multiple stops might not suit everyone. It’s especially well-suited for those who love outdoor activities, nature, and a relaxed pace.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the scenic bus drive that sets the tone for the day and the crystal-clear waters of Chrissi’s beaches — a perfect spot for swimming and unwinding. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the length of the day, which can extend beyond 10 hours, potentially tiring for travelers with limited stamina or tight schedules. This tour works best for those craving an authentic, nature-rich outing rather than just another beach holiday.

Who should consider this tour? It’s ideal for active travelers, families, or anyone interested in exploring Crete’s natural parks while enjoying a comfortable mix of transport and leisure. If you appreciate scenic drives, unspoiled beaches, and a peaceful island escape, this trip could be a highlight of your Crete itinerary.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Drive: A two-hour bus trip from Heraklion offers a comfortable introduction to Crete’s east coast.
• Uninhabited Natural Beauty: Chrissi Island’s protected status ensures pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
• Flexible Meal Options: On-board lunch is available for an extra fee, giving flexibility to those who want a quick bite.
• Multi-stop Itinerary: Stops at Ierapetra, Belegrina Beach, and Vougiou Mati Beach make for varied scenic and swimming experiences.
• Group Size & Comfort: The tour includes hotel pickup, an air-conditioned bus, and a professional guide, enhancing the overall comfort.
• Value for Money: At $68, the tour offers a good mix of transportation, park entrance, and guided narration, with optional meal costs separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to combine sightseeing, relaxation, and some light adventure, structured around a full day from early morning pickup to return after sunset. We’ll break down each part of the itinerary to help you visualize what’s in store.

Starting Point and Transportation

The day begins with hotel pickup from a wide selection of locations including Heraklion, Kokkini Hani, Gazi, Gouves, and nearby resorts. The transportation involves an air-conditioned bus, which we find essential for keeping comfortable during the long day. The bus ride from Heraklion to Ierapetra takes approximately 2 hours, giving travelers a chance to relax, chat, or enjoy the scenery.

The guide usually provides some commentary during this stretch, offering context about the east coast’s landscapes and local sights, although the focus remains on comfort and convenience. The group size isn’t specified explicitly, but reviews indicate a well-organized experience with positive feedback on the professionalism of the driver and guide.

The City of Ierapetra and Its Role

Arriving in Ierapetra, Greece’s southernmost city, you’ll get about 30 minutes of free time. This is enough to stretch your legs, grab a quick coffee, or take photos of the lively harbor and local atmosphere. It’s a brief but valuable glimpse of a less touristy part of Crete, adding a touch of authentic local flavor before heading to the sea.

The Boat Cruise and Chrissi Island

The highlight of the day is the boat cruise around Chrissi Island, lasting approximately 4.5 hours. The boat trip itself is a scenic journey across the Libyan Sea, featuring views of the coastline and the chance to spot local wildlife or seabirds. You’ll cruise past idyllic bays like Belegrina Beach, known as the “Golden Beach,” which lives up to its name with fine, light-colored sands.

Once anchored about 50 meters from the shore, swimmers can dive straight into the turquoise waters, a favorite part of the trip. The waters here are described as crystal clear, offering excellent visibility for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews praise the quality of the beaches, with one noting that “you can swim in waters so clear they seem unreal,” making this a genuine highlight.

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Lunch and Optional Extras

An optional lunch on board costs around 9 euros, offering salads, sandwiches, pizza, drinks, and desserts. The onboard restaurant is self-service, so you can pick what suits your appetite. While not included in the base price, the meal provides a welcome break and the chance to relax without leaving the boat.

Return Journey and Final Stops

After a satisfying half-day on the island, the boat departs back to Ierapetra, followed by a 2-hour bus ride back to Heraklion or your accommodation. The entire experience stretches over 10-12 hours, depending on start times and the duration of stops. The long day is part of the charm for those eager to explore more than just the nearby beaches.

The Experience — What Travelers Are Saying

The tours receive a solid 4.1 out of 5 stars from over 100 reviews. One reviewer mentions, “Everything was organized down to the smallest detail,” highlighting the efficiency and professionalism of Cretan Odyssey. The smooth logistics are a big plus, especially for first-time visitors who prefer a worry-free day.

Another traveler appreciated the natural beauty, saying, “The waters are so clear you can see your feet while swimming,” which confirms the quality of the beaches. Some note that the day can be quite long, but many agree that the combination of scenery, swimming, and relaxing on the boat makes it worthwhile.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Bring comfortable shoes and a hat for the bus and free time in Ierapetra.
• Towels and beachwear are essential for swimming and lounging on Chrissi’s beaches.
• Sunscreen is a must — the Greek sun can be fierce, especially on the water.
• Arrive early at your pickup points to ensure a smooth start, as the schedule is tight.
• If you’re considering the onboard lunch, ask your guide for a discount; it’s a good value and saves time.
• The tour is a full-day commitment, so prepare for a long but scenic and relaxing experience.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This full-day cruise to Chrissi Island offers a blend of scenic coastal drives, unspoiled beaches, and a peaceful escape from Crete’s busy tourist spots. For travelers who love outdoor activities, swimming, and natural beauty, this tour delivers on those desires with stunning waters and a tranquil island setting. It’s a good choice for those willing to spend a long day outside, especially if they appreciate a mix of sightseeing and relaxation.

The organized nature, hotel pickup, and professional guide make it a convenient option, while the relatively moderate price of $68 provides good value considering the transportation, park entry, and boat cruise. Keep in mind the length of the day and the need for comfortable clothes and sun protection.

If your goal is to see Crete’s natural landscapes and enjoy some quality beach time in a peaceful environment, this cruise to Chrissi Island is worth considering. It’s a genuine chance to experience a less commercial side of the island, and many travelers report feeling they gained not just a swim but a memorable, authentic outing.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour? The tour lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours, including bus rides, stops, and the boat cruise. Expect a full day out, starting early and returning late.

What is included in the price? The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned bus, a professional guide, boat cruise around Chrissi, liability insurance, and entrance fee to the natural park.

Can I buy lunch on the boat? Yes, an onboard meal is available for about 9 euros, offering salads, sandwiches, and drinks. It’s self-service, so you can choose what you like.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and clothes suitable for the weather. The waters and beaches are great for swimming, so be prepared for that.

Are there any restrictions or notes I should know? The tour is quite lengthy and involves multiple stops and travel time. If you’re prone to fatigue or short on time, consider your stamina. Also, the pickup areas are specific, and out-of-area accommodations may incur extra charges.

Is the experience suitable for families? Yes, families with children who enjoy outdoor activities and swimming will find this trip enjoyable. Just keep in mind the length of the day.

What do reviews say about this tour? Travelers praise the organization and natural beauty, with some noting the waters are “so clear you can see your feet.” The long day can be tiring but rewarding for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

This cruise offers a genuine slice of Crete’s natural allure, perfect for those eager to explore beyond the historical sites and enjoy a peaceful, scenic escape. If you’re ready for a relaxed day of swimming, scenery, and some adventure, it could be a memorable addition to your Crete travels.

You can check availability for your dates here: