Heraklion:Cruise to Chrissi island natural park with pick up

Heraklion: Cruise to Chrissi Island Natural Park with Pick-Up
Location: Crete, Greece
Rating: 4.1/5 (103 reviews)
Supplier: Cretan Odyssey
Price: Typically around 50-60 euros, with optional lunch for 9 euros
Duration: 10-12 hours, including transportation and cruise

A quick look at what this tour offers
This full-day adventure takes you from Heraklion through the east coast of Crete to the uninhabited Chrissi Island, famous for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. With a scenic bus drive, a boat cruise, and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax, it’s a well-rounded day out. What makes this trip stand out are two key things: first, the small size of the boat, which means you often have the island to yourself—something quite rare in popular Greece; second, the knowledgeable guides who excel at making the experience engaging and informative.

A possible consideration is the long day’s length—it’s around 10-12 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full days of exploring rather than those seeking a quick trip. If you’re after authentic scenery, clear waters, and a taste of Crete’s southern coast, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and travelers eager for a unique, less crowded island experience. If you value expert guidance and like discovering spots where you can swim in your own private paradise, you’ll likely find this trip a good fit.

Key Points

• Uninhabited Beauty: Chrissi Island offers untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters, free from crowds.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Livio enhance the experience with local insights and friendly service.
• Flexible Options: You can opt for lunch on board for a small extra fee, adding convenience to your day.
• Long but Rewarding Day: The 10-12 hour schedule ensures plenty of time to explore and relax, but can be tiring for some.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned buses and organized transfers make the journey smooth.
• Authentic Experience: The tour’s focus on natural scenery and less commercialized beaches appeals to genuine travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at the tour experience

Starting from Heraklion and the scenic drive

The day begins with a pickup from multiple locations around Heraklion, including popular spots like Analipsi, Kokkini Hani, and Gournes. The bus ride lasts about two hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the changing scenery of Crete’s east coast. The drive is comfortable, with air conditioning, and offers glimpses of the island’s landscape—olive groves, small villages, and the distant mountains.

A highlight during this phase is the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to chat with guides or fellow travelers. The guides, who speak English, German, and French, are notably praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude. They keep the journey lively and informative, often sharing little tidbits about Crete’s history and local life.

Arriving in Ierapetra and the boat cruise

Once in the southern port town of Ierapetra, you’ll have about 30 minutes to stretch your legs and soak in the local vibe. This is a charming, less touristy spot, with narrow streets and lively cafes. It’s a brief window but enough to appreciate a bit of real Crete away from the busier resorts.

Then, it’s on to the boat, which sets sail for Chrissi Island. The boat cruise lasts about 4.5 hours and offers spectacular views of the Libyan Sea. The smaller boat size means you often find yourself alone in this gorgeous spot—one reviewer mentioned, “We were the only boat at the island, which I thought was great!” This solitude enhances the experience, giving you a sense of discovery and exclusivity.

Exploring Chrissi Island’s natural beauty

The highlight is the beach at Belegrina, or Golden Beach, where the boat anchors just 50 meters from the shore. From there, you can dive in and swim to the pristine sands and turquoise waters. The shallow, calm waters make it ideal for swimming and relaxing in the sun. The island’s environment is delicate, protected as a natural park, and visitors are encouraged to respect the environment—leaving only footprints.

What’s particularly notable is that the island is completely uninhabited, so you won’t find vendors or crowds here. One reviewer used the phrase, “You definitely need water shoes/flip-flops on the island,” because of the hot sand, sharp rocks, and tiny cacti. Having sturdy footwear makes exploring more comfortable and safe.

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Food and amenities on board

An optional lunch is available on the boat for about 9 euros, comprising salads, sandwiches, or pizza—self-service but convenient for those who want to save time and avoid searching for food on the island. Beverages and snacks are also available for purchase, adding to the comfort of the trip.

The return journey and other stops

After a few hours of swimming and relaxing, the boat departs back to Ierapetra, then by bus to your pickup points. The entire journey offers a balance of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty, with the guides sharing insights throughout.

Who is this tour perfect for?

Travelers who want a full day of natural beauty and quiet beaches will love this trip. If you’re looking for a less crowded experience, the fact that the island often feels like your own private paradise is a major plus. It’s also ideal if you appreciate knowledgeable guides who can make the experience more engaging and meaningful.

However, keep in mind that the long duration might be a challenge for those with limited stamina or tight schedules. It’s a leisurely, immersive day that suits those who enjoy spending hours in the water, soaking in nature, and learning about Crete’s southern coast.

A balanced perspective: Pros and cons

Pros:
– The small boat often means fewer people and a more intimate experience.
– The knowledgeable guides bring the local environment alive with stories and tips.
– The scenery—both coastal and island—is stunning, with clear waters perfect for swimming.
– The flexibility of optional lunch and the variety of pickup points make it accessible.

Cons:
– The long day requires good stamina and patience.
– Some might find the price a bit steep for just a cruise, but the exclusivity and natural beauty justify it.
– The limited time in Ierapetra means you won’t see much of the town itself.
– The weather can impact the trip—if it’s windy or rainy, the experience may be less enjoyable.

Final thoughts

This cruise to Chrissi Island offers a remarkable chance to experience Crete’s southern coastline and its unspoiled beauty. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic scenery over crowded beaches and appreciate guides who make the trip lively and informative. The opportunity to swim in calm, clear waters and enjoy a natural park free from commercial clutter makes it a memorable day out.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the combination of scenic drives, expert guides, and secluded beaches provides a genuine value that justifies the time and price. Whether you’re a nature lover, a swimmer, or someone seeking peaceful moments on a Greek island, this trip delivers a unique slice of Crete’s natural charm.

FAQs

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts about 10 to 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and time on the island.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is optional and costs 9 euros if you choose to buy it on board. It offers salads, sandwiches, and pizza, among other options.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. Water shoes or flip-flops are advised for walking on the beach and rocky areas.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides speak English, German, and French and are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.

Is the boat crowded?
Generally, no. The small boat size often means fewer people and sometimes being the only boat at the island, enhancing the sense of exclusivity.

What’s special about Chrissi Island?
It’s a protected, uninhabited island known for its unspoiled beaches, turquoise waters, and natural environment. It’s perfect for swimming and relaxing away from crowds.

Can I swim directly from the boat?
Yes, you can swim to the shore from the boat, especially at Belegrina Beach, which is just 50 meters away.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
If weather conditions are poor, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled. It’s wise to check the forecast and confirm with the tour operator.

This cruise to Chrissi Island combines natural beauty, expert guidance, and a peaceful escape from the busier parts of Crete. Whether you’re seeking quiet beaches or a scenic adventure, it’s a day that’ll leave you with lasting memories of Greece’s unspoiled side.

You can check availability for your dates here: