From Ierapetra: Cruise to Chrissi Island with Swimming

There is something extra special about Chrissi Island because you get the island look, the sea color, and the swimming time, without the usual crowds of a full-on beach day. From Ierapetra, you’re heading out onto the sparkling Libyan Sea with time to swim and snorkel near shore, while the ship keeps you comfortable in between. Even better, the island is protected, so the whole experience feels more nature-focused than party-focused.

I especially like the swimming stop with onboard water gear. You’ll get life jackets and equipment for water activities like snorkel masks and flippers, so you can go straight from boat to water without hunting for rentals. I also like the way the schedule gives you enough time to actually enjoy Chrissi, not just stare at it from the deck.

One drawback to plan for is that you can’t count on a calm, easy return. The sea can get choppy, and a few people note motion can be rough, plus the day does not cater to everyone, since it is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Quick hits: what makes this Chrissi cruise work

• Anchor-and-swim setup: the ship does not let you disembark on the island, so your swimming is the main event.
• Real snorkeling gear included: masks with snorkels and flippers, plus other water toys like boards and balls.
• Protected island rules: beaches are allowed, but the interior and juniper shade are off limits.
• Card-only onboard purchases: you can buy snacks and drinks, but not with cash.
• Warm weather comfort matters: there is limited shade on the island, so plan for strong sun.

Getting to Ierapetra and the ARISTOVOULOS meeting point

This starts in the port of Ierapetra, and the meeting place is clearly identified: the ship named ARISTOVOULOS at the Port of Ierapetra. If you like arriving early, you can grab your bearings fast at the dock, then get sorted before boarding.

For reference, the GPS is 35°00’26.7″N 25°44’24.5″E. If you’re coming from Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos, the port is accessible by public bus, or you can drive in and use the free parking by the port.

If you tend to travel light, do not forget that this is a swimming day, not a walking tour. You’ll want your towel, sunscreen, and swimsuit ready, because once you’re out there, you’ll spend most of your time in and around the water.

The 70-minute ferry ride: watching the water before you swim

Your cruise includes a trip out to Chrissi, with about 70 minutes of ferry time before you reach the Chrissi area. This is not “dead time.” I like this stretch because the sea starts doing what the area is famous for, and you can relax while the island comes closer.

A nice touch is that the journey is described as sail-time on the Libyan Sea, with seagulls and dolphins sometimes seen along the way. If you’re the sort of person who enjoys the journey as much as the destination, you’ll get your payoff before you ever put a foot in the water.

One practical note: expect that the boat is shared with others. This is a common setup for popular day cruises, so it’s smart to be ready to move when staff ask, especially around boarding and any transfers to the swimming area.

Chrissi Island time (3.5 hours) without disembarking: the island experience

The biggest shift in your day is this: you cannot simply land and walk around the island this summer. Instead, the ship approaches Chrissi, anchors in a leeward spot near a selected beach, and you access shore by swimming a short distance.

That rule actually shapes the whole experience in a good way. You are not stuck navigating a trail system, and you’re not overwhelmed by long walks in sand. Your focus becomes water time, a little beach time, and views.

Once you’re ashore, you can use the beaches, but you cannot access the island interior and you cannot use the shade of the junipers. The island is protected, and the goal is to keep foot traffic and impact low, even while people enjoy the scenery and swim.

Chrissi itself is a visual feast. The cedar forest extends toward the center of the island, covering about 350,000 square meters, and almost the whole island is covered by golden sand. People also note the rock colors can look spectacular, so even if you’re not hiking, you’ll still see plenty if you walk a bit along the beach.

Swimming and snorkeling from a boat: what to expect in real life

On paper, this is a cruise with a swimming stop near Chrissi, and in practice, that means you’re likely going to jump in from near the anchored boat and head toward shore. The upside is the water is described as crystal clear, so it’s a great setting for snorkeling and for that first cool splash.

You do get help for safety and gear. The tour includes life jackets and water equipment such as masks with snorkels and flippers. The idea is that you can snorkel without needing to rent anything extra, which is part of the value of the trip.

But I want you to plan for shore access. There’s no promise of an easy ladder or a fully equipped entry point, and some riders mention getting out is not super straightforward, like using ropes. If you’re not a strong swimmer, you’ll need to judge whether the short swim to shore feels comfortable for you.

Also, bring a towel and something to protect your skin. The island can be very hot, and there is limited shade since you cannot rely on juniper shade. If you burn easily, sunscreen is not optional. A hat helps more than you think.

Boat bar and snacks: what is free, what costs, and the cash detail

Food and drinks are not included in the price, but the ship’s restaurant and bar remain open throughout the cruise. The bar is self-service, and you can purchase light meals and drinks such as salads, wine, soft drinks, coffee, and ice cream.

Here’s the detail that matters day-of: payments on board are by credit or debit card, and not cash. So if you plan to buy snacks or drinks, make sure you actually have a card that works internationally or at least on Greek terminals.

The food experience seems to land in the middle. One person says the onboard menu was not good and that they stayed hungry. Others describe items like Greek salad, stuffed tomatoes, potatoes, and chicken as tasty enough, so it’s a bit of a hit-or-miss situation.

My practical advice: treat the boat food as convenience, not as your main meal plan. If you’re picky or very hungry, you might feel better having a small plan before you go, even though the tour itself does not include food.

Sea conditions and the return: when timing meets motion

The itinerary includes time back too, with a ferry return of about 1 hour. That means the return ride can come after you’ve already spent time swimming and maybe snorkeling, which can make waves feel more intense.

I’ve seen enough real-world notes to say this clearly: if the sea gets rough, motion sickness can happen, and the return is when you notice it. The good part is the staff work hard to keep things moving and help passengers with the day’s transitions, and that effort shows up in the experience.

If you’re prone to nausea, consider preparing as you would for any boat day. And if you’re not sure how you’ll handle swells, keep your expectations realistic: you’re on the Libyan Sea, not a lake.

Timing, crowds, and how to find a quieter corner

Chrissi can be busy at certain spots, especially around the main beach areas. Still, the day is designed so you spend hours on the island area, so you’re not trapped in one single viewing point.

One helpful tip that comes up repeatedly is that you can find quieter moments by walking away from the busiest areas. Even if the boat brings a crowd, you can often get privacy a short walk down the beach and enjoy a calmer swim and sunbathing stretch.

Also, remember that your total island time is 3.5 hours. That sounds generous until you count in your swim out, gear handling, snorkeling time, sun time, and then the walk back to where you reconnect with the boat. I’d plan to do snorkeling earlier in your island window, then save relaxation for later.

Included gear and what you should bring anyway

The tour includes a lot of the “water day” basics: boat cruise, a swimming stop near Chrissi, skipper, life jackets, and equipment for water activities. This includes snorkel masks and flippers, plus items like boards, balls, and other gear.

But the tour does not include personal comfort items. So you should bring:

• Hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Passport or ID card (a copy is accepted)

If you’re bringing your phone for photos, protect it. Some riders were surprised by what it costs to handle phones while swimming, including purchases of waterproof bags for about €20. Even if you do not buy one, having a plan to protect your electronics will make the day easier.

One more detail: the island rules limit where you can go and where you can use shade. That’s good for nature, but it means your personal comfort kit matters even more.

Price and value: is $47 a good deal for Chrissi?

At $47 per person for a 6-hour day cruise, this is one of those outings that can feel like great value, as long as you’re aligned with what the trip actually is. You’re not paying for a long guided hike or a full onboard meal. You’re paying for access to a spectacular swimming spot with gear included and a protected-island experience.

Here’s where the value shows up for me:

You get life jackets and snorkeling gear, so you’re not paying extra for rentals. You also get a real chunk of time on the Chrissi area, about 3.5 hours, plus scenic cruising time out and back.

Where value can feel weaker:

If you expect a guaranteed easy swim-to-shore setup, or if you want shade and facilities on the island, you might feel disappointed. The day has rules, and those rules take you away from a typical “step onto the beach and relax” fantasy.

So the best fit is someone who wants water time first, photos second, and beach wandering third. If that sounds like your style, the price makes sense.

Who should book this Chrissi cruise, and who should skip it

This is a strong match if you want:

• A swimming and snorkeling-focused day in Crete’s sea.
• Included water gear that makes it easy to get in the water.
• A protected island experience that respects the ecosystem.

It’s also a decent choice if you like simple tours where you follow a schedule and spend your effort where it matters, in the water and at the beach.

Skip it if:

• You are pregnant, since it’s not suitable for pregnant women.
• You use a wheelchair, since it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
• You need a fully shaded, walkable island experience, because the island interior and juniper shade are prohibited.

And if you’re especially sensitive to boat motion, you should think twice or plan for it. Rougher conditions can change how much you enjoy the return ride.

Should you book this Ierapetra to Chrissi cruise?

If your main goal is turquoise-looking water, swimming, and snorkeling gear included, I think this is a smart book from Ierapetra. The trip is built around the water, and the Chrissi setting delivers the kind of views that make day cruises worth it.

That said, be honest about your needs. This is not a full island tour with easy landing and unlimited shade. It’s a swim-first day that follows conservation rules and asks you to show up prepared with sunscreen, a towel, and realistic comfort expectations.

If that sounds like your kind of Crete day, book it. If you’re looking for a purely beachy, low-effort day with easy access and lots of comfort facilities, you’ll probably want a different option.

FAQ

How long is the cruise from Ierapetra to Chrissi Island?

The duration is 6 hours.

How much does it cost per person?

The price listed is $47 per person.

Where do I meet the boat?

You meet the ship ARISTOVOULOS at the Port of Ierapetra. GPS: 35°00’26.7″N 25°44’24.5″E.

Is food included with the tour price?

No. Food and drinks are not included. The bar and restaurant stay open during the cruise, and you can purchase items.

Can I get off onto Chrissi Island and walk around?

This summer, it is not allowed to disembark on the island. The ship anchors near a selected beach, and you access the shore by swimming. Beaches are allowed, but the interior and juniper shade are prohibited.

What snorkeling and water gear is included?

Life jackets are included, along with equipment for water activities such as boards, masks with snorkels, flippers, and balls.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a passport or ID card (a copy is accepted).

Can I pay with cash onboard?

No. Payments on the ship are made only by credit or debit card, not in cash.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

It is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel and get a refund?

Yes. There is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.