Heraklion: Dia Island Sailboat Cruise with Swimming and Meal

A Heraklion: Dia Island Sailboat Cruise offers an engaging 5.5-hour adventure for those looking to combine scenic sailing with water fun and authentic Greek cuisine. Priced at $81 per person, this tour departs from Heraklion and takes you on a comfortable, modern sailing yacht to the enchanting Dia Island. Travelers can enjoy a variety of water activities, including snorkeling and paddleboarding, along with a generous meal and unlimited drinks. The option to choose between a morning or afternoon cruise, especially the sunset sailing, adds a flexible touch to your Crete experience.

This tour is ideal for visitors who appreciate relaxed yet active outings, blending scenic sailing with time in the turquoise waters. While the trip offers excellent value and well-reviewed crew, it’s important to note that paddleboarding may be unavailable during rough wind conditions, and disembarkation on the island is forbidden due to its protected status. This cruise suits those looking for a fun, comfortable day at sea with plenty of options for water play and a focus on delicious Mediterranean food.

Key Points

• Duration and Departure Points: 5.5 hours starting from Heraklion’s Venetian port, with options for morning or afternoon sailings including sunset views.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling, fishing, and paddleboarding equipment are provided, with some restrictions under rough wind.
• Delicious Meal Included: A Mediterranean menu featuring shrimp linguini, Greek salad, appetizers, and tropical fruits, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
• Unlimited Drinks: Guests enjoy wine, beer, soft drinks, ice tea, and water during the cruise.
• Expert Crew: The certified captain and friendly crew lead the experience, sharing stories about Dia Island and ensuring comfort.
• Additional Perks: Music onboard, scenic sailing, and the possibility of spotting dolphins or enjoying a sunset.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Heraklion Departure at the Venetian Port

The cruise begins at the Heraklion old Venetian port, specifically at the Cafe Marina. Travelers are advised to arrive at 8:30 AM for the morning cruise or 2:30 PM for the afternoon sailing. The meeting point is easy to find, and the pickup is optional from various nearby areas, including Gouves, Malia, and Hersonissos. The transfer service can be booked in advance, adding convenience to your day.

The boats used are described as large and comfortable, providing ample space for relaxation. From the start, guests enjoy views of Koules fortress, built at the marina’s entrance, setting a historic tone before setting sail across the Cretan Sea. The crew shares stories about Dia Island, heightening anticipation for the upcoming stop.

Cruising to Dia Island: A Scenic Voyage

The one-hour sail from Heraklion to Dia Island offers sweeping views of the Cretan coastline and sea. The large sailing yacht glides smoothly, with some reviews highlighting the friendly guides and their engaging storytelling about the island’s legend and history.

The journey showcases beautiful seascapes, with several reviews praising the crystal waters and the calm sea conditions. During the cruise, guests can relax with music playing onboard, enhancing the laid-back atmosphere. The scenic views make this a perfect warm-up for the water activities at stop two.

Visiting Dia Island: Water Fun and Relaxation

The main attraction at Dia Island is its bright turquoise waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Equipment is provided, and crew members are available to assist. Snorkeling gear lets guests explore the underwater world, while fishing is also an option.

Water activities last about an hour, allowing plenty of time to cool off and capture photos. Some reviews mention that paddleboards are not available during rough wind, so weather conditions can influence activity options. Regardless, the refreshing water and scenic surroundings make for a memorable experience.

Gourmet Mediterranean Meal on Board

After water activities, guests are served a delicious Mediterranean meal. The shrimp linguini is the main course, accompanied by Greek salad and a selection of appetizers like tzatziki and olive paste. The menu also offers vegetarian and gluten-free options upon request.

The meal is served with a choice of wine, beer, soft drinks, or ice tea, and reviews highlight the quality of the food, describing it as tasty and beautifully presented. Following the main course, a fruit salad featuring tropical and local fruits is provided as a refreshing finish.

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Scenic Sailing Back to Heraklion and Sunset Views

The return journey lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving guests time to relax or take in the sea breeze. As the cruise concludes, some choose the sunset option, which offers stunning views of the setting sun over the sea—an unforgettable sight praised in many reviews.

The cruise ends back at the Heraklion port, with drop-off at multiple locations around Crete. This flexibility makes it easier to plan the rest of the day around the cruise.

Water Activities and Equipment: Snorkeling, Fishing, and Paddleboarding

Guests receive equipment for various water activities, including snorkeling gear, fishing rods, and standup paddleboards. The crew is eager to assist, providing instructions and equipment to enhance the experience.

Most reviews emphasize how enjoyable and accessible these activities are, with some mentioning that guides are friendly and helpful. The availability of music and refreshing drinks during water time adds to the overall enjoyment.

The Crew and Guides: Friendly, Knowledgeable, and Attentive

The certified captain and crew play a significant role in the success of this tour. Many reviews highlight the friendly attitude of guides like Christina and Harry, who are described as attentive and knowledgeable.

Guests appreciate how guides share stories about Dia Island and ensure everyone feels comfortable. The crew’s hospitality is often mentioned as making the cruise special, including accommodating special moments like engagements.

Food and Drink Quality

The mediterranean cuisine served onboard is consistently praised for freshness and flavor. The shrimp linguini and Greek salad are standout dishes, complemented by tasty appetizers. Unlimited drinks—including wine, beer, soft drinks, and ice tea—are available throughout the cruise, adding a relaxed vibe.

Guests also value the generous servings and the beautiful presentation of the meal, making the experience feel special.

Sunset Sailing Option and Its Appeal

The afternoon sunset cruise offers a particularly romantic and picturesque experience. Many reviews mention how the sunset over the sea creates a breathtaking backdrop, perfect for photos and lasting memories.

This option is highly recommended for those seeking a more scenic, peaceful ending to their day, especially if they enjoy spectacular views and quiet moments on the water.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. Travelers should bring passport or ID and towel for swimming. Towels are not provided, so packing one is advised.

All participants need to provide full name, passport/ID number, date of birth, nationality, and gender at booking or at least one day before departure. The disembarkation on Dia Island is not allowed due to its protected status, so the entire experience takes place on the boat and in the waters.

Why This Cruise Offers Good Value

For $81, the tour includes all water equipment, a full Mediterranean meal, unlimited drinks, and scenic sailing. The friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and variety of activities make it a worthwhile investment for a memorable day on Crete.

Many reviews mention that the quality of food and service exceeds expectations for the price, with some saying it’s one of the best experiences during their trip.

Heraklion: Dia Island Sailboat Cruise – Final Thoughts

This sailboat cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island delivers a balanced mix of sailing, water fun, and good food. The comfortable large yacht combined with friendly crew makes for a relaxed yet lively day.

Guests enjoy scenic views, refreshing swims, and tasty Mediterranean cuisine, especially during the sunset option. While paddleboarding restrictions and no island disembarkation are considerations, the overall experience is highly rated—with a 4.7/5 score from nearly 2000 reviews.

Travelers seeking a well-organized, fun-filled day at sea will find this tour offers great value and plenty of memories to cherish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from multiple areas in Crete, including Heraklion, Gouves, and Malia, and can be booked in advance.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring passport or ID and a towel for swimming. Towel is not provided by the tour.

Can I disembark on Dia Island?
No, disembarkation on Dia Island is forbidden due to its protected status; the tour takes place entirely onboard and in the water.

Is the cruise suitable for families or children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most, it is not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

What is included in the meal?
The meal features shrimp linguini, Greek salad, appetizers like tzatziki, and fruits. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, the booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for travel planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby