Dia island : Small Group Sailing Trip to Dia Island with Lunch

The Small Group Sailing Trip to Dia Island offers an engaging way to explore one of Crete’s most protected and picturesque spots. Priced at $93.03 per person, this 4.5-hour adventure departs from Heraklion with pickup included within a 10 km radius. The trip takes you to Dia Island, an uninhabited haven protected by Natura 2000, renowned for its biodiversity and crystal-clear waters. The small group setting, limited to 10 travelers, ensures a personalized experience, with friendly, professional guides leading the way.

The tour’s highlights include opportunities to spot dolphins, monk seals, and wild goats, along with hands-on activities like snorkeling and sailing lessons. The organic lunch served onboard stands out as a real treat, featuring local specialties and seasonal fruit. While the cruise is praised for its scenic beauty and engaging crew, travelers should be aware that weather conditions may affect the itinerary, and snorkel equipment has received mixed reviews. This trip is well-suited for those who enjoy active water experiences, wildlife encounters, and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $93.03 per person for 4 hours 30 minutes, including pickup within 10 km of Heraklion.
• Wildlife and Nature: The tour offers insider tips on spotting dolphins, monk seals, wild goats, and local fish, thanks to knowledgeable guides.
• Activities Included: Snorkeling, swimming, and sailing lessons are available, with snorkel equipment and SUP boards provided.
• Scenic Stops: The trip anchors in Agios Georgios or Panagia bay, known for green waters and protected wildlife.
• Food and Drinks: An organic lunch, featuring local specialties and seasonal fruit, is included, along with unlimited soft drinks, mineral water, and wine.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate, relaxed atmosphere with plenty of personal attention.

Embarking from the Old Venetian Port in Heraklion

The tour begins at the Old Venetian port, where the crew greets visitors and provides safety and boat handling instructions. The vessel used is a brand-new Elan 43+ feet yacht, offering comfortable space and a smooth sailing experience. The pickup service is included at no extra charge for locations within 10 km of Heraklion, making logistics straightforward.

Once everyone is on board, the crew sets sail, and the journey to Dia Island begins, lasting about one hour. This early part of the trip offers beautiful views of the coast and the chance to relax before reaching the island. Travelers should be prepared for a moderate physical fitness level, as some activities involve swimming and snorkeling.

Discovering Dia Island’s Ecological Significance

Dia Island is renowned for its biodiversity and is protected under the Natura 2000 project. Since it is uninhabited, the island remains a haven for wildlife like wild goats (Capra Aegagrus Cretica), monk seals (Monachus monachus), and a variety of fish species. Its protected status means visitors can enjoy pristine waters and untouched landscapes. The island’s coves, Agios Georgios and Panagia, are ideal anchor points, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Anchoring at Agios Georgios or Panagia Bay

Depending on weather conditions, the boat anchors in either Agios Georgios or Panagia bay, both on the island’s south side. These coves are known for their lush green waters and the rich wildlife that surrounds them. The crew provides guidance on wildlife spotting, including dolphins, monk seals, and even wild goats seen on the island’s cliffs.

The anchor sites are chosen carefully to optimize both safety and scenic beauty. Travelers can expect around one and a half hours of free time to swim, snorkel, or sunbathe. The water is often calm and inviting, though the quality of snorkeling equipment has received some mixed reviews, with suggestions for future improvements.

Snorkeling and Water Activities in Protected Waters

During the stop, visitors can snorkel over seagrass beds, explore the crystal waters, or relax on deck. The snorkeling gear is provided, along with SUP boards for those who wish to paddle around. Review comments highlight that the water clarity is excellent, making for enjoyable underwater exploration despite some feedback about equipment quality.

Fresh refreshments and seasonal fruit are served on board to keep everyone energized. The length of water activities is approximately an hour, allowing plenty of time to experience the marine environment and possibly spot dolphins in the distance.

Indulging in an Organic Crete Lunch

After swimming and snorkeling, the main highlight is the onboard organic lunch. The meal features local specialties and offers a vegetarian option as well. The lunch is praised for its quality and flavor, with many reviews mentioning how tasty and generous it is. Complemented by seasonal fruit and unlimited drinks—including soft drinks, mineral water, and wine—the meal provides a perfect break from water activities.

The crew members are known to be friendly and attentive, making the dining experience relaxed and enjoyable.

Sailing Back and Dolphin Spotting Opportunities

After lunch, a quick dive or swim may be part of the plan before the sail back toward Heraklion. The crew keeps a lookout for marine mammals, especially dolphins, as they often swim alongside the vessel during the return journey. The return trip offers a chance to enjoy the scenery and captivating views of the coast as the boat gently makes its way back to port.

Practical Details and Group Size Advantages

The small group size of up to 10 travelers ensures a personalized experience. The professional, certified crew—including First Aid certified staff—are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. This allows for more interaction, tailored advice, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Transportation is straightforward, with free pickup offered for locations within 10 km of Heraklion port. For those outside this range, additional arrangements can be made with the activity provider. Travelers should bring essentials like beach towels, swimsuits, and sunscreen.

Considerations for a Perfect Day on the Water

While the tour is widely loved, some reviews mention equipment quality issues with snorkeling gear, suggesting travelers bring their own if possible. The itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions, so flexibility is key. The group limit of 10 enhances the experience, but it also means booking in advance—about 25 days ahead on average—is recommended.

The tour is not suitable for individuals over 275 lbs (125 kg), and service animals are allowed. The moderate physical fitness requirement makes it accessible for most travelers ready for some swimming and light activity.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Crete

What makes this sailing trip unique is its combination of wildlife encounters, scenic water stops, and organic local cuisine. Many reviews emphasize the friendly crew, beautiful waters, and excellent value for the price of $93.03, which includes lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and transfer.

The small group setting creates an intimate environment, ideal for families, couples, or small groups of friends. While some reviews mention chaotic pickup experiences or equipment issues, the overall praise outweighs these concerns. The opportunity to see wildlife, snorkel in protected waters, and enjoy a delicious Crete meal makes this trip a popular choice among visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, free pickup is offered for accommodations within 10 km of Heraklion port.

How long is the sailing trip?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, including water activities, lunch, and sailing time.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Opportunities include dolphins, monk seals, and wild goats on the island’s cliffs.

What should I bring?
Bring beach towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and possibly your own snorkel gear if preferred.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour suits travelers with moderate physical fitness, and children can participate, though over 275 lbs (125 kg) individuals are advised to check with the provider.

Can I book a private yacht instead?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers on a shared vessel; for more privacy, consider booking a private yacht directly with the provider.