SAILING full day island DIA with lunch from Heraklion CRETE

Discover the Charm of a Full-Day Sailing Trip to Dia Island from Heraklion

A full-day sailing adventure from Heraklion, priced at around $109 per person, offers a unique way to enjoy Crete’s stunning coastlines. This tour, lasting approximately 7 hours 10 minutes, takes travelers on an intimate journey aboard a small sailing boat with a maximum capacity of 12. Travelers can expect a personalized experience with group sizes capped at 10, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging day on the water. The tour includes lunch, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and the chance to explore Dia Island, an uninhabited location famous for its beauty.

The tour departs from Heraklion’s port and offers pickup options and mobile tickets, adding flexibility. While the experience is well-loved, it’s important to note that the boat’s capacity is legally limited to 10 guests, which can impact those expecting larger groups. The friendly crew, delicious local food, and authentic sailing atmosphere make this an attractive choice for visitors wanting a personalized Crete water adventure.

Key Points

• Small group sailing with a maximum of 12 guests ensures an intimate experience.
• Includes snorkeling and fishing gear for water activities.
• Delicious Cretan lunch prepared by the skipper, complemented by drinks like water, soft drinks, wine, and raki.
• Two island stops provide ample time for exploration or relaxing on Dia Island.
• Tour duration of about 7 hours 10 minutes from start to finish.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the trip.

Starting Point and Group Size for a Personal Experience

This sailing trip begins at Cafe Marina in Heraklion, where guests are welcomed for their pickup or to meet directly at the meeting point. The group size is capped at 12, though most trips host up to 10 guests for a more personalized experience. This limited capacity allows the crew to focus on making each guest comfortable, whether they want to snorkel, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery.

The small boat design also ensures that everyone gets a good view and easy access to water activities without feeling crowded. This setup appeals particularly to travelers who prefer a more exclusive and less crowded outing compared to larger cruise options.

Navigating the Journey from Heraklion to Dia Island

The trip begins with a scenic sail from Heraklion’s port, setting out across the Cretan and Aegean Seas. The sailing duration to Dia Island is part of the overall 7-hour experience, with the boat journey itself notable for beautiful sea views and the chance to feel the wind on your face.

The itinerary includes two stops: one at Dia Island itself and another at a second, quieter bay. The first stop at Dia is the main attraction, where travelers can swim, snorkel, or explore the uninhabited island, known for its crystal-clear waters. The second bay offers a more tranquil setting, with plenty of time for relaxation or water activities.

The sailing is described as being just about enough wind to sail smoothly, with some reviews highlighting the well-maintained boat and experienced captain. While some travelers mention longer stays in crowded bays, the overall experience remains positive, especially for those who enjoy active water-based outings.

Water Activities and Equipment on Board

Snorkeling and fishing gear are included with the tour, allowing guests to enjoy the marine environment. The water activity supplies are available throughout the trip, making it easy to swim and snorkel in the crystal waters of Dia Island or the second bay.

The equipment quality and availability are praised in reviews, with many guests appreciating that everything needed for water fun is provided. For those keen on stand-up paddleboarding or swimming, this tour offers plenty of opportunities, especially during the ample time allocated at each stop.

Savoring Cretan Cuisine on the Water

One of the tour’s highlights is the lunch prepared by the skipper, offering a delicious Cretan meal that has garnered many positive comments. The meal includes pasta with seafood, Greek salad, and bread with tzatziki, all cooked onboard.

Guests are also served drinks throughout the day, which include water, soft drinks, wine, and raki. The homemade lunch and refreshing beverages significantly enhance the experience, creating a relaxed and convivial atmosphere on the boat. Review comments mention that the food is plentiful and tasty, though some note that food quantity can be limited due to capacity restrictions.

The Experience of the Crew and Guides

The crew on this tour receives high praise for their friendliness, experience, and local knowledge. The captain is described as very knowledgeable about the area and Greek mythology, which adds an educational element to the trip. Many reviews highlight crew members’ humor and helpfulness, especially when motion sickness occurs or when guests need assistance.

This personalized service and attentiveness are a significant part of what makes this tour enjoyable. The small group size allows the crew to focus on individual needs, creating a comfortable environment for all.

The Visuals and Scenic Highlights

Every leg of the sailing journey offers beautiful views of Crete’s coastline and the surrounding sea. Dia Island itself is a notable highlight, with its uninhabited status and crystal-clear waters providing a perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach.

The seascapes are complemented by the experience of sailing, which many describe as exciting yet relaxing. During the trip, travelers can appreciate the local scenery and mythology-infused landscapes explained by the crew, adding depth to the visual experience.

The Practicalities: Booking, Cancellation, and Access

Most bookings are made 6 days in advance, and the price of $108.91 per person includes almost everything needed for a full day of water activities and a hearty lunch. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind for flexible planning.

The meeting point is located at Leof. Nearchou, Iraklio, where guests can either meet the crew or opt for pickup. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with good weather conditions being essential for the trip to proceed smoothly. The boat is designed to comfortably host 8, 10, or 12 guests, with most trips having up to 10 guests for an optimal experience.

Critical Considerations and What to Expect

While the majority of reviews are very positive, one review mentions crowding and food limitations, noting that the boat was over capacity with 12 people including the crew, which is against the legal limit of 10. This highlights the importance of checking the boat’s capacity and confirming reservations.

The trip’s timing starts in the morning, with most activities focused between 10:20 and 17:10, and the trip ending back at Heraklion. Travelers should be prepared for a full day at sea, which includes sailing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Sailing Crete with a Local Touch

The skipper and crew’s local knowledge truly stand out, with many reviews emphasizing their friendly attitude, enthusiasm, and willingness to share stories about the area and its mythology. This personalized approach turns a simple boat trip into a more engaging experience.

Guests particularly appreciate the friendly atmosphere, attention to safety, and the quality of the onboard lunch. The balance of sailing, water activities, and relaxation makes this tour especially appealing for adventurous families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a more personal Crete water experience.

Final Thoughts on the Dia Island Sailing Trip

This full-day sailing tour offers an excellent value for those who want to combine scenic sailing, water activities, and authentic Cretan cuisine. The small group size and friendly crew foster a relaxed and personalized environment, making it a great choice for anyone looking to explore Crete’s coast in a more intimate way.

While capacity restrictions mean that some might find the food portions limited or the crowd levels slightly challenging, these are minor considerations compared to the overall quality, scenic beauty, and authentic experience this trip provides.

This tour is especially suited for adventurers who enjoy sailing, water sports, and local cuisine in a casual, friendly setting. It’s a highly rated experience that balances fun, relaxation, and learning, creating memories that highlight the natural beauty and hospitality of Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Transportation is available via pickup options, but many guests meet directly at the Heraklion port at Leof. Nearchou.

What is the maximum group size?
The boat’s capacity is 8, 10, or 12 persons, but most trips host up to 10 for a more comfortable experience.

What water activities are included?
Snorkeling and fishing gear are provided free of charge. Water sports like stand-up paddleboarding may be available, depending on the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is food included in the tour price?
Yes, a delicious Cretan lunch prepared onboard, along with snacks and drinks, is included in the $108.91 fee.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring swimwear, sun protection, and personal water if desired. Comfortable clothing and towels are recommended for water activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but accessibility details are not specified. Participants should be comfortable at sea for sailing.

What is the weather policy?
The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, guests are offered another date or a full refund.

How long is the sailing trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours 10 minutes, including sailing, stops, and onboard meals.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small group size, personalized service, local culinary experience, and friendly crew make it a top choice for exploring Crete’s coast in style.