Shared Sailing trip to Dia Island, Meal+Drinks, Heraklion, Crete

Experience a Luxurious Sailing Trip to Dia Island from Heraklion, Crete

This shared sailing trip offers an inviting way to explore the uninhabited Dia Island, located just north of Heraklion. For $83.81 per person, travelers enjoy a 5 hour 30 minute cruise aboard one of the largest and safest yachts in Heraklion Port, renovated in 2024. The tour includes meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, water toys, and fishing equipment, making it perfect for those looking to combine relaxation, water fun, and scenic sailing.

The tour offers a flexible schedule with options for a daytime or sunset cruise, catering to different preferences. Although it does not allow disembarkation on Dia Island due to environmental restrictions, plenty of time is spent anchored near the island, providing ample opportunities for swimming and water activities.

This tour stands out for its comfortable, air-conditioned yachts with oversized deck areas and plush mattresses, ensuring a relaxing experience whether you’re lounging or actively enjoying water sports. It’s best suited for travelers aged 4 and over, with a maximum group size of just 4, creating an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Key Points

• Luxury sailing yachts renovated in 2024, offering safety and comfort
• Approximate 5.5-hour cruise with flexible daytime or sunset options
• Includes meals, such as pasta with shrimps and Greek salad, plus white wine, beer, water, and soft drinks
• Water activities: snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing gear (upon request), and water toys
• Anchored near Dia Island for swimming, snorkeling, or paddling, as disembarkation is not allowed
• Meeting point at Leof. Nearchou, Heraklion

Starting from Heraklion’s Old Venetian Harbour

The tour begins at the Old Venetian Harbour of Heraklion, where two luxurious yachts, TREATON and JACKPOT, are ready to set sail. These yachts are known for being large, safe, and comfortable, with renovations completed in 2024 to ensure modern amenities and safety standards.

Once underway, guests are invited to participate in sailing or simply relax on deck. The crew explains basic sailing skills if you’re interested, but the primary focus is on enjoying the magnificent views of Heraklion and the surrounding waters of the Cretan and Aegean Seas.

Sailing in the Cretan and Aegean Seas

The initial sailing segment lasts about 1 hour 10 minutes, offering scenic vistas of Heraklion and the coastline. This segment is ideal for those wanting a taste of sailing or just to unwind while taking in the sea breeze. The crew’s friendly approach enhances the experience, making everyone feel comfortable whether they’re actively helping or relaxing.

During this time, guests can watch the coastline pass by or learn a few sailing basics from the captain, adding an educational touch to the journey.

Exploring Dia Island’s Wild Shores

After sailing, the yacht arrives at Dia Island, a Natura 2000 protected site characterized by crystalline waters, wild scenery, and wind-protected coves. The island, about 6 nautical miles north of Heraklion, is uninhabited and offers a pristine environment for water-based activities.

Guests are anchored near the island for approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes, enough time to swim, snorkel, or use stand-up paddleboards. The water toys and snorkeling gear provided make exploring the clear waters easy and enjoyable. Since disembarkation isn’t permitted, you’ll need to stay on the boat or in the water, but the location’s natural beauty compensates for that.

The legend around Dia Island adds a layer of intrigue, though the main highlight remains the spectacular scenery and calm waters that are perfect for a relaxing day.

Water Activities at Dia Island

The tour’s water-based options are a major highlight. Guests can snorkel in the crystalline waters, with gear provided on board. Stand-up paddleboards are available for those who want to paddle around the coves, offering a fun way to explore the coastline from a different perspective.

Water toys further enhance the experience, and fishing gear can be requested if guests wish to try their luck. When wind conditions are mild, the paddleboards are available; however, safety considerations mean they may not be accessible during rough weather.

The combination of water activities and scenic beauty makes this part of the journey particularly memorable.

Returning to Heraklion with Magnificent Views

After spending enough time at Dia Island, the yacht sails back toward Heraklion, offering a second sailing segment of about 1 hour and 5 minutes. This return leg allows guests to relax, continue enjoying the views, or participate in sailing again.

If on a sunset cruise, this part of the journey affords an opportunity to witness the stellar sunset over the sea, adding a romantic touch to the experience. The scenery as the sun dips into the horizon provides a perfect ending to the cruise.

Docking at Heraklion’s Old Venetian Harbour

The tour concludes with a gentle approach back to the Old Venetian Harbour, where guests can enjoy unique views of Heraklion’s skyline. The docking process is smooth, and the tour ends right at the starting point, making transportation and logistics straightforward.

While disembarkation on Dia Island is not allowed, the overall experience leaves guests with plenty of beautiful memories and photos of the coastline, island scenery, and sea life.

Practical Details and Included Amenities

The tour includes luxury yachts equipped with large front decks and comfortable mattresses for lounging. The massive swimming and entertainment areas feature expansive opening platforms, perfect for sunbathing or jumping into the water.

The package also covers snorkeling gear, fishing rods upon request, and two stand-up paddleboards. The full-board meal offers pasta with shrimp, Greek salad, fresh fruit, and a selection of drinks: white wine, beer, water, and soft drinks.

Additional costs, such as beach towels, hotel transfers, or disembarkation on Dia Island, are not included. Guests should plan accordingly, especially since the tour is limited to a maximum of 4 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Meeting Point and Booking Details

The tour starts at Leof. Nearchou, Heraklion, at the Cafe Marina. The activity features mobile ticketing for convenience, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking. It is suitable for most travelers except children under 4 years old and those with severe mobility impairments.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of weather concerns or changing plans.

Final Thoughts on the Dia Island Sailing Trip

This shared sailing adventure provides a luxurious, comfortable experience with exceptional water-based activities and stunning sea views. The focus on safety, comfort, and natural beauty makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing day on the water near Crete.

While disembarkation on Dia Island isn’t permitted, the anchored water activities and scenic sailing compensate well. The friendly crew, well-maintained yachts, and balanced itinerary ensure a memorable outing, especially suited for travelers who appreciate luxury, nature, and water fun.

This tour offers excellent value with its inclusive meals, drinks, and water equipment, making it a standout choice for a half-day escape from Heraklion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is disembarkation on Dia Island possible?
No, disembarkation is not allowed due to environmental restrictions, but you can swim or paddleboard around the boat.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes luxury yachts, meals, snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, water toys, and fishing gear upon request.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring beach towels (not included). Wearing appropriate swimwear and sunscreen is recommended for water activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but it is not suitable for children under 4 years old or people with severe mobility impairments.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund. Poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling.