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

If you’re looking for a way to combine sailing, water fun, and exploring a pristine, uninhabited island during your Crete trip, this shared sailing adventure to Dia Island could be just what you need. Offered from Heraklion by MGV-Yachts-Cruises, this experience promises a blend of scenic cruising, aquatic activities, and a tasty meal—all aboard a luxury sailboat with air conditioning and plenty of space to relax.

What draws us most to this tour is its thoughtful balance: you get to enjoy the thrill of sailing, the chance to snorkel or stand-up paddleboard, and a generous meal with drinks, all without the hassle of a private charter. The small group size (max four travelers) ensures a more intimate experience. However, one thing to consider is that disembarkation on Dia Island isn’t permitted, so you’ll primarily enjoy swimming or paddling around the boat. This tour suits travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic day on the water with excellent amenities and knowledgeable crew.

Key Points

• Luxury sailboat experience with spacious, comfortable decks and modern amenities.
• Water activities like snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing gear included.
• All-inclusive meals and drinks, including pasta with shrimp, Greek salad, fresh fruit, white wine, beer, and water.
• Flexible schedule options with daytime or sunset cruises.
• Small group setting for personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• Uninhabited Dia Island offers wild scenery and protected coves, perfect for swimming and exploring.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Heraklion

The adventure begins at the Old Venetian Harbour of Heraklion, where you’ll step onboard one of two luxurious sailboats—TREATON or JACKPOT. These are among the largest, safest, and most comfortable vessels in the port, recently renovated in 2024. The boats boast oversized front decks with plush mattresses, expansive cockpit tables, and open platforms ideal for sunbathing or relaxing with a drink in hand.

From the moment you leave the harbor, you’ll appreciate the smooth, stable ride and the chance to learn some sailing basics from friendly crew members. A reviewer described the overall sailing experience as “accurate, punctual, nice and very friendly,” emphasizing how the crew’s approachable attitude made the journey enjoyable from start to finish.

Sailing in the Cretan and Aegean Seas

For about an hour and ten minutes, you’ll glide across the waters, soaking up views of Heraklion and the surrounding coastlines. This part of the trip isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the fun. You can participate in the sailing, learn some skills, or simply sit back and admire the scenery. Expect to see the rugged coastline, small harbors, and perhaps some local fishing boats passing by.

The Highlight: Dia Island

After setting sail from Heraklion, the boat reaches Dia Island, an uninhabited Natura 2000 protected area. The island, roughly six nautical miles north, is famous for its crystalline waters, rocky coves, and untouched scenery. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard—water activities are included and well-equipped.

One guest mentioned that “as soon as we arrived, you can swim and use SUP or snorkeling,” which highlights how accessible and easy it is to jump into the water. The sheltered coves are perfect for a peaceful swim, away from the crowds often found in more commercialized spots. Since disembarkation isn’t permitted, you’ll be anchored close enough for a relaxing float or some underwater exploration right from the boat.

Water Toys and Activities

The tour provides snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, and fishing rods on request, making it easy to get active in the water. Reviewers appreciated the variety: one described it as “a wonderful day,” with plenty of time to swim and enjoy water toys.

Keep in mind that in windy conditions, paddleboards might be unavailable for safety reasons, so if the weather turns rough, your water fun might be limited to swimming and snorkeling.

Reboarding and the Return Journey

After about three hours at Dia, you’ll set sail back to Heraklion. The return trip includes more gorgeous views of the coast and sea. For sunset cruises, you’ll witness the sky morph into stunning shades of orange and pink, adding a romantic touch to the experience. One traveler described the sunset cruise as “stellar,” emphasizing the peaceful, picture-perfect moments you’ll want to capture.

The Final Stop: Heraklion

Back in the Old Venetian Harbour, you’ll enjoy a final glimpse of the city’s historic architecture and lively waterfront. The tour ends here, leaving you with memories of a day filled with sailing, water fun, and scenic beauty.

The Included and Not Included Details

The tour offers serious value for those who want a full day of activity and relaxation. The luxury yachts are state-of-the-art, with ample space to relax and enjoy the sea breeze, complemented by a full board meal. You’ll be welcomed with a selection of dishes like pasta with shrimp and a Greek salad, along with fresh fruit and an array of drinks—including white wine, beer, and water.

Water gear is available for free, and the crew is friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting facts about the sea, the islands, and sailing techniques.

Not included are beach towels, hotel transfers, or disembarkation on Dia itself, as environmental regulations restrict landing. You might find it worthwhile to bring your own towel or extra water shoes if you plan to swim around the boat.

Practicalities and Tips

The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of four travelers, which means you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate experience. It’s suitable for most travelers over four years old, but not for those with mobility issues or very young children.

Start point is conveniently located near public transport, making it easy to access. The tour lasts approximately five and a half hours, which is ideal for a relaxed day without feeling rushed.

For those considering a sunset cruise, note that timing may vary based on the season, so check the schedule when booking. Since the tour operates in good weather, a cancellation policy is in place if weather conditions turn poor.

Authentic Insights from Guest Reviews

One reviewer shared that the crew was “accurate, punctual, nice and very friendly,” highlighting the professionalism and warm attitude of the staff. They also appreciated the “amazing views of Heraklion” while sailing, emphasizing how the trip is as much about scenery as it is about activities.

Another guest appreciated the flexibility, noting how they could participate in sailing or simply relax, which makes this experience adaptable to different energy levels and preferences.

The Sum Up

This sailing trip to Dia Island offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience that combines the thrill of sailing with the serenity of unspoiled nature. The quality of the boat, the inclusion of water toys and a full meal, and the small group size make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking both adventure and comfort. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy water activities, scenic views, and a laid-back vibe without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic day on the water with knowledgeable guides and top-notch amenities, this tour ticks many boxes. Plus, the flexibility of choosing between a daytime or sunset cruise allows you to tailor your experience to your schedule and mood.

For travelers wanting a memorable Crete day that balances activity with relaxation, this sailing adventure to Dia Island offers excellent value and genuine enjoyment.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for kids under 4 years old, and those with severe mobility impairments may find it challenging due to the nature of boat boarding and water activities.

What should I bring?
While towels aren’t included, bringing your own water shoes, sunscreen, and a hat would enhance your comfort. The provided water toys and snorkeling gear are available onboard.

Can I disembark on Dia Island?
No, disembarkation on Dia Island isn’t allowed to protect the environment. You can swim, paddleboard, or snorkel around the boat instead.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, a full board meal with pasta, Greek salad, fresh fruit, and drinks (white wine, beer, water, soft drinks) is provided.

How long does the whole trip last?
The total duration is about 5 hours and 30 minutes, including sailing, swimming, and enjoying the scenery.

Is it possible to do this as an evening or sunset cruise?
Yes, you can choose a sunset cruise to enjoy the stunning views as the sun sets over the sea, offering a more romantic atmosphere.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour operates only in good weather. If canceled due to adverse conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This sailing trip offers a fantastic blend of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty—all within a manageable timeframe and budget. Whether you’re a water enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing day on the sea, it’s a great option for experiencing Crete from a different perspective.