Heraklion: Dia Island Sailboat Cruise with Swimming and Meal

If you’re looking for a way to combine spectacular scenery, exciting water activities, and delicious food, this sailboat cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island ticks all the boxes. Offered by Cretan Sailing Cruises, this 5.5-hour adventure promises a relaxing yet engaging day on the water, complete with sailing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a mouthwatering Mediterranean meal. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this trip seems like a wonderful escape from the hustle of city life into the tranquil, turquoise waters of Crete.

One of the things we love most about this experience is how it balances relaxing sailing with plentiful opportunities for activities and leisure. Plus, the reviews highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the crew is—something that can really make or break a boat trip. That said, the tour does involve a fair amount of time on the water, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer land-based adventures, it’s worth considering.

This trip is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of scenery, good company, and authentic local food. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Dia Island’s famed waters, taste fresh Greek cuisine, and maybe even catch a sunset—an unforgettable way to end the day.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and scenic sailing make this a memorable day out.
• Water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding are included, with safety considerations for wind conditions.
• Delicious Mediterranean cuisine served onboard, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
• Unlimited drinks including wine, beer, soft drinks, and water keep you refreshed.
• Knowledgeable and friendly crew greatly enhance the experience, according to numerous reviews.
• Sunset cruise option offers a particularly breathtaking view, ideal for romance or photography.

An Authentic Crete Sailing Experience

This cruise begins at the historic Heraklion Old Venetian harbor, a setting that alone is worth a visit. From the moment you step onto the spacious, well-maintained sailing yacht, you get a sense of comfort and adventure. The boat itself is described as large and immaculate, offering plenty of space to relax, chat, or take in the views.

As the boat departs, you pass by the iconic Koules fortress, a striking reminder of Crete’s Venetian past. The crew shares stories about Dia Island’s history and legends, adding an educational touch to the voyage. The one-hour sail out from Heraklion provides a gentle introduction to the sea, with much of the journey spent enjoying the fresh breeze and panoramic vistas that are truly picture-perfect.

Reviews praise the crew for their hospitality; from the captain to the staff like Christina and Harry, everyone seems genuinely invested in making your day special. Many mention how friendly and attentive the guides are, often asking if guests need anything or would like another drink, which adds a personal touch.

The Stop at Dia Island: Water, Food, and Relaxation

The highlight for many travelers is the time spent in the bay of Dia, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. The boat anchors here for around three and a half hours, giving guests ample time to swim, snorkel, fish, or paddleboard. They provide snorkeling gear and paddleboards, but weather conditions can influence availability—reviewers note that rough wind conditions may limit paddleboarding.

One reviewer shared that they were able to see dolphins during their trip, a rare but magical encounter that adds to the adventure. This reflects how the sea around Dia Island can surprise even seasoned travelers, turning an already beautiful day into an extraordinary experience.

While anchored, the crew serves an impressive variety of drinks, from locally produced wine and beer to soft drinks and iced tea. This unlimited drinks policy means you can sip your beverages leisurely without worry. Several reviews mention how helpful and friendly the staff are in offering drinks and equipment, enhancing the laid-back atmosphere.

The Mediterranean Feast: A Meal for the Senses

The onboard meal is another standout aspect. Served approximately an hour after arriving at Dia, the menu features Greek salads, appetizers like tzatziki and olive paste, and main courses such as shrimp linguini. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food, describing it as delicious, fresh, and generously portioned.

Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request, making the meal accessible for various dietary needs. Many reviews rave about how tasty and beautifully presented the dishes are. To wash it down, guests can enjoy a selection of local wines, beers, or non-alcoholic drinks—another reason why this cruise offers excellent value for money.

Following the main course, a fresh fruit salad with tropical and local fruits is served, offering a sweet, refreshing ending to the meal. The combination of good food, unlimited drinks, and stunning scenery creates a relaxed, festive atmosphere onboard.

Sunset Option: A Romantic Finale

Travelers can choose between a morning or afternoon cruise, with the latter providing the chance to witness a spectacular sunset. Several reviews highlight how breathtaking the sunset views are, painting the sky with fiery colors as the boat makes its way back to Heraklion. This is noted as a particularly memorable moment—perfect for couples or anyone who appreciates a photo-worthy scene.

The Return Journey and Drop-off

After saying goodbye to Dia Island, the boat heads back towards Heraklion, with another scenic hour of sailing. The return trip is a good chance to unwind, reflect on the day, and soak in the last views of Crete’s coast. Drop-off points are numerous, including popular spots like Malia, Rethimno, and Hersonissos, making this trip convenient for various travelers.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour is priced at around $81 per person, which many reviews suggest offers good value considering the included meal, drinks, water activities, and scenic sailing. The tour lasts roughly 5.5 hours, so packing sunscreen, a hat, and a towel is advised. Towels are not provided, and disembarkation at Dia Island is not allowed because it’s a protected area—so plan to enjoy your time on the boat and in the water.

Transport to the meeting point at Café Marina in Heraklion is optional but recommended for convenience. Pickup is available from multiple locations around Heraklion, Gazi, Karteros, and surrounding areas. The cruise departs at either 8:30 AM or 14:30, depending on your chosen option, so check availability and plan accordingly.

While the cruise is suitable for most, it’s worth noting that pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users may find this experience less accessible. Also, participants are asked to provide personal details in advance and carry a passport or ID for check-in.

Authentic, Fun, and Value-Packed

With an overall rating of 4.7 from nearly 2,000 reviews, this cruise clearly resonates with travelers. Many note the professionalism of the crew, the beauty of the trip, and the quality of the food. Guests frequently mention how helpful guides like Christina and Harry are, making the experience feel personalized and cared for.

The combination of sailing, swimming, a hearty meal, unlimited drinks, and sunset views makes this a well-rounded day out in Crete. It’s a chance to enjoy the sea in a relaxed setting—whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or memorable scenery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is a great pick for travelers who love water-based activities but also appreciate comfort, good food, and beautiful surroundings. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see Dia Island’s iconic waters and perhaps experience a sunset cruise. Families, couples, or small groups will enjoy the friendly crew and the variety of activities onboard.

However, if you’re not comfortable on boats or have specific mobility needs, it’s worth considering that this experience involves some time on the water and walking on a boat without assistance. Those with seasickness should consider taking motion sickness tablets, as recommended by many reviewers.

Final Thoughts

This sailboat cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island offers a delightful blend of scenic sailing, water fun, and delicious food, all enveloped in Crete’s stunning natural beauty. The friendly crew, especially guides like Christina and Harry, are frequently praised for making the day extra special. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and a carefully curated menu makes it excellent value for the price.

Whether you’re after a peaceful day with plenty of chances to swim and sunbathe, or you want to photograph a sunset over the sea, this trip hits all those marks. It’s a fantastic way to escape the city, explore Crete’s waters, and create some unforgettable memories.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Pickup and drop-off are optional and available from several locations around Heraklion and nearby areas. It’s recommended for convenience, and pickup times are coordinated the day before.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 5.5 hours, including sailing, water activities, meals, and the return journey.

What water activities are available?
Snorkeling, fishing, and paddleboarding are offered, though paddleboarding may be limited in rough wind conditions for safety reasons.

Can I choose between a morning or afternoon cruise?
Yes, you can select a morning cruise or an afternoon cruise that includes a sunset view, which many find especially breathtaking.

What is included in the meal?
A Mediterranean menu with Greek salad, appetizers (tzatziki, olive paste, fruits), main courses (shrimp linguini), and fresh fruit salad. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, guests enjoy unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water during the trip.

Is this experience suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
While generally suitable for most, those with mobility issues or wheelchair users may find it less accessible. Pregnant women are advised to consult with their doctor before booking.

In essence, this sailboat trip to Dia Island is a well-loved Crete experience that combines stunning scenery, authentic cuisine, and water fun into a memorable day on the sea. Perfect for those who want a taste of local life, relaxing ocean breezes, and some spectacular sunset views.