Heraklion: Sunset Sailing Cruise Dia Island with Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful day on the water with stunning scenery, this sunset sailing cruise to Dia Island might be just what you need. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking to escape the crowds, enjoy some aquatic activities, and end the day watching a gorgeous sunset over the sea.

What we really like about this tour is how flexible it is — you can opt for a half-day or a full-day trip, and choose between a shared or private catamaran. The crew seems experienced and friendly, which is always a plus when you’re on the water. Plus, the inclusion of food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards makes this feel like a full-package experience for a reasonable price.

One thing to consider is that the trip can be affected by weather — the sea isn’t always calm, and if the weather turns rough, some activities or the final bay visit may be canceled. It’s a good idea to be flexible with your expectations and prepared for the possibility of minor changes. This cruise is well-suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic day out with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy Greek hospitality.

If you love being on the water, adore scenic sunsets, and want a taste of local cuisine while exploring a pristine island, this trip could be a perfect fit. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just looking to add a memorable experience to your Crete trip, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Flexible Options: Choose between a half-day or full-day cruise, with shared or private vessel options.
• Activities Galore: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, swimming, and enjoying the sea’s clarity.
• Beautiful Scenery: Experience a stunning sunset on the way back, plus scenic views en route.
• Well-Reviewed Crew: Knowledgeable, friendly guides and crew who prioritize safety and comfort.
• Food & Drinks Included: Greek salads, seafood pasta, wine, and local raki, all prepared onboard.
• Weather Considerations: The trip’s success depends on good weather and sea conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This cruise begins at Heraklion port — a simple process to meet 10 minutes early, and from there, it’s about an hour’s sail to Dia Island. The boat itself is described as large and modern, designed to comfortably accommodate up to 18 guests, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere whether you opt for a shared or private cruise.

The journey to Dia offers scenic views of Crete’s coast and open water, often accompanied by onboard commentary from the crew sharing legends and myths about the island, which adds a layer of local storytelling that many travelers find charming.

Arrival at Dia Island

Once you reach Dia, the real fun begins. The boat anchors in a calm bay, perfect for jumping into the water and snorkeling. As one reviewer notes, “The bay at Dia island was amazing with its glassy clear blue water,” which makes it ideal for floating around, exploring marine life, or just cooling off after the boat ride.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, and while some reviews mention that the underwater scenery may not be spectacular — perhaps due to limited fish or sea grass — most guests find it enjoyable enough to splash around. Another reviewer highlights, “I loved the way the crew took care of everything, making sure everyone was safe and comfortable,” which is reassuring whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time.

The Food and Drink

Food is a big part of this experience. For the full-day trip, they serve a traditional Greek meal with fresh salads, tzatziki, and seafood pasta — a hearty and tasty way to fuel up for more water activities or just relax in the sun. The half-day option offers a pasta with tomato sauce, which still hits the spot after some swimming.

Many reviews mention the quality of the food, with comments like, “The pasta was tasty and quite filling,” and “The food was good, and the drinks kept coming.” It’s clear that the onboard meals are freshly prepared and generous, adding great value to the overall experience.

Drinks include wine, water, and traditional Greek raki, which some guests enjoy as a digestif after their meal. The atmosphere is laid-back, with the crew often playing relaxing music and creating a friendly vibe onboard.

Sailing and the Sunset

One of the highlights is the sailing back at sunset, which many travelers describe as mesmerizing. The crew often arranges for guests to sit at the front of the boat for the best views and photo opportunities. “The sunset was absolutely stunning, and the guides made sure we had plenty of time to enjoy it,” a guest raves.

If conditions allow, the crew will raise the sails and harness the wind, adding a touch of magic to the return journey. For those who love the open water and gentle sailing, this part of the trip is often praised as a peaceful, almost meditative experience.

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Water Activities and Relaxation

Beyond snorkeling, paddleboarding is available, and some reviews mention the fun they had exploring the coast on the boards. “The water was a bit chilly in June, but totally tolerable,” one reviewer notes, emphasizing that even in early summer, you’re going to want a towel and maybe a light jacket for the return ride.

Guests also have free time to relax on the boat’s deck or on Dia’s pristine beaches. With no one living on the island, it’s a quiet escape where you can soak up the sun or take peaceful swims in crystal-clear waters.

Return to Heraklion

The cruise concludes with a sail back, often timed to coincide with the sunset, making for a breathtaking moment. The crew keeps everyone informed about the schedule, and they try to sail if weather permits, which many reviews appreciate. Some travelers have mentioned minor issues, like delays or confusion during hotel drop-offs, but overall, the trip tends to run smoothly.

What Travelers Are Saying

From the glowing reviews, it’s evident that the crew’s friendliness and professionalism stand out. Many mention how helpful and attentive the guides are, with comments like, “The guides were amazing, caring, and made sure everyone felt safe,” and “Vasilis and Vasilis were great captains and hosts.”

The food and drinks also get high praise. Guests appreciate the hearty meals and the relaxed atmosphere onboard, perfect for unwinding after swimming and snorkeling. The stunning sunset is another recurring theme, with travelers describing it as a “beautiful” and “unmatched” way to end the day.

Some reviews mention the boat’s size and comfort, noting that even with a full group, there’s plenty of space to relax, chat, or enjoy the scenery. The experience seems especially well-suited for those who enjoy water-based activities, scenic sailing, and social atmospheres.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day out on the water without overcomplicating things. It’s particularly suitable for those interested in snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just lounging on deck while watching the sunset. Food and drinks are included, so you’ll get good value for your money, especially if you’re keen to indulge in Greek flavors.

It’s also a strong pick for couples celebrating a special occasion or small groups wanting an intimate, memorable experience. Keep in mind that weather can impact the day — if your trip gets canceled due to bad conditions, the company offers flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

While not specifically tailored for families with small children or those with mobility issues, the overall calm water and peaceful setting make it a good outing for most able travelers who enjoy being on the water.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts between 4.5 and 7 hours, depending on the option you choose, with about an hour sailing each way and several hours on Dia Island.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making it more convenient to start and end your day.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light cover-up for the boat ride, especially if you get chilly easily. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended.

Can I do snorkeling and paddleboarding?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear and paddleboards are included, and many guests enjoy sampling both activities during their time on the island.

What is the food like?
For a full-day cruise, expect a traditional Greek meal with salad, tzatziki, and seafood pasta. The half-day includes a pasta dish. The meals are freshly made onboard, and drinks like wine and raki are served.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the calm waters and relaxing pace could work for older children comfortable with boat trips. However, always consider children’s safety and needs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsuitable. The company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip, providing some peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This sunset sailing cruise to Dia Island offers a well-rounded experience — combining scenic sailing, water activities, good food, and a memorable sunset. It’s a relaxed way to spend half a day or a full day exploring a quiet part of Crete, away from the busier tourist spots.

The combination of friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and the chance to snorkel and paddleboard makes it appealing for those who want more than just a boat ride. Plus, the included meals and drinks add a lot of value, especially considering the intimate atmosphere onboard.

If you’re after a peaceful day on the water, enjoy Greek hospitality, and love watching sunsets from the sea, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast and be ready for a laid-back, scenic adventure that many travelers say is a highlight of their trip to Crete.

Feel free to ask more about this experience or any other Crete adventures — I’m always happy to help you plan memorable trips!

You can check availability for your dates here: