From Heraklion: Sunset Cruise to Dia Island

A Practical Look at the Sunset Cruise to Dia Island from Heraklion

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on Crete’s waters, a cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island might just be what you need. This tour offers a chance to see the island’s rugged coastline, enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and unwind in peaceful surroundings—perfect for those who love being on the water or want a break from busy sightseeing.

What really caught our eye? First, the stunning scenery along the coastline and on the island itself, plus the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and comfortable. On the flip side, keep in mind that the boat doesn’t have sun cover, which might mean sun exposure during the day. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic escape—whether for a sunset view or a half-day adventure with friends or family.

Key Points
– Flexible options: Choose between morning, sunset, or full-day cruises to suit your schedule.
– Great value: For around $90, you get sailing, snorkeling gear, snacks, and unlimited refreshments.
– Beautiful scenery: Expect scenic views of Heraklion’s coast and Dia’s rugged landscape.
– Engaging guides: The crew is praised for being friendly, humorous, and helpful.
– Limited shade: No sun cover on the boat, so sun protection is a must.
– Passionate reviews: Most travelers say it’s a highlight of their trip, especially the sunset experience.

What This Tour Is All About

This Heraklion-based cruise is a wonderful way to see Dia Island, a small, rugged spot with pristine beaches and lush cedar trees. Offered as both a half-day and full-day private experience for up to ten people, it’s geared toward those who want a relaxed day on the water with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the scenery.

The tour is led by an expert local captain, ensuring safety and smooth sailing. The boat used, the Maryline, is described as being in excellent condition, contributing to a comfortable ride. The overall vibe is laid-back, with music playing, snacks on hand, and unlimited drinks and fruits to keep you refreshed as you cruise along the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary — Breaking Down the Day

The cruise begins at the Heraklion Marina Cafe, where you’ll meet your crew and get a quick safety briefing. From there, your journey kicks off with a scenic drive past the Rocca a Mare Fortress—a popular photo stop for travelers wanting to capture views of the coast and a bit of local history. This short 10-minute pass-by sets a relaxed tone for what’s to come.

Next, you’ll sail towards Dia Island, with an approximate 75-minute cruise. This part is all about enjoying the sea, the breeze, and the gorgeous views of the coastline. Many travelers comment on how enjoyable it is just to sit back and watch the scenery drift past while feeling the summer wind.

Upon reaching Dia, you get roughly 75 minutes to explore the island. The highlight here is the break time with swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. The reviews mention the water’s clarity, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. You’ll also have time to walk among the cedar trees, take photos, or just relax on the quiet beaches. Some reviews specifically note the opportunity to unwind away from the crowds and enjoy a peaceful setting.

In the middle of the day, the boat departs for a longer stay—about 3.5 hours—allowing plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the sand. Expect to be served local snacks, fruits, and drinks, which many travelers find to be a nice touch that adds to the overall value.

As the day winds down, you’ll cruise back to Heraklion, passing the fortress again and enjoying the last scenic views. The return cruise lasts another 75 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak up the sea breeze, chat with fellow travelers, or just relax.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For $90 per person, this tour covers the boat cruise, snorkeling equipment, snacks, unlimited drinks, water, and fruits. Music and an introduction to sailing add to the fun, making it a well-rounded experience. Keep in mind, however, that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to meet at the Heraklion Marina Cafe.

To make the most of your day, bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Since the boat doesn’t have sun cover, being prepared for the sun is a smart move. Also, in order to participate, you’ll need to provide some personal details a day before, including full names, passport numbers, and date of birth—nothing complicated, just a standard safety requirement.

The Customer Experience — What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a positive picture of this cruise, with an overall rating of 4.7 based on over 200 reviews. Many travelers comment on the stunning scenery and the friendly crew. One reviewer praised the sunset cruise, calling it “AMAZING,” with a mention of the pink moon that appeared in the sky—highlighting how memorable the experience can be.

People also appreciate the good value for money. For a full six hours of sailing, swimming, and sightseeing, many find the price of $90 to be reasonable, especially considering that snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear are included. Several reviews mention the guides’ humor and helpfulness, which makes the trip feel relaxed and personalized.

Some travelers note minor drawbacks, such as the lack of sun cover on the boat, which could lead to sunburn if unprotected. A few mentioned that the crew, at times, appeared a bit inexperienced or on their phones during the cruise, but these comments are overshadowed by the overall positive experience.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re looking for a laid-back day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing in beautiful surroundings. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and want a guided experience without too much hassle. It’s not suited for those who need wheelchair accessibility or prefer a more structured or luxurious experience with shade options.

The small-group setting makes it perfect for couples, friends, or small families who want to share a memorable day in Crete’s waters. If you love the idea of catching a sunset over the sea or just want to unwind with some quality snorkeling, this tour ticks many boxes.

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Final Thoughts

All in all, the Sunset Cruise to Dia Island from Heraklion offers a solid, enjoyable way to experience some of Crete’s most scenic coastlines. The combination of sailing, swimming, and the chance to relax in a quiet natural setting makes it a popular choice among travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and tranquility.

The guides’ friendliness, combined with the beautiful views and the value-packed inclusions, makes it a tour that many say they’d do again. Just remember to bring sun protection and be prepared for an unshaded boat ride if you’re sensitive to sun exposure.

For the right traveler—those who want a mix of scenic sailing, swimming, and a peaceful escape—the Dia Island cruise is a reliable, enjoyable option that captures a lovely slice of Crete’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally a relaxing experience, it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat rides and swimming. It’s not specifically designed for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Snorkeling is available and highly recommended, but you don’t need to be an expert swimmer. The water is clear, and snorkeling equipment is provided, making it accessible for most.

Is there shade on the boat?
No, the boat doesn’t have sun cover, so you’ll want to bring sunscreen, a hat, or sunglasses to stay protected during the cruise.

What’s the best time to go?
You can choose between a morning, sunset, or full-day trip, depending on your schedule and preference. Sunset trips are especially popular for the beautiful sky views.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, the price includes snacks, fruits, water, fruit juices, and unlimited refreshments, making it easy to stay refreshed throughout the cruise.

How long is the cruise?
The full experience lasts around six hours, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing along the way. The cruise includes about 75 minutes at each major stop and longer periods for exploration.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed day on Crete’s waters with friendly guides and plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the sea, this cruise to Dia Island is well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: