Heraklion: Dia Island Sailboat Cruise with Swimming and Meal

If you’re heading to Crete and craving a day on the water, a sailboat cruise to Dia Island could be just the ticket. This experience offers a mix of sailing, swimming, and good food, all set against the backdrop of some seriously beautiful scenery. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gone through plenty of reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What I love about this trip is how it combines relaxation with adventure—you’re on a spacious, modern yacht, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, and you get plenty of opportunities to swim, paddle, or snorkel. Plus, the meal and drinks are included, making it feel like a truly all-in-one day of enjoyment. The only thing to keep in mind is that the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a laid-back yet lively experience, especially if you enjoy water activities and scenic sunsets. It’s also great value for the price, considering the food, drinks, and the chance to spot dolphins or even dolphins! However, if you’re looking for a very long or adventurous expedition, or want to explore Dia Island itself, this might be a shorter, more relaxed option.

Key Points

• Comfortable, modern sailboats make for a smooth sailing experience.
• Includes a delicious Mediterranean meal with options for vegetarians and gluten-free diets.
• Unlimited drinks—from wine and beer to soft drinks and water—keep everyone refreshed.
• Perfect for water lovers, with paddleboarding, snorkeling, and fishing available.
• Beautiful sunset views are a highlight, especially on the afternoon cruise.
• Great reviews highlight friendly, professional crew and stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at the Heraklion old Venetian port, specifically at Cafe Marina. The exact pickup time depends on whether you choose the morning or afternoon cruise—8:30 am or 2:30 pm respectively. If you opt for hotel pickup, they’ll coordinate that with you, with a window of about an hour before departure. Be sure to arrive a little early so you’re not rushing.

Setting Sail and Passing Koules Fortress

Once onboard, you’ll pass by the Koules fortress, a prominent landmark at the marina’s entrance. This iconic structure makes a great photo backdrop and sets the scene for your sailing adventure. The crew will tell you a bit about Dia Island’s history and legends—adding an interesting touch before you leave the coast.

The Journey to Dia Island

The sail takes roughly an hour across the water, giving you plenty of time to relax and soak in the views. Expect to be surrounded by the crystalline waters of the Cretan sea, which looks especially striking in the sunlight. Many reviews mention how calming and beautiful this part of the trip is—perfect for unwinding or snapping some photos.

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Arriving at Dia Bay

Once anchored in the bay, you’ll have around 3.5 hours to enjoy water activities. The bay’s turquoise waters are ideal for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or fishing, with equipment provided by the crew. It’s worth noting that paddleboards might be unavailable during rough wind conditions for safety reasons, so flexibility is good to have.

Many guests rave about the water clarity, with some even spotting dolphins—a magical bonus that’s not guaranteed but definitely worth hoping for. The crew is attentive and will happily assist with gear, so don’t hesitate to ask.

The Meal and Refreshments

About an hour after arriving, the crew serves a Mediterranean feast including Greek salad and several appetizers. The main course is shrimp linguini, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available if requested. The food is described as tasty and well-presented, with reviews praising the quality and freshness.

You can enjoy your meal with unlimited drinks—wine, beer, soft drinks, ice tea, and water. Many reviewers mention how well the drinks flow and how the crew keeps everyone hydrated and happy. After the main course, a fresh fruit salad of tropical and local fruits is served, rounding out the meal nicely.

Relaxation and Return

After lunch, you’re free to float in the water, relax on deck, or continue your water activities. About 30 minutes later, the cruise departs for the return journey to Heraklion. Expect to see the sunset if you’ve booked the afternoon cruise, which many describe as breathtaking—definitely a picture-perfect ending.

The boat makes a leisurely hour-long sail back, giving everyone time to unwind. Many reviews mention how peaceful and scenic the return trip is, especially as the sun dips below the horizon.

The End of the Trip

The cruise concludes back at the Heraklion port, with drop-offs at various locations if you booked the transfer option. The entire experience lasts about 5.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

How the Experience Feels in Practice

Water Activities and Scenic Moments

The water activities are a big draw. The clear waters, combined with the calm sea, make snorkeling and paddleboarding enjoyable—even for beginners. One review mentions how the crew thoughtfully provides gear and even teaches first-timers how to paddleboard. If you’re into swimming or floating around in beautiful surroundings, this part of the trip hits the spot.

Food and Drink Quality

The included meal is genuinely appreciated by guests. The shrimp linguini is praised for being flavorful and freshly prepared, and the Greek salad adds a fresh crunch. The unlimited drinks are also a hit, especially with many reviews mentioning how much they enjoyed the wine and beer options. A few reviews suggest maybe a wider drink selection or some music on board could elevate the experience further, but overall, the catering is well-received.

Crew and Atmosphere

Multiple reviews emphasize the crew’s friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness. They’re described as hospitable, helpful, and knowledgeable, which makes the trip feel more personal and relaxed. One guest even thanked the crew for helping make their engagement special, which shows how accommodating the staff can be.

Scene and Visuals

The views of Heraklion from the water, the fortress, and especially the sunset are consistently highlighted as spectacular. Many reviewers recommend the sunset cruise for a more romantic and memorable experience. The calm, bright blue water at the docking spot often draws comments about how picture-perfect the scenery is.

Considerations and Downsides

While the trip is generally praised, a few potential drawbacks are worth noting. Paddleboards are not available during rough wind conditions, which could limit water activities on windy days. Also, the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly. As with all boat trips, seasickness might be a concern for sensitive travelers, although many reviews mention taking seasick tablets or feeling fine.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy a relaxed day on the water with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard, this cruise offers excellent value. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy scenic views, good food, and unlimited drinks in a friendly environment. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate a well-organized trip with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable boat.

This experience is also suited for couples seeking a romantic sunset, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a hassle-free way to explore Dia Island’s stunning waters without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

However, if you’re looking for an extensive island exploration or are sensitive to wind and sea conditions, you might want to consider whether this short, scenic cruise fits your plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the pickup option, they’ll arrange to collect you from various locations around Heraklion, Gazi, Karteros, and nearby areas. Pickup times vary depending on your location.

How long is the whole trip?
The total duration is about 5.5 hours, including sailing, water activities, lunch, and sailing back. The cruise itself lasts around 6 hours, with specific times depending on your chosen departure.

Can I choose between the morning and afternoon cruises?
Yes, there are both morning and afternoon options. The morning cruise starts at 8:30 am, and the afternoon cruise at 2:30 pm, with sunset views available on the latter.

What water activities are included?
Snorkeling, fishing, and standup paddleboarding equipment are provided. Keep in mind paddleboards may be unavailable in windy conditions for safety.

What type of food is served?
A Mediterranean menu featuring shrimp linguini, Greek salad, and appetizers like tzatziki and olive paste. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, you can enjoy an unlimited supply of wine, beer, soft drinks, ice tea, and water throughout the trip.

Is this trip suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the water activities and relaxing atmosphere could appeal to older children and teenagers, but the trip is not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

What’s the best time to go for sunset views?
The afternoon cruise offers the chance to see the sunset, which many reviews describe as particularly stunning and worth booking for.

Is there any chance of seeing dolphins?
While not guaranteed, some travelers have reported spotting dolphins during their trip, adding an extra bit of magic to the day.

Final Thoughts

This Dia Island sailboat cruise offers a laid-back, scenic way to enjoy Crete’s waters, with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and indulge in tasty food. The friendly crew, gorgeous scenery, and the chance to see dolphins or catch a sunset make it a memorable day out. It’s particularly suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, good company, and beautiful settings over a highly structured or adventurous tour.

If you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable cruise with great reviews, this is a solid pick. Just remember to pack your towel, your sun protection, and an appetite for fresh seafood and good company. Whether it’s your first time sailing or you’re a seasoned water lover, this trip can add a special touch to your Crete adventure.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to bring your camera!

You can check availability for your dates here: