Sailing to Dia Island with lunch on Bavaria 51 Heraklion, Crete

This experience made our article of Which Crete Boat Tours & Cruises To Choose? We Rank The 15 Best.

Sailing to Dia Island with lunch on Bavaria 51 Heraklion, Crete

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Crete, a sailing trip to Dia Island might just be what you’re looking for. This experience promises a mix of relaxation, adventure, and stunning scenery, all wrapped into about four hours of fun. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone wanting to enjoy Crete’s waters beyond the usual beaches.

What really caught our eye are the crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the chance to try stand-up paddleboarding with free lessons. Plus, the freshly made lunch and local wine add a lovely touch to the day. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, which means a more intimate experience but also requires booking ahead—about 29 days in advance on average.

This sailing trip is ideal for those who enjoy being on the water, appreciate good company, and want a relaxed yet lively way to explore Dia Island. If you’re traveling with friends or even as a couple seeking a scenic escape, this could be just right. But if you’re after a more structured or guided tour, you might want to compare other options.

Key Points

• Stunning waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and SUP activities.
• All-inclusive lunch with fresh fruits, soft drinks, water, and wine.
• Flexible participation, whether you’re into sailing, paddling, or fishing.
• Small group size (up to 10 travelers) for a more personal experience.
• Ideal weather conditions for sailing, making it a comfortable trip.
• Advance booking recommended to secure your spot.

What to Expect from Your Sailing Trip to Dia Island

This tour is designed to give you a full yet relaxed day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to unwind or get active. Starting at the Café Marina in Heraklion, you’ll board a Bavaria 51 sailboat with a crew eager to make your trip enjoyable. The small group size (up to 10 people) ensures personalized attention, and the itinerary is flexible enough for you to participate in sailing, swimming, snorkeling, SUP, or fishing.

The Sailing Experience

You’ll begin your day with a warm welcome and safety briefing, followed by setting sail towards Dia Island. The boat is described as a new, well-maintained vessel, and whether you’re an experienced sailor or a complete rookie, you’ll have the chance to become involved in managing the route. This involvement makes the experience more memorable and engaging, especially for those curious about sailing.

During the trip, the crew will capitalize on favorable weather and sea conditions—meaning smooth sailing and comfortable navigation. The scenic views along the coast are complemented by the gentle rhythm of the boat, which makes for an ideal environment to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the sea breeze.

Exploring Dia Island

The highlight of the day is the time spent on Dia Island, famous for its crystal-clear waters that beckon for a swim. According to reviews, the waters are especially inviting for snorkeling, with a chance to explore a rich fauna along the underwater landscape. You’ll probably find plenty of marine life to observe, making it an exciting spot for both beginners and more experienced snorkelers.

Water Activities Galore

For those who love water sports, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is included with free lessons—a big plus for beginners or anyone wanting to try something new. The activity is described as one of the most exciting holiday sports, and the free lessons serve as a friendly introduction. If fishing is your thing, you can also try your luck with the provided equipment, although the reviews note that even if you don’t get a fish, the activity itself is fun and relaxing.

Lunch and Refreshments

A key feature of this tour is the freshly made lunch, which is more than just a snack—expect a satisfying meal that complements your day on the water. The menu includes soft drinks, water, and fresh fruits, with wine available for responsible enjoyment. Based on reviews, the food quality is high—one reviewer mentioned the “most delicious pasta dish” served during the trip.

Sunbathing and Relaxation

For many, the appeal lies in simply sunbathing on the deck, soaking up the sun while taking in the panoramic views. The boat’s layout makes this easy, and the laid-back atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after a swim or paddle session.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start Point: Cafe Marina in Heraklion. On booking, you’ll receive your mobile ticket and meet at this central location, near public transportation options for convenience.

Duration: Around 4 hours. This includes sailing, swimming, snorkeling, SUP, lunch, and relaxing.

The Route: The trip takes you directly to Dia Island, with the journey itself being a scenic sail along the Cretan coast. The boat’s crew will aim for ideal weather and sea conditions, which enhances the experience and minimizes discomfort.

Activities on the Island: Once at Dia, you’ll have plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling, exploring the underwater environment, or just lounging on the boat. The water’s clarity and the lively marine life make it a popular spot for underwater discovery.

Water Sports: SUP lessons are offered freely, providing a fun way to learn or practice paddling. If fishing catches your interest, you can give it a shot with the provided equipment—an activity appreciated by travelers seeking a more relaxed time.

Return: The trip concludes back at the starting point, ensuring a smooth and familiar end to your day.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

According to reviews, the water is beautiful, and the crew’s professionalism and friendliness really stand out. One reviewer mentioned, “The waters of Dia Island are translucent,” emphasizing how clear and inviting the sea is. Others highlight the delicious food and the fun of sailing, even for beginners.

The small group size makes the experience feel intimate, and the flexibility of activities means you can tailor your day to your mood—whether you want to be active or just relax in the sun.

What Could Be Better

While the majority of reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that the trip’s success depends heavily on weather conditions. If the weather turns poor, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, which could be disappointing if you’re on a tight schedule. Plus, since bookings are usually made about 29 days in advance, last-minute travelers might find it tricky to secure a spot.

Also, as the experience involves sailing and water-based activities, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with being on the water. Those prone to seasickness might want to prepare accordingly.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy being on or in the water, want a relaxed way to explore Dia Island, and appreciate good food and engaging crew, this trip could be perfect. It’s suited to those who like small group experiences and don’t mind a bit of adventure with their relaxation.

However, if you’re looking for a more structured or guided tour with strict schedules, you may want to explore other options. Also, if you’re traveling with family or children, the small size and focus on water activities should be considered, but since there’s no specific mention of children, it’s best to assess based on individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 29 days ahead, as spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

What do I need to bring?
Just your swimsuit, sunhat, beach towel, and sunscreen. The tour includes everything else, like snorkeling gear and SUP equipment.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, giving it an intimate feel. The minimum isn’t specified but consider booking early to secure your spot.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers sailing, snorkeling equipment, SUP lessons, fishing gear, lunch, soft drinks, water, fresh fruits, and wine.

Is the lunch suitable for all diets?
The menu features freshly made dishes, and the reviews particularly praise the pasta. For specific dietary needs, it’s best to ask the provider directly.

What’s the weather dependency?
The trip runs only in good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to sail?
Absolutely. Even if you’re a novice, the crew encourages participation, and you’ll be guided through the sailing process.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly targeted at children, the water-based activities and small group size make it suitable for travelers comfortable around water. Check with the provider if you’re bringing young children.

What time does the trip start and end?
The exact start time isn’t specified, but it’s a half-day experience, typically around four hours, ending back at the meeting point.

Final Thoughts

This sailing trip to Dia Island on the Bavaria 51 offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty—all within a manageable four-hour window. The reviews highlight its value, especially the crystal-clear waters, friendly crew, and delicious lunch, making it a strong choice for travelers wanting to see the best of Crete from the sea.

If you’re someone who loves water activities and appreciates a relaxed pace with the chance to sail, snorkel, paddle, or simply soak up the sun, this tour could be just right. The small group size and flexible activities add to the personal touch, ensuring you feel more like a guest than just a tourist.

For those seeking a memorable, well-organized day on Crete’s waters, this trip offers a good balance of fun, food, and scenery. Just remember to book early, keep an eye on the weather, and bring your sense of adventure.

Enjoy your trip, and may the sea be kind to you!