Natural wonders await just offshore from Heraklion, Crete’s bustling capital. The standout destination is Dia Island Nature Reserve, reachable by two excellent boat tours. My favorite is the intimate full-day sailing trip, limited to 10 people, which lets you experience the island’s pristine waters and dramatic coastline up close. Snorkeling gear, vegetarian lunch, and hotel pickup are included – a great value. The shorter 5.5-hour cruise offers similar amenities for those with tighter schedules. Both tours consistently earn top ratings from travelers for their expert guides and eco-friendly approach. Let’s explore these outstanding tours in detail.
Key Points
- The sailing tour from Heraklion to Dia Island offers a highly-rated, eco-friendly experience with a maximum capacity of 10 travelers for an intimate adventure.
- The tour provides opportunities for swimming, SUP boarding, and snorkeling, along with amenities like life jackets, snorkeling equipment, and a vegetarian meal.
- While the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 275 lbs, it is stroller-accessible and welcomes service animals.
- Alternative tour options include a 5.5-hour full-day cruise to Dia Island and a catamaran cruise, both offering similar activities and scenic views.
- The tour’s pickup and drop-off service, as well as the positive reviews highlighting the stunning surroundings, make it a convenient and memorable way to discover Crete’s natural beauty.
Heraklion: Nature Reserve Full Day Sailing to Dia Island & Lunch
Set out on a captivating full-day sailing adventure from Heraklion to the pristine Dia Island nature reserve.
This eco-friendly tour, rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 55 reviews, offers an intimate experience for a maximum of 10 travelers. Sail with a professional certified crew, enjoying life jackets, snorkeling equipment, and a delicious vegetarian meal with unlimited drinks.
Relish the beautiful scenery and swimming spots, with the option to use SUP boards and snorkeling gear.
Free transfer is available within 10 km of Heraklion port, with a meeting point at Cafe Marina. While not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 275 lbs, the tour is stroller accessible and welcomes service animals.
Travelers rave about the friendly crew, delicious food, and stunning natural surroundings, though some note room for improvement in beverage temperature and toilet cleanliness.
Read our full review: Heraklion: Nature Reserve Full Day Sailing to Dia Island & Lunch Review
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Heraklion: Nature Reserve Dia Island Full-Day Cruise & Lunch
Travelers can often find themselves immersed in the natural wonder of Dia Island’s nature reserve on a full-day cruise from Heraklion. The 5.5-hour excursion, rated 4.7 out of 5, provides visitors the chance to sail to the secluded island and explore its pristine beaches and marine life.
The small group tour allows for an intimate experience, with a meal included during the outing. Alternatively, travelers can opt for a catamaran cruise to Dia Island, also rated highly at 4.8 out of 5. This 5.5-hour tour offers a similar experience, with the added benefit of sailing on a catamaran.
Both cruises offer opportunities to swim, snorkel, and take in the breathtaking scenery of the nature reserve. With pickup and drop-off service available, these Dia Island excursions provide a convenient and memorable way to discover Crete’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Heraklion: Nature Reserve Dia Island Full-Day Cruise & Lunch Review
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The Sum Up
Heraklion offers two excellent nature reserve tours to Dia Island. The full-day sailing trip includes a visit to the island’s protected nature reserve and a delicious lunch. The island’s diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes make it a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Both tours provide an opportunity to explore Crete’s stunning natural beauty up close.