Heraklion: Sailboat Cruise to Dia Island with Drinks & Lunch

Heraklion: Sailboat Cruise to Dia Island with Drinks & Lunch — An In-Depth Review

If you’re visiting Crete and craving a day on the water, this sailboat cruise to Dia Island might just be the highlight of your trip. Offered from Heraklion by SAILINGTRIPS.GR, this experience has garnered rave reviews, boasting a nearly perfect rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 1,280 travelers. It’s a popular choice for those who love sailing, scenic views, and a touch of luxury in a relaxed setting.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to sail through the Mediterranean on a comfortable yacht, feeling the sea breeze and soaking up the sun. Second, the opportunity to explore Dia Island’s rugged beauty and clear waters—perfect for swimming and snorkeling. A delicious onboard meal and unlimited drinks elevate the experience, making it an excellent value at just $90 per person.

A potential consideration? The trip lasts between 4.5 to 6.5 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on the water and with flexible schedules. It’s also primarily a daytime activity, so if you’re looking for a sunset cruise or evening adventure, this may not be ideal.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy water-based adventures, scenic relaxation, and small, intimate groups. Families with kids (over 4 years old), couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable day on the water will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

Comfortable yacht experience with attentive crew
Beautiful Dia Island with excellent swimming and snorkeling spots
All-inclusive drinks and lunch for a hassle-free day
Flexible options including private trips and transfers
Authentic, small-group atmosphere—not crowded or rushed
Excellent reviews reflecting consistent high-quality experiences

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Trip

This cruise starts at the Sailingtrips.gr meeting point in Heraklion, conveniently located on the right side of Marina Cafe. Most travelers appreciate the ease of access and the organized check-in, often a quick process that sets the tone for the day. The journey begins with a 1-hour sailing toward Dia Island, giving everyone a chance to settle in and enjoy the gentle motion of the yacht.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Sailing from Heraklion Port
You’ll hop aboard a luxury sailing yacht, which immediately elevates the experience compared to typical boat trips. The crew, often described as knowledgeable and friendly, will give a safety briefing and set sail across the Mediterranean waters. Expect scenic views of Heraklion and the coast as you leave the busy port behind.

Stop 2: Arrival at Dia Island
Once anchored in the Gulf of Saint George, the real fun begins. This part of the trip provides about 1.5 hours of free time—long enough to swim, snorkel, or just relax on deck with a drink in hand. For those eager to explore, Dia offers rugged landscapes perfect for a short walk or photo session.

The reviews highlight how special this stop is: one guest noted, “You can either choose to sunbathe, swim, or take a small walk on the island. We really enjoyed it!” The clarity of the water makes snorkeling a favorite activity, and snorkel gear is provided, making it accessible even for beginners.

Optional Fishing and Snorkeling
Fishermen and curious swimmers alike appreciate the fishing gear onboard, often provided by the crew. Several travelers mention how they enjoyed trying their hand at fishing or simply marveling at the Mediterranean’s biodiversity.

Second Stop in Dia
After the first round of swimming or exploring, there’s a second, shorter stop—about 30 minutes—offering another chance to cool off or take photos of the rugged coastline.

Return Journey
The cruise wraps up with another 1-hour sail back to Heraklion, during which you can sunbathe, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the stunning sea views with a glass of wine or soft drink. Many reviews mention how relaxing and scenic the return trip is, with some guests noting how the sunset views can be spectacular if timed right.

Onboard Experience: Food & Drinks

The essence of this trip is relaxation and indulgence. Unlimited drinks are included—think still water, soft drinks, and local wine—allowing you to toast the day while taking in the scenery.

The onboard lunch for shared cruises is described as “delicious,” with fresh seasonal fruit and a good variety of options. Guests especially enjoy the home-made flavors and the opportunity to savor a Greek-style meal in the middle of the sea. For private trips, there’s an option to select a preferred meal, including vegetarian options like mushroom and rice, which shows the crew’s flexibility and attention to dietary needs.

The Crew & Atmosphere

Multiple reviews praise the crew for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. Travelers often mention how they felt well taken care of, with hosts quick to top up glasses or provide snorkeling tips. The small-group setting (usually around 8-12 guests) fosters a friendly and intimate environment—perfect for making new friends or enjoying a quiet, personal experience.

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Value for Money

At $90 per person, this cruise offers excellent value. For that, you get a luxury yacht experience, snorkeling gear, unlimited drinks, and a full meal—all in a setting that’s both scenic and relaxed. Many reviews mention how the trip exceeds expectations, especially considering the high quality of food and crew attention.

The flexible booking options, including reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, give travelers peace of mind. Plus, the availability of private or small group options means you can tailor the experience to your needs.

The Overall Experience and Who Will Love This

We loved the balance of adventure and relaxation. The yacht’s comfortable amenities, the striking views of Dia Island, and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters combine for a truly memorable day. The crew’s knowledge and friendliness are key, making everyone feel relaxed and well cared for.

The trip’s dependable timing and well-organized itinerary help travelers get the most out of their day without feeling rushed. Plus, the small-group atmosphere encourages connection and genuine enjoyment.

If you’re after a scenic, waterside adventure that feels authentic and is great value, this cruise fits the bill. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy water activities, gorgeous scenery, and friendly service. The fact that it caters to various dietary needs and offers optional private arrangements means it’s flexible enough for many travelers.

Final Thoughts

This sailboat cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island combines beautiful scenery, engaging water activities, and good food, all wrapped in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to spend a day soaking up Crete’s maritime charm without feeling like you’re on a crowded tour bus.

The reviews consistently highlight helpful, knowledgeable crew, delicious meals, and beautiful snorkel spots as standout features. The price is fair for the experience offered, especially considering the inclusion of drinks and lunch.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking family-friendly fun, or just wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy the sea, this cruise offers a memorable slice of Crete’s coastal life. It’s an authentic, well-organized, and genuinely enjoyable trip that many travelers find well worth the price.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The trip duration ranges from 4.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and availability.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Sailingtrips.gr meeting point in Heraklion, located on the right side of Marina Cafe. It’s recommended to arrive a few minutes early for check-in.

Is transportation included?
Optional transfer services are available, including hotel pickup, which can be selected during booking or arranged afterward.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a jacket for the cooler parts of the day.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children over 4 years old can join the shared cruise; infants are welcome on private trips.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers luxury yacht cruise, snorkeling gear, unlimited drinks, and a full onboard meal (for shared cruises). Private trips can include custom meals.

Can I fish during the trip?
Yes, fishing gear is provided onboard if you want to try fishing in the calm waters.

What kind of water activities are available?
Snorkeling is the main activity, with gear provided, and fishing is also an option.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, life jackets are provided, and you can enjoy the scenery from the boat if you prefer not to swim.

What is the best time of year for this cruise?
While not explicitly specified, the reviews and operations suggest warm months, typically spring through early fall, are ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

To sum it up, this sailboat cruise offers a genuine taste of Crete’s coastal beauty. It’s perfect for those who value relaxed, scenic days with good food, friendly hosts, and memorable water activities. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking adventure, or just wanting a peaceful day on the sea, this trip is likely to leave you with lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: