Heraklion Dia Island Small Group Sailing & Dining Experience
Before you book
- Meet at the “Meeting point - Dia island Boat Trips” in Heraklion's old Venetian port: by 09:10 for the morning cruise, by 15:10 for the afternoon one. Hotel pickup comes only with the option that includes it. The listing gives about an hour's sail each way and three and a half hours off Dia.
- The boat does not land on Dia: the listing says going ashore is forbidden to all visitors because the island is a protected natural area. You swim, snorkel and paddleboard from the boat. Towels are not included.
- When booking, give each passenger's full name, passport or ID number, date of birth, nationality and gender, which the operator shares with the Port Authority, and bring the passports or IDs (photos or copies are accepted) to check in.
- Not suitable for pregnant travelers, people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The paddleboards are withdrawn in rough wind; in the Aegean the meltemi, a northerly wind that blows from early May to mid-October and most often in July and August, often reaches gale force (Hellenic National Meteorological Service).
- If the weather cancels a cruise, the listing promises a full refund; as of early October 2026, Crete has had severe storms and floods since 1 October. Cancellation, as listed: “Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.”
About This Experience
A small-group sailing trip from Heraklion's old Venetian port to swim, snorkel and paddleboard off Dia island, where landing is forbidden, with a meal and unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks on board.
Highlights
- Escape crowded boat tours and enjoy an intimate sailing experience
- Small group experience for a relaxed and personal atmosphere
- Relish a delicious Mediterranean meal with unlimited drinks onboard
- Experience scenic sailing, Aegean breeze & sunset views
What's Included
- ✓ Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
- ✓ Sailing cruise
- ✓ Certified captain and crew
- ✓ Welcome breakfast/welcome snacks depending on starting time. (weather permitting)
- ✓ Mediterranean cuisine: Shrimp linguini and mushroom risotto with truffle oil and parmesan, Greek salad, green BIO salad, served with local appetisers (tzatziki, olive paste), fruit platter for dessert
- ✓ Unlimited drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks, ice tea, and water)
- ✓ Snorkeling equipment
- ✓ Fishing equipment
- ✓ Standup paddle boarding equipment
- ✓ Music
Not Included
- Towels
- Disembarkation to the island (Forbidden to all visitors as a natural protected area)
Good to Know
- All passengers must provide 1) Full name, 2) Passport or ID number, 3) Date of birth, 4) Nationality & 5) Gender while booking. Please note that your personal information is shared exclusively with the Port Authority for safety and regulatory purposes and will not be disclosed to any other third party.
- The cruise is subject to weather conditions and may be postponed or canceled in case of unfavorable weather. In such cases, a full refund of the ticket price will be provided.
- You must have the Passports/IDs ( or photos/copies of them) with you for check in before entering the boat. Please make sure to have provided the correct information.
- If you have booked separately from your group/friends/family please let Cretan Sailing Cruises know so you are distributed in the same boat.
- The standup paddle boards are not available under rough wind conditions for safety reasons
Meeting Point
Meet at the "Meeting point -Dia island Boat Trips" at the Heraklion old Venetian port. If you are in the morning cruise please be at the meeting point at 9:10. If you are in the afternoon cruise please be at the meeting point at 15:10.
