Small Group Sailing Cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island

Overview

Available languages

English

6 hours

Mobile ticket

Embarking from the enchanting Venetian port of Heraklion, our northward journey to Dia Island promises a semi-private escape filled with delightful socializing and shared experiences. As we set sail, you can choose to unwind on the sundeck, bask in the sun's warmth, or actively engage in the sailing procedures, fostering a sense of companionship among fellow travelers.

Upon reaching the idyllic Dia Island, immerse yourself in its crystal-clear waters, explore ancient port ruins, embark on a leisurely walk, or simply relax on deck, soaking up the summer sun in the company of newfound friends.

Avanti Sailing ensures your well-being with a delectable meal served on board, complemented by premium local wine and a selection of refreshing soft drinks. Enjoy seasonal fresh fruits while we gently cruise back to port, leaving you with a feeling of relaxation, a sun-kissed glow, and readiness for the upcoming evening.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel time is already included in the total duration of the tour.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Discover the unique destination of Dia island while traveling in style and comfort aboard our luxury sailing boat. Feel the breeze of Cretan sea, swim and dive into the crystal clear waters, explore the ruins of an ancient port, take a walk on the island or just relax on deck and enjoy the summer sun, while in the meantime tasting a delicious meal, served during your journey with us. Dia is an uninhabited island north of Heraklion surrounded by small rocky inlets and it is only accessible on boat. In the southern part of the island there are 4 quiet bays: the gulf of Agios Georgios, which is where boats use to moor, the gulf of Kapari, the bay of Panagia and the gulf of Agrielia. The island is of great archeological interest as it was populated during Minoan times and near the bay of Agios Georgios, a harbour settlement was established. The undersea discoveries provided evidence suggesting that there stood one of the biggest and most important ports in the whole island of Crete.

4 hours 30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

All Fees and Taxes

Food and drinks (Full meal, fruits, wine, soft drinks, bottled water, etc.)

Equipment (StandUp Paddleboard, fishing gear, snorkeling gear)

Options

Morning/Sunset Cruise

Duration: 6 hours
Lunch/Dinner: Lunch/Dinner, Fruits, Wine, Soft drinks & bottled water

Reviews

5.00

15 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

A great sailing experience.
mattz855,,Sep 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was one of the highlights of our trip to Crete. Captain Vasilis and his first mate Illiana were amazing hosts and crew for our sunset sail to Dia Island. We departed port promptly and the sails were set immediately upon leaving the harbour. We sailed to and from Dia with little engine power at all. On arrival to the beautiful One Olive Tree bay we had lots of time for swimming, snorkeling, paddle board and just enjoying the location. Drinks were readily available, and the dinner of salad, fresh pasta and fresh fruit was very nice. The captain timed our return so that we watched the beautiful sunset while sailing. A fantastic experience, and highly recommended.
Definitely a trip to do
Dream43933771568,,Jul 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Booked this for me, wife and 17 y/o son, the 3pm afternoon/evening sailing to Dia Island. Positives; good size clean modern boat, small group (we were fortunate, only 5 of us). Great hosts, special mention to Captain Vasilis and his assistant Illiana, thank you guys. It’s an hour sailing to the island, some good snorkelling and then just relaxing on deck followed by a very nice Greek salad, pasta and fruit (Illana, thank you!). Then a sail back to Heraklion. Minuses; none, except a bit of a queue to dock at the end but all boats had that. Recommended!*
Very nice sea trip
355v roniqued,,Sep 9, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
An incredible day on a beautiful sailboat with few participants, we anchored in a small cove and were able to swim before enjoying a good meal on board.
A must when visiting Crete
Noreen C,,Aug 26, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We charted a sailboat for a half-day visit to DIA. The boat was lovely. The captain and crew of one were wonderful. The Cove was beautiful. We had time to paddle board swim in the beautiful blue waters. We were served a lovely light lunch with accompanying wines perfect for a day outing. I highly recommendAvanti sailing for anyone visiting the island of Heraklion Crete.
5/5
P9266WAdanieli,,Aug 16, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very good trip, worth the money! The sailboat was a very fun way to get to the island, and the water and snorkeling were beautiful. Our tour guide even dove down and found some artifacts from the Ancient Minoan's. Food was good as well.
Lovely boat cruise
Miko L,,Aug 8, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Lovely boat with wonderful staff. The trip went well with no problems and the food (especially the salad) made by the crew was exceptionally great.
Anytime again
E6305CAdianad,,Aug 8, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very nice trip to Dia Island, the crew (Dimitros and Greg) was super nice, could tell a lot about Dia and Crete. We left Heraklion in the afternoon and came back in time for sunset. Many thanks to our crew for an unforgettable day. Anytime again!
Fantastic family trip with older children
B B,,Jul 15, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00
We had a wonderful time with the excellent team. All of us were excited to pass giant sea turtles as we were sailing and we saw a few different types of fish whilst snorkeling at Dia. We went on the sunset tour, which meant no early start and a fabulous end to the day watching the sunset on our way back to the harbour. Thank you for a fantastic trip. 100% recommended!
To do
Y9453YEpriscillar,,Jul 12, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very nice views and sunset. Swimming with fish and we saw sea urchins. Great crew Excellent meals
A relaxing day to Dia island.
leepH7553RH,,Jul 11, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It was a very well organised trip. The captain (Greg) and his first mate (Dimitris) were exceptionally friendly and able to answer any queries. The food was a simple but delicious pork pasta, with Greek salad. Followed by fresh fruit. Drinks were available - water, soft drinks and wine (although wine was not offered at lunch, only on setting off). The full day gave lots of time for swimming, paddle boarding and enjoying the elegance of Dia Island.