Small Group Sailing Cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island
Description
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.
Tour Options
Itinerary
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.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- 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.
Reviews(15)
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.
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!*
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.
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.
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 with wonderful staff. The trip went well with no problems and the food (especially the salad) made by the crew was exceptionally great.
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!
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!
Very nice views and sunset. Swimming with fish and we saw sea urchins. Great crew Excellent meals
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.
