From Heraklion: Private Sailing Trip with our Hanse 470

Imagine setting sail on a beautiful, private yacht, leaving behind the busy shores of Heraklion for the peaceful, untouched beauty of Dia Island. This private sailing adventure promises a balanced mix of relaxation, stunning scenery, and light-hearted sailing fun. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to the waves, this experience offers both scenic views and plenty of water activities.

Three things we love about this trip are its personalized nature, the stunning views of Crete’s coastline, and the chance to try sailing even if you’ve never done it before. A possible downside? It’s a full six hours, so if you’re after a quick splash, this might be a bit longer than you need. Still, for those craving a relaxed, in-depth day on the water with a small group, this tour hits the spot.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds, enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, and are keen to explore Dia Island’s natural beauty in a comfortable, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Private Group: Up to 10 people, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive: Snacks, drinks, fruits, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable captain included.
• Flexible Activities: Sailing, swimming, snorkeling, walk on Dia’s scenic trails, and enjoy local snacks and wine.
• Expert Guidance: A captain with local expertise will introduce you to sailing and share insights about the area.
• Comfort & Convenience: Starts and ends at Heraklion Marina Cafe, with no need for extra transportation.
• Value for Money: At $696 per group, the experience offers a full day of water-based fun for small groups, making it a worthwhile splurge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Crete Private Sailing Experience

Setting Out from Heraklion

Your day begins at the Heraklion Marina Café, a convenient and scenic meeting point. From here, you’ll hop aboard the Hanse 470 named “Ianira”, a vessel praised for its excellent condition and performance. The crew, led by a highly knowledgeable local captain, ensures everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

The journey starts with a scenic cruise past Rocca a Mare Fortress, a quick 10-minute sail-by that offers stunning views and a chance for some great photos. The fortress adds historical interest to the scenery, and the guide will likely share some stories about its past—adding a touch of local history to your day.

The Sail to Dia Island

The first major leg is a 75-minute sail across the waters towards Dia, a small, rugged island famous for its cedar trees and natural beauty. The motion of the boat, combined with the breeze and the views over the sea, makes for a refreshing start. Even if you don’t normally sail, the crew’s introduction to sailing means you’ll likely pick up some basic skills—perfect for those curious about maritime life.

Exploring Dia Island

Once docked in the small bay of Saint George, you’ll have about 3.5 hours to explore. This is the highlight for many travelers, as it’s your chance to enjoy the island’s peaceful surroundings. You can swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel over vibrant fish, or simply relax on the beach.

The walk to the church offers a serene moment, and you can soak in the panoramic views of Heraklion from the island’s coast. Travelers have praised the local snacks and wine provided during this break, with the atmosphere described as both relaxing and lively, thanks to the combination of good company and stunning scenery.

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Why Guests Love Dia Island

Reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the experience is. One guest mentioned the crew “looked after my two little girls,” emphasizing the family-friendly vibe. The small group size means everyone gets attention, and the captain’s local knowledge adds richness to the experience. Interestingly, guests have also appreciated the opportunity to learn sailing, making the trip both fun and educational.

Sailing Back to Heraklion

After your time on Dia, a 75-minute sail back offers a chance to unwind, enjoy the breeze, and take in the changing views of the coastline. The journey back is often accompanied by music and the promise of delicious snacks and fresh fruits—perfect for a leisurely conclusion.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour covers most essentials: snorkeling gear, unlimited water and refreshments, snacks, fruits, and an introduction to sailing. The crew’s expertise and the well-maintained yacht mean you’re in safe hands, even if you’re new to sailing.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to reach the starting point yourself. Also, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, people with epilepsy, or those over 95 years old—unsurprising given the physical nature of sailing and boat activity.

Practicalities and Tips

To make the most of your day, bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID (required for security). The tour is conducted in English and Greek, so language isn’t a barrier if you speak one of these.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later. The 6-hour duration means you’ll need to keep your energy up for the entire trip, but the mix of sailing, swimming, and relaxing makes it feel just right.

Why This Tour Is a Great Deal

For a price of $696 per group, you’re getting a full day of personalized, water-based fun with a small, private group. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and expert guidance enhances its value, especially considering the yacht’s quality. For couples, families, or friends wanting a memorable day on the water, it’s a premium experience that combines activity with leisure.

The local captain’s insights and the chance to learn some sailing add educational value, making it more than just a boat ride. The limited group size fosters a friendly, intimate environment, perfect for those who prefer avoiding large, crowded tours.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This sailing trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy authentic, relaxed adventures in beautiful surroundings. It suits families, couples, or small groups looking for a personalized day on the water. Water lovers will appreciate the chance to snorkel and swim in crystal-clear waters, while those curious about sailing will find the introduction engaging.

If you want a scenic escape from Heraklion, with balanced time on the water and exploring Dia Island’s natural beauty, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s less suited for those with mobility issues or seeking a quick, less involved activity.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including sailing, exploring Dia, and relaxing time on the island.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Heraklion Marina Cafe and finishes back at the same point—no transportation needed beyond your own arrangements.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to reach the starting point on your own.

Can I learn sailing during the trip?
Yes, the crew provides an introduction to sailing, so even beginners can grasp some basic skills.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks, unlimited refreshments, water, fruits, snorkeling equipment, and guidance from an experienced captain are covered.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for use during the swim breaks.

Are there any age restrictions?
It’s not suitable for those over 95, or for wheelchair users and people with epilepsy, due to the physical nature of sailing and boat activities.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID for security purposes.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for sailing and swimming is recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing trip from Heraklion offers a well-rounded, authentic Crete experience. With a focus on personalized service, scenic beauty, and hands-on fun, it’s perfect for those looking to combine adventure with relaxation. The knowledgeable crew, coupled with the stunning backdrop of Dia Island, makes this a memorable outing that appeals to travelers seeking quality over quantity.

If you want to enjoy Greece’s waters with a small, friendly crowd, learn some sailing, and explore a quieter side of Crete, this tour is a fantastic choice. It balances leisure and activity beautifully, providing enough time to unwind, explore, and take in the captivating views of this unique island.

In summary, this private sailing trip is an excellent value for a full day on Crete’s waters. It’s best suited for small groups, families, or couples who want a bespoke experience, complete with snorkeling, scenic views, and local hospitality. For those wanting a relaxed yet engaging escape, this adventure offers a perfect blend of everything Crete’s coastline has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: