Setting out on a sunset cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island promises an unforgettable adventure. Soaking in the stunning Aegean views, travelers can spend hours swimming, snorkeling, and indulging in local delights. With a knowledgeable guide, guests gain historical insights while enjoying all necessary amenities. Whether seeking a peaceful escape or an opportunity to immerse in the Mediterranean’s natural beauty, this excursion offers an experience worth uncovering.
Key Points
- 6-hour sunset cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island, with a 75-minute sail each way and 3.5 hours of free time for swimming and snorkeling.
- Pricing starts from $87.38 per person, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Departs from Cafe Marina at the Rocca a Mare Fortress, with snorkeling equipment and hotel pickup/drop-off included.
- Guided tour provides historical narratives and highlights landmarks during the sail, while guests enjoy local snacks and refreshments.
- Overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 210 reviews, with positive feedback for the stunning scenery and great food.
Overview of the Sunset Cruise
The Sunset Cruise to Dia Island offers a delightful 6-hour excursion from Heraklion. Priced from $87.38 per person, this cruise sails to the nearby island of Dia, allowing guests to explore its clear waters and picturesque landscapes.
The trip includes a 75-minute sail to the island, followed by 3.5 hours of free time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local snacks. The return journey takes another 75 minutes.
Guests can expect stunning scenery, historical narrations, and the opportunity to relax in the tranquil bay of Saint George. Free cancellation and a pay-later option make this cruise accessible and flexible.
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Pricing and Booking Details
Prices for the Sunset Cruise to Dia Island start from $87.38 per person.
The 6-hour excursion includes a 75-minute cruise to the island, 3.5 hours of free time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local snacks, and a 75-minute return to Heraklion.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Guests can reserve now and pay later.
The cruise departs from the Cafe Marina at the Rocca a Mare Fortress. Snorkeling equipment and hotel pickup/drop-off are provided.
The activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. The cruise earns a 4.7/5 rating from over 210 reviews.
Sailing to Dia Island
Departing from the Cafe Marina at the Rocca a Mare Fortress, the 75-minute cruise to Dia Island transports guests across the sparkling Cretan Sea.
During the sail, the onboard guide shares historical narratives and points out notable landmarks.
The onboard guide provides historical insights and points out landmarks of interest during the tranquil sail across the Cretan Sea.
Upon reaching the small island, guests disembark and have 3.5 hours to swim, snorkel, and relax in the tranquil bay of Saint George. The crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility for spotting marine life.
After the break, the boat departs for the return journey to Heraklion, offering scenic views of the coastline and a chance to reflect on the day’s adventure.
Activities and Highlights
Upon reaching Dia Island, guests have 3.5 hours to enjoy a variety of activities.
The highlight is the chance to:
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Swim and snorkel in the crystal clear waters surrounding the island
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Relax on the beach or explore the small bay of Saint George
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Listen to the historical narrations provided by the knowledgeable guides
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Savor local snacks and unlimited refreshments included in the cruise
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Take in the scenic views of the island and the Aegean Sea
These activities allow guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of Dia Island during the sunset cruise.
More Great Tours NearbyIncluded Amenities and Exclusions
The cruise includes the boat trip, snacks, unlimited refreshments, water, fruits, and snorkeling equipment. The package also provides hotel pickup and drop-off. However, the cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|————|————|
| Boat cruise | Wheelchair accessibility |
| Snacks & refreshments | – |
| Snorkeling equipment | – |
| Hotel transfer | – |
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Customer Feedback and Ratings
With an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 210 reviews, the Sunset Cruise to Dia Island seems to have captivated the hearts of its participants.
Reviewers highlighted:
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Stunning scenery and great food
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Friendly and helpful guides
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Positive social interactions among participants
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An amazing sunset and pink moon
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A good rapport between guides, who were both humorous and professional.
Specific comments praised the cruise’s ability to deliver a memorable experience, with travelers noting the breathtaking views, engaging guides, and enjoyable camaraderie among fellow passengers.
Important Requirements and Preparations
Before embarking on the Sunset Cruise to Dia Island, participants must provide the coastguard with specific information, including their full names, passport or ID numbers, dates of birth, countries of citizenship, and gender.
This is a key requirement to meet the coastguard’s guidelines. Plus, visitors should bring sun hats, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen to be prepared for the various activities like swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters around Dia Island.
The cruise departs from the Heraklion Marina Cafe, so participants should arrive at the meeting point on time to ensure a smooth start to their scenic sunset adventure.
Meeting Point and Languages Spoken
Participants meet at the Heraklion Marina Cafe, which serves as the departure point for the Sunset Cruise to Dia Island.
The multilingual guides will be there to greet guests and ensure a smooth check-in process. The cruise is offered in the following languages:
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English
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Greek
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Slovenian
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Irish
Once everyone is aboard, the guides provide historical narrations and insights about the route and destination throughout the journey.
The cruise is suitable for non-wheelchair users, and participants are advised to bring sun protection, swimwear, and towels for the swim and snorkel activities at Dia Island.
Since You Asked
Is the Cruise Suitable for Children?
The sunset cruise to Dia Island is not suitable for children, as it’s not mentioned as an activity option and the listing states it’s "not suitable for wheelchair users", implying it may not be appropriate for all ages.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
The cruise allows guests to bring their own food and drinks. However, unlimited refreshments, water, and snacks are already included in the tour price, so bringing additional items may not be necessary.
Is There a Bathroom or Changing Room on the Boat?
There is a bathroom on the boat, but no dedicated changing rooms. Passengers can change discreetly while onboard. It’s recommended to wear swimwear under clothing for convenience and ease of getting in and out of the water.
How Much Additional Cash Should We Bring for Tips?
The amount of additional cash for tips is not explicitly mentioned, but a general guideline is to budget around 10-15% of the tour price per person for gratuities. This helps ensure the crew is appropriately compensated for their service.
Is There a Possibility of Seasickness During the Cruise?
There’s a possibility of seasickness during the cruise, as it involves 75-minute sailing trips to and from the island. However, the small bay of Saint George provides a relatively calm area for swimming and snorkeling during the 3.5-hour break.
Final Words
Embark on an unforgettable sunset cruise to the idyllic Dia Island from Heraklion. Enjoy the stunning Aegean scenery, indulge in local snacks, and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. With a knowledgeable guide, convenient hotel pickup, and all necessary equipment provided, this excursion offers a seamless and memorable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this Mediterranean gem.
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