Heraklion: Nature Reserve Dia Island Full-Day Cruise & Lunch

Exploring the natural beauty of Dia Island on Heraklion’s Nature Reserve is a captivating experience. This full-day cruise takes adventurers on a journey to discover pristine waters, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. With a carefully curated itinerary and attentive crew, guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and eco-sailing, all while savoring a freshly prepared organic meal. What secrets await those who embark on this exclusive excursion?

Key Points

• A full-day cruise from Heraklion to the protected Dia Island biosphere, featuring activities like swimming, snorkeling, eco-sailing, and learning about local biodiversity.
• The cruise is limited to 10 participants for a small group experience, with a price of $94.40 per person after a 12% discount.
• The itinerary includes stops at Agrilia Bay, Panagia Cove, and Agios Georgios, with opportunities for cultural learning and environmental exploration.
• Amenities include large, comfortable sailing yachts, a certified crew, access to life jackets and snorkeling equipment, and a freshly served organic meal with vegetarian options.
• The cruise has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 24 reviews, with praise for the experienced crew, delicious meals, and excellent opportunities for nature and culture immersion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Cruise Overview

This full-day cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island offers participants a unique opportunity to explore a protected biosphere.

The 7-hour activity is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a small group experience. Priced at $94.40 per person after a 12% discount, the cruise features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

A small group of just 10 participants can enjoy this 7-hour cruise priced at $94.40 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, eco-sailing, and learning about the local biodiversity and culture during stops at Agrilia Bay, Panagia Cove, and Agios Georgios.

With a professional crew, safety equipment, and a freshly served organic meal, this cruise provides an immersive and sustainable way to discover Crete’s natural wonders.

Itinerary and Highlights

The cruise departs from the Old Venetian port in Heraklion, offering participants a chance to explore the remote Dia Island, a protected biosphere.

The first stop is Agrilia Bay, where visitors can swim and snorkel in the area’s remote beaches.

Next, the voyage heads to the Panagia Cove, known for its green waters and rich biodiversity, with potential sightings of Kri Kri and falcons.

The final stop is Agios Georgios, an ancient Minoan port with crystal-clear waters perfect for diving.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, eco-sailing, and learning about the local culture and ecology.

Amenities and Inclusions

Large, comfortable, and safe sailing yachts with an expert local crew transport participants on this cruise.

The service is comprehensive, including professionally certified crew and first aid on board. Guests will have access to life jackets and snorkeling equipment.

Professionally certified crew and first aid on board. Guests have access to life jackets and snorkeling equipment.

A freshly served organic meal with vegetarian options, along with unlimited drinks like mineral water, soft drinks, and wine, are provided.

The eco-friendly route is perfect for nature lovers.

Pickup service from Heraklion and surrounding areas up to 10km is free, though an extra charge applies for further distances.

Important Information

Passengers are advised to bring their passport or ID, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for the cruise.

Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on board. The cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 264 lbs (120 kg).

Post-booking, passengers should contact the organizers to arrange pickup from Heraklion and surrounding areas up to 10km; extra charges apply for further distances.

The crew is professionally certified and first aid certified, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

With an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 24 reviews, this Dia Island cruise has earned high praise from past participants.

Reviewers have highlighted several standout aspects of the experience:

1. Experienced and attentive crew

2. Delicious and fresh organic meal with vegetarian options

3. Excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and learning about the local environment

4. Overall fantastic day trip with memorable moments

Customers have commended the knowledgeable hosts, fabulous itinerary, and the crew’s commitment to providing a safe and eco-friendly journey.

This cruise offers an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of Dia Island.

Discovering Agrilia Bay

As the cruise sets sail from the Old Venetian port in Heraklion, the first stop is the remote Agrilia Bay.

This secluded beach offers the perfect opportunity for swimming and snorkeling. Guests can explore the pristine waters, teeming with diverse marine life. The experienced crew provides snorkeling equipment, ensuring everyone can enjoy the underwater world.

With no other travelers in sight, Agrilia Bay offers a tranquil escape, allowing guests to fully connect with the natural beauty of the protected biosphere.

After refreshing swims, the cruise continues to the next captivating destination.

Exploring Panagia Cove

Leaving the tranquil Agrilia Bay behind, the cruise vessel heads towards the stunning Panagia Cove.

Known for its vibrant green waters and rich biodiversity, this protected inlet offers a serene escape.

A protected inlet known for its vibrant green waters and rich biodiversity, offering a serene escape.

Guests can:

1. Spot the elusive Kri Kri, a rare wild goat endemic to Crete.

2. Observe the majestic flight of falcons soaring overhead.

3. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for a closer look at the underwater ecosystem.

4. Learn about the cove’s significance as a designated biosphere reserve.

The cove’s natural beauty and ecological importance make it a highlight of the Dia Island cruise experience.

Diving Into Agios Georgios

Next, the cruise vessel makes its way to the historical Minoan port of Agios Georgios. Here, guests can enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for diving and snorkeling.

The crew provides guidance on the best spots to explore the vibrant marine life. Underwater caves, colorful fish, and ancient ruins await discovery.

After working up an appetite, the group returns to the boat for a freshly prepared organic lunch. Participants can learn about the port’s significance in Minoan civilization and its role as a center of trade and culture during that era.

Agios Georgios offers a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

No, guests cannot bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The cruise includes a freshly served organic meal with vegetarian options, as well as unlimited mineral water, soft drinks, and wine.

Is There an Option to Extend the Cruise Duration?

No, there is no option to extend the cruise duration. The tour is a fixed 7-hour experience, and the itinerary and schedule are set. Extending the cruise is not available based on the information provided.

Are Pets Allowed on the Cruise?

Pets are not allowed on the cruise. The cruise has strict policies to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants, which includes prohibiting pets or other animals from joining the excursion.

How Do I Get to the Starting Point in Heraklion?

The cruise offers free pickup from Heraklion and surrounding areas up to 10km. For those living further away, there’s an extra charge for transportation to the departure point at the Old Venetian port in Heraklion.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The cruise does not have a minimum age requirement, but it may not be suitable for young children. Participants must be able to board the boat and swim independently.

Final Words

The Heraklion Nature Reserve Full-Day Cruise offers a captivating exploration of Dia Island’s breathtaking natural beauty. Guests can enjoy pristine waters, swim, snorkel, and enjoy an organic meal, all while learning about the local ecosystem and culture. With its limited capacity and attentive crew, this exclusive adventure promises an unforgettable day amidst Crete’s stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: