Discovering the stunning Cretan coastline has never been easier than with the Heraklion: Dia Island Sailboat Cruise. This 6-hour adventure combines the thrill of swimming and snorkeling with the pleasure of a delightful 3-course Mediterranean meal. Departing from the picturesque old Venetian port, guests can enjoy unlimited beverages while savoring fresh, locally-sourced dishes prepared by on-board chefs. With opportunities to spot dolphins and try paddleboarding, this cruise promises a truly memorable day on the Aegean Sea. But the real question is, what other surprises await those who embark on this unforgettable journey?
Key Points
- The 6-hour Dia Island Sailboat Cruise departs from Heraklion’s Venetian port, offering snorkeling, paddleboarding, and the chance to spot dolphins.
- A 3-course Mediterranean meal with shrimp linguini and vegetarian/gluten-free options, as well as unlimited beverages, is included in the cruise package.
- Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment, and towels are provided for guests’ convenience.
- The cruise is highly rated (4.7/5) based on over 1,350 reviews, with praise for the exceptional organization, friendly crew, and delicious cuisine.
- Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a ‘reserve now & pay later’ option is available.
Overview and Pricing
The activity offers a Heraklion: Dia Island Sailboat Cruise with Swimming and Meal, priced from Kč2,273 per person for a 6-hour duration.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is offered.
Departing from the Heraklion old Venetian port, the cruise sails to the nearby Dia Island, where passengers can enjoy water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing.
The tour includes a 3-course Mediterranean meal with unlimited drinks, as well as the chance to spot dolphins and take in scenic views of the Koules fortress and the Cretan sea.
Itinerary and Activities
On this sailboat cruise, guests depart from the Heraklion old Venetian port and sail to the nearby Dia Island, where they can enjoy a variety of water activities. The cruise offers several experiences, including:
- Snorkeling in the clear blue waters surrounding the island.
- Paddleboarding along the coastline, taking in the scenic vistas.
- Fishing, with the crew providing the necessary equipment.
- Spotting dolphins that are often seen in the Cretan Sea.
Between these aquatic adventures, guests will be served a delicious 3-course Mediterranean meal, featuring shrimp linguini or vegetarian and gluten-free options, complemented by unlimited drinks.
The sailing yacht’s certified crew ensures a safe and memorable journey throughout the 6-hour experience.
Meal and Beverages
During the 6-hour sailboat cruise, guests can savor a delectable 3-course Mediterranean meal, featuring shrimp linguini or vegetarian and gluten-free options.
The meal is accompanied by unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water, ensuring a refreshing and satisfying experience throughout the journey.
The menu is carefully curated to showcase the best of Cretan cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pasta dish or a lighter vegetarian option, the on-board chefs will ensure your palate is delighted.
With the backdrop of the stunning Cretan sea and potential dolphin sightings, this dining experience promises to be a highlight of the sailboat cruise.
Departure and Meeting Points
Sailors depart on the modern sailing yacht from the Cafe Marina at Heraklion’s old Venetian port, arriving 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
The cruise offers pickup options from several locations, including Ammoudara, Gazi, Karteros, and Hersonissos, providing convenience for guests.
Once at the port, guests can easily find the meeting point at the Cafe Marina, where the crew will be ready to welcome them aboard the sailboat.
The departure marks the start of an exciting journey to Dia Island, where guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Cretan sea and potentially spot dolphins along the way.
Included Amenities
The cruise package includes a range of amenities to enhance the sailing experience.
Guests can expect complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, if selected, as well as access to snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment during the cruise.
Plus, the crew provides towels for guests’ convenience.
Unlimited refreshments, including wine, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, and water, are also included throughout the excursion.
The presence of a certified captain and crew ensures a safe and enjoyable journey.
With music playing in the background, the cruise provides a well-rounded experience that caters to the diverse interests and needs of the passengers.
Customer Ratings and Feedback
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Sailboat Cruise to Dia Island, awarding it an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on over 1,350 reviews.
Reviewers consistently highlight the cruise’s exceptional organization, punctuality, and cleanliness. The friendly crew and delicious Mediterranean cuisine have also earned high praise from satisfied passengers.
Key highlights from the reviews include:
- ‘The crew was incredibly friendly and made the experience truly enjoyable.’
- ‘The food was outstanding, and the unlimited drinks were a nice touch.’
- ‘I’d highly recommend this cruise to anyone looking for a relaxing day on the water.’
- ‘It’s the perfect way to explore Dia Island and enjoy the stunning Cretan scenery.’
Pickup and Drop-off Options
Travelers have the option to get picked up and dropped off at various locations around Heraklion, including areas like Ammoudara, Gazi, Karteros, and Hersonissos, making it convenient to access the cruise departure point.
The meeting location is the Cafe Marina at the Heraklion old Venetian port, where participants should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This ensures a smooth and timely start to the sailing adventure.
The cruise providers offer a hassle-free experience by handling all the logistics, allowing guests to fully enjoy the stunning scenery and activities during the 6-hour excursion to Dia Island.
Cancellation and Booking Policy
This cruise offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Plus, there’s a ‘reserve now & pay later’ option available, providing customers with the convenience of securing their spot without immediate payment.
The booking process is designed with flexibility in mind, catering to the needs of modern travelers:
- Simply select your preferred departure date and the number of participants.
- Choose the ‘reserve now & pay later’ option to lock in your booking.
- Make your payment at a later time, up until 24 hours before the cruise.
- Rest assured that you can cancel for free if your plans change within the 24-hour window.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Capacity of the Sailboat?
The maximum capacity of the sailboat is not explicitly stated in the provided information. Without additional details on the exact vessel used, the specific passenger capacity cannot be determined with certainty.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are generally no strict age restrictions for this activity. However, young children may require close adult supervision during water activities. The cruise is suitable for most ages, but parents should use their discretion based on their children’s abilities.
Is It Possible to Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling equipment. The cruise provides snorkeling gear, but allows guests to use their personal equipment if they prefer. This provides more comfort and convenience for experienced snorkelers.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal in Advance?
Yes, you can request a vegetarian or gluten-free meal in advance for this activity. The provider offers these options as part of the 3-course Mediterranean menu served during the cruise. Just be sure to inform them of your dietary needs when booking.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Cruise?
Yes, customers can request to extend the duration of the cruise in advance. However, the availability and pricing for an extended cruise would need to be confirmed with the tour operator prior to booking.
Recap
The Heraklion: Dia Island Sailboat Cruise offers a captivating 6-hour adventure on the Cretan Sea.
Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and a delicious 3-course Mediterranean meal, all while surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery.
With flexible booking options, unlimited beverages, and a highly-rated crew, this cruise promises a truly memorable day of relaxation and exploration.
