Snorkeling from Heraklion to Dia Island: Small-Group Sailing

Six hours snorkeling and paddleboarding in Aegean shallows with seafood lunch and local wine

A small-group sailing trip from Heraklion to Dia Island in Crete with a maximum of 10 guests, where you snorkel, paddleboard, and swim in the Aegean before anchoring for a freshly prepared Cretan lunch with unlimited local wine and beer. The crew speaks English, provides all snorkeling gear and paddleboards, and you can arrange pickup from Heraklion Port or from nearby towns like Malia, Hersonissos, or Gouves. The boat holds no more than 10 people, keeping the atmosphere relaxed and semi-private.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sailing and exploring Dia Island

• Meet at Heraklion Port
• Sail to Dia Island
• Anchor near pristine beaches
• Swim in crystal-clear waters
• Snorkel and admire marine life
• Relax and sunbathe on deck
• Enjoy freshly prepared Cretan lunch
• Drink unlimited local beverages
• Socialize with local crew
• Return to Heraklion Port

The experience

The boat leaves Heraklion Port in the morning and sails along Crete's northern coast toward Dia Island, an unspoiled stretch of the Aegean with untouched shores and no development. Once anchored near the island's pristine beaches, you have the freedom to snorkel in the clear water, try paddleboarding, or simply float and sunbathe on deck while the crew handles the sailing. The snorkeling gear is provided, and the water is shallow enough to see the vibrant marine life beneath the surface without needing deep-water experience.

Lunch arrives mid-day on deck: freshly prepared Cretan pasta (seafood or pesto), Greek salad, and fruit, paired with unlimited local white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water. The crew is local and English-speaking, and they share stories about the island and the sea. If dolphins appear, they'll sing to them. The whole day is built around a relaxed pace: no rushing between stops, no crowded tour groups. With a maximum of 10 people on board, the boat never feels packed, and you're free to spend as much time in the water or on deck as you want.

You can meet the boat at Heraklion Port, or if you're staying in nearby towns (Malia, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Gouves, or other areas). You have the option to arrange a transfer to the port at checkout. The whole experience runs six to seven hours from departure to return.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment.
• stand-up paddleboard use.
• a freshly prepared Cretan lunch with seafood or vegetarian pasta, Greek salad, and fruit.
• unlimited local white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water.
• an English-speaking local crew.
• and optional hotel pickup from Heraklion or nearby towns like Malia, Hersonissos, Analipsi, and Gouves.

Options for this experience

2 options

No TransferGuide in English · 09:00 and 15:00

With TransferGuide in English · Available from 1 Apr 2027Includes pickup

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDepartures at 09:00 and 15:00Last departure this season: 31 Oct

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (2 to 15 years) · Infant (under 2)

GroupUp to 10 · max 8 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 14 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Set Sails Crete

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to snorkel and paddleboard in one outing. The boat carries you between multiple spots and includes lunch, so you can move between water activities and the island without breaking up your day.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (2 to 15 years); Infant (under 2).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the water like for snorkeling at Dia Island?

Dia Island's waters are crystal-clear and shallow, with vibrant marine life visible beneath the surface. You don't need advanced diving skills. The snorkeling is accessible for all fitness levels, and all equipment is provided on board.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear, or is it supplied?

Snorkeling equipment is included and supplied by the boat. You don't need to bring your own, though you're welcome to if you prefer your own mask and fins.

Is paddleboarding included, or do I have to pay extra?

Stand-up paddleboarding is included in the price. The boards and any instruction you need are provided by the crew.

What if I don't want to snorkel or paddleboard? Can I just relax on the boat?

Yes. You can spend the day swimming, sunbathing on deck, or simply relaxing while the boat is anchored. The day is designed so you choose how active you want to be.

How do I arrange a transfer from my hotel?

At checkout, you can choose the "With Transfer" option and select your pickup location from nearby towns like Malia, Hersonissos, Analipsi, or Gouves. The driver will collect you and bring you to Heraklion Port in time for departure.

What's included in the lunch?

Lunch includes freshly prepared Cretan pasta (your choice of seafood or pesto), Greek salad, and fruit salad, paired with unlimited local white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water.