Snorkeling in Heraklion: Sailing to Dia Island with Lunch

Snorkel in two secluded bays while the boat stays anchored

A full-day sailing and snorkeling activity from Heraklion to Dia Island, 7 nautical miles offshore, where you swim and snorkel in two protected coves for about 90 minutes while the crew serves lunch and drinks on board. The boat departs from the Old Venetian port; pickup from your accommodation is included. Weather may shift which bay the crew anchors in, and the itinerary adjusts accordingly.

The Experience

The crew meets you at the Old Venetian port in Heraklion and walks through safety and boat handling before setting sail. The crossing to Dia Island takes almost an hour. Dia is uninhabited and protected under the Natura 2000 project for its wildlife — you may spot the medium-sized Falco Eleonorae falcon, wild Cretan goats, monk seals, or dolphins on the way. The crew anchors in either Agios Georgios or Panagia bay depending on conditions, both on the island's south side with green, clear water and rocky shores.

You have about 90 minutes in the water. Snorkeling equipment and SUP boards are on board; you choose whether to snorkel, swim or sunbathe while the crew brings out cool drinks and seasonal fruit. The water is the main event here — no guided tour of the seabed, no stops at named reefs, just time in the bay with the gear ready. After lunch and a final swim, the boat sails back to Heraklion. Bring a camera in case dolphins surface during either crossing.

The crew is professionally certified and speaks English. You can ask to help sail the boat under their supervision if you want to, but it is not required — most people spend the time in the water or on deck. Wine and beer are available with responsible consumption in mind; soft drinks and mineral water are unlimited. Life jackets are provided. The whole day runs about 7 hours from pickup to return.

What’s included

• Professional certified crew and English-language guide.
• snorkeling equipment and SUP boards.
• life jackets.
• organic fresh lunch served on board.
• wine, beer, soft drinks and mineral water throughout the day.
• pickup from your accommodation in Heraklion.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Altersail

Is this one for you?You operate the snorkeling and swimming yourself in a shared boat with other guests, so this suits anyone who wants time in the water without a guided reef tour or a private charter. The fixed schedule and included lunch mean the day holds together without you arranging transport, food or timing — book this if you want a full sailing day without the logistics.

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Top questions

What is Dia Island like when we get there?

Dia is an uninhabited island 7 nautical miles north of Heraklion, protected for its biodiversity. The crew anchors in one of two south-facing bays — Agios Georgios or Panagia — both with green, clear water surrounded by rocky shores and wildlife including wild Cretan goats, falcons and monk seals.

How much time do we actually spend snorkeling or swimming?

About 90 minutes in the water while anchored in the bay. You can snorkel, swim, sunbathe or float — the crew brings snorkeling gear and SUP boards on board, and you choose what to do with the time.

Is lunch included, and what kind of food is it?

Lunch is included and served on board. The crew prepares organic, locally sourced fresh food. Cool drinks and seasonal fruit come out while you are in the water, and wine, beer, soft drinks and mineral water are available throughout the day.

Do I need sailing experience to go on this?

No experience is required. The crew handles the sailing. You can ask to help sail the boat under their supervision if you want to, but most guests spend the time swimming, snorkeling or relaxing on deck.

What happens if the weather changes?

The itinerary adjusts based on conditions. The crew may anchor in Agios Georgios bay or Panagia bay depending on the weather on the day, but both are on Dia Island with the same protected waters and wildlife.

Is pickup from my hotel included?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Heraklion is included. After you book, the crew will contact you by email to confirm the pickup time and location.