6 Sunset Cruises in Heraklion That Survive a Close Look

1.Hersonissos: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Snacks and Drinks

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 328 reviews · from $90Our pick

Set out from Hersonissos on a 3.5-hour semi-private catamaran cruise. You’ll get Prosecco, local cheeses, fruit, wine, beer, and soft drinks, then stop at Agios Georgios Bay for swimming, snorkeling, SUP boarding, and photos with a pink flamingo float. The crew may include Thomas, Sasch, Anise, Yannis, or Prodromos.

“Loved everything about this trip! Wonderful experience from start to finish, something we will never forget! Hosts were lovely and friendly, food/drink was great, music was awesome too! We had enough time to jump and swimming in the sea and also enough time to enjoy the beautiful sunset! The most relaxing boat trip I’ve ever been on, highly recommend to anyone don’t hesitate to book it! Thanks for the wonderful experience, Monika,Tim &Oliver”

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2.Sunset Cruise to Dia Island

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 259 reviews · 5.5 hours · from $82

Sail from Heraklion’s Old Port to Dia Island aboard the yacht Maryline, with Captain Alex, Kosta, or another local skipper at the helm. You’ll get about three hours at Saint George Bay for swimming, snorkeling, snacks, and island views, then sail back as the sun drops over the Cretan coast.

“It was a great activity, the guides were amazing and make us feel welcome in the boat. Also the place and the water in the island were amazing very clean and unique I really recomend this activity”

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3.Sunset Sailing Cruise Dia Island with Snorkeling

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 242 reviews · from $63Best value

Sail from Heraklion to uninhabited Dia Island with a small group of 10 to 18 people. Swim and snorkel in a quiet bay, use the paddleboard, enjoy a fresh Greek meal or tomato pasta, and return beneath a Cretan sunset. Crew members have included Alex, Kostas, Emanuel, Constantine, Thanos, and Eleanor.

“We had a great time sailing to Dia Island. The sail back at sunset was breath taking. We also were attracted by the snorkeling. Unfortunately there were very few fish and the sea bed was badly scoured by anchors”

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4.Dia Island Romantic Sunset Cruise with Wine

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 144 reviews · from $86

Sail from Heraklion to Dia Island on a semi-private catamaran with a Prosecco welcome, cheese, cold cuts, fruit, unlimited drinks, snorkeling, SUPs, and a sunset swim. The English-speaking crew, including Sergei on some trips, keeps the mood relaxed and attentive. Hotel transfers are optional.

“Super worth the cost & a genuinely nice experience! The captain and the co-captain were super lovely & made us feel very welcomed from the beginning. Fantastic views, a lovely time to swim & a right laugh. We loved it!”

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5.Dia Island Sunset Boat Tour with Dinner

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 61 reviews · from $77Top rated

Set sail from Heraklion with a small group of up to eight people and head to Dia Island, about six nautical miles offshore. Swim, snorkel, fish, paddleboard, and watch the sunset at Saint George Bay while dinner, wine, beer, soft drinks, and water are served aboard. Crew names may include George, Niko, Pagnos, or Eva.

“Very friendly and welcoming guides. It’s totally worth it. I would highly recommend! Amazing waters and the sun set is mesmerizing.”

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6.Sunrise Balloon Flight & Sunset Catamaran Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 45 reviews · 8 - 9 hours · from $353

Start with a sunrise balloon flight over Crete’s Lassithi Plateau, help inflate the balloon, and enjoy a light Greek breakfast with pilot Sergey’s team. Later, board a semi-private catamaran from Heraklion or Hersonissos for swimming, snorkeling, sushi, fruit, local wine, beer, and sunset views around Dia.

“A dream come true! The hot air balloon flight has been on my bucket list and it was magical (I don’t even like heights). Sergey and his crew went out of their way to make sure we enjoyed every moment in the air and after landing enjoyed a small brunch at Elin Gas Station/Route 29, which was exceptional. We enjoyed every bite and the hospitality given from not only Sergey, but the owner made us feel special! We all left completely full. The catamaran that evening was just as enjoyable. The whole day was like a fairy tale and so relaxing. I would definitely do it again!!!”

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