Best of · CRETE ISLAND HOPPING TOURS
This is the shortlist you would send a friend: 10 crete island hopping tours worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to check before you pay.
Choose a 3.5 to 6.5-hour shared or private yacht trip from Heraklion to Dia Island, with swimming, snorkeling, paddleboards, fishing gear, lunch, and drinks. The one-hour coastal option stays near Heraklion and includes drinks but no island stop or water activities.
“Nice shorter activity 4 hr, Friendly crew! Good lunch with plenty of water and wine! Beautiful day! ❤️🥂”
Ride from Chania, Kalyves, or nearby resorts to Kissamos, then cruise to Gramvousa and Balos. You get time to swim, hike to a Venetian fortress, and enjoy clear sea views. The boat ticket costs extra from Chania, while some Kalyves and Almyrida options include it.
“Balos and Gramvousa are the most amazing place on earth! The sea is full of color and fish and the water was really clear and perfect! The day was well organized but I would have liked to stay one more hour on Gramvousa Island. The boat was really big and there was a seat for almost everyone! The guide and the autist were nice and informed us well”
Travel from Rethymno to western Crete by air-conditioned bus and boat, with time at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Swim in striking blue-green water, climb to a Venetian fortress, and enjoy hotel pickup. The €36 adult boat ticket is extra, along with food and fortress entry.
“At first arived a big and very comfortable with conditioner bus. Guide was very pleasant and tell us all needed information about our tour. The views were magical ❣️We climbed on the rock to look from the top. Water colours are magical. Water im Balos is about 25C, but in Gramvousa just about 18-19C ! But it is very good after climbing. Water is super solty, but in the ship is normal water whitch you can use before going inside the ship. Recomended !”
Sail from Heraklion to Dia Island on a private boat for up to eight people, with two crew members, drinks, fruit, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and paddleboards. You get about two and a half hours in Saint George Gulf, with an optional onboard meal and hotel transfers.
“Amazing half day trip. Skippers Vassilis and Costa were informative and friendly. Such a lovely day. Transport was door to door no waiting and also fab. Totally worth the money! Recommend!”
Sail from Heraklion’s Old Venetian port to protected Dia Island with a certified crew, usually aboard a 43 to 45-foot yacht. You’ll swim, snorkel, use a SUP, enjoy an organic lunch with wine, and hear about local wildlife. Pickup is free within 10 kilometers of the port.
“It’s was a great experience to my children and to me Unfortunately, the boat was small and there was another family with 5 children So we had to move to the bow”
Set sail from Heraklion with Eos Yachts for about five and a half hours aboard a luxury catamaran. You will spend roughly three hours in Dia’s calm bay, with snorkeling gear, SUPs, fishing equipment, lunch, Cretan snacks, and an open bar included.
“Absolutely amazing and would give 10/5 stars if I could. Wonderful crew, luxury high end catamaran, delicious food.”
Sail privately from Heraklion to Dia Island with a two-person crew, stopping at Saint George Bay and another swimming spot. You get snorkeling gear, fishing gear, paddleboards, fruit, wine, soft drinks, and water. Crews have included Kostas, Magda, Nikos, and Vasilis.
“Our sailing trip to Dia Island was an unforgettable experience! From the moment we stepped aboard, the crew made us feel right at home. They were exceptionally accommodating, ensuring that every detail was perfect for our family. The boat was well-maintained, and the journey was smooth and scenic. We were able to relax, swim in crystal-clear waters, and even snorkel around the island. The crew's knowledge of the area and genuine hospitality made the trip even more special. If you're in Crete and looking for a unique adventure, this is an absolute must-do. We'll definitely be back for another voyage!”
Leave Heraklion at 9:30 am for a six-and-a-half-hour catamaran trip to Dia Island. With a maximum of 14 people, an English-speaking crew, fresh lunch, open bar, SUPs, snorkeling gear, and onboard Wi-Fi, you spend about four hours swimming and relaxing in a sheltered bay.
“Best boar experience in Crete by far! Friendly crew, amazing service, beautiful water. The vibe and energy are always incredible on this catamaran.”
Take a private boat from Trachilos to Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa Island, and Agios Sozon. An English-speaking skipper such as Alex or Angelos handles the route, while you swim, snorkel, visit the fortress, and enjoy Cretan snacks, beer, wine, and soft drinks.
“The TRIP was absolutely amazing!! He had a blast with Angelos! Words cannot describe how much fun we had. The people and the views were amazing. I would surely recommend this to family and friends. Σας ευχαριστώ! Familia Moya”
Sail privately from Heraklion to Dia Island with a skipper and mate, reaching St George Bay after about an hour. Swim in clear water, try fishing, snorkel, and relax with fruit, soft drinks, bottled water, and white wine. Hotel pickup, lunch, champagne, and cake cost extra.
“Mario the captain made sure our day was fantastic from start to finish. We also arranged our hotel pick up and drop off which made the trip stress free. The snacks, salad and fruit were delicious! This is a must do when visiting Crete! Thank you Mario for making this a very memorable day! Much love from Canada”
By hull, by landing, by how long you want to be out.
