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Panagia Bay, the most sheltered bay on Dia Island, sits 2km east of the primary port of Agios Georgios. It is nestled amongst arid, rocky slopes abundant with oregano and native Cretan herbs. The island is teeming with wild rabbits that can often be seen darting from the shrubbery. At the mouth of Dia’s only canyon, a petite beach with large pebbles takes form. The bay is named after the Panagia (Virgin Mary) cave situated to the east.
Access to Panagia is primarily by private or chartered sailboat, as the tour boats that service Dia typically visit the Agios Georgios bay. The bay floor is a sight to behold. If one is vigilant while snorkelling, it is possible to spot fragments of pottery, potentially remnants of an ancient shipwreck.
Yes, the Panagia bay, Dia is suitable for swimming.
No, there are no water sports activities available at the Panagia bay, Dia.
No, there is no accommodation available near the Panagia bay, Dia.
No, there is no restaurant or food stall available at the Panagia bay, Dia.
It depends on the time of the day and the season. However, the Panagia bay, Dia is usually not very crowded.
Yes, the Panagia bay, Dia is suitable for families with children.
No, there is no parking facility available near the Panagia bay, Dia.
The water colour of the Panagia bay, Dia is blue.
The Panagia bay, Dia has sand.
The water at the Panagia bay, Dia is shallow.
The surface of the sea at the Panagia bay, Dia is usually calm.
The Panagia bay, Dia is usually quiet.
There are no facilities available at the Panagia bay, Dia.
The Panagia bay, Dia can be accessed by boat.
Yes, the Panagia bay, Dia is nudism friendly.
The Panagia bay, Dia is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Find below list of things to do near Panagia bay, Dia:
We are offering our guest a nice day away from the shore, Dia island is a natural place no one lives there so it’s an opportunity to be surrounded by quietness and nature.
The trip starts from Heraklion port and it will take us around 1 hour to sail over there, as soon as we arrive the guests can jump into the sea, do some snorkeling, we also have a paddle board to explore the area.
Should the conditions help we sail with the wind and enjoy the magic of wind sailing.
For FULL day cruise we will prepare you a nice traditional meal composed by a Greek salad, tzatziki and pasta with seafood (we can adjust the menu in case of allergy or any specific diet).
For HALF-day cruise we will prepare you a nice pasta with tomato sauce.
After our dinner we will set sails to another bay of the island and you will enjoy a different landscape and have time for swim and enjoy some fruits and a traditional digestive that we call RAKI. In case the weather does not allow us to go to another bay we will just spend more time in our first stop.
During the half day option, we will stay in our main bay for enjoying more time swimming and snorkeling.
We start our trip back to Heraklion on the designated time that the crew informs you and again we open sails should the weather permits.
We are 10 persons max.
Sail with us to the natural island of Dia with our comfortable sailing yachts and our very experienced crews. We start our trip from Heraklion Old venetian harbor where you can admire the old Venetian fortress.
Should the conditions help we sail with the wind and enjoy the magic of wind sailing.
It will take us about 1 hour and a 10-20 minutes to get to Dia Island, always depending on the weather conditions. On our way to the Island , our crew (captain and host(ess) will tell you about the history of the island and can answer any questions that you may have about Crete.
Once we arrive you will have the opportunity to swim in the crystal clear water, observe the underwater world with equipment provided by us, use the paddle board, have a drink and relax.
For FULL DAY cruise we will prepare you a nice traditional meal composed by a Greek salad, tzatziki and pasta with seafood (we can adjust the menu in case of allergy or any specific diet).
After our lunch we will set sails to an other bay of the island and you will enjoy a different landscape and have time for swim and enjoy some fruits and a traditional digestive that we called RAKI.
In case the weather does not allow us to go to an other bay we will just spend more time in our first stop.
The HALF DAY option will serve morning turkey club sandwiches. tomatoes, cheese and green salad, sunset – pasta with tomato sauce instead of a full meal and stay in our main bay for enjoying more time swimming and snorkeling.
It s time to end our day saying goodbye to Dia Island and thank you for this nice memories that we have shared together.
We start our trip back to Heraklion on the designated time that the crew informs you and again we open sails should the weather permits.
Once we arrive back at the port we will escort you back to the meeting spot or transfer.
We are looking to welcome you on board soon 🙂
Spend the day at sea on a catamaran sailing trip from Hersonissos to Dia Island. Enjoy a cruise suitable for everyone, including families with children, small companies, and couples. Snorkel, paddleboard, and fish with included gear, or stretch out and sunbathe on the boat.
Hop on board a premium class catamaran Bali 4.5* and set sail from the port out to the vast open sea. The catamaran is equipped with the latest technology, so the sea will be as comfortable as the shore. While in Dia Bay, swim on an inflatable flamingo or unicorn, or go exploring the island via SUP.
When it’s time to refuel, savor Mediterranean cuisine during lunch with seafood** . Enjoy music and an open bar with soft drinks, white wine, and beer as you make your way back to Hersonissos.
* Catamaran model may change,
** The menu consists of local, high quality products. Dishes are subject to change.
We offer our guests the opportunity to visit Dia Island, by sailing boat. You can choose between a morning or sunset private half-day cruise, and a full-day private cruise, up to ten persons.
Embark on a half-day cruise to Dia Island from Heraklion and explore this rugged island with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or relax on its pristine shores.
Swim in the crystal clear water, take a walk among the island’s cedar trees or just relax in the quiet bay overlooking Heraklion.
Our cruises include historical narrations across the Cretan coastline, sailing, swimming, exploring the Aegean Sea.
Relax on board our sailing boat MARYLINE, enjoy the stunning view of the city and feel the refreshing summer breeze!
Spend the day on the water with friends and family on an afternoon cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island by the premium-class sailing catamaran Lagoon 450 F*. Explore the bay with included snorkeling equipment, stand-up paddleboards, and inflatables. Enjoy a Mediterranean dinner onboard**.
After taking off from Heraklion, start your trip with a welcome on board. Get to know the team and get briefed by your captain about the safety rules and trip to Dia Island. Sail for approximately 1 hour to one of the most picturesque bays in the area.
Stop to swim, snorkel, play with inflatables, or try stand-up paddleboarding. Before the end of the trip, savor a Mediterranean meal with seafood, local drinks, and imported beverages. Cruise back to Heraklion while surrounded by sweeping scenery.
* Catamaran model may change,
** The menu consists of local, high quality products. Dishes are subject to change.
Begin your journey with a comfortable hotel pickup or directly in the charming Heraklion Old Venetian harbor, depending on the option you choose. Before you board your sailboat, soak in the sight of the ancient fortress.
The trip to Dia Island takes about an hour, depending on the weather. Along the way, keep an eye out for dolphins while listening to fascinating stories about the island’s legend and history. If you wish, you can participate in the sailing activities.
After you arrive at Dia Island, enjoy free time to explore the crystal-clear waters. Go snorkeling, try your hand at fishing, go paddleboarding, or go for a hike on the island. If you prefer, chill out on the deck with a drink.
After about an hour, enjoy a delicious Mediterranean meal. Feast on fresh Greek salads, tasty appetizers, and seafood pasta. Wash it all down with wine, beer, or soft drinks.
After lunch, you’ll have plenty of time to swim and enjoy some delicious fruit paired with a traditional drink called raki before heading back to Heraklion. If you take the afternoon tour, admire the stunning colors of the sunset as you cruise home.
Find below the list of hotels near Panagia bay, Dia:
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Find below list of beaches near Panagia bay, Dia:
Dia, an uninhabited island situated 12 miles off the coast of Heraklion city, serves as a popular summer excursion spot. Daily boat trips allow visitors to witness the island’s rugged landscape and take a dip in its crystal clear waters. The docking point for these boats is known as the port of Agios Georgios or Saint George.
Agios Georgios, the bay that greets visitors arriving from the west, houses a large pier for tourist boats. Another pier lies across, beneath the picturesque chapel of Analipsis or Ascension. This well-sheltered cove served as a major port for the ancient Minoans, a fact confirmed by Jacques Yves Cousteau’s explorations. An abandoned tavern, once operational, stands by the pier. To the west lies a small sandy beach with turquoise waters, untouched by the frequent northern winds.
If you venture westward towards the chapel of Analipsis, two more secluded sandy beaches can be found along the path. Further along the trail lies the scenic Church of the Ascension. On special occasions, numerous ships, including large ferries, sail from Heraklion to join the celebrations. The church, known for its stunning views, is neighboured by the remnants of an older chapel and Dia’s shelter. Visitors wishing to stay overnight in the shelter need to contact the Port Office of Heraklion for the key and necessary permissions.
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