Marine Biodiversity Sailing Experience · Dia Marine Area
7
hours
Heraklion
Private
From €80
Private sailing and marine biodiversity seminar at Dia Island. Contribute to real scientific research while snorkeling in Natura 2000 waters with a certified instructor.
Overview
This is sailing with purpose. A private full-day cruise to Dia Island that combines genuine eco sailing with hands-on marine biodiversity exploration — and your observations actually contribute to scientific research through the COMBER programme of the Hellenic Center for Marine Research. AlterSail is the only company in Crete offering this experience.
A certified biodiversity instructor joins you on board. You'll learn to identify marine species, receive a waterproof identification guide (yours to keep), and record your observations while snorkeling in Natura 2000 waters. Back on deck, your findings are registered in the COMBER database and you receive a personal membership card. Between sessions, swim, SUP, or relax while the crew serves a fresh Cretan lunch. An excellent family activity — engaging for all ages, educational without being academic, genuinely meaningful.
Highlights
• Contribute to real scientific research with the Hellenic Center for Marine Research
• Certified biodiversity instructor guides your marine exploration
• Waterproof species identification guide included (yours to keep)
• Eco sailing to Dia Island's Natura 2000 protected waters
• COMBER membership card recognizing your scientific contribution
Itinerary
🕐 From 09:00 — Pick-up from your accommodation
09:30 — Depart from Heraklion Old Venetian Port
⛵ On the Water
→ Sail to Dia Island (~1 hour)
→ Anchor in a protected Natura 2000 cove
🔬 Biodiversity Session
→ Species briefing and BioWatch cards
→ Snorkeling and marine observation
🍽 Lunch
→ Fresh Cretan lunch on board
⛵ Free Time & Return
→ Diving, water toys, fishing
→ Sail back to Heraklion
🕐 ~17:30 — Arrive at the Old Venetian Port
Reserve today, Pay Later. Free Cancellation
Up to
10
Guests
Available on
Standard Fleet
Good to know
• Suitable for ages 10+ (marine biology interest recommended)
• No sailing experience needed
• Scientific observation equipment provided
• Dietary needs? Let us know when booking
• Weather-dependent — may be rescheduled for safety
• Not recommended for severe motion sickness
• Confirmation sent within 24 hours
• Languages: English, Greek
What to bring
• Beach towel
• Swimsuit
• Beach shoes
• Sunscreen
• Hat and sunglasses
• Waterproof phone case for underwater photos
Included
• Skipper / biodiversity guide
• Deckhand
• Lunch
• Wine (responsible consumption)
• Mineral water
• Snorkel and tube
• Biodiversity card
• SUP Board
• Diesel
• All taxes and fees
