Dia Island

Dia Island, also pronounced Ntia, is an uninhabited treasure nestled in the tranquil waters of the Aegean Sea, just off the coast of Crete, 13 km north of the capital city of Heraklion. The small island is only 5 km long and 3 km wide, with an undulating coastline ripe for discovery. It has deep roots in Greek history as well as mythology, providing visitors with a wealth of fascinating sites and an aura of magic. The isle also features a broad range of stunning natural beauties, including sparkling bays of turquoise blue and striking hills richly covered in Mediterranean vegetation. It is a quiet and serene locale, perfect for a day trip while exploring the other treasures of Crete.

Atmosphere and Layout

Dia Island sets the stage for an enchanting maritime escape. As each vessel approaches, visitors are greeted by the island's awe-inspiring panorama of rugged cliffs, pristine shores, and crystal-clear waters, with proud hills dotted by handsome Greek Orthodox chapels. The island's unspoiled landscapes exude a sense of tranquility, immersing guests in the perfect haven for relaxation and solitude.

Most vessels will approach the island from the south, as the southern coast is the closest to Crete and also possesses the majority of the island’s main attractions. The south has four main bays, which, from west to east, are Agios Georgios, Kapari, Panagia, and Agriella. There is a fifth popular bay, Aginara, which rests on the east coast. The bay of Agios Georgios, or St. George, is the main port and the only location on the island with some facilities. It has the main beach, a church, and stone paths that lead to the forestry shelter on the north side of the island, as well as a small chapel. Additionally, there are a few small, uninhabited islets to the east and west, the best known being Paximadi and Petalidi. Notably, the island’s highest peak is Vardia at 220 meters, and there are a few steep cliffs along the coast that reach up to 60 meters.

Legends and History

Dia Island is steeped in legends and historical significance. For navigators across many centuries, including the Minoans, Byzantines, and Venetians, the island served as a marker for the nearing port of Heraklion. During the prosperous Minoan Era, there was even a small harbor settlement here. The discovery of this history is itself quite legendary, for it was Jacque Cousteu himself who was searching for the mythological lost continent of Atlantis when he found numerous shipwrecks and evidence of a great port beneath the waters between Dia and Heraklion. It is theorized that this port was lost to volcanic activity.

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of Dia’s history is the role it has played in legends from Greek mythology. It is well known that Zeus was born on Crete and sheltered there from his father, Cronus, who wanted to eat him. During that time, he was nursed by the goats of Amalthea. Later, when he saw the Cretans hunting these beloved goats, he conjured a great monster from the sea to destroy the island as punishment. However, when Poseidon reminded him that Cretans had also protected him in his infancy, he changed his mind and instead struck the creature with a bolt of lightning, transforming it into the land mass of Dia. Interestingly, the island was referred to as Standia in the historic records and ancient legends, but it was shortened over time to be simply “Dia”.

Wind, Water, and Anchorage Conditions

Dia Island offers favorable wind conditions for yachtsmen, making it an ideal stop along a sailing route. The Meltemi wind, a strong northerly wind, sweeps across the region during the summer months, providing exhilarating sailing experiences, especially on the northern side of the island.

Along the south and east coasts, the island's most sheltered anchorages, such as Agios Georgios, provide calm, safe harbors for a peaceful stay, allowing guests to appreciate the island's natural beauty and serene atmosphere. There are no facilities available except for a very scaled-back shelter near the main port that is mostly used in emergencies. Due to the general lack of services, the island is rarely crowded, though there is a slight uptick in visiting vessels during the peak tourism months of July and August. However, it is easy to avoid any crowds by moving on to a different bay.

Enjoy the Local Waters

One of the most popular attractions of Dia Island is its world of underwater wonders. The island is a paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. It is safe for both experienced and inexperienced certified divers, with depths as mild as 8 meters or as challenging as 30 meters, and everyone can enjoy snorkeling. The time of year with the most pleasant water temperatures typically lasts from late June to early October, when it averages above 74°F (23°C). Some of the best spots are the islets of Paximadi and Petalidi, where the water is typically very clear with up to 50 meters of visibility. Some marine life that may be spotted include grouper, pelagic fish, sponges, shellfish, nudibranchs, and pharoah worms. There are also dramatic underwater rock formations, as well as a few small caves.

Though the island is a little too rugged for many beaches, each bay boasts calm and beautiful waters for anchoring and swimming. Visitors might find a rocky ledge to spend a day sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in a delightful picnic against a backdrop of unspoiled beauty. Additionally, for those with the means to bring equipment along, the island is excellent for exciting water sports such as water skiing, windsurfing, or paddleboarding. The windy north coast is best for windsurfing, while other activities are best performed in the calmer bays of the south. Additionally, since the coasts are so rocky, it is highly recommended to use sea shoes if going ashore.

Explore the Island Itself

For many visitors to Dia Island, the trip is not complete until they’ve explored the island's walking trails. These pathways are clearly marked and expertly paved for maximum safety and convenience. Visitors can embark on a leisurely hike along the island's scenic trails, surrounded by unspoiled nature, without a care in the world. The island is a nature preserve and features many unique species, including the Cretan goat, also called an ibex, argimi, and kri kri; rabbits; and the Eleonora falcon, among others. Visitors are encouraged to marvel at the diverse flora and fauna, enjoy panoramic views of the sea and neighboring islands, and discover hidden coves and historic chapels.