TrovaTrip
Beach & Wellness6 days
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Heraklion with Larry OBrien

Dates

Apr 24–29, 2027

Group Size

8–22 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Easy

About this trip

True relaxation awaits in one of the most restorative destinations on earth: the legendary island of Crete. Leave the stress of everyday life behind and escape across sparkling blue waters to renew your mind, body, and spirit in the warm embrace of Greek hospitality. Practice yoga by the sea, meditate without distraction, indulge in tantalizing cuisine, and explore the timeless beauty of nature and architecture that can only be found on this eternal jewel of the Mediterranean.

Meet your host

Larry OBrien

Larry OBrien

I’m so excited to be hosting this trip. Travel with me to Heraklion — I’ll be there every step of the way.

What's included

  • Accommodations: 5-star hotel (5 nights). Twin occupancy.
  • Meals: 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners
  • 3 guided experiences included
  • Local guide throughout the trip

What's not included

  • Flights (except as noted)
  • Food & Alcohol (except as noted)
  • Visas & Travel Insurance
  • Airport Transfers
  • Tips & Gratuity

Included Experiences

  • Knossos Palace Visit & Heraklion City Tour
  • Haralabakis Winery Visit
  • Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia Island

Day by day6 days · 1 cities

  1. Day 1

    Welcome to Greece!

    Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into HER.

    StayKnossos Beach★★★★★or similar
    5 nights

    Overnight in Heraklion.

    twin occupancy

    MealsDinner
  2. Day 2

    Ancient Crete: Knossos & City Walk

    Good morning to your first full day in Crete! Today you will visit Knossos Palace, an archeological site considered to be the oldest city in Europe. With your local Guide, you will spend time exploring and learning about its history. Please be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Afterwards, you will enjoy a public guided tour through Heraklion. Then, transfer back to the hotel for the remainder of the day.

    • Knossos Palace Visit & Heraklion City Tour
      This morning, you will be transferred 15 minutes in a private coach to the site which many archaeologists consider Europe's oldest city. Upon arrival, you will have the chance to freely explore the ruins of the palace. Centuries ago, it was the center of a powerful civilization. Today it continues to inspire travelers with its ancient legends and still-palpable grandeur. Please be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there will be areas where you will be walking on uneven terrain. Afterwards, you will enjoy a public guided tour through Heraklion, and free time for shopping and eating.
      09:00· 240 min· Heraklion, Crete, Greece
    MealsBreakfastDinner
  3. Day 3

    Cretan Wine Tasting

    After a leisurely breakfast, you will be transferred to the Cretan wine country. Upon arrival, you will be taken on a tour of the vineyards and then sit down to enjoy a wine tasting and a light snack. Please be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Afterwards, you will be transferred back to the hotel for the remainder of the day.

    • Haralabakis Winery Visit
      Meet in the hotel lobby for a 35 minute transfer. Located on top of a hill in the heart of one of Greece's most beautiful wine-producing regions, this family winery offers the ideal tasting environment. Take a tour, then settle in and sample every variety to find your favorite—savoring the unique notes of minerality afforded by the fertile volcanic soil—while enjoying an unmatched view of the surrounding vineyards. You will enjoy three glasses of wine, accompanied with cheese and rusks.
      10:00· 240 min· Haralabakis Winery
    MealsBreakfastDinner
  4. Day 4

    Mediterranean Sea Cruise

    Today, you will be able to enjoy the morning at your leisure. In the late morning, you will be transferred to the marina for your private catamaran tour. Spend the afternoon cruising through the Mediterranean Sea. Please be sure to wear your bathing suit and bring comfortable shoes. You should also pack a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a change of clothes. Afterwards, you will be transferred back to the hotel for the remainder of the day.

    • Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia Island
      Transfer 40 minutes to the marina, then set sail on a relaxing catamaran cruise from Heraklion to the uninhabited island of Dia, a hidden gem just off Crete’s northern coast. You'll sail 1 hour to the island, then drop anchor in the island’s crystal-clear waters and enjoy free time to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or try stand-up paddleboarding in a peaceful, protected bay. Surrounded by nature and stunning sea views, this laid-back excursion offers the perfect escape from the bustle of the mainland. It's an ideal way to experience Crete’s natural beauty from the water. Lunch is included on board. Life jackets also included.
      09:30· 300 min· Crete, Greece
    MealsBreakfastLunchDinner
  5. Day 5

    Island Leisure Time

    Spend your last full day relaxing and exploring the island any way you would like! The day is yours to visit shops, try restaurants, and luxuriate in the all-encompassing peace of this legendary destination.

    MealsBreakfastDinner
  6. Day 6

    Goodbye, Crete!

    All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of HER.

    MealsBreakfast

Common questions

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

How does a Trova Trip actually work? Who's involved?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:

  • The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
  • The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

  • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
  • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
  • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
  • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
  • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending – 100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your trip – Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your trip – Non-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Does my Host make money from hosting?

TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.

Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It's a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).

A Host's earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn't guaranteed.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise.

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We'll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.

$3,968$4,168

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