Dia Island Catamaran Premium Lunch, Open Bar, Small Group

Discover Crete from the Water: Dia Island Catamaran Tour

A day on a luxurious catamaran exploring Dia Island offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Greek hospitality. Starting from Heraklion, this 6.5-hour cruise takes you past scenic coastlines, into secluded bays, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and just soaking up the sun. The tour includes a freshly cooked Mediterranean lunch and unlimited drinks, making it a popular choice for both families and groups of friends looking for a taste of the Aegean’s best.

What we really love about this experience is the small-group setting, which keeps things intimate and relaxed. The crew’s attention to detail — from fresh local food to well-stocked water sports gear — makes for a smooth, memorable day. On the flip side, some might find the activity schedule a bit packed, especially if you’re hoping for a slow, wandering day. Still, if you enjoy a little adventure mixed with comfort, this cruise is perfect for you.

If you’re after a balanced blend of scenic beauty, good food, and fun water activities, this tour suits those who want to experience Crete’s coast from the water without sacrificing quality or comfort. It’s especially appealing for travelers wanting to avoid large, crowded tours and prefer a more personalized vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small-group luxury ensures a more personal and relaxed experience
• All-day drinks and Mediterranean lunch provide great value and convenience
• Water activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and inflatable flamingo fun appeal to all ages
• Stunning coastal and island views make the journey visually rewarding
• Flexible options with optional transfers suit different travel plans
• Authentic Crete hospitality shines through in the friendly crew and quality food

An In-Depth Look at the Dia Island Catamaran Experience

Setting Sail from Heraklion

We start the morning at the Marina Café, where the crew, wearing recognizable DanEri T-shirts, welcomes us with fresh coffee, tea, and local pies. This warm greeting sets the tone for a laid-back day. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures we’re ready to embark without fuss. The boat itself is a beautiful, modern catamaran, spacious enough for a small group, which makes the experience more relaxed and less crowded than larger vessels.

The cruise begins with a safety briefing and a quick scenic drive past the Rocca a Mare Fortress for some photo opportunities. The views of Heraklion’s coast and the fortress provide a hint of what the day will offer — beautiful scenery and historical backdrop all in one.

Cruising to Dia Island

Once underway, we’re treated to music, WiFi, and the gentle rhythm of the sea. The crew keeps the atmosphere lively yet relaxed, creating the perfect setting for socializing or simply zoning out with the rolling waves. We love that the crew is attentive and friendly, making sure everyone feels comfortable.

The journey to Dia Island takes about an hour, during which we’re encouraged to enjoy unlimited drinks — from cold beer and white wine to soft drinks and water. This is a real highlight, giving us a chance to unwind and enjoy the sunshine.

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Arrival at the Secluded Bay

Upon reaching a quiet bay near Dia Island, the boat anchors, and the real fun begins. This stop is the highlight for many. The crystal-clear waters invite everyone to swim or snorkel right off the boat. For those less inclined, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and inflatable flamingos are available, adding a playful touch. Reviewers love the variety of water gear, noting that there’s equipment for all ages and skill levels, making this a truly inclusive experience.

Kids and adults alike rave about the inflatables, especially the flamingo — a perfect photo op that keeps the mood light and joyful. We appreciated the attention to safety with life jackets and arm floaties available for kids.

The Mediterranean Lunch

After working up an appetite, the crew serves a freshly prepared Mediterranean meal. The menu features local seafood, tender meats, and vibrant vegetables, all crafted on board by the onboard chef. Many reviews highlight the quality and freshness of the food, describing it as delicious, abundant, and well-presented. There’s also a special kids menu, ensuring younger guests are well catered for.

Guests particularly enjoy the wine and soft drinks, which complement the meal perfectly. The combination of good food, good drinks, and beautiful surroundings makes this part of the cruise feel like a true taste of Greece.

More Water Fun and Scenic Return

Post-lunch, we have about an hour to lounge, swim, or paddleboard before heading back. The crew encourages participation but also respects those who want to simply chill on deck, catching some sun and taking in the peaceful views. The return trip offers more of the same with scenic vistas, music, and a relaxed vibe.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for families, friends, couples, or anyone seeking a comfortable, engaging day at sea. It’s perfect for those who want good food, drinks, and water activities without the hassle of organizing everything themselves. If you enjoy small-group tours, friendly crews, and scenic beauty, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your trip to Crete.

Practical Details That Matter

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts from Heraklion, with a brief scenic cruise past Rocca a Mare Fortress. The main event is a four-hour stop at Dia Island, combining photo opportunities, swimming, and water sports. The return journey is about an hour, with optional drop-offs at several locations around Crete, making it convenient for many travelers.

What’s Included and What’s Extra

You get a luxurious sailing catamaran, a friendly crew with Red Cross certification, and a delicious Mediterranean lunch. All water sports gear, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and inflatables, are provided, along with unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer.

The tour does not include hotel transfers unless you select an option with pickup, which makes sense for those staying in Heraklion or nearby areas. For others, the meeting point at the marina is straightforward, with parking nearby.

The Experience’s Value

With a 4.8 rating from 36 reviews, this tour is clearly well-loved. People frequently mention the friendly crew, high-quality food, and good value. The small-group setting and the variety of activities mean you’re not just watching from a distance; you’re actively involved in the day’s fun.

Considerations for Travelers

One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency — the cruise can be rescheduled or canceled if the weather turns bad. Also, the longer duration means it’s a full day out, which might be tiring for some, especially with young children or those not used to boating.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — it’s for those seeking a well-rounded, relaxing day with plenty of water-based fun. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly activities and safe environment, while couples and friends will enjoy the intimate setting, good food, and scenic views. If you like a bit of adventure but also value comfort and excellent service, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel transfers unless you select the option that offers pick-up from specific areas like Heraklion or nearby towns. The meeting point at the marina is easy to access with parking available.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a passport or ID. It’s also wise to have sunglasses and a hat for sun protection.

Can I participate in water activities if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Yes, life jackets and arm floaties are provided for kids and less confident swimmers, ensuring everyone can enjoy swimming and water sports safely.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe or unfavorable, the activity may be rescheduled or canceled. You’ll be notified in advance.

Is there a vegetarian or special diet option?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. The onboard chef is accommodating to dietary needs.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including all stops, swimming, and the onboard meal. Check the schedule for specific starting times.

Final Thoughts

This Dia Island catamaran tour offers a high-quality, authentic experience of Crete’s coast. The small-group setting, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and fun water activities combine to create a memorable day on the Aegean. The crew’s attention to detail and the luxurious boat make it a standout option for those who want a relaxing, yet engaging day at sea.

It’s an especially good choice if you value personalized service, good food, and scenic beauty. Families, couples, and friends looking for a day of sun, sea, and good company will find plenty to love here. Just remember to pack your swim gear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure — Crete’s waters await.

You can check availability for your dates here: