Heraklion: Dia Island Ultimate Catamaran Cruise with Meal

Imagine setting sail on Crete’s largest and most luxurious catamaran, measuring an impressive 17 meters, departing from Heraklion’s old Venetian harbor. For about 5.5 hours, you’ll glide across the shimmering waters, visit the mythical Dia Island, and indulge in a gourmet Mediterranean meal. The experience, priced at $108 per person, offers a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural storytelling.

What we love most about this cruise is the spaciousness of the boat, which ensures everyone can relax without feeling crowded — a rare treat on popular tours. Plus, the crew’s warmth and attentiveness, especially the helpful guides like Ioannis and Mariana, make the day feel personalized and effortless. You’ll also enjoy the variety of water activities, like snorkeling and paddleboarding, which give you a playful way to explore the picturesque bay.

One thing to consider is that if the weather turns rough, some water activities like paddleboarding might be limited for safety reasons. That said, the crew’s flexibility and the stunning scenery make this tour ideal for those who love a mix of relaxation and adventure.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a comfortable, well-organized experience with good food and water fun. It’s especially perfect if you’re visiting Crete and want to see the iconic Dia Island while enjoying a luxurious day on the sea. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have given high praise for its balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural stories.

Key Points

• Luxurious Catamaran: The 17-meter vessel offers a stable, spacious platform for a comfortable day at sea.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect turquoise waters, scenic coastlines, and the mythic aura of Dia Island.
• Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy a Mediterranean menu featuring local ingredients, Greek salads, appetizers, and seafood pasta.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing gear are included, making it easy to get in the water.
• Expert Guides: Friendly guides like Ioannis and Mariana enhance the experience with stories and helpful tips.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and water keep everyone refreshed throughout the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: From Heraklion’s Port to Dia Island

The adventure kicks off at Heraklion’s old Venetian harbor. Meeting at the well-known Café Marina, you’ll notice the grand presence of the luxury catamaran, which immediately sets a tone of exclusivity and comfort. The crew will give a brief safety orientation and serve refreshments, easing you into the day ahead.

As the boat departs, you’ll pass by the formidable Koules fortress, a striking 16th-century redoubt that’s intertwined with Heraklion’s history. From here, the crew entertains with stories about Dia Island’s mythology and past, adding a layer of intrigue to the scenery.

A gentle hour-long sail across the calm waters allows you to settle into the rhythm of the sea. You’ll love the way the boat’s stability and size make for a smooth, relaxing ride, even for those prone to seasickness. It’s during this time that many guests comment on the crew’s friendly demeanor and attentiveness, with one review highlighting how “the guides prepared a really delicious quality meal and helped with seasick tablets,” which shows their attention to comfort.

Exploring Dia Island: Water Fun and Beautiful Views

Arriving at the bay of Dia, you’ll immediately notice the crystal-clear turquoise waters—the kind that make you want to jump right in. The bay offers a sheltered environment perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddling, which are all included.

Guests consistently praise the quality snorkeling gear, with one reviewer noting “full-face snorkel gear was excellent,” and the waters being “stunning and perfect for swimming and having fun.” Those who enjoy being active can take advantage of paddleboards and fishing gear, although stand-up paddleboarding might be limited under rougher conditions for safety.

The crew is quick to help you gear up and serve drinks, making sure you’re comfortable and refreshed. We loved the way the crew seamlessly balances providing water fun with safety and attentiveness, as well as how they’re eager to accommodate any requests for extra drinks or equipment.

Most visitors find this part of the trip the highlight, with many describing the views as “beautiful,” and the water as “warm enough to stay in for almost the whole time,” even in early May.

The Mediterranean Feast: Food and Drinks Onboard

After an hour in the bay, it’s time to enjoy the delicious onboard meal. The menu is crafted around local ingredients and includes Greek salad, appetizers like olive paste and tzatziki, and a standout item—seafood pasta with shrimp or tomato sauce. The gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, like mushroom/truffle risotto, cater to a range of dietary needs, which many reviews appreciate.

Guests rave about the quality of the food, with one reviewer calling it “brilliant” and “cooked to perfection.” The meal is served with a selection of local wine, beer, soft drinks, and iced tea, all unlimited, which helps keep the mood lively and relaxed.

Following the main course, a tropical and local fruit salad offers a refreshing finish to the meal. Many say that the food alone makes this cruise worth the price, especially when compared to typical buffet or packed tour lunches.

Sails and Sunset: Returning to Heraklion

After the meal, you’ll have some time to relax or take a last dip in the water before the boat sets sail back to Heraklion. The return journey offers more stunning views, and you may find yourself reflecting on the day’s highlights.

Depending on the option you choose, you can enjoy either a morning cruise, ideal for those wanting to beat the heat and avoid crowds, or an afternoon cruise, perfect for catching the sunset over the sea. Many reviewers have expressed how the evening trips, with their sunset vistas, add an extra touch of magic.

The cruise concludes back where it started, at the port, with the crew ensuring everyone is safely disembarked and ready to head back to the busy streets of Heraklion.

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Practical Details and Tips for Your Cruise

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off if you opt for that service, which is convenient but should be booked in advance. The meeting point is at Café Marina, with specific check-in times: 8:40 AM for the morning cruise and 2:40 PM for the afternoon.

You’ll want to bring a towel and a passport or ID—the crew needs your details for check-in. Towing towels is your responsibility, as they are not included.

Weather can influence water activities; if the wind picks up, paddleboarding and snorkeling might be limited or unsafe. That’s a common consideration on open seas, but the crew’s flexibility and the beauty of the boat itself often compensate nicely.

The tour duration is about 5.5 hours, with most of that time spent at Dia Island. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, well-paced day—not a rushed sightseeing tour.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who appreciates comfortable, spacious boats rather than cramped vessels, this cruise will appeal. The quality of the food and unlimited drinks are a big draw for those who value good meals and a relaxed atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness and helpfulness, making it suitable for travelers seeking a more personalized feel.

It’s especially good for water enthusiasts—snorkelers, paddleboarders, and fishers—who want easy access to fun gear in a stunning setting. The stunning visuals of Dia Island combined with the luxury of the catamaran make it a memorable experience for couples, families, or solo travelers. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, due to the boat’s nature and safety considerations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For about five and a half hours of sailing, swimming, eating, and relaxing, this tour offers genuine value. The luxury catamaran combined with the quality meal and water activities makes it a well-rounded experience. The consistent praise from over 80 reviews—most rating it 4.8 out of 5—speaks to its popularity and quality.

This trip hits the sweet spot for travelers wanting an authentic, scenic, and comfortable way to explore Dia Island without feeling rushed or cramped. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a day of leisure, adventure, and good food in a beautiful setting.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 5.5 hours, with most of that time spent exploring Dia Island, including water activities and enjoying the meal.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, pickup and drop-off are arranged from specified areas, making logistics easier.

What should I bring?
A towel and a passport or ID are recommended. Towels are not included, and ID is needed for check-in.

Can I participate in water activities?
Absolutely. Snorkeling, fishing, and paddleboarding are included. Note that paddleboarding might be limited in rough weather for safety.

Is food included?
Yes, a Mediterranean meal with local ingredients is served, along with unlimited drinks.

What is the boat like?
It’s the largest and most luxurious catamaran in Crete, measuring 17 meters, providing spacious and stable comfort.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or pregnant women due to safety considerations.

Can I see the sunset?
Yes, you can choose an afternoon cruise that allows you to enjoy the sunset over the water, adding a special touch to the day.

How many people are on this tour?
The reviews suggest it’s a comfortably sized group, with space for everyone to relax and enjoy.

What if the weather is bad?
Water activities might be limited, but the crew will ensure safety and might reschedule or adapt the itinerary if necessary.

This cruise combines the allure of Crete’s sea and mythic Dia Island with the luxury and comfort of a well-equipped catamaran. Whether you’re after a fun-filled day of water sports, a scenic sail, or simply relaxing with excellent food and drinks, this experience offers a balanced and authentic way to enjoy Crete’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: