Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia: Gourmet Lunch & Open Bar

Imagine sailing on a spacious, modern catamaran along Crete’s coast, leaving behind the busy port of Heraklion for the tranquil waters near Dia Island. For around $123 per person, this half-day cruise offers a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and culinary delights. With a small group atmosphere, you’ll enjoy personalized service, plenty of space to relax, and the opportunity to explore one of the island’s most beautiful hidden gems.

What makes this experience truly special? First, the gourmet lunch prepared by an onboard chef, full of fresh seafood, flavorful salads, and homemade desserts. Second, the open bar with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks keeps the mood lively and refreshing. We also love how the crew thoughtfully provides everything from snorkeling gear and SUP boards to floaties and inflatable flamingos — making it easy to jump right into the crystal-clear waters.

One potential consideration: the cruise is weather-dependent, and bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellations. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of activity and high-quality food, this tour fits travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and luxury. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends seeking a memorable day on Crete’s waters without feeling rushed or crowded.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Luxury vessel with shaded and sun-exposed areas for comfort
Gourmet Mediterranean lunch with seafood, meat, and vegetarian options
Unlimited drinks including wine, beer, and soft drinks all day
Activities at Dia Island like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming
Well-organized with friendly, knowledgeable crew
Weather-sensitive, so check forecasts in advance

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A Closer Look at the Experience

When you step aboard this luxury catamaran, the first thing you’ll notice is how spacious and well-maintained everything feels. The vessel features shaded areas and open decks, giving you options to soak up the sun or stay cool in the shade. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, greets you with coffee, tea, and fresh pies — a simple but thoughtful start that sets a welcoming tone.

The cruise begins with a calming sail along Heraklion’s coast, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and the surrounding sea. During the trip, you’ll enjoy curated music, free WiFi, and a relaxed atmosphere. The sail itself is smooth and comfortable, with plenty of room to lounge, chat, or simply stare at the horizon. As you cruise, you might appreciate the attention to detail — from the well-stocked bar to the onboard cheese platter, all designed to enhance your experience.

Why We Love the Itinerary

Our favorite part of this trip is the arrival at Dia Island’s bay, where the water is so clear it’s hard to believe. The marine life and underwater scenery are fantastic for snorkeling and swimming. Many reviews highlight how serene and beautiful this spot is, with crystal waters inviting you to float and explore. You’ll also find snorkeling gear and SUP boards readily available, making it easy for anyone, regardless of experience, to get in the water.

One reviewer, Claire, called the food “a real highlight” and appreciated the “immaculate” boat and equipment. Others, like Pascale, loved the freedom to explore at their own pace, whether swimming, paddleboarding, or just relaxing at anchor.

The Gourmet Lunch

The lunch onboard is a standout feature. Prepared fresh by the onboard chef, it features Mediterranean favorites, including seafood, meat dishes, and vegetarian options, often tailored for children or special dietary needs upon request. Several guests describe it as “delicious” and “brimming with fresh flavors,” emphasizing how thoughtfully it’s prepared.

We also appreciate the variety of drinks available, with unlimited soft drinks, wine, and beer. This keeps everyone refreshed and adds to the laid-back, celebratory vibe, whether you’re raising a glass to the stunning scenery or enjoying a casual sip between swims.

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Activities and Comfort

Beyond swimming and paddleboarding, the boat is equipped with inflatable flamingos and floaties for fun photo ops. Fishing gear is also on hand, and the crew is attentive to safety with life jackets and arm floaties provided. Kids and adults alike find plenty of entertainment, making this a great trip for families.

The boat’s interior offers a cozy cabin where little sailors can rest, while adults may appreciate the WiFi and curated music selection. Many reviews rave about the crew’s attentiveness, with one guest praising the crew members Jana and Wesley for creating a “personal” experience.

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Returning and Relaxing

As the cruise winds down, you’ll sail back in the late afternoon, often with the setting sun providing a stunning backdrop. Guests enjoy the gentle ride, soaking in the scenery and reflecting on the day’s highlights. The entire trip lasts about half a day, which is enough to feel relaxed without losing your whole afternoon.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Unlike larger, more crowded boat trips, this cruise emphasizes small-group intimacy and comfort. With a maximum capacity of around 20 guests, it feels exclusive without the high price tag. Many reviewers, from Claire to Pascale, mention how the crew’s professionalism, combined with the boat’s cleanliness and the high quality of the food, made this trip “stand out” from previous experiences.

The attention to detail — from free WiFi and music to special treats for children and birthday celebrations — elevates this experience, making it suitable for special occasions or just a leisurely escape.

The Value of a Well-Crafted Day at Sea

While $123 per person might seem like a steep price, consider what’s included: a luxurious vessel, gourmet lunch, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, and activities. The small group size and attentive crew ensure a personalized experience that many larger tours can’t match. Many guests mention how the quality of food and service exceeded their expectations, making it good value for the level of comfort and options provided.

The trip also offers flexibility for dietary needs, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. For families, the variety of activities and the safe, well-equipped environment make it an ideal choice for a memorable day out.

Who Would Love This?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want more than just a boat ride. If you value high-quality food, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It suits couples celebrating special occasions, families with kids, or groups of friends looking for a fun day on the water.

It’s especially well-suited for those who like a balance of adventure and comfort, with ample opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and exploring without feeling rushed or crowded.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, transfers are not included, but you can request a transfer service in advance. The meeting point is at the Marina Café, with ample parking nearby.

How early should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to check in with the crew wearing a DanEri t-shirt.

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

Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, and the onboard lunch is flexible enough for most dietary needs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent. In case of bad weather, it may be rescheduled or canceled, with a full refund possible if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. The cruise includes special meal options for kids, and young sailors can enjoy paddleboarding, snorkeling, and inflatable fun.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is available, which many guests appreciated for sharing their experiences or staying connected.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts about 4-5 hours, from departure in the morning to return in the early afternoon, making it a perfect half-day escape.

Final Words

This Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water. It combines luxury and adventure with excellent food, friendly service, and beautiful scenery. The small-group setting enhances the experience, ensuring everyone feels taken care of and gets to enjoy the gorgeous surroundings.

If you’re after a relaxed yet activity-packed day with high-quality food and drinks, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially appealing for those celebrating special occasions or simply wanting to indulge in Crete’s stunning marine environment comfortably.

For travelers who prioritize value, authenticity, and a personal touch, this trip will likely be a highlight of your Crete visit. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast — but no matter what, you’ll leave with plenty of beautiful memories.

Note: Always check current availability and specific details with the provider before booking, especially regarding weather conditions and dietary requests.