Heraklion: Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Meal&Drinks

Heraklion: Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Meal & Drinks

Imagine cruising across the sparkling waters of Crete in your own plush, private catamaran, with your closest friends or family. For about 5 hours, you’ll enjoy a personalized sailing adventure from Heraklion to the idyllic Dia Island, with options for morning tranquility or sunset magic. At $1,920 for up to 10 guests, this experience offers a blend of luxury, fun, and authentic Greek scenery, making it a compelling choice for special occasions or simply a luxurious escape.

What we love about this trip is the personalized nature of the cruise—your own boat, your own schedule—and the opportunity to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard in some of Crete’s clearest waters. Plus, the delicious Mediterranean meal, served right on deck, elevates the experience from merely scenic to genuinely indulgent.

One consideration to keep in mind: the price per boat might seem steep, but when you factor in the exclusivity, the quality of the food and drinks, and the range of water activities, it’s a solid value for a private day on the water.

This cruise suits travelers celebrating a special moment, families seeking a relaxed yet fun day, or groups that want an authentic, all-inclusive day with no stress about planning. If you enjoy a combination of comfort, exclusivity, and Mediterranean scenery, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Private luxury experience with a spacious catamaran for up to 10 people
• Flexible departure times for morning or sunset cruises
• Includes gourmet Mediterranean meals, with special options for children and dietary needs
• Unlimited drinks—soft drinks, beer, and white wine—are provided throughout
• Exciting water activities like snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing gear
• Perfect for celebrations such as birthdays, weddings, or just a fun day out

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Heraklion to Dia Catamaran Experience

This private cruise is designed to provide a seamless mix of comfort, adventure, and delicious food, all set against the stunning backdrop of Crete’s coast and the azure waters of Dia Island. From the moment you arrive at the marina, the experience feels exclusive and carefully curated.

Starting Point and Check-in

You’ll meet the crew at the Marina Café, which faces the sea and boats, about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. It’s worth arriving a bit early to settle in, enjoy some welcome coffee or tea, and take in the marina’s lively yet calm atmosphere. Parking is convenient, with a small fee, and the crew, dressed casually in DanEri t-shirts, greets everyone warmly—this is not a rushed, “just show up and go” affair.

Embarking on Luxury

Once aboard your spacious catamaran, you’ll immediately notice the quality of the setup—comfortable seating, a modern stereo system, and free WiFi to share your moments instantly. The crew, who are certified and trained in safety (including Red Cross certification), will give a quick safety briefing so everyone is prepared for a fun and secure day.

The Journey to Dia Island

The sail itself lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to relax, sip drinks, and soak in the views. The water glistens under the Mediterranean sun, and you might find yourself marveling at the clarity of the sea. A curated playlist or your own favorite tunes will set the mood, and the crew keeps the atmosphere lively yet relaxed.

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The Highlight: Dia Island

Once you arrive at Dia, a protected bay with calm, crystal-clear waters, your water-based adventures begin. The reviews highlight how much fun this is—“endless fun on the water,” as one guest put it. You’ll have opportunities to swim, snorkel among marine life, fish with provided gear, or test your balance on stand-up paddleboards and inflatables, including a fun inflatable flamingo. Kids and adults alike love these activities, and the crew ensures safety with life jackets and floaties.

Meal and Refreshments

After working up an appetite, everyone can indulge in a fresh Mediterranean meal prepared on board. The menu offers a variety of regional dishes including seafood and meat options, complemented by salads and a summer dessert. Vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free guests can request special meal options, ensuring everyone is catered for. The reviews rave about the delicious food, with one mentioning the fantastic wine selection and delightful tapas-like dishes.

Relaxation and Scenic Views

Whether you choose the morning cruise for a peaceful start or the sunset option for a dazzling display of colors over the sea, the scenery is spectacular. The sunset cruise, in particular, has received praise for creating “dazzling hues that painted the sky and water,” making it a memorable photo opportunity.

Return Journey and Reflection

As the cruise winds down, you’ll enjoy the leisurely sail back, savoring the last moments of water, sun, and good company. The crew ensures everyone leaves with plenty of photos and stories to share.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The personalization is key. Unlike large group excursions, this private cruise offers a tailored experience—your schedule, your comfort, your choice of departure time. The luxury amenities, including spacious decks, Wi-Fi, and a professional crew, ensure that comfort and safety are top priorities.

The water activities are a major draw. The availability of snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing gear means you can actively engage with Crete’s sea life or just splash around. For families, the kids’ toys, cozy cabins, and kid-friendly meals make this an excellent choice for a stress-free day.

The gourmet meal is another highlight, transforming a simple boat trip into a full-day culinary adventure. Fresh seafood and regional dishes served on deck make it feel authentically Mediterranean.

Pricing and Value

At $1,920 for up to 10 guests, this experience costs about $192 per person, which may seem like a splurge, but it’s well worth the price for a private, all-inclusive day. The cost covers the boat, crew, meals, drinks, water gear, and even Wi-Fi—these are not extras or add-ons. For anyone seeking a special celebration or simply a luxurious day on the water, this is a high-value option, especially considering the privacy and personalized touches.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for those celebrating a special occasion—birthdays, anniversaries, or weddings—and for families wanting a fun day that keeps everyone entertained and comfortable. It’s also perfect for couples or groups of friends craving a private escape, away from crowded tours. If you appreciate good food, water-based fun, and scenic sailing, you’ll find this trip to be a highlight of your Crete trip.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early to secure your preferred departure time, as availability can fill quickly.
• Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the marina café.
• Bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen—the water activities are the main attraction.
• Consider your meal preferences—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options are available if requested.
• No hotel transfer is included, so plan your transport to the marina accordingly.
• The cruise is not suitable for pregnant women, so check with your doctor if unsure.
• The experience is weather-dependent; bad weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private catamaran, crew, gourmet Mediterranean meal, unlimited drinks including soft drinks, wine, and beer, water gear, paddleboards, inflatables, Wi-Fi, and safety equipment.

How long is the cruise?
The activity lasts approximately five hours, with the actual sailing and water time split between the outbound, the time at Dia Island, and the return.

Can I choose between morning and sunset departures?
Yes, you can select either a morning cruise for a peaceful start or an afternoon/evening cruise to enjoy the sunset. Check availability for specific times.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Absolutely, kids love splashing around and playing with provided toys and inflatables. Special kid meals are also available.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your ID or passport. A hat and sunglasses are recommended for sun protection.

Are there vegetarian or special meal options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be requested, and kids’ meals are also available.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The cruise is subject to weather conditions. If canceled, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is parking available at the marina?
Yes, there is a municipal parking lot nearby, with a small fee of around 5 EUR per day.

Is this activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a luxurious, personalized day on the water in Crete, this private catamaran cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island checks all the boxes. It offers a wonderful blend of comfort, adventure, and genuine Greek flavor—delicious food, stunning scenery, and water fun all in one neat package.

Suitable for families, friends, or couples celebrating something special, it provides a memorable way to see Crete from a new perspective. The inclusiveness—meals, drinks, water activities—means you can relax without stress or planning. The private setting makes it ideal for creating meaningful memories, whether you’re capturing sunset photos or sharing laughs on inflatable flamingos.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the quality of the experience, the exclusivity, and the range of activities make it a worthwhile investment in your Crete holiday. This is a true treat for anyone wanting to combine luxury, adventure, and authentic Mediterranean charm in one perfect day.

You can check availability for your dates here: