Hersonissos: Catamaran Sailing Trip to Dia Island with Lunch

A Sail Along Crete’s Coast to Dia Island: What to Expect

Imagine starting your day with the gentle hum of a luxurious catamaran slicing through the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean. For about 6 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll cruise from the lively port of Hersonissos on a vessel that comfortably accommodates up to 20 guests. Your destination? The uninhabited Dia Island, a jewel of natural beauty with pristine waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The price, around $146 per person, includes not only the voyage but a hearty Mediterranean lunch, local drinks, and all the water gear you’ll need for fun in the sun.

What truly makes this trip stand out? First, the personalized, attentive service from the crew, especially highlighted by reviews praising guides like Thomas, Captain Alex, and team members who go out of their way to make everyone feel at home. Second, the variety of activities onboard, from snorkeling with provided equipment, paddleboarding, to fishing—offering options for both relaxation and adventure.

A minor consideration is the absence of hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Limenas Chersonisou. For those who enjoy a more relaxed, family-friendly day on the water, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a mix of scenic cruising, active water sports, and good food, all wrapped in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love being on the water, crave fresh seafood and local wines, or want a family-friendly outing that balances fun with relaxation, this trip is a winner. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate authentic, attentive guides and a chance to explore a peaceful island away from the crowds. Perfect for first-time visitors to Crete or seasoned travelers seeking a quality day on the sea.

Key Points

• Comfortable, well-maintained catamaran with space for up to 20 guests ensures a relaxed atmosphere.
• All-included food and drinks make it easy to enjoy without extra planning or expense.
• Activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing cater to a variety of interests, especially families.
• Authentic guides and crew who are praised for their kindness and attentiveness.
• Uninhabited Dia Island offers pristine waters and scenic beauty perfect for swimming and exploring.
• No hotel pickup means planning your transportation to the meeting point in advance.

The Details of the Catamaran Sailing Trip to Dia Island

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins at 9:00am at DanEri Yachts, located in Limenas Chersonisou. The meeting point is accessible near public transportation, but be prepared to arrange your own transfer. The voyage lasts around 6 hours and 30 minutes, offering plenty of time to relax, eat, and enjoy water activities. At the end of the day, you’re dropped back at the original meeting point.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do

Once aboard, the crew sets sail along Crete’s coast, with the first major highlight being reaching Dia Island’s unspoiled bay—a true highlight in itself. Here, you’ll have time to swim in crystal-clear waters, jump off the boat for a refreshing dip, or explore underwater life with snorkeling gear provided.

For those who prefer staying dry or want a bit of fun floating, inflatable flamingos and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are available. Many guests mention how fun it is to take photos with the flamingo or to paddle around with the sea breeze in your hair.

The fishing gear adds extra entertainment, and reviews reveal that the crew makes a point of engaging everyone, especially kids, making it a genuinely family-friendly experience.

The Food and Drinks

Onboard, you’ll enjoy a delicious Mediterranean lunch, which includes a variety of cheese platters, salads, seafood pasta, or rice with feta, plus mussels in turmeric sauce and ouzo, and chicken with oranges. Kids aren’t left out with options like chicken nuggets or pasta. You can also indulge in unlimited beer and local white wine, plus soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea.

The food is described as fresh and tasty, and reviews often highlight how the lunch is a highlight, with some guests praising it as “delicious” and noting the lovely homemade dessert.

Activities and Amenities

While relaxing aboard, you can listen to calming music, enjoy free Wi-Fi (a surprisingly nice touch for sharing your adventures), and sip drinks as the crew keeps your glasses topped up. The snorkeling equipment and SUP boards are well maintained, and guests love how easy it is to get into the water for a swim or explore underwater.

What Past Travelers Say

Travelers consistently praise the friendly guides like Thomas and Captain Alex, who are noted for their kindness and ability to make guests feel at ease. One reviewer shared how the crew was “so kind to our 14-year-old,” making the experience special for families. Others describe the boat as “spotlessly clean” and well equipped.

Many repeat the sentiment that this trip was a highlight of their vacation, and some extended their experience with a sunset cruise, which they also loved.

The Pros and Cons of the Day on the Water

What We Love

• The personalized service from guides and crew, with many reviews mentioning their attentiveness and friendliness.
• The variety of water activities—snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing—meaning there’s something for all, whether you want to relax or get active.
• The quality and freshness of the food onboard, which feels like a genuine part of the experience rather than an afterthought.
• The unspoiled beauty of Dia Island, providing a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

• The lack of hotel pickup means you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. If you’re staying outside Hersonissos, plan accordingly.
• The tour is popular, so booking 48 days in advance is recommended—if you’re spontaneous, availability might be limited.
• The excursion is weather dependent—a calm, sunny day makes for a perfect trip, while rough seas could dampen the fun.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This sailing trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, appreciate good food, and want a well-organized, family-friendly outing. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed yet engaging activity that combines scenic beauty with active water sports. Those traveling with children or wanting to avoid overly commercialized experiences will find this trip offers an authentic, friendly atmosphere.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup included? No, the trip begins at DanEri Yachts in Limenas Chersonisou, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 6 hours and 30 minutes, including sailing, swimming, lunch, and activities.

What activities are available onboard? You can snorkel with provided equipment, stand-up paddleboard, fish using the gear supplied, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Is the tour suitable for kids? Yes, many reviews highlight its family-friendly nature, with options like pasta and chicken nuggets for children.

What is included in the price? Your ticket covers the water activities, a Mediterranean lunch, beverages (including wine and beer for 18+), Wi-Fi, and the use of equipment.

Do I need to bring anything? Besides your personal items, bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. All water gear and food are provided.

What is the maximum group size? Up to 20 travelers ensures a comfortable, less crowded experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

A day sailing from Hersonissos to Dia Island with this catamaran tour offers a well-balanced mix of leisure, adventure, and delicious local flavors. The friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and variety of water activities make it a top pick for those seeking a memorable Crete experience. Whether you want to snorkel, paddleboard, or simply relax with a good meal and a glass of wine, this trip delivers value at a reasonable price.

Perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone craving a peaceful yet engaging day on the water, this tour leaves you with plenty of stories and photos. Just remember to book early and plan your transport to the meeting point—the sea, after all, waits for no one, but it’s worth the effort.

To sum it up, if you’re after a friendly, authentic Crete adventure with excellent food and water fun, this catamaran trip to Dia Island hits all the right notes. It’s a flexible, relaxing, and genuinely enjoyable way to see part of Crete’s stunning coastline and escape to an island paradise for the day.