Heraklion Private Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Lunch

Imagine spending a leisurely day on Crete’s sparkling waters, sailing aboard a luxurious catamaran with your own private group. For about 6.5 hours, you’ll enjoy cruising from Heraklion to the scenic Dia Island, indulging in a gourmet Mediterranean meal, unlimited drinks, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard. The price is roughly $1,637 per group of up to 14 people, making it a fairly premium experience tailored for those seeking comfort, privacy, and a taste of authentic Greek seaside leisure.

What we especially love about this cruise is how customizable and relaxed it feels. The crew, who are experienced and friendly, really make you feel like you’re on your own private yacht—no crowded boats or rushed schedules here. Plus, the onboard WiFi with music and the chance to capture stunning photos adds a modern touch to this traditional sailing adventure.

One possible consideration is that this tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll want to plan your transportation to the marina ahead of time. Also, since the cruise is subject to weather conditions, it’s wise to have a backup plan or be flexible with your schedule. But if you’re traveling with family, friends, or celebrating a special occasion, this experience offers a unique way to enjoy Crete’s maritime charm in style.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic coastal scenery, enjoy fine food and drinks, and are looking for a private, intimate day on the water rather than a large group tour. It’s perfect for those celebrating something special or simply wanting a peaceful escape from land-based sightseeing.

Key Points

Private and luxurious: A tailored experience aboard a spacious, well-equipped catamaran.
Authentic Greek cuisine: Freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch featuring seafood, meats, and local ingredients.
Water activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing gear included for fun in the crystal-clear waters.
Relaxing environment: Unlimited drinks, WiFi, music, and sunbathing make for a laid-back day.
Flexible for dietary needs: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available on request.
Weather-dependent: The tour relies on good weather, so be prepared to reschedule if necessary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia

The Departure and Setting Sail

Your experience begins at the Marina Café in Heraklion, where a friendly crew greets you about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. They wear DanEri t-shirts, making them easy to spot. The meeting point’s a practical spot with nearby municipal parking—costing around 5 EUR per day—so arriving early won’t be a problem.

Once onboard, you’re handed a safety briefing and introduced to your crew, who are certified by the Red Cross, adding a reassuring touch of professionalism. You’ll start with some welcome refreshments—coffee, tea, and freshly baked pies—setting a warm, hospitable tone. As the boat gently pulls away from the harbor, the fun begins with panoramic views of Heraklion’s coastline, the breeze filling your sails, and the anticipation of the day ahead.

Cruising Toward Dia Island

The hour-long cruise across the Aegean is a highlight in itself. The deck of the catamaran is spacious, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the music and WiFi—a modern convenience that’s surprisingly rare on boat tours. We loved how the crew kept the atmosphere lively but relaxed, with plenty of space for privacy and socializing.

During this time, you can sip unlimited white wine, cold beer, or soft drinks—your choice—and enjoy the scenic views of Crete’s rugged coastline and offshore islands. The boat’s stereo system plays relaxing tunes, adding to the laid-back vibe, while the WiFi lets you share these moments immediately on social media.

Exploring Dia Island’s Charm

Once you arrive at Dia’s tranquil bay, the real fun begins. This island, known for its crystal-clear waters and unspoiled nature, offers plenty to do. You can dive in for a refreshing swim, snorkel with provided gear to check out underwater life, or even try to catch a fish using the supplied fishing equipment.

The water is so clear that snorkeling feels like floating in an aquarium. For photo lovers, the inflatable flamingo and scenic backdrop make for memorable shots. If you want to try paddleboarding, the provided SUP boards make it easy to explore at your own pace. Many guests rave about the peaceful setting and the chance to unwind in such a natural environment.

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The Mediterranean Feast

Midday, the crew serves a generous Mediterranean lunch featuring regional dishes like fresh seafood, grilled meats, and tasty salads. The menu is thoughtfully prepared to cater to various dietary preferences, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available upon request. The food is freshly made, flavorful, and plentiful—an ideal way to fuel up for more water fun or to simply relax in the boat’s shaded area.

Guests often mention how delicious the lunch was, with one reviewer noting, “The seafood was so fresh, and the homemade dessert was the perfect ending.” The combination of good food, scenic surroundings, and good company makes this meal a true highlight.

Returning to Heraklion

After about four hours on Dia, you’ll set sail back to Heraklion. The return trip offers more time to unwind, soak in the sun, and enjoy the unlimited drinks while sharing photos and stories from the day. As you approach the marina, the sunset views and the gentle rocking of the boat provide a perfect ending to a memorable outing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While this private cruise isn’t the cheapest activity in Crete, its value lies in exclusivity, comfort, and personalized service. For a group of up to 14, the cost averages out to about $117 per person—a reasonable price considering the luxury vessel, gourmet meal, and multiple water activities included. The experience is designed to be seamless and stress-free, with everything from equipment to catering taken care of.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This tour is ideal for families seeking a relaxed day with plenty of water activities, friends celebrating a special occasion, or couples wanting a romantic escape. It’s particularly appealing if you value privacy and want to avoid large, crowded tour boats. Those who enjoy gourmet food and authentic local flavors will find the Mediterranean lunch especially satisfying.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Remember, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation to the marina in advance. The tour is weather-dependent—bad weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellation—so check the forecast and be flexible. Bring essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and a passport or ID (needed for port clearance). The crew can accommodate special dietary requests if informed at booking.

Summary

In essence, this private sailing trip offers a luxurious and authentic way to enjoy Crete’s beautiful coastline and the unspoiled charm of Dia Island. It combines the thrill of water activities with fine Mediterranean cuisine and the tranquility of sailing in the Aegean. The thoughtful touches—WiFi, music, unlimited drinks—make it feel both special and relaxing.

If you’re looking for a private, well-organized outing that blends comfort, scenic beauty, and good food, this cruise hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds and experience Crete from a unique perspective—on the water, in style, and with plenty of opportunities to unwind.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the duration of the cruise?
  The entire experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including sailing, water activities, and lunch.

• Is transportation to the marina included?
  No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer.

• What should I bring?
  Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a passport or ID card. It’s also good to have a camera and sunglasses.

• Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
  Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. Inform the crew when booking.

• Is the trip suitable for children?
  Yes, there is a special meal option for children, and water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding are suitable for kids under supervision.

• What happens in case of bad weather?
  The cruise is weather-dependent and may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.

• How many people can join this private cruise?
  Up to 14 guests, making it perfect for intimate groups, family gatherings, or small parties.

• Are drinks unlimited?
  Yes, you can enjoy unlimited soft drinks, white wine, and beer throughout the trip.

• What is the cancellation policy?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Just be aware this policy applies to all bookings.

To sum it up, this Heraklion private catamaran cruise to Dia combines the best of Crete’s seaside charm with luxury, privacy, and authentic Greek hospitality. It’s an experience that balances relaxation, adventure, and culinary delight—ideal for those who want to make their visit memorable and special. Whether celebrating, enjoying quality time with loved ones, or simply craving a peaceful retreat on the water, this trip offers a chance to create lasting memories in a stunning setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: