Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia: Gourmet Lunch & Open Bar

Imagine gliding across crystal-clear waters aboard a spacious, elegant catamaran, with the sun warming your skin and a glass of wine in hand. This is essentially what the Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia offers—a blend of indulgence, adventure, and tranquility wrapped into a 5-6 hour journey. Whether you’re a food lover, a water sports enthusiast, or simply after a scenic escape, this tour packs enough to keep everyone happy.

What we love most is the thoughtfulness of the experience: a chef-crafted Mediterranean lunch, unlimited drinks, and plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. The small group setting ensures a personal touch that larger tours often can’t match, making it feel more like a private yacht outing. One thing to consider is that the trip is weather-dependent—bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellations, so flexibility might be necessary. This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of comfort, fun, and scenic beauty, especially those who want to indulge a bit while exploring Crete’s stunning waters.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Spacious, well-maintained catamaran with shaded and sun decks
• Gourmet Meal: Freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch with seafood, meat, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
• Unlimited Drinks: Open bar includes soft drinks, beer, and white wine throughout the trip
• Water Activities: Snorkeling gear, SUP boards, floaties, and fishing equipment included
• Stunning Scenery: Beautiful cruise to Dia Island’s tranquil bays with crystal-clear waters for swimming
• Authentic Service: Friendly, knowledgeable crew with high safety standards and attention to detail

The Itinerary: What to Expect From Start to Finish

The Morning Kickoff

Your day begins in Heraklion, where the friendly crew welcomes you aboard with coffee, tea, detox water, and fresh pies. This warm greeting sets a relaxed tone. The boat itself is a luxurious, spacious vessel with plenty of shaded and open areas, ensuring comfort no matter the weather. As the cruise departs, you’ll savor the views of Heraklion’s coastline while enjoying curated music and free WiFi—yes, even at sea.

En Route to Dia Island

The cruise to Dia takes approximately 1 to 2 hours, during which you’ll likely be soaking in the sun or relaxing under shade. Guests frequently mention the professional yet friendly crew, with some reviews highlighting guides like Jana and Wesley, who add a personal and knowledgeable touch. During this segment, you’ll enjoy unlimited drinks—wine, beer, soft drinks, water—and can start snapping photos of the Aegean’s sparkling waters.

Arrival at Dia: Water Fun and Exploration

Once at Dia Island, the ship anchors in a beautiful bay with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Many reviews mention how breathtaking the water is, with some describing it as “unbelievably clear.” You can wear snorkel masks, flippers, and paddleboards provided onboard to explore the marine life or float lazily on inflatables like the inflatable flamingo.

Guests consistently praise the diversity of water gear—from snorkeling to SUP boards and floaties—which cater to different activity levels and preferences. The reviews also note the presence of fishing gear, adding a fun, relaxed vibe. The shallow waters and calm conditions make it suitable for families, with little sailors having a blast with the activities and fun toys provided.

The Gourmet Lunch

After some time in the water, it’s time for the highlight of the trip: lunch. The onboard chef prepares a Mediterranean feast featuring fresh salads, seafood, hot dishes (with options for meat and seafood lovers), and a homemade dessert. Reviewers, including one who called the food “delicious,” often mention the high quality of the meal—it’s a real culinary treat at sea.

The lunch experience is well-organized, with a variety of options to cater to dietary needs—vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free requests are available on request. Parents praise the special kid-friendly meals, making it an enjoyable experience for families.

Relaxation and Return Journey

Post-lunch, guests tend to relax in the sun, take more dips, or simply enjoy the scenery. The crew maintains a lively but laid-back atmosphere, and with music and Wi-Fi, you can share your adventure instantly. As the boat begins its return to Heraklion, some reviews mention the stunning sunset views—a perfect way to end the day.

Final Touches

Back at the harbor, many guests feel they’ve had a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and gourmet experiences. Little details, like the crew’s attentive service and the clean, well-maintained vessel, make a lasting impression. Plus, the option for private bookings and the possibility of pickup from your hotel add extra convenience.

What Does the Experience Mean for You?

This cruise isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s about truly enjoying your time on the water in comfort and style. The small group size creates an intimate environment, perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends celebrating a special occasion. The quality of the food and drinks matches the luxurious setting, and the variety of water activities keeps everyone entertained.

Most reviews highlight the value for money, especially given the gourmet meal, unlimited drinks, and personalized service; it’s a full-day experience that feels both indulgent and authentic. The professional crew, with their high safety standards and local knowledge, make all the difference, ensuring peace of mind throughout the trip.

Who Should Book This Tour?

• Families looking for a fun, safe day with water activities and kid-friendly meals
• Couples and friends wanting a scenic, relaxing day with gourmet food and drinks
• Water sports enthusiasts eager to snorkel, paddleboard, or fish in tranquil waters
• Those seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience without sacrificing authenticity or comfort

The Value and Practicalities

At $124 per person, this cruise offers remarkable value considering the luxury environment, gourmet meal, unlimited drinks, and water gear included. Many reviews reflect satisfaction with the overall experience, emphasizing how well-organized and enjoyable the day is. The duration of around 5-6 hours allows ample time for swimming, relaxing, and exploring without feeling rushed.

Transportation to and from your hotel isn’t included but can be arranged upon request, adding convenience for travelers staying elsewhere in Crete. The tour operates with a flexible cancellation policy, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Experience That Truly Stands Out

What makes this cruise special is its balance of luxury and authenticity. The crew’s attention to detail, from the freshly baked pies in the morning to the gourmet lunch, shows a genuine desire to make your day memorable. The stunning scenery, combined with the unlimited drinks and water activities, makes it a well-rounded experience suitable for many types of travelers.

The Sum Up

This catamaran cruise from Heraklion to Dia is a superb option for those wanting a high-quality, relaxed day on the water. The combination of luxury amenities, delicious food, friendly crew, and beautiful scenery ensures a memorable outing. It’s especially ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to indulge in Crete’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or fun.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience that balances adventure with relaxation, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s a chance to enjoy Crete from a different perspective—sailing, swimming, and feasting in style.

FAQ

Is transportation to the cruise boat included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included but can be arranged upon request. You can also meet directly at the departure point in Heraklion.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, swimwear, and a passport or ID. It’s also wise to have a hat and sunglasses, especially if you plan to stay on deck all day.

Are dietary options available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. Kids’ meals are also offered.

What water activities are included?
Snorkeling gear, SUP boards, floaties, arm floaties, and fishing equipment are all provided free of charge.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention kids having a great time with the activities and toys on board, and the meal options are kid-friendly too.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is subject to weather conditions. In case of bad weather, it may be rescheduled or canceled, with a full refund if that happens.

How long does the cruise last?
The trip takes roughly 5 to 6 hours, making it a full but manageable day out with plenty of time for activities, relaxation, and good food.

The Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia offers a well-rounded experience that combines comfort, adventure, and excellent service—perfect for those looking to make the most of their time in Crete.