The Heraklion: Dia Island Sunset Catamaran Tour promises an unforgettable experience, blending scenic cruising, indulgent cuisine, and breathtaking sunsets. Departing from the historic Rocca a Mare Fortress, this 5.5-hour adventure takes you on a journey to the serene Dia Island, where you’ll have ample time to swim, snorkel, and soak in the natural beauty of the secluded bay. But the real highlight of this tour may just be the gourmet Mediterranean seafood lunch and refreshing drinks that will be served throughout the day, elevating the experience to a new level of luxury and relaxation.
Key Points
- A 5.5-hour tour from Heraklion to Dia Island, featuring a scenic cruise, free time for swimming and snorkeling, and a stunning sunset return journey.
- A 50-foot catamaran with onboard amenities like a shower, WC, and Wi-Fi, and complimentary beverages, cake, and a premium Mediterranean seafood lunch.
- The tour starts at the Rocca a Mare Fortress with a safety briefing, and offers convenient parking nearby at Marinas Parking (Parking Port P1).
- Visitors are recommended to bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and personal comfort items for the outdoor activities.
- The tour has received overwhelmingly positive customer feedback, with a 5/5 rating based on 58 reviews, praising the friendly crew, gourmet food, and scenic experiences.
Tour Overview
The tour offers an exhilarating catamaran cruise from Heraklion to the picturesque Dia Island.
Lasting 5.5 hours, the tour costs from €30 per person and is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
Participants can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy, which allows for a full refund up to 24 hours before the departure.
With its stunning scenery, dolphin sightings, and birdwatching opportunities, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for visitors to Heraklion.
Itinerary Details
Starting from the I. Merineli 2 at the Rocca a Mare Fortress, the Dia Island Sunset Tour kicks off with a 15-minute welcome and safety briefing.
After that, guests board the 50-foot catamaran for a scenic 1-hour cruise to the island of Dia. Once there, they’ll have 3.25 hours to swim, snorkel, and enjoy free time in a secluded bay.
The return sail offers stunning sunset views, completing the 5.5-hour experience. Throughout the journey, travelers can look forward to spotting dolphins and birdwatching.
With its gourmet onboard dining and all-inclusive bar, this tour promises an unforgettable day on the water.
Catamaran Cruise
The 50-foot catamaran glides across the crystal-clear waters, transporting guests on a seamless journey to the island of Dia.
Fully equipped with a shower, WC, and Wi-Fi, the catamaran offers a comfortable and convenient experience.
Onboard, guests are welcomed with refreshing beverages, including coffee, soft drinks, and detox water, as well as a delectable cake.
The journey includes a scenic one-hour cruise to Dia Island, where guests can indulge in swimming, snorkeling, and free time in a secluded bay.
The return sail provides stunning sunset views, completing the memorable catamaran experience.
Onboard Amenities
Complementing the seamless catamaran journey are the exceptional onboard amenities that enhance the overall experience.
The 50-foot catamaran is equipped with a shower, WC, and Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the tour. Guests are welcomed with refreshing beverages, including coffee, soft drinks, and detox water, accompanied by a delectable cake.
The gourmet platters feature an assortment of cheeses, bruschetta, and cold cuts, whetting the appetite for the upcoming premium Mediterranean seafood lunch. The all-inclusive bar offers a selection of water, soft drinks, white wine, and beer, catering to diverse preferences.
Plus, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, water inflatables, and life jackets are provided, allowing guests to fully enjoy the aquatic activities.
Lunch and Drinks
An integral part of the Dia Island Sunset Tour is the exceptional lunch and beverage selection curated for guests.
The tour features a premium Mediterranean seafood lunch, including fresh fish, a Cretan salad, and seasonal fruits. Throughout the journey, an all-inclusive bar offers water, soft drinks, white wine, and beer.
Complementing the meal, guests can enjoy a spread of gourmet platters featuring assorted cheeses, bruschetta, and cold cuts. These culinary delights are paired with complimentary welcome beverages such as coffee, soft drinks, detox water, and cake, ensuring a truly indulgent on-board experience.
The thoughtfully selected menu and drinks combine to elevate the overall Dia Island Sunset Tour.
Meeting Point and Parking
Participants meet at the entrance of the Rocca a Mare Fortress, located at I. Merineli 2, and should arrive 15 minutes early.
Parking is recommended at the nearby Marinas Parking (Parking Port P1). This allows guests to conveniently access the departure point and ensure a punctual start to the Dia Island Sunset Catamaran Tour.
Once checked in, guests will receive a warm welcome, refreshments, and a safety briefing before embarking on the 50-foot catamaran for an unforgettable 5.5-hour adventure.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if plans change.
What to Bring
Guests should bring their passport or ID, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the Dia Island Sunset Catamaran Tour.
The tour takes place primarily outdoors, so sun protection is essential. Plus, guests will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the secluded bay of Dia Island, so appropriate swimwear is recommended.
A towel will be useful for drying off after swimming. Finally, bringing personal identification is required for the pre-departure check-in process.
Customer Feedback
The Dia Island Sunset Catamaran Tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 58 customer evaluations.
Tourists consistently praise the friendly and professional crew, the quality of the gourmet food and drinks, and the stunning scenery.
Standout crew members like Giorgos, Giannis, and Dido have received special mentions for their exceptional hospitality and attention to detail.
Customers describe the sunset experience as memorable, with many highlighting the breathtaking views and the opportunity to spot dolphins and birds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?
No, passengers cannot bring their own food and drinks on board. The tour includes a gourmet Mediterranean seafood lunch, assorted platters, and an all-inclusive bar with water, soft drinks, wine, and beer.
Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The tour is generally suitable for young children, but some activities like swimming and snorkeling may not be appropriate for very young kids. Parents should consider their child’s age and comfort level before booking.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. It is a fixed 5.5-hour experience from departure to return. Longer tours or private charters may be available, but would need to be requested separately.
How Reliable Is the Wi-Fi Connection on the Catamaran?
The Wi-Fi connection on the catamaran is generally reliable, though it may be spotty at times due to the remote location. Most guests report being able to use it for basic internet browsing and sharing photos during the tour.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups or Families?
The tour operator offers discounts for larger groups of 5 or more people, with savings of up to 10% per person. Families with children may also be eligible for reduced rates. It’s best to inquire directly for current group pricing options.
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Recap
The Heraklion: Dia Island Sunset Catamaran Tour offers a breathtaking experience, featuring a scenic cruise, swimming and snorkeling opportunities, and a delectable Mediterranean seafood lunch. With onboard amenities, stunning sunset views, and exceptional service, this 5.5-hour adventure is a must-try for those seeking a unique and memorable way to explore the picturesque Dia Island and its surroundings.