Heraklion: Dia Island Ultimate Catamaran Cruise with Meal

If you’re looking for a memorable day on Crete’s waters, the Heraklion: Dia Island Ultimate Catamaran Cruise with Meal offers a well-rounded blend of comfort, scenery, and authentic Greek flavors. This 5.5-hour adventure takes you on a spacious, luxurious vessel to explore a myth-laden island and its pristine waters, all while enjoying a hearty Mediterranean meal. It’s an experience that balances leisure and activity, perfect for travelers craving both relaxation and a taste of local life.

What we love about this cruise? First, it’s on Crete’s largest and most luxurious catamaran—a 17-meter vessel that offers ample space and stability, making the journey comfortable even for those prone to seasickness. Second, the comprehensive water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing mean you get plenty of chances to cool off and have fun. On the flip side, one possible consideration is the price point—$108 per person might seem steep for some, but the inclusions and quality make it a solid value.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic cruising, cultural storytelling, and good-quality food in a relaxed setting. If you’re after a private, all-inclusive day that combines adventure with comfort—without the hassle of planning—this cruise is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Luxurious Boat: The cruise is on a spacious 17-meter catamaran, offering a stable and comfortable platform for the day.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect turquoise waters, rugged coastlines, and mythological stories that add a layer of intrigue.
• Inclusive Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing are included, making for active fun in the sea.
• Delicious Meal & Drinks: Enjoy a Mediterranean menu with fresh local ingredients, complemented by unlimited drinks including wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Flexible Options: Choose between morning or afternoon cruises, with the latter providing a sunset view.
• Well-Reviewed Crew: Multiple travelers highlight the knowledgeable, attentive guides who help make the experience special.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This cruise starts from the Heraklion old Venetian harbor, a historic waterfront filled with cafes and lively maritime activity. The vessel departs after a brief safety briefing and welcome refreshments, setting a relaxed tone from the start. The first hour is spent sailing past iconic sights like the Koules fortress, a reminder of Heraklion’s Venetian past, before heading out into the open sea.

The journey itself is enjoyable—not just for the scenery but also for the chance to see Crete from a different perspective. As you leave the busy port behind, the crew shares stories about Dia Island’s mythology and history, adding a layer of cultural richness to the trip. This is a trip that blends sightseeing with storytelling, making each moment more engaging.

The Arrival at Dia Island

Once you reach the bay of Dia, the real fun begins. This protected inlet offers calm, transparent waters—ideal for relaxing or trying out water activities. You’ll love the stunning turquoise waters that are warm enough for swimming, even early in the season, according to reviews. The water’s clarity is perfect for snorkelers, and multiple reviewers have praised the excellent full-face snorkel gear and the plentiful paddleboards.

Activities are plentiful. Snorkeling gear is ready for use, and paddleboards are available, although they are not offered under rough winds for safety reasons. Fishermen and those just looking to splash around will find plenty to do. One reviewer mentioned, “The inlet they went in was warmer water, so even in early May it was warm enough to be in the water for as long as you want.”

The Meal and Refreshments

The highlight for many is the delicious Mediterranean lunch served while anchored in the bay. The menu features Greek salad, local appetizers like olive paste and tzatziki, mushroom and truffle risotto (gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian options available), and shrimp linguini. The quality of the food receives high praise, with reviews stating it was “brilliant” and “cooked to perfection.” The meal is served with a selection of wines, beers, soft drinks, and iced tea, which are unlimited throughout the cruise.

Dessert is a tropical and local fruit salad, a refreshing finish that many reviewers enjoyed. The crew is attentive, always ready to refill drinks or assist with water activities, making sure everyone feels cared for. As one guest said, “They prepared a really delicious quality meal and helped with seasick tablets and drink refills straight away.”

The Return and Sunset Option

After about three to four hours of fun and relaxation, the boat sets sail back toward Heraklion, passing by more scenic views and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The afternoon cruise option offers a bonus: the chance to witness a beautiful sunset over the water, ideal for those seeking a romantic or tranquil experience.

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The Itinerary in Detail

• Starting Point: Heraklion old Venetian port, with pickup options (if booked).
• Departure: After a safety briefing and refreshments, the vessel departs for Dia Island.
• Sailing: The first hour is spent cruising past Heraklion’s historic forts and along the coast, with commentary on local sights and legends.
• Arrival at Dia: The bay offers calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing.
• Water Activities: Equipment is provided, with plenty of time to explore the underwater world or just relax in the water.
• Lunch: Served at a sheltered spot, featuring local flavors and unlimited drinks.
• Relaxation & Photos: Post-meal, guests can sunbathe, swim, or take photos of the dramatic landscape.
• Return: The boat heads back to Heraklion after about 1 hour of sailing, finishing at the same dock or a designated drop-off location.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The large, stable vessel is a standout feature, especially for travelers worried about seasickness or seeking a more comfortable ride. The crew’s attentiveness and knowledgeable storytelling turn a leisurely cruise into an engaging experience. The menu, focusing on local ingredients and high-quality cuisine, elevates the meal beyond simple snacks, making the price of $108 per person feel justified.

On top of that, the water activities are a major draw. Multiple reviewers commented on the excellent snorkeling gear and plenty of paddleboards, which create opportunities for both adventure and relaxation. The stunning views of the turquoise waters and rugged coastline, combined with the mythological stories, add a layer of cultural intrigue that enriches the trip.

What’s Noteworthy for Value

While $108 may seem like a premium price, consider what’s included: transportation, a full meal, unlimited drinks, water gear, and expert crew. The reviews consistently praise the high quality of the food and the professionalism of the guides, which supports the idea that this cruise offers good value for a comprehensive, all-in-one experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits those who enjoy relaxed luxury with a touch of adventure. If you’re after beautiful scenery, engaging guides, and good food, this trip ticks all those boxes. It’s especially ideal for travelers who like water activities but prefer the comfort of a spacious boat. Those seeking a romantic sunset cruise or a family-friendly day out will find this experience perfect.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired travelers, or wheelchair users, as noted in the activity details. If you’re traveling solo, in a couple, or with small groups, the private group options provide flexibility.

Final Thoughts

The Heraklion: Dia Island Catamaran Cruise offers a blend of scenic sailing, cultural storytelling, and hearty Mediterranean cuisine—all aboard a spacious, stable vessel. The reviews show that guests consistently find the crew attentive, the water activities plentiful, and the food top-notch. For those who love a day at sea with good company, beautiful views, and a taste of Greece, this cruise delivers.

While the price reflects the all-inclusive nature and premium vessel, the quality of the experience makes it a worthwhile splurge. It’s perfect for travelers who want a seamless, enjoyable day without the hassle of organizing separate activities. Expect stunning scenery, fun water play, and a delicious meal—all in a relaxed atmosphere that feels both authentic and luxurious.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the cruise?
You’ll enjoy a 5.5-hour cruise on a large, luxurious catamaran, with a Mediterranean meal, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, paddleboards, and music.

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the hotel pickup option, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated locations.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, passport or ID, and possibly a hat or sunscreen for sun protection. Towels are not provided.

Are water activities suitable for everyone?
Most water activities are accessible, but paddleboarding is not available in rough wind conditions for safety reasons. The boat and activities are not suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

When does the cruise depart?
Check the availability but expect departures either in the morning or the afternoon, with the latter offering a sunset view.

How is the food quality?
The food is highly praised, with many reviews describing it as “brilliant” and “cooked to perfection,” featuring local ingredients and a range of options.

This cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Crete’s waters, combining scenic beauty, cultural tales, and tasty food—all aboard a comfortable vessel. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day or a fun adventure in the sea, it’s a tour that many travelers find truly worthwhile.

You can check availability for your dates here: