Heraklion Luxury Catamaran Dia Isla -Gourmet Lunch Top Rated

Imagine a day spent sailing the crystal-clear waters of Crete aboard a sleek, modern catamaran, with freshly prepared gourmet food and endless scenic views. That’s exactly what EOS Yachts offers with their Heraklion luxury catamaran tour to Dia Island. This experience combines comfort, cuisine, and adventure, making it a standout choice for travelers looking for a premium day on the water.

What we love about this trip is the attention to detail—from the luxurious vessel to the chef-prepared Mediterranean lunch—and the opportunity to see Crete from a different perspective. It’s a relaxed yet active day, perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. The only consideration? It’s a long day at sea, so if you’re not comfortable on boats or prone to motion sickness, that’s worth noting.

This cruise appeals most to visitors who value quality dining, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury. It’s ideal for couples, families, or groups celebrating a special occasion. If you prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of options for swimming and snorkeling, this trip might just be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: A spacious, modern catamaran with excellent onboard facilities, including WC, shower, and Wi-Fi.
• Gourmet Lunch: Freshly cooked seafood and Mediterranean dishes served onboard, paired with local wine and drinks.
• Multiple Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, canoeing, fishing, and sea scooters on request—something for every water lover.
• Stunning Scenery: Breathtaking views of the Aegean, with photo stops and wildlife spotting opportunities, including dolphins and seabirds.
• Well-Organized Trip: Clear itinerary, professional crew, and seamless logistics—perfect for those who want a hassle-free experience.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Warm hospitality, local flavors, and a mythic backdrop of Dia Island, steeped in legend.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure begins conveniently at Heraklion Port, at the Marina Café, where a friendly crew member greets you and guides you to the boat. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures you’re settled in and ready to set sail on time. The vessel itself is a modern, luxurious catamaran that looks like it belongs on a magazine cover—sleek, spacious, with shaded areas for those who prefer to stay out of the sun.

The check-in process is straightforward, and the crew’s professionalism immediately sets a positive tone. Many reviews highlight the crew’s passion and expertise—“The crew clearly loves what they do,” notes one traveler, adding that the service felt attentive without being overbearing.

Scenic Cruise and Historic Highlights

Before reaching Dia Island, the cruise offers scenic views and some sightseeing. A quick stop at Rocca a Mare Fortress provides perfect photo opportunities and a brief glimpse into Crete’s maritime past—an easy, five-minute stop that adds a touch of history without taking up too much time.

From there, the boat cruises past Heraklion’s coastline, giving you a chance to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Aegean. Many reviews speak of the “golden glow” of the sea and the “endless photo moments,” meaning this trip is a photographer’s dream as well.

The Heart of the Trip: Dia Island

The real highlight is anchoring in one of Dia’s secluded bays. These spots are only accessible by boat, which makes them feel like a private paradise. Once anchored, the focus turns to water-based activities. Expect crystal-clear waters, teeming with marine life, making snorkeling a hit. Many travelers rave about the quality of the snorkeling gear—“The snorkeling gear was top-notch, and we saw so many fish,” a review notes.

For those who prefer staying dry, paddleboards, canoes, and inflatables are available, and sea scooters can be requested—a fun addition for adventurous types. The calm waters and untouched coastline make swimming and floating especially enjoyable.

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Gourmet Lunch and Onboard Comfort

One of the trip’s most praised features is the restaurant-quality lunch. Prepared fresh onboard, the menu features locally sourced seafood, Mediterranean flavors, and vegetarian options. Travelers frequently mention the “delicious seafood” and “chef Charis’s amazing cooking,” with one review emphasizing that the food was served individually, elevating the experience to a fine-dining level at sea.

The meal is paired with an all-inclusive bar, offering unlimited water, soft drinks, local white wine, and beer. The traditional dessert and seasonal fruits finish the meal on a sweet note, leaving diners satisfied and ready for more sun and swimming.

Afternoon Relaxation and Sunset Views

After lunch, there’s plenty of time for relaxation. Many opt to soak up the sun, take a last swim, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Dia Island as the sun begins to dip. As the boat begins its return journey, travelers often comment on the unforgettable views of the Aegean, perfect for photos or just quiet reflection.

Returning to Heraklion

The cruise concludes back at the Marina Café, with plenty of time to reflect on the day. The journey back offers a second round of stunning vistas and a chance to spot dolphins or seabirds, as some reviews recount.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Quality and Comfort

Many reviews emphasize the “luxurious” nature of the vessel. The catamaran is spacious, with shaded areas and modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, WC, and a shower. This setup ensures comfort whether you want to lounge in the shade or enjoy the sun.

Exceptional Food and Drink

The onboard meal, prepared by a chef, is repeatedly praised as “the best seafood in Crete.” The pairing of freshly made dishes with local wines and drinks adds an extra layer of indulgence. Travelers report that the food exceeded expectations, making the trip feel like a special occasion.

Water Activities and Wildlife

From snorkeling in vibrant reefs to paddling on SUPs, the waters around Dia are a highlight. The opportunity to spot dolphins and seabirds adds a sense of wonder. The well-maintained snorkeling gear and the option to request sea scooters provide added fun.

Well-Organized and Professional Crew

The reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction with the crew’s knowledge and friendliness. Many travelers mentioned the “professional,” “passionate,” and “attentive” staff, which makes a big difference in creating a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Value for Money

At $122 per person for roughly 5.5 hours, many agree the experience offers good value—especially considering the quality of food, the exclusivity of Dia Island, and the all-inclusive drinks. It’s a premium experience, but one that seems to deliver on its promise of luxury and authentic enjoyment.

Practical Details and Tips

Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Marina Café: Meet crew, enjoy local treats, safety briefing
• Rocca a Mare Fortress: Quick sightseeing and photo stop
• Cruise to Dia Island: Scenic journey, photo opportunities, wildlife spotting
• Anchored at Dia: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, fishing, water toys
• Gourmet Lunch: Fresh seafood, Mediterranean flavors, paired with drinks
• Return Journey: Scenic sail back, sunset views
• End at Marina Café: Relax and reflect on the day

Transportation and Timing

The trip departs from Heraklion Port, with a recommended arrival 15 minutes early. The duration is about 5.5 hours, with starting times varying—check availability beforehand.

What to Bring

A hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and water are essential. The boat provides snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and inflatables, so no need to bring your own.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are professional crew, onboard facilities, gourmet lunch, all drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and Wi-Fi. Optional extras like private transfers and sea scooters can be arranged for an additional fee.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate luxury, good food, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a sophisticated day on the water. Families with children who enjoy water activities will also find plenty to do, though younger kids should be comfortable on boats.

If you’re after an authentic, relaxed experience with a touch of elegance, this trip hits all the right notes. However, those seeking a more adventurous or budget-focused outing might prefer simpler boat trips or self-organized days at less exclusive beaches.

The Sum Up

This Heraklion luxury catamaran cruise to Dia Island offers a high-quality, well-rounded experience that combines the best of Crete’s natural beauty, welcoming hospitality, and excellent cuisine. The spacious vessel, professional crew, and attention to detail ensure a smooth and memorable day at sea. Whether you’re a foodie eager to indulge in fresh Mediterranean flavors, a water lover wanting to snorkel and paddleboard, or simply after stunning scenery, this trip delivers.

The value for money is clear when you consider the all-inclusive drinks, gourmet meal, and premium setting. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to treat themselves to a relaxing, luxurious adventure with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Crete’s pristine waters and legendary sunsets.

This trip is especially recommended for couples, families, or groups celebrating a special occasion. If you love comfort, authentic flavors, and breathtaking views, you’ll find this cruise rewarding — a day you’ll remember long after you return home.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to and from the boat?
No, but private transfer services can be arranged upon request. The meeting point is at Marina Café in Heraklion Port.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and water. The boat supplies snorkeling gear, paddles, and inflatables.

Are there vegetarian or special meal options?
Yes, the menu is mainly seafood-based but includes meat and vegetarian options. It’s best to inform the reservation team at least 1 day in advance if you have dietary preferences.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, with the main activities focusing on swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the scenery.

Can I request additional activities?
Sea scooters are available upon request and require advance booking. Other water toys like paddleboards and canoes are included.

What is the best time of year to take this cruise?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, Crete’s weather generally suits this trip from spring through early fall. Check availability for specific times.

This well-organized, luxurious day on the water is a fantastic way to experience Crete’s coast, combining comfort, authentic flavors, and unforgettable scenery. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply seeking a peaceful escape, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, indulged, and with plenty of great photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: