Heraklion: Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Meal & Drinks

Imagine gliding across the calm, shimmering waters of the Aegean, your group aboard a luxurious catamaran, with the sun warming your skin and the breeze whispering overhead. That’s what this private cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island promises. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience designed for those who want more than just a boat ride — it’s about enjoying Crete’s natural beauty, savoring delicious food, and creating memories with friends or family.

We’re particularly drawn to the exclusivity of a private tour—no crowds, just your group—and the variety of activities onboard that cater to all ages. The chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and paddleboard in such a pristine setting really appeals. On the flip side, some might find the price tag a bit steep, especially for a five-hour excursion, but remember, this is a tailored experience with high-end touches.

This tour suits travelers who crave comfort, authentic local flavors, and a splash of adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, enjoying a family getaway, or simply want a relaxing day on the water with no worries about logistics, this cruise checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring intimacy and personalized service.
• Flexible Timing Options: Choose morning or afternoon departure to match your preferred lighting and mood.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, drinks, snorkel gear, paddleboards, WiFi, and inflatable flamingos are included, enhancing the value.
• Stunning Setting: Crystal-clear waters around Dia Island offer perfect swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities.
• Authentic Greek Flavors: Enjoy freshly prepared Mediterranean dishes crafted onboard—highlighting local ingredients.
• Family-Friendly and Fun: Activities cater to all ages, making it ideal for family trips or celebrations.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins at Cafe Marina in Heraklion, a convenient spot near public transportation. The neat, modern catamaran awaits to whisk you away on your 5-hour adventure. Since it’s a private experience, your group’s size is limited to up to 15 people, which keeps things intimate and allows for personalized attention from the crew.

The Journey to Dia Island

Once aboard, you’ll notice how spacious and modern the vessel is—perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze. The crew offers welcome drinks with traditional cheese pies and biscuits, setting a warm, hospitable tone. As you set sail, you’ll love the way the boat’s stereo system plays your playlist—whether you prefer relaxing tunes or lively beats. The included free WiFi means you can instantly share breathtaking photos with friends back home.

The Bay of Dia Island and Its Attractions

Approximately midway through the cruise, you’ll arrive at the bay of Dia Island, a famously uninhabited islet with sparkling waters. This is where the tour truly shines. We loved the crystal-clear waters—an inviting playground for swimmers, snorkelers, and paddleboarders alike. You can jump from the boat into the water, or try snorkeling with provided gear to explore underwater life.

For those who want a little extra fun, the inflatable flamingo is a delightful prop for photos. Many reviews mention how the water activities are fun for all ages—a perfect way to cool down and unwind in such a beautiful, uncrowded setting.

Food and Drinks — A Taste of Crete

A highlight of this cruise is the gourmet onboard meal. The crew prepares a selection of freshly made Mediterranean dishes—from cheese platters and Greek salads to shrimp pasta or rice with feta, and mussels in turmeric and ouzo. The food is described as “fantastic” in reviews, and many guests appreciate the attention to quality and homemade flavors.

For drinks, unlimited beer and local dry white wine are included, making it easy to toast to good times. Soft drinks like Fanta, Cola, and Sprite are also available. Keep in mind, alcoholic beverages are for guests aged 18 and older, so this is family-friendly but with a responsible drinking policy.

Activities for Everyone

Besides swimming and snorkeling, the tour includes paddleboarding with SUP boards and fishing gear—great options for active guests. The crew’s friendly narration often includes some local history, adding a cultural dimension to the adventure.

The Return and Reflection

As the cruise winds down, you’ll appreciate how the day has balanced relaxation, adventure, and authentic flavors. Many travelers mention how this experience offers a perfect ending to a holiday or a memorable celebration. One reviewer called it “the perfect day,” noting the excellent food, fun water activities, and friendly crew.

The Value of a Private Catamaran Tour

At over $2,300 for up to 15 guests, this isn’t your typical budget outing, but the all-inclusive nature and exclusivity justify the price. You’re paying for a luxurious vessel, personalized service, and a tailored experience that large group tours simply can’t match.

The fact that it’s booked on average 73 days in advance suggests how popular and sought-after this experience is—something to keep in mind if you’re planning your trip to Crete. The flexibility of choosing morning or afternoon departures allows you to align the experience with your wider itinerary, whether you want to catch the sunrise or enjoy a sunset cruise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, friends, or couples celebrating a special occasion. It’s perfect if you value comfort, privacy, and quality food and drinks on the water. The variety of activities—swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding—also makes it suitable for active travelers.

If you’re seeking a memorable, scenic day with authentic Greek flavors and stunning views, this private cruise will not disappoint. However, if your budget is tight or if you prefer larger group tours with more social interaction, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This private catamaran cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island offers a rare chance to enjoy Crete’s stunning waters in a comfortable, exclusive setting. The blend of delicious onboard meals, unlimited drinks, water activities, and picturesque scenery makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging day.

While it’s a premium experience, the personalized service and attention to detail deliver good value for those looking to indulge a little. Whether celebrating a special event or simply wanting to treat yourself to a day of sun, sea, and good food, this cruise ticks many boxes.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate comfort and authenticity, and who want to avoid crowded tour groups while still enjoying the best of Crete’s marine beauty.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, all activities (snorkeling, paddleboarding, fishing), meals, drinks (including unlimited beer and wine), WiFi, and inflatable flamingo photos.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, you can select either a morning or afternoon cruise, depending on your preference for sunlight or sunset views.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Up to 15 people can join, and it’s a private experience, so the group size is limited for comfort and exclusivity.

Are drinks and food suitable for children?
Children can enjoy the non-alcoholic drinks and kid-friendly options like pasta or chicken nuggets. Alcohol is only for guests 18 and over.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. The boat provides snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and inflatables.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Cafe Marina.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 73 days ahead, so plan early to secure your preferred date.

This private catamaran cruise marries the best of Crete’s natural beauty, delicious flavors, and personalized service. It’s a day designed to relax, have fun, and make lasting memories—just the kind of experience that stays with you long after the boat has docked.