Heraklion: Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Meal&Drinks

Introduction

Imagine sailing along the coast of Crete on a sleek, private catamaran, with the Aegean Sea stretching out on all sides. That’s exactly what you get with the Heraklion: Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Meal & Drinks — a tailored, intimate experience perfect for celebrating special moments or simply escaping the crowds. We’ve looked into it, and what stands out are the luxurious comfort and the personalized touch that make this tour feel like a private yacht experience without the hefty price tag.

Two things we love about this cruise? First, the flexibility of choosing between a morning departure to enjoy the tranquil start of the day or an evening trip to witness a breathtaking sunset. Second, the abundance of water activities — swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and even fishing — all in the crystal-clear waters of Dia Island. That said, one possible consideration is that this experience is quite exclusive and priced accordingly at $1,920 for up to 10 people, making it more suitable for families or groups seeking a special occasion rather than budget travelers. This cruise is best suited for those looking for a luxurious, personalized day at sea with plenty of fun, great food, and unforgettable views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Luxury and privacy: A private, spacious catamaran for up to 10 guests, perfect for special celebrations or intimate family trips.
• Flexible timing: Choose between a morning or sunset cruise for different scenic experiences.
• Water activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing gear provided, catering to all ages and skill levels.
• Delicious, regional cuisine: Freshly cooked Mediterranean dishes, including seafood and meat options, with special meals for kids.
• Inclusive drinks: Unlimited soft drinks, white wine, and beer keep everyone refreshed.
• Family-friendly: Kids can relax in cozy cabins, enjoy inflatables, and participate in water fun.

A closer look at this unique Crete experience

The setting and departure

Starting from Heraklion’s marina, you are greeted with a warm welcome featuring coffee, tea, fresh pies, and a safety briefing. The crew, experienced and certified by the Red Cross, ensures your safety while setting a friendly, relaxed tone for the day. The private nature of the cruise means your group won’t be mixed with strangers, which is ideal for celebrations or just a peaceful escape.

The journey begins with a smooth hour-long sail aboard a luxurious, modern catamaran. The boat’s spacious deck is perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or dancing to the onboard music system, which can play your personal playlists or curated sets. The boat’s amenities include Wi-Fi, making it easy to share photos or check social media mid-sail.

The voyage to Dia Island

As you glide across the water, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Crete’s coast and perhaps spot some local fishing boats or seabirds. The crew keeps drinks flowing — soft drinks, white wine, and beer are all unlimited, so everyone stays refreshed. The experience is designed to feel relaxed and exclusive, giving you plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sea breeze.

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The highlight: Dia Island

After about 2¾ hours at sea, you arrive at one of Dia’s serene bays. This is where the real fun begins. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The marine life here is vibrant enough to entertain both casual water lovers and more enthusiastic snorkelers. For those who prefer staying dry, stand-up paddleboards and inflatables, including a fun inflatable flamingo, are available for some playful water time.

Families with children will appreciate the cozy cabins onboard for a quick rest, as well as the supplied toys that keep little ones entertained. Many reviews highlight how much kids enjoy this part of the trip, making it a family-friendly choice.

Dining on the sea

One of the tour’s best features is the freshly cooked Mediterranean meal served right on board. The menu includes regional seafood dishes, salads, and meats, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available upon request. Kids’ meals are thoughtfully included, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. The food is a key value point — homemade, flavorful, and generously portioned — transforming the cruise from just water fun into a full culinary experience.

Scenic sailing and relaxing return

After a couple of hours enjoying the water, you’ll set sail back to Heraklion. Depending on your chosen departure time, this return can be during the peaceful daylight hours or under a stunning sunset that paints the sea and sky in warm hues. Many guests mention how the sunset cruise creates a magical, almost cinematic atmosphere, perfect for romantic moments or memorable photos.

Why this cruise is a good value

While the price of $1,920 for up to 10 guests might seem steep at first glance, consider what you’re getting: just under five hours of private, luxury sailing with personalized service, all-inclusive drinks, excellent food, and plenty of water activities. It’s a comprehensive package that offers a level of exclusivity and comfort hard to find on larger, group tours.

This experience is especially worth the cost for those celebrating a special occasion — whether a birthday, anniversary, or even a small wedding. The privacy and customization, combined with the chance to relax and have fun with family and friends, make it a memorable investment.

The itinerary breakdown

• Starting point: Easy access from Heraklion marina with a short walk or drive, plenty of parking nearby.
• Morning or sunset departure: Flexibility to enjoy different lighting and moods at sea.
• Water activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing keep guests active and engaged.
• Lunch/dinner: Freshly prepared regional dishes, including seafood and meat, served on deck. Kids’ meals are available.
• Return: Relaxing cruise back, often with scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

The experience in reviews

Guests consistently praise the stunning views and the friendly crew. One reviewer highlighted the “excellent wine selection” and “delicious food and tapas,” which made the experience feel both luxurious and authentic. The water activities received high marks for fun and accessibility, with many families noting how kids loved the inflatables and snorkel gear.

Who should consider this cruise?

This private catamaran is best suited for families, friends, or couples celebrating a special event. Its exclusivity and personalized service make it ideal for those seeking a luxurious day at sea without the hassle of crowds. It’s also a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a flexible, scenic, and activity-rich experience in Crete’s waters.

Practical details and tips

• Pricing: At $1,920 for a group of up to 10, this experience offers a private, all-inclusive day at sea. Great value if you’re traveling with friends or family.
• Duration: Around 5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Availability: Check in advance to confirm starting times — morning or sunset cruises are available.
• What to bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a valid ID or passport.
• Accessibility: The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and the crew is friendly and accommodating.
• Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Extras: No hotel pickup or drop-off included, but parking is available at the marina.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? No, this cruise does not include hotel transfers, but parking is available at the marina for around 5 EUR per day.

What should I bring onboard? Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your ID. It’s also good to have a camera for those scenic moments.

Can I choose the departure time? Yes, you can select either a morning cruise or an evening sunset cruise, depending on your preference.

What water activities are available? Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing are included, with gear provided.

Are children welcome? Absolutely, kids of all ages will enjoy the water activities and onboard toys. There’s a special kids’ meal option.

Is this experience suitable for all? It’s accessible for most, but pregnant women are advised to consider safety, and a quick check with the crew is recommended.

What is the cancelation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad? The cruise is subject to weather conditions and may be rescheduled or canceled if necessary.

Final thoughts

This private catamaran cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island offers a rare blend of luxury, flexibility, and authentic fun. You’ll enjoy the convenience of a personalized day at sea, with plenty of water-based activities, delicious regional cuisine, and stunning views, especially during sunset. It’s a perfect way to celebrate special occasions or simply treat yourself to a memorable day on Crete’s waters.

While the cost might be higher than standard group tours, the experience’s intimacy and quality justify the price — especially for those who value comfort, privacy, and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a romantic couple, or a group of friends, this cruise provides a fantastic backdrop for creating unforgettable memories.

If you’re seeking a scenic, activity-packed, and indulgent day that combines the beauty of Crete’s coastline with the luxury of a private yacht, this cruise deserves serious consideration.

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You can check availability for your dates here: