Heraklion: Dia Island Ultimate Catamaran Cruise with Meal

Heraklion: Dia Island Ultimate Catamaran Cruise with Meal — An Expert Look

This creamy blend of comfort, stunning scenery, and engaging water activities makes the Heraklion Dia Island Catamaran Cruise a standout experience in Crete. Priced at $108 per person, this 5.5-hour trip departs from the Heraklion old Venetian port aboard the largest and most luxurious catamaran in Crete, measuring 17 meters.

The cruise offers a well-balanced mix of sailing, swimming, and relaxing, with the chance to indulge in an authentic Mediterranean meal and unlimited drinks. It’s perfect for those seeking a luxury day on the water with plenty of opportunities to enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing. While it’s an experience packed with highlights, the tour’s focus on comfort and quality means it suits travelers who appreciate excellent service, good food, and scenic waters.

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Key Points

• Luxury catamaran of 17 meters provides ample space, stability, and comfort.
• Departures from Heraklion lead you to Dia Island with water activities and a delicious Mediterranean meal.
• Water activities include snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing, with equipment supplied.
• The meal features Greek and Cretan dishes, complemented by unlimited drinks.
• Tour duration is 5.5 hours, with options for morning or afternoon cruises.
• Guided commentary includes stories about Dia Island’s mythology and history.

The Luxurious Catamaran Experience in Crete

The catamaran itself is a major highlight. As the largest in Crete at 17 meters, it provides a stable, spacious, and climate-controlled environment. Reviews praise the comfortable layout, making it easy for everyone to relax, whether seated in the shaded areas or enjoying the open deck. The crew’s attentive service ensures guests always have drinks and are encouraged to participate in water activities.

This vessel combines luxury with practicality, offering full-face snorkel gear, paddleboards, and fishing equipment. The musical ambiance adds to the relaxed vibe, making it suitable for both laid-back travelers and those wanting some fun in the water.

Starting Point at Heraklion Old Venetian Port

The tour begins at the Heraklion old Venetian port, specifically at the Cafe Marina. Pickup options are available from various nearby locations, with early morning cruises starting at 8:40 AM and afternoon cruises at 2:40 PM. The meeting point is easy to find, and the initial safety briefing and refreshments set the relaxed tone for the day.

Travelers should arrive a few minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in, especially if opting for pickup. The meeting location offers a scenic view of the port and the Koules fortress, adding a historical touch to the start of the voyage.

Cruising from Heraklion to Dia Island

Once underway, the sailing segment lasts approximately one hour. As the boat passes by the Koules fortress and out into the open sea, the crew shares stories about Dia Island’s legend and history. The cruise provides a chance to enjoy the breeze and panoramic views of the Cretan coastline.

The approach to Dia Island features stunning sights that set the tone for the day’s adventures. The boat anchors in a protected bay, where the crystal-clear waters invite guests to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard. The water temperature in this inlet is described as warm and inviting, even early in the season, thanks to the sheltered waters.

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Water Activities in the Dia Bay

The anchor in Dia’s bay is a hub for water-based fun. Visitors can choose from snorkeling with full-face gear, fishing, or paddleboarding, with equipment provided. Stand-up paddleboards are available in sufficient numbers, though they are not recommended during rough wind conditions for safety reasons.

Guests are encouraged to dive into the turquoise waters or relax on the boat. The crew is attentive and eager to assist with equipment and safety tips, making the water activities accessible even for less experienced swimmers.

The Gourmet Mediterranean Meal Aboard

A highlight of this tour is the delicious onboard meal. Served after about three hours of free time on the island, the menu features pasta with shrimp or tomato sauce, Greek salad, and Cretan appetizers such as olive paste and tzatziki. The risotto with mushroom or truffle offers a gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian option.

Complementing the meal, guests can enjoy fine wines, beer, soft drinks, iced tea, or juice. For dessert, a fresh fruit salad with tropical and local fruits is served. The quality of the food receives praise in reviews, with many noting it as fabulous and well-prepared.

Returning to Heraklion with Lasting Memories

After the meal, guests have time to relax or swim again before the sailing back to Heraklion. The second sailing leg also lasts approximately one hour, offering more chances to enjoy the scenery and sea breeze. The return journey concludes back at the port, ending a full and satisfying day on the water.

The afternoon cruise with a sunset view offers an especially scenic experience, ideal for travelers looking to combine sailing with spectacular evening skies.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off if selected, covering key areas like Gazi, Heraklion, Karteros, Kokkini Hani, and others. The meeting point at Cafe Marina is well-known, with the meeting time at 8:40 AM for the morning cruise, or 2:40 PM for the afternoon.

Towels are not included, so travelers should bring their own for swimming, and passports or ID cards are required for check-in. Pets, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed onboard, ensuring a safe environment.

The Positive Vibe and Customer Satisfaction

The reviews highlight the friendly and professional crew, with guides such as Ioannis and Mariana receiving special mention. Passengers appreciate the delicious meals, comfortable boat environment, and stunning views. Many note the great value for money and recommend this tour as a highlight of their Crete trip.

The small group atmosphere and quality service contribute to a relaxed, enjoyable experience that appeals to travelers seeking a luxurious day at sea.

Final Thoughts on the Dia Island Catamaran Cruise

This luxury cruise offers a well-rounded day with sailing, water activities, and a gourmet meal. The stability and space of the 17-meter catamaran make it comfortable for all guests, while the scenic route provides plenty of photo opportunities.

While the tour is not suited for pregnant travelers or those with mobility impairments, it excels in delivering a relaxing, scenic, and fun experience. It suits families, couples, or groups looking for luxury and adventure on the sea.

For anyone wanting to combine sailing with authentic Greek cuisine and water fun, this tour is a top choice in Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if selected during booking.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel for swimming, as well as passport or ID card for check-in. Towels are not supplied.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour does not accommodate pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. Pets and alcohol are not permitted onboard.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, there are options for both morning (8:40 AM) and afternoon (2:40 PM) cruises. Check availability for specific dates.

What water activities are included?
Guests can enjoy snorkeling, fishing, and paddleboarding, with equipment provided.

This Dia Island catamaran cruise promises a luxurious, scenic, and tasty day at sea, ideal for those seeking comfort, fun, and authentic Crete experiences.

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