Heraklion: Catamaran Cruise to Dia, Sunset, Dinner, & Drinks

Experience a Luxurious Catamaran Adventure from Heraklion to Dia Island

This Heraklion: Catamaran Cruise to Dia, Sunset, Dinner, & Drinks offers a memorable day on the water for those seeking a combination of relaxation, adventure, and fine dining in Crete. Priced at $122.87 per person and lasting approximately 5 hours, this tour provides a smooth ride aboard a luxury yacht that departs from Cafe Marina in Heraklion. With a rating of 4.5 from 27 reviews, and 93% recommended, this experience is popular enough to be booked about 29 days in advance, indicating its appeal among travelers.

The highlight is the visit to the uninhabited Dia Island, where you can snorkel, swim, or sunbathe, all while enjoying complimentary drinks and a delicious Mediterranean dinner. The tour also features sunset views on the return journey, making it ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing yet engaging day on the Mediterranean waters. Though it does not include hotel pick-up, the organized meeting point makes it straightforward to start this scenic adventure.

Key Points

• Luxury yacht cruise lasting around 5 hours departing from Heraklion
• Visit to Dia Island with options to snorkel, swim, or sunbathe
• All food and drinks included, featuring local wine, beer, and a Mediterranean dinner
• Snorkeling and paddleboarding supplied with equipment and inflatables
• Sunset views on the journey back, providing perfect photo opportunities
• Group size limited to 20, ensuring attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere

Departure from Heraklion at Cafe Marina

The tour begins at Cafe Marina in Heraklion, a location near public transportation for convenience. Starting here, the luxury catamaran sets sail for Dia Island, a pristine uninhabited spot renowned for its clear waters and natural beauty. This straightforward meeting point helps keep logistics simple, but travelers should note that hotel transfers are not included.

The departure time is flexible, with the entire experience lasting about 5 hours—enough time to relax, snorkel, enjoy the scenery, and have a leisurely dinner on board. It’s a well-organized start that appeals to those who prefer to meet directly at the port.

Exploring Dia Island’s Beaches and Underwater Life

Upon arriving at Dia Beach, the focus shifts to enjoying the island’s crystal-clear waters. The snorkeling gear provided makes exploring underwater life accessible, with many noting the warm waters as ideal for swimming. For those craving more activity, paddleboarding with SUP boards adds a fun element to the visit.

The bay offers plenty of space for sunbathing and relaxing, with inflatable flamingos available for photos, as seen in many reviews. The crew keeps the atmosphere lively with soothing music and free Wi-Fi, making it easy to share beautiful moments. This stop is ideal for travelers wanting both relaxation and a bit of adventure, with the option to jump from the boat into the inviting sea.

All-Inclusive Mediterranean Dinner on the Water

A major highlight is the dining experience served on the yacht, featuring local grilled fish, a cheese platter, and fresh salads. Guests enjoy shrimp pasta or rice with feta, mussels in turmeric sauce with ouzo, and chicken breast with oranges. Kids have options such as pasta or chicken nuggets, and there’s a seasonal fruit dessert.

All drinks are included, with unlimited beer and local dry white wine for those 18 and older, alongside sodas, Fanta, Sprite, and water. The crew ensures that everyone stays refreshed while enjoying the panoramic views during dinner. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, calling it excellent and a key part of the experience.

Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, and Fishing Equipment

The tour provides high-quality snorkeling equipment and SUP boards, making it easy to explore the shallow waters of Dia Island. Many travelers appreciate the fishing rods and tackle supplied, which adds a fun element for those interested in fishing. Whether you prefer floating on a paddleboard or peering into the underwater world, the provided gear supports active participation.

The equipment is well-maintained and easy to use, and the crew is available to assist if needed. This variety of activities makes the trip appealing to both adventure seekers and those simply looking to unwind by the sea.

Sunset Views and the Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat departs Dia Island, with the return trip offering stunning sunset views. Many reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery and the calm, peaceful atmosphere during this part of the cruise. The sunset provides excellent photo opportunities and a perfect backdrop for reflecting on the day’s adventures.

The cruise concludes back at the Cafe Marina, where all guests have had a chance to enjoy a relaxing, scenic, and activity-filled experience. The group size of up to 20 ensures a cozy, friendly environment, with attentive crew members providing excellent service throughout.

The Crew and Onboard Atmosphere

Multiple reviews praise the energetic and friendly crew, with many mentioning Georges, Marina, and the Captain for their professionalism and warmth. The crew’s efforts contribute heavily to the positive atmosphere, making guests feel welcomed and well cared for.

Passengers frequently comment on the delicious food, good wine, and the fun, lively vibe onboard. The music playlist and free Wi-Fi further enhance the experience, helping guests capture moments and share their trip. The crew’s competence and friendliness make this relaxing cruise stand out.

Practicalities and Booking Considerations

This tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. You should plan to book approximately 29 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak season. The activity does not include hotel transfers, so arrangements should be made to meet at the designated starting point.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in case of unforeseen changes. The experience depends on good weather; if canceled due to weather, a different date or full refund is offered.

Why This Cruise Stands Out in Crete

This luxury catamaran cruise combines scenic beauty, active water-based fun, and excellent cuisine in a well-organized package. The visit to Dia Island offers a peaceful escape with plenty of options for swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing, all supported by equipment and friendly staff. The all-inclusive dining and sunset views add to the appeal, making it suitable for couples, families, and groups seeking a relaxed yet engaging experience.

While it may not include hotel transfers and is priced slightly higher than some other tours, many find the quality of food, service, and scenery worth the investment. The consistent high ratings and glowing reviews speak to its value and the memorable moments it provides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours from start to finish.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Cafe Marina in Heraklion, near public transportation.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited beer and local dry white wine are included for guests aged 18 and above, along with sodas and water.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for all participants.

Can kids join this tour?
Yes, children can participate, and there are kid-friendly food options such as pasta and chicken nuggets.

Do I need to bring any special equipment?
No, all equipment including SUP boards, snorkeling gear, and fishing tackle is supplied.

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for the water and sun are recommended.

Are there any physical requirements or limitations?
There are no specific limitations noted, but participants should be comfortable on a boat and in water.

What should I do if the weather looks poor?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 29 days ahead is recommended, especially in peak seasons.

This Heraklion catamaran cruise to Dia offers a well-rounded day of scenic sailing, delicious food, and water fun, making it a standout choice for anyone wanting to experience Crete from the Mediterranean waters.