Heraklion Private Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Lunch

Discover the Heraklion Private Sailing Catamaran to Dia with Lunch

This private sailing adventure offers an unbeatable way to explore Dia Island, just off the coast of Crete, Greece. Priced at $1,462.77 per group (up to 10 people), this 6.5-hour trip is perfect for those seeking a combination of luxury, activity, and authentic local flavors. The tour departs from Heraklion, starting at 9:30 am, aboard the Excess 11 catamaran, operated by DanEri Yachts.

The experience is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 17 reviews, and 94% recommend it. The trip promises a peaceful escape with beautiful views, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, fish, or simply relax. The inclusion of unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi, and top-notch gear makes it a comprehensive day on the water — though it’s worth noting that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Key Points

• Luxurious private catamaran cruise lasting approximately 6 hours 30 minutes
• Visit uninhabited Dia Island with stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters
• Gourmet Mediterranean lunch with multiple dishes and unlimited beer and wine
• Snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and SUP boards provided for active fun
• Starts at 9:30 am from Heraklion, with free Wi-Fi onboard
• Ideal for groups of up to 10, seeking a private, high-quality sea excursion

The Luxury Catamaran: Excess 11 and Its Features

The Excess 11 catamaran used for this tour is designed for comfort and style. It features ample space for a private group of up to 10 people, making it perfect for families, friends, or couples who want an exclusive experience. The boat’s sleek appearance and modern amenities contribute to a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere during the trip.

The crew ensures everything runs smoothly, with assistance from pick-up to drop-off, plus a skilled chef preparing the delicious onboard lunch. The boat’s well-equipped nature means guests can enjoy Wi-Fi, snorkeling gear, and SUP boards without any hassle, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the day.

Meeting Point and Departure Details

The tour begins at the Cafe Marina located at Leof. Nearchou, Iraklio. The start time is 9:30 am, giving ample time to enjoy the cruise and explore Dia Island. Since the tour ends back at the same meeting point, planning your day around this schedule is straightforward. However, note that hotel transfers are not included, so arranging your own transportation to the meeting point is necessary.

The Journey to Dia Island: A Picturesque Sailing Voyage

Sailing aboard the luxurious catamaran, travelers set out from Heraklion, heading toward the uninhabited Dia Island. The crystal-clear waters and panoramic views make the journey itself memorable. The boat glides smoothly, offering fantastic photo opportunities of the open sea and surrounding coastline.

The sailing experience combines comfort with the thrill of being on a modern vessel, providing a perfect setting to relax or chat with your group. The soothing music and free Wi-Fi onboard enhance the atmosphere, making the trip equally suited for leisure and social sharing.

Exploring Dia Island: Swimming, Snorkeling, and More

Upon reaching Dia beach, the highlight is the crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or fishing. The tour rents top-quality snorkeling gear and fishing equipment, so participants can enjoy underwater exploration or try their luck at fishing.

The island itself is uninhabited and features a rocky coastline rather than sandy beaches, so the focus is on water activities rather than beach lounging. Visitors often capture memorable photos with the inflatable flamingo prop, adding a playful touch to the day.

Mediterranean Cuisine Delivered Onboard

A standout feature of this cruise is the delicious onboard lunch, prepared fresh by the skilled chef. The menu includes cheese platter, green and Greek salads, and a choice of shrimp pasta or rice with feta. For seafood lovers, mussels in turmeric sauce with ouzo are served, along with chicken breast with oranges, or pasta and chicken nuggets for kids. The seasonal fruit dessert completes the meal.

All dishes highlight local ingredients, offering an authentic taste of Crete. The lunch is served with unlimited beer and dry white wine, making it a relaxing dining experience amid stunning views. Coffee, tea, sodas, and water are also freely available throughout the day.

Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, and Wildlife Observation

The provided snorkeling equipment makes underwater exploration easy, revealing the vibrant marine life around Dia Island. The SUP boards give an extra option for light paddling and enjoying the calm waters. The inclusion of fishing gear allows guests to try their hand at catching fish, adding a fun, active element to the trip.

The calm, crystal-clear waters serve as an ideal setting for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. The opportunity to capture underwater photos or just relax in the water makes the day both active and restful.

Onboard Amenities: Wi-Fi, Music, and Comfort

Guests enjoy the convenience of free Wi-Fi onboard, allowing sharing of photos or catching up on messages during the cruise. The soothing music creates a relaxed ambiance, perfect for unwinding while cruising through the waters.

The modern, well-equipped boat ensures comfort, with plenty of shaded and sunlit areas. The crew’s professionalism and attentiveness contribute to the high satisfaction level, as reflected in the perfect review score.

The Food and Drinks: Quality and Quantity

The lunch is a key highlight, with homemade dishes that impress even seasoned travelers. The cheese platter, salads, and seafood pasta offer a variety of flavors, and the dessert rounds out the meal. The unlimited beers and white wine keep hydration and cheer high, though alcohol consumption is restricted to those 18 and above.

The welcome drinks of traditional cheese pies and biscuits set a friendly tone at the start. The soda options and water ensure everyone stays refreshed, complementing the meal and water activities.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Tips

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, making it a convenient choice for those with flexible schedules. Since the trip depends on good weather, cancellations due to poor conditions are possible, with options for a different date or a full refund.

The average booking window of 49 days indicates this is a popular choice, so securing your spot early is advisable, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts on the Dia Island Sailing Cruise

This private catamaran trip combines luxury, adventure, and authentic flavors, making it a standout way to enjoy the waters off Crete. The well-equipped Excess 11, expertly prepared Mediterranean lunch, and variety of water activities make it suitable for groups seeking a relaxed, high-end experience.

While the lack of sandy beaches on Dia Island means water activities take precedence over beach lounging, the crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery compensate. The professional crew and top-tier amenities ensure a smooth, enjoyable day on the water.

This tour is ideal for those who value privacy, comfort, and quality food and drinks. If you’re looking for a peaceful yet active day with luxury touches, this cruise offers an excellent option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; guests meet at Cafe Marina in Heraklion.

What is the best time to book?
Booking on average 49 days in advance ensures securing a spot, especially during busy seasons.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children can join, with options like pasta and chicken nuggets available for younger guests.

What activities can I enjoy at Dia Island?
You can swim, snorkel, fish, or paddleboard with provided equipment. No sandy beaches are present, so the focus is water-based.

Is the trip suitable for non-swimmers?
While swimming and snorkeling are optional, the calm waters and life vest availability make it accessible for non-swimmers to enjoy the scenery from the boat.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled, based on the provider’s policy.