Heraklion: Dia Catamaran Tour – Lunch, Open Bar & Snorkeling

Travelers who love a mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty will find this Heraklion Dia Catamaran Tour a perfect escape. From the moment you step aboard this spacious, luxury vessel, you’ll be swept into a day filled with stunning views, water activities, and excellent food and drinks.

What sets this trip apart? It’s the combination of a well-organized itinerary, a friendly, knowledgeable crew, and the opportunity to explore one of Crete’s prettiest spots, Dia Island. Plus, with an open bar, fresh Mediterranean cuisine, and plenty of activities for both kids and adults, it offers real value for your money.

That said, it’s a day at sea, so weather can influence the experience. If you’re sensitive to sea conditions, it’s worth checking the forecast before booking. This cruise is ideal for families and friends looking for a fun, carefree day that balances chill time and active water fun.

Good To Know

• Luxury Catamaran Comfort: Spacious, well-maintained vessel with shaded and sun-drenched areas.
• All-Inclusive Drinks & Food: Unlimited soft drinks, beer, wine, and a homemade Mediterranean lunch.
• Activities for All Ages: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, inflatables, and family-friendly fun.
• Expert Crew: Friendly, professional, and highly praised for their attentiveness.
• Beautiful Scenery: Clear waters and scenic views of Dia Island and the Aegean.
• Flexible & Convenient: Multiple pickup points, optional transfers, and a duration of around 5 hours.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect on Your Day Out

This cruise starts from Heraklion harbor, with most guests arriving about 15 minutes early to meet the crew at the Marina Café. Once everyone’s on board, the crew makes you feel welcome with coffee, tea, fresh pies, and a cheese platter. The atmosphere is relaxed, with music curated for a chill vibe and free Wi-Fi to share those early snapshots.

The Journey to Dia Island

You’ll set sail on a modern, spacious catamaran with a friendly crew who are clearly passionate about sailing. Reviews consistently mention how clean and comfortable the boat is, with plenty of shaded spots and outdoor decks for sunbathing. The trip to Dia takes about an hour, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and relax.

Cruising & Arrival at Dia

Once you arrive at Dia, the waters are a swimmer’s paradise — crystal clear with gentle waves. Here, the real fun begins. Guests rave about the water activities available: snorkeling gear is provided, and the marine life is worth exploring. Many mention how easy it is to test your balance with paddleboards or float on inflatables like the inflatable flamingo, which adds a playful touch. One guest noted, “The boat had plenty of sea toys like SUP, masks, flippers, and more—brand new and perfect for a day at the beach.”

The bay’s calm waters and scenic surroundings make for great photo opportunities, especially while floating or swimming. Kids and adults alike find the activities engaging, and the inflatable flamingo is a favorite for capturing memorable moments.

The Mediterranean Lunch

After working up an appetite, you’ll be treated to a delicious, freshly prepared Mediterranean meal on board. The menu includes salads, hot dishes with seafood and meat, and a homemade dessert. Reviewers often praise the quality and variety of the food, with many saying it exceeded their expectations. Special options for children and dietary requests like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals are available upon request, making it family-friendly.

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Afternoon Relaxation & Return

Post-lunch, you can enjoy more swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing on deck. Some guests mention the boat’s cozy cabins are perfect for a quick rest if needed. As the cruise heads back, passengers often comment on the stunning sunset views on the return trip, creating a perfect end to the day.

The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, which feels just right—long enough to enjoy the island and water activities but not so long as to tire out guests.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start & Meet-up: Most guests arrive early at the Marina Café, where a crew member in a DanEri t-shirt greets you. The proximity to parking (about 5 EUR per day) makes logistics simple.

Heraklion Departure: The cruise departs after a brief safety briefing and a warm welcome with refreshments like coffee, pies, and a cheese platter. The crew ensures everyone feels comfortable and informed from the start.

Sailing to Dia: The one-hour sail is a relaxing ride with curated music and free Wi-Fi, allowing you to post your early photos or simply enjoy the views.

Arrival & Water Fun: At Dia Island, the boat anchors in a pristine bay. Snorkeling gear and paddleboards are ready for use. Reviewers highlight how the marine environment is impressive, with crystalline waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The inflatable flamingo, mentioned in reviews, makes sea play even more enjoyable for kids and the young at heart.

Lunch and Leisure: The homecooked Mediterranean meal is served buffet-style, with options for different dietary needs. Guests often comment on the generous portions and tasty dishes, making it not just a snack but a proper meal. The timing allows plenty of opportunity for swimming or relaxing in the sun.

Sailing Back & Sunset Views: After a couple of hours at Dia, the boat heads back. Some reviews describe the sunset on the return as “beautiful,” providing a calm, picturesque end to the day.

Drop-off: The cruise concludes back at the initial marina, with optional transfers available from many popular hotel areas on Crete.

The Real Value of the Experience

At $141 per person, the price includes the luxurious boat, crew, all water equipment, meals, and drinks. Many reviews emphasize the excellent quality of food and service, with some calling it “more than just a boat trip” because of the level of comfort and the variety of activities.

The unlimited drinks—soft drinks, beer, and white wine—along with a curated playlist and Wi-Fi, mean you can relax without worrying about extra costs. Plus, the attention to family needs, like special meals and toys for kids, makes it particularly appealing for family holidays.

The trip’s length is well judged—long enough to enjoy the island and water fun, yet not so extended that it becomes tiresome. The small to medium group size (the boat can hold up to 20 guests) keeps the experience intimate and friendly, which is reflected in glowing reviews about the crew’s attentiveness.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive day at sea will find this cruise delivers excellent value. It’s especially good for families with kids, thanks to the fun water toys and kid-friendly meals. Those who appreciate scenic beauty coupled with good food and drinks will also be delighted.

Adventure lovers will enjoy snorkeling and paddleboarding, while sunbathers will appreciate the comfortable decks and ocean views. It’s a great way to see Crete from a different perspective — relaxed, fun, and with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, but transfer services are available if you request in advance. Guests typically meet at the Marina Café, with parking nearby.

How long does the entire trip last?
The cruise lasts about 5 hours, including boarding, sailing, swimming, lunch, and return.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, passport or ID, and swimwear. It’s also useful to have a camera for all the scenic views.

Can I request special dietary options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available on request, and special meals for children are provided.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Absolutely. Children love the water activities, inflatables, and relaxed atmosphere. The crew also provides toys and safety gear.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent and subject to rescheduling or cancellation if conditions are unsafe.

The Bottom Line

This Heraklion Dia Catamaran Tour offers a well-rounded day of fun, relaxation, and scenic beauty. With attentive crew members, a quality meal, and plenty of water activities, it’s a fantastic way for families and friends to enjoy Crete’s stunning coastline. The all-inclusive setup means you can unwind without constantly reaching for your wallet, making it excellent value for the experience.

Whether it’s your first time sailing or simply a desire to escape the busy city for a few hours, this trip delivers a memorable slice of the Greek island life. Relax in style, soak up the sun, and explore the crystal waters of Dia Island — all in just five hours.

Remember: Book early, especially if you want transfers or specific dietary options. Check the weather forecast beforehand to ensure smooth sailing, and prepare for a fun-filled day that’s sure to leave you with fantastic memories of Crete’s azure waters.

You can check if your dates are available here: