Dia Island Catamaran Premium Lunch, Open Bar, Small Group

Exploring the Dia Island Catamaran Premium Lunch Tour: A Complete Review

Imagine cruising the sparkling waters of the Aegean on a sleek, modern catamaran, with the sun warming your skin, a glass of wine in hand, and panoramic views of Crete’s coastline. That’s the kind of day this Dia Island Catamaran tour promises—and from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it really delivers.

What we love about this experience are three standout features: the intimate small-group environment, the quality of the food and drinks, and the diverse water activities that cater to all ages. It’s an ideal escape for those seeking relaxation combined with a touch of adventure.

The only potential consideration? The tour’s 6.5-hour duration might feel a little long for those with tight schedules or young children. But if you’re after a leisurely day on the water, this cruise hits the mark. Primarily, it suits families, couples, or friends looking for a laid-back, fun-filled day that offers excellent value and authentic Crete hospitality.

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Good To Know

• Small Group Size: Provides a more personalized and comfortable experience.
• All-Inclusive Offerings: Unlimited drinks and a freshly cooked Mediterranean meal.
• Variety of Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, fishing, and inflatable flamingos.
• Stunning Views & Scenic Stops: Coastal vistas, photo stops, and tranquil bays.
• Expert Crew & Engaging Atmosphere: Friendly guidance and enjoyable music onboard.
• Great Value for Money: Combines delicious food, activities, and sightseeing in one package.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Heraklion

The adventure begins at the Marina Café, where you’ll meet your crew—easily recognizable in their DanEri T-shirts—about 15 minutes before departure. The meeting point is simple: just head to the side facing the sea, with nearby municipal parking costing roughly €5 per day. Once onboard, a quick safety briefing, along with fresh coffee, tea, and local pies, sets a warm and welcoming tone.

The crew, led by knowledgeable guides and a skilled skipper, ensures everyone feels comfortable and informed. Multiple reviews mention the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness, with some even highlighting memorable conversations that add a personal touch. Onboard, the atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with curated music and free WiFi making it easy to share your best moments.

Scenery and Scenic Stops

The cruise kicks off with a scenic boat ride past Rocca a Mare Fortress—a quick photo stop that offers a glimpse of Heraklion’s historical coastline. The views on the way are striking, blending rugged cliffs, azure waters, and the distant outlines of Crete’s landscape.

After about an hour at sea, you arrive at Dia Island, a secluded gem perfect for swimming and exploring. The boat anchors at a quiet bay where the real fun begins: crystal-clear waters inviting you to dive in for a swim or snorkel. Reviewers frequently mention how beautiful and inviting the waters are, with some noting that the snorkeling gear is plentiful and well-maintained, allowing both kids and adults to enjoy underwater exploration.

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Water Activities & Leisure Time

Once anchored, the day is packed with options. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can easily discover the underwater life, which reviewers describe as a highlight. For those who prefer to stay on the surface, stand-up paddleboards are available, adding a layer of fun and activity for all skill levels.

Kids especially love the inflatable flamingo, which isn’t just for photos—it’s part of the genuine fun onboard. Several guests mention how the inflatable flamingo made their trip memorable, along with the pool noodles and fishing gear that keep everyone entertained.

The Mediterranean Feast

The culinary highlight is the freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch, which includes seafood, tender meats, and vegetables, all sourced locally. Reviewers have been unanimous about how tasty and plentiful the meal is, with some emphasizing that every dish exceeded their expectations.

For children, a special kids’ menu ensures they’re not left out of the feast. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also available upon request, making it accessible to various dietary needs.

The onboard chef and crew pay close attention to detail—reviewers note how the food is both delicious and beautifully presented, and the drinks flow freely all day: unlimited soft drinks, white wine, and beer keep everyone refreshed.

Relaxing Return & Scenic Cruising

As the day winds down, the cruise departs from the bay and begins its relaxed journey back to Heraklion. The deck is the perfect spot to soak up the sun, reflect on the day, or snap a few last photos of the coastline. Many reviews mention how the crew creates a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, turning the cruise into a memorable social experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Special

Heraklion Start & Rocca a Mare Fortress: An easy, scenic cruise start with a quick sightseeing photo stop. It’s a nice way to get a sense of the coastline before heading to the island.

Cruise to Dia Island: The bulk of the experience, where you’ll spend around four hours enjoying water activities, swimming, and the onboard lunch. The bay is described as peaceful, with crystal-clear waters perfect for a variety of water sports.

Return Cruise: As you head back, the focus shifts to relaxation. The crew encourages sunbathing, socializing, and taking in the last views of the coast.

Multiple Drop-Off Options: After the cruise, the tour offers convenient drop-offs at 16 different locations across Crete, making it flexible and easy to incorporate into your broader travel plans.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Crew & Guides: Multiple reviews praise the staff for being friendly, attentive, and engaging. Guests particularly appreciated the conversations with guides, which added an educational and personal layer to the experience.

Excellent Food & Drink: The freshly cooked Mediterranean meal, served with local wine and unlimited drinks, offers fantastic value—it’s a full meal in itself, not just snacks.

Diverse Water Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing gear keep everyone active and entertained. The inflatable flamingo and pool noodles ensure fun for kids and adults alike.

Stunning Coastal Views & Scenic Stops: Photos and reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery, from the fortress en route to the tranquil bay of Dia Island.

Authentic Crete Hospitality: From the friendly crew to the attention to dietary needs, the experience embodies genuine Greek warmth.

Value for Money: Considering the all-inclusive drinks, gourmet lunch, water sports, and scenic cruising, many reviewers feel this tour offers good value.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Day

• Arrive early to ensure smooth boarding.
• Wear swimwear and bring a towel, sunscreen, and your camera.
• Take advantage of the water activities—snorkeling and paddleboarding are included.
• Engage with the crew—they often provide insights about the sites and water safety tips.
• Keep your devices charged; free WiFi is available, making it easy to share your moments instantly.
• Remember, the tour is weather-dependent. Keep an eye on the forecast but don’t worry; the crew will reschedule or cancel if necessary, prioritizing safety.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This catamaran cruise is perfect for travelers who value a balance of relaxation and activity. Families with children will appreciate the safe, fun water sports and kid-friendly menu. Couples will find the romantic scenery and gourmet lunch appealing, while groups of friends will enjoy the lively, social atmosphere.

It’s especially suited for those looking for a hassle-free day—everything from transportation (if selected) to meals and activities is covered, letting you focus on the fun.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the standard package does not include hotel pickup, but there are options with transfers from various locations such as Heraklion, Gouves, and Malia.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID. Comfortable clothing, hats, and sunglasses are also recommended for sun protection.

Can I book this tour if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. The crew is attentive to allergies and special needs.

How long does the cruise last?
The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including time on the water, water activities, lunch, and cruising.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids enjoy the water activities, inflatables, and the relaxed environment. A special kids menu is offered to keep younger guests happy.

What happens in bad weather?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled, with full refunds offered if that occurs.

Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a day of sun, sea, and good food in Crete, this Dia Island catamaran tour checks all the boxes. Its combination of scenic cruising, water-based fun, and a gourmet Mediterranean feast makes it a standout experience. The small-group setting ensures a more personal feel, and the attentive crew keeps everything running smoothly.

While it’s a longer tour, most guests find the comfort, variety, and authentic hospitality well worth the time. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a relaxing day out on the water, this cruise offers a memorable taste of Greek sailing life.

If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, activity, and indulgence, this experience will suit you perfectly. Just bring your swimsuit, your appetite, and a sense of adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: