Heraklion: Dia Catamaran with Chef Dinner, Open Bar & Sunset

This review explores the Dia Catamaran cruise with DANERI YACHTS, a highly-rated excursion that promises an indulgent day on Crete’s waters. While we haven’t personally boarded, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an experience that combines luxury, authentic scenery, and genuine hospitality.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the modern, spacious catamaran with shaded lounges and sunbeds offers a perfect blend of comfort and style. Second, the chef-prepared Mediterranean meal and unlimited drinks mean you can relax without worrying about dining or hydration. Third, the crystal-clear waters and sunset views elevate the whole experience, making it a fantastic escape from land-based routines.

A potential consideration? The tour is primarily designed for those comfortable on boats and open water, and pregnant women are advised against joining. The experience suits travelers seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive day at sea with a focus on comfort, scenery, and laid-back fun—ideal for romantic getaways, small groups, or solo travelers craving a bit of pampering.

Good To Know

• Luxury and Comfort: Spacious, modern catamaran with shaded and sunbathing areas
• Gourmet Dining: Freshly prepared Mediterranean dinner by onboard chef
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and water
• Authentic Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and exploring Dia Island
• Spectacular Views: Sunset sail back to Heraklion creates a memorable ending
• Small Group Feel: Personal attention and relaxed atmosphere

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This cruise offers more than just a scenic boat ride; it’s a full-day indulgence designed for those craving a taste of luxury combined with authentic Crete scenery. Starting in Heraklion, the crew welcomes you with a friendly atmosphere, offering a welcome drink and local delicacies. The journey begins with a leisurely sail on a modern catamaran, which is notable for its spacious layout and shaded lounges—perfect for relaxing even under the Cretan sun.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The trip kicks off with a brief 15-minute introduction at Heraklion’s port, where you’ll get safety instructions and an overview of what’s to come. The first highlight is a quick photo stop at Rocca a Mare Fortress, offering a chance to snap some shots of Heraklion’s coastline and get a glimpse of the local history. This short stop is appreciated for giving a taste of the area’s past before heading out to open water.

Next, the cruise takes you on a one-hour sail toward Dia Island. During this segment, travelers comment on the comfortable seating and smooth ride, with many noting the crew’s professionalism and friendliness, making the journey both relaxing and engaging.

Arriving at Dia Island

Once anchored in one of Dia’s pristine bays, the real fun begins. You’re provided with snorkeling gear, inflatables, and paddleboards—all included—to explore the crystal waters. Multiple reviews highlight the vivid underwater life and the stunning clarity of the sea, which makes the snorkeling experience memorable.

Guests often mention how well-equipped the boat is, making it easy to float, paddle, or just float on inflatables while soaking up the scenic surroundings. The small-group setting ensures plenty of space to relax or socialize, with many praising the warm hospitality from a professional crew.

Dining and Sunset

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a gourmet Mediterranean dinner prepared fresh onboard by the onboard chef, Minas. The reviews repeatedly mention how surprisingly high-quality the food is—fabulous flavors, beautifully presented, with several guests noting it felt like a restaurant-quality meal at sea. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, making it accessible for various diets.

The open bar, offering unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and bottled water, keeps everyone refreshed. Reviewers consistently appreciate the variety and quality of drinks, describing the experience as both luxurious and relaxing.

As the sun begins to set, the boat gently turns back towards Heraklion, offering outstanding sunset views over the sea. The glowing horizon and peaceful sound of the waves create an almost meditative moment. Multiple reviewers describe this final sail as “magical,” calling it the perfect conclusion to a perfect day.

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The Return Journey and Drop-Off

The cruise lasts roughly 5 to 6 hours, with the return sail offering more stunning vistas and a calming atmosphere. Drop-off points are conveniently located around Heraklion, including popular beaches and neighborhoods like Karteros, Kokkini Hani, and Gouvon, ensuring easy access post-trip.

Why This Tour Works

This experience excels in delivering authentic luxury—a well-organized, small-group cruise that balances fun with relaxation. The professional crew is consistently praised for their warmth and readiness to assist, which makes the whole day flow seamlessly.

The combination of scenic beauty, gourmet food, and open bar makes it especially attractive for those looking to indulge without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. Guests often mention how the cruise felt private and personalized, despite being a shared experience, thanks to the limited group sizes.

The attention to detail, from the fresh, local ingredients used in the meal to the high-quality snorkeling gear and paddleboards, adds to the overall value. Plus, the sunset sail creates a truly memorable moment that many say they will cherish long after the trip ends.

Practical Information

Price-wise, at $120 per person, this cruise offers significant value given the inclusions—gourmet food, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, and a scenic sail. For travelers wanting a luxurious yet relaxed experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and fine dining, this trip strikes a good balance.

The duration of 5 to 6 hours means you get a full afternoon of fun without feeling rushed, and the small-group environment ensures more personal attention. Transportation is not included unless you select the pickup option, but the Heraklion meeting point is easy to find for most travelers staying in town.

The tour operates rain or shine, but weather conditions may cause rescheduling—something to keep in mind if the forecast looks uncertain.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups of friends wanting to celebrate, or even solo travelers who appreciate a touch of luxury and simplicity. If you’re after high-quality food, a relaxed atmosphere, and panoramic sunset views, it’s hard to beat.

It’s also ideal if you appreciate authentic, well-organized tours with knowledgeable staff. Keep in mind, pregnant women are not advised to participate, and those prone to seasickness might want to consider their comfort level on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, unless you select the pickup option. The main meeting point is in Heraklion, which is easy to reach by taxi or public transport.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID are recommended. It’s also handy to bring a camera, as the scenery is picture-worthy.

Are vegetarian or special diet options available?
Yes, the onboard chef can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dietary preferences upon request.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including sailing, swimming, dining, and the sunset return.

Can I go snorkeling or paddleboarding?
Absolutely. All gear is provided, and reviewers praise the quality and variety of the equipment.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available, so you can share your photos or send a quick message while at sea.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on relaxation and adult-oriented activities like wine and dining suggests it’s best suited for older children or teenagers.

You can check if your dates are available here: