Heraklion Private Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Lunch

Heraklion Private Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Crete’s stunning coasts, this private catamaran cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island might just be the perfect escape. Designed for those seeking comfort, privacy, and a taste of authentic Greek island life, this experience offers a luxurious way to unwind and soak up the scenery.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private luxury catamaran ensures an intimate experience, free from crowded boats. Second, the delicious Mediterranean lunch with seafood and local dishes promises a true taste of Crete’s culinary charm. Third, the opportunity to snorkel, paddleboard, and swim in pristine waters adds active fun to the relaxing day.

One possible consideration is the price—at $1,637 for up to 14 guests, it’s an investment, but one that grants exclusive access and personalized service. This cruise is especially ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples celebrating a special occasion who want a memorable day on the water.

Good To Know

• Luxurious private catamaran guarantees comfort and exclusivity.
• All-inclusive drinks and a gourmet lunch make it a true indulgence.
• Multiple water activities like snorkeling and SUP enhance fun and exploration.
• Scenic views and photo opportunities in Dia’s bays create lasting memories.
• Flexible options for dietary needs ensure everyone is catered for.
• No hotel transfer needed—just meet at the marina and start your adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Departure

The journey begins at the Heraklion marina, where a friendly crew from DanEri Yachts welcomes you with coffee, tea, and freshly baked pies. The meeting point is straightforward—simply arrive 15 minutes early at the marina café, with parking available nearby for about 5 EUR a day. The crew, wearing recognizable DanEri T-shirts, makes check-in smooth, and you feel immediately at ease.

Once onboard, the spacious catamaran offers plenty of room for relaxing and sunbathing. Several guests highlight the smooth ride and comfortable deck, which makes all the difference in turning a boat trip into a true pleasure.

The Sail to Dia Island

Setting sail from Heraklion, you’ll enjoy the gentle breeze and panoramic sea views. The stereo system provides a lively, upbeat soundtrack, and with WiFi available, sharing the scenery in real-time becomes effortless. The crew, known for their friendly professionalism and safety certifications, keeps the atmosphere light and welcoming.

This hour-long cruise is beautiful—waves softly lapping against the hull, the coastline drifting by. Some guests remarked how the onboard atmosphere felt exclusive yet relaxed, perfect for unwinding or catching up on that vacation photo backlog.

Arrival at Dia and Water Activities

As you arrive in one of Dia’s picture-perfect bays, the real fun begins. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing—all gear is provided, and some guests loved how easy it was to jump right in. The shallow waters make it perfect for families, with arm floaties and inflatables on hand.

Snorkelers appreciated the clarity of the water, with one reviewer commenting, “The marine life was surprisingly abundant, and I saw more fish than I expected.” For those who prefer a more active approach, stand-up paddleboards (SUP) are available, and a standout feature is the inflatable flamingo, which doubles as a fun photo prop and a comfy float for lounging in the water.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Mediterranean Lunch

After some water fun, it’s time to enjoy the highlight for many—the freshly prepared Mediterranean meal. The menu features regional dishes, seafood, and meat, with options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets upon request. Guests consistently praise the lunch for being fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned.

One guest shared, “The seafood was so fresh, and the homemade dessert was a perfect sweet finish,” highlighting how the meal elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. The lunch hour provides a relaxing break while soaking in scenic views on the way back to the boat.

Return Journey and Reflection

As the cruise winds down, you’ll enjoy another hour aboard, basking in the sun and exchanging photos. The crew ensures a smooth ride back, and many guests noted how the relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery made the day feel special.

The entire experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, giving ample time to relax, explore, and indulge without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Works and Who It’s For

This private sailing trip offers a well-rounded balance of leisure, adventure, and gourmet food, all in an exclusive setting. It’s ideal for travelers who value comfort and personalized service, as the private nature of the cruise means fewer crowds and more flexibility to tailor your day.

For families, the calm waters, safety gear, and kid-friendly inflatables make it a safe, fun day on the water. Groups of friends or couples celebrating special moments will appreciate the privacy, beautiful scenery, and shared experiences—plus plenty of photo opportunities.

However, note the price point—this isn’t the most budget-friendly option, but the value lies in exclusivity, quality food, and memorable water activities. If you’re seeking a relaxed, upscale way to see Dia Island while enjoying the comforts of a private yacht, this cruise hits the mark.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point is at Heraklion Marina Café; arrive 15 minutes early.
• Price is $1,637 for up to 14 guests, making it a cost-effective option per person for groups.
• Duration is about 6.5 hours, with flexible starting times.
• Inclusions: private cruise, crew, lunch, unlimited drinks, snorkeling, SUP, inflatables, WiFi, and music.
• Not included: hotel transfers (though transfer services are available upon request).
• Weather: the cruise depends on good weather; cancellations or rescheduling are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.
• What to bring: swimwear, towel, sunscreen, ID, and perhaps a camera for the stunning scenery.
• Food options: vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available, but it’s wise to specify dietary needs when booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided to the marina? No, the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, but transfer services can be arranged for an additional fee.

What should I bring onboard? Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and your ID or passport. A camera or smartphone for photos is also recommended.

Can children join this cruise? Yes, there’s a special meal option for children, and the water activities are suitable for kids with inflatables and floaties provided.

How long is the sailing trip? The total duration is approximately 6.5 hours, including water activities, lunch, and cruising time.

What is included in the price? The price covers the private catamaran, crew, lunch, unlimited drinks (soft drinks, beer, white wine), snorkeling and fishing gear, SUP boards, inflatables, WiFi, and music.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated? Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

What if the weather turns bad? The cruise depends on favorable weather; if conditions are unsafe, the tour might be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women? No, the activity isn’t recommended for pregnant women due to the water activities and sailing nature.

Can I book last minute? Availability varies, so it’s best to book in advance, but you can reserve now and pay later to keep plans flexible.

To sum it up, this private sailing cruise offers a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic Mediterranean flavors. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a personalized day on Crete’s waters. With beautiful scenery, engaging water activities, and delicious regional cuisine, you’re set for a memorable experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cruise delivers a unique way to explore Dia Island in style.

For travelers seeking comfort, privacy, and a splash of adventure, this tour stands out as a worthwhile investment in unforgettable Greek island memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: