Heraklion is a fantastic place to enjoy more than just its ancient ruins and vibrant streets. Its location on Crete’s coast makes it an ideal hub for memorable lunch experiences on the water and in scenic vineyards. Whether you’re craving a laid-back day of sailing, a luxurious gourmet cruise, or a cultural tour with local flavors, Heraklion offers options that turn a simple lunch into a highlight of your trip. We particularly love the Heraklion: Sailing Trip to Dia Island with Lunch & Swimming, which combines relaxed sailing, fresh seafood, and swimming in crystal waters—perfect for a sunny day.
For travelers seeking a luxury touch, the Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia – Chef Lunch & Open Bar offers gourmet food paired with unlimited drinks aboard a spacious vessel. If you’d like to pair your meal with local olive oils and wines, the Olive oil and Wine Tour with Lunch delivers a cultural and flavorful journey through vineyards and groves. Each experience reflects Heraklion’s rich maritime and agricultural heritage, making the city a hub for memorable lunches that go beyond the ordinary.
1. Heraklion: Sailing Trip to Dia Island with Lunch & Swimming
This 6-hour sailing trip from Heraklion to Dia Island is perfect for those who love the sea and fresh air. You’ll start with a scenic cruise across the Aegean, enjoying scenic views and dolphin sightings. The boat holds up to 10 guests, which offers a more intimate, almost private experience and makes socializing with the warm local crew easy. The highlight is a delicious, fresh Cretan meal served onboard, along with unlimited local drinks—think raki, wine, and soft drinks—making it feel like a floating feast.
The real draw is the chance to snorkel, paddleboard, and swim in Dia’s secluded bay—crystal-clear waters and untouched beaches are the stars here. The crew is praised for their friendliness and storytelling, enriching the experience with local tales and tips. Reviews emphasize how relaxing and personalized it feels, with many mentioning the sunset sail back as unforgettable. This trip suits travelers who want a genuine, small-group adventure with plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy authentic Cretan hospitality.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for water lovers who value intimacy, fresh seafood, and swimming in unspoiled waters.
2. Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia – Chef Lunch & Open Bar
For around 5 hours of pure pampering, this luxury catamaran cruise is hard to beat. It features a spacious, modern vessel with shaded and sunbathing areas, perfect for lounging while enjoying the gourmet lunch prepared by an onboard chef. The menu is designed to impress, with fresh, restaurant-quality flavors that elevate your sea day. The open bar keeps the drinks flowing—unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and water—making it easy to toast the stunning surroundings.
Snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and floaties are included, giving you options to cool off in the crystal-clear waters around Dia. The reviews are glowing, with visitors mentioning the clean boat, friendly crew, and the “breathtaking views” that make the trip feel special. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a luxurious, all-inclusive experience that combines excellent food, comfort, and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or groups seeking a premium, relaxing day on the water with top-tier food and drinks.
3. Heraklion Luxury Catamaran Dia Isla – Gourmet Lunch Top Rated
This 5.5-hour luxury cruise on EOS Yachts offers a blend of gourmet dining, scenic sailing, and wildlife spotting. The onboard restaurant-quality lunch is a highlight, featuring dishes that showcase Mediterranean flavors, paired with local wines. The boat’s sleek design and top-rated service earn rave reviews from travelers worldwide.
The itinerary includes visits to Rocca a Mare Fortress, with photo stops along the way, and plenty of time on Dia Island for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in pristine waters. The crew is noted for their warmth and professionalism, making this a perfect fit for those who want a blend of comfort, culture, and fine food. If spotting dolphins and seabirds excites you, this cruise offers a good chance to see wildlife during the voyage.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one experience with stunning vistas, excellent cuisine, and wildlife encounters.
4. Heraklion: Nature Reserve Full day sailing to Dia Island & Lunch
Spanning roughly 7 hours, this full-day sailing trip is designed for those who want to take their time. The trip includes stops at remote beaches and nature spots, away from crowded tourist beaches. The crew—led by captain and Aphrodite—are praised for their warmth and hospitality, making every moment enjoyable.
You’ll enjoy snorkeling gear and SUP boards included in the price, so you can explore the clear waters at your own pace. The lunch features delicious slouvaki and fresh drinks, served in a relaxed setting. Many reviews highlight the friendly crew and excellent water quality for snorkeling. The small group size keeps things intimate and personalized, perfect for families or couples seeking a leisurely, nature-focused day.
Bottom Line: A great choice for nature lovers and those who appreciate a slower pace and remote beaches.
5. Heraklion: Olive Oil and Wine Tour with Lunch
This 8-hour cultural tour combines the best of Crete’s culinary traditions with scenic vineyard visits. Led by a certified sommelier, the tour begins with a delicious Cretan brunch paired with high-quality extra virgin olive oil. You’ll then visit a renowned winery, where you can taste 6 premium local wines amid lush vineyards.
The experience includes a 3-course food and wine pairing lunch in the vineyards, with wonderful views and the chance to walk through olive groves and vineyards. It’s perfect for foodies and wine enthusiasts who want a deeper understanding of Crete’s agricultural riches. Reviews mention Areti’s expertise and the excellent pairings, making this a memorable, educational experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in authentic food, wine, and scenic rural landscapes, willing to spend a full day exploring.
6. Minoan Path: Knossos Palace, Winery Visit, Lunch at Archanes
This 5-hour journey offers a personalized luxury experience. Starting with a visit to the legendary Knossos Palace, you get an immersive look into Minoan civilization. The tour then continues with wine tastings at a local winery, combined with a delicious lunch at Archanes.
What makes this trip stand out is the flexibility—adapting to unexpected closures or interests, as many reviews appreciate. The drive through scenic central Crete adds to the experience, and the private driver ensures comfort and personalized attention. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the winery visit. If you’re keen on combining history with wine and food in a customized way, this tour is a winner.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and wine lovers seeking a tailored, private experience.
7. Heraklion: Dia Island Sailing Trip with Lunch
A 5.5-hour sailing adventure aboard a luxury yacht, perfect for those who want to enjoy Dia Island in style. You’ll sail from Heraklion, taking in the views of the Gulf of Saint George, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in the clear waters. The onboard lunch features Greek salad, seafood pasta, and fruit, providing a hearty meal in the middle of your voyage.
This trip is highly rated for its relaxed vibe and excellent service. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer a more private, less crowded option, with a focus on leisure and scenery. The yacht’s luxury amenities allow you to unwind as you sail back, making it a relaxing way to spend a day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a private, luxurious sailing experience with quality food and excellent scenery.
8. Crete: Craft Beer & Cretan Flavors Tour with Lunch
This 7.5-hour beer and food tour is a unique way to explore Crete’s brewing scene. Visiting Solo Brewery, Notos Brewery, or Candia Brewery, you’ll meet passionate brewers and sample a variety of craft beers, from lagers to IPAs. The tour includes a farm-to-table meal in Archanes, paired with local wine, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Travelers who enjoy discovering local craft beer scenes will appreciate the tasting sessions and behind-the-scenes tours. The tour also offers insights into Crete’s agriculture and brewing traditions. It suits those looking for a less typical lunch experience, combining culinary and cultural exploration in one day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for craft beer lovers and those wanting a different take on Crete’s cuisine.
9. Heraklion: Private Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Lunch
This private 6.5-hour cruise offers a highly personalized experience aboard a luxurious catamaran. You’ll enjoy unlimited drinks, WiFi, and music, with plenty of room to relax. The cruise includes stops at Dia Island for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, with a freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch onboard—seafood, meats, and regional dishes.
The flexibility and privacy make this a top choice for families or groups celebrating special occasions. Many reviews highlight the attentive crew, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to take stunning photos. If a tailored, exclusive experience is what you’re after, this trip is ideal.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking privacy, luxury, and a flexible itinerary.
10. Heraklion: Sailing to Dia island with lunch on Bavaria 51
This 5-hour sailing adventure combines sightseeing, swimming, and fishing on a Bavaria 51 yacht. You’ll glide across the waters, enjoy a lunch onboard focusing on local flavors, and have the chance to paddleboard or snorkel. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi makes sharing your experience easy, while the legend of Dia adds a mythic touch.
It’s a well-rounded option for those who want a balanced day of activity and relaxation in a comfortable setting. The crew is friendly and knowledgeable, making sure everyone has a good time. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and leisure, all with the comfort of a modern yacht.
Bottom Line: Good for active travelers who want a flexible, fun day on the water with excellent food.
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Heraklion
When selecting your ideal lunch experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If a relaxed day on a luxury yacht with gourmet food appeals, the Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia is a top choice. For those interested in combining wine and olive oil tastings with cultural visits, the Olive Oil and Wine Tour offers a more educational day.
Budget travelers may prefer the full-day sailing to remote beaches, while adventure seekers might enjoy the private sailing for a fully customizable experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to secure your preferred time and boat.
Final Thoughts
Heraklion’s array of lunch experiences is diverse enough to satisfy almost any craving—from luxurious sailing cruises to cultural vineyard tours. For a relaxed, scenic day, the small-group sailing trips shine, with options like the Heraklion: Sailing Trip to Dia Island with Lunch & Swimming. If you want to indulge in gourmet food and premium drinks, the Luxury Catamaran is perfect.
For wine and olive oil lovers, the Heraklion Olive Oil and Wine Tour offers an immersive taste of Crete’s agricultural treasures. Whatever your style, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable dining adventures—so plan ahead and enjoy your culinary journey in Heraklion.