Heraklion Luxury Sailing Catamaran Dia Island | Gourmet Menu

Imagine a day spent aboard a sleek, modern catamaran sailing through the crystal-clear waters of Crete, stopping at a secluded island steeped in myth. That’s exactly what the highly-rated EOS Yachts promise with their Heraklion Luxury Sailing Catamaran tour to Dia Island, featuring an indulgent gourmet meal and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

We love the combination of luxury and authenticity—the chance to enjoy high-end comfort while soaking up the true spirit of Crete. The gourmet onboard lunch, the stunning scenery, and the attention to detail from the crew all make this trip stand out. However, with a price of $117 per person, it’s worth considering whether this level of luxury offers enough value for your specific travel style.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort, excellent food, and scenic adventures, and who want to experience Crete from a different perspective. If you’re after a relaxed yet upscale day with plenty of activities and breathtaking views, this tour is a strong contender.

Contents show

Key Points

Luxury Experience: Spacious, modern catamaran with high-end amenities and attentive crew.
Gourmet Dining: Freshly cooked Mediterranean seafood menu, paired with quality drinks.
Activities & Snorkeling: Equipment provided for swimming, paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing, with optional sea scooters.
Stunning Scenery: Breathtaking views of the Aegean, island wildlife, and a picturesque sunset.
Authentic Local Flavor: Cretan delicacies and attentive service showcase local hospitality.
Small Group Vibe: Semi-private experience with a maximum of 22 guests, fostering a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Heraklion

Starting Point & First Impressions

The tour begins at Heraklion Port, with a crew member waiting at the Marina Café to guide you to the boat. Arriving at least 15 minutes early is recommended — punctuality helps keep everything running smoothly and ensures you don’t miss the departure. The boat itself makes an immediate impression; reviewers frequently mention its spotless condition, spacious layout, and modern design. The onboard facilities include a WC, shower, and free Wi-Fi, making it comfortable for a full day at sea.

Setting Sail & First Views

As the boat departs, the first highlight for many is the scenic cruise along the coast, with views of the historic Koules Fortress acting as a perfect photo backdrop. The crew—friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in English—quickly make everyone feel at ease. Guests have praised the professionalism of the staff, with some mentioning how thoughtful they are, often noticing small touches like a birthday surprise or special dietary needs.

Anchoring at Dia Island’s Hidden Bays

Once anchored in one of Dia’s secluded bays, only accessible by boat, the magic begins. The turquoise waters, untouched coastline, and clear skies create an idyllic setting. Reviewers often highlight the beauty of the anchoring spot, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The reef and seabed are rich with marine life, giving snorkelers a real glimpse into the island’s underwater charm.

Many guests appreciated the high-quality snorkeling gear and swimming vests, which made the activity accessible for everyone. If you’re feeling adventurous, optional sea scooters can be reserved in advance, adding a playful element to the underwater exploration. For those preferring to stay dry, floating inflatables, paddleboards, and canoes are available for rent, making it easy to relax or get a little exercise.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Cretan Flavors & Gourmet Lunch

The highlight for many guests is the gourmet onboard lunch. Prepared freshly during the trip by a talented chef, the menu features locally sourced seafood and Mediterranean flavors. The seafood dishes—like shrimp risotto and Moussaka-style lasagna—are often praised as “delicious” and “freshly made,” with careful attention to presentation and taste. Reviewers mention that the chef even customizes meals for vegetarian or children’s preferences, which is a thoughtful touch.

The open bar complements the meal with unlimited soft drinks, local white wine, and beer, making it easy to toast the day. Seasonal fruits and a local dessert cap off the meal, with some guests noting how generous and satisfying the portions are considering the price point. Many mention that the food exceeds expectations for a boat trip, with “a chef cooking on board” making all the difference.

Wind in your hair appeals? Here are more sailing options we've looked at in Heraklion

Afternoon Activities & Relaxation

Post-lunch, you’re free to soak up the sun, swim, or try out any of the provided water activities. Paddleboarding and canoeing are particularly popular, and the calm bay offers ideal conditions for both beginners and seasoned water enthusiasts. Guests have shared how much they enjoyed floating on inflatables or taking a second swim in the pristine waters.

Fishing gear is also on hand for those interested in trying their luck, while others simply relax with a drink, enjoying the unobstructed views of the Aegean. Many reviews mention the friendly crew’s attentiveness, always available to assist or offer local tips for taking photos or spotting wildlife like dolphins or seabirds.

Sunset & Return Journey

As the day winds down, the cruise back offers more stunning vistas of the Aegean—perfect for photos or just soaking in the peaceful scenery. Guests often praise the professional crew for their hospitality and the beautiful sunset views that finish the trip on a high note.

Once back at Heraklion Port, you’ll leave with not only memorable photos but also a sense of having experienced Crete from a luxurious, authentic perspective. The boat’s facilities, including Wi-Fi, allow guests to share their adventures immediately or simply unwind after a full day at sea.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $117 per person might seem steep compared to more budget-friendly options, reviewers consistently point out the high quality of the yacht, the delicious, freshly prepared meal, and the attentive service. A large part of the value lies in the experience’s exclusivity; with a maximum of 22 guests, you won’t feel crowded, and the crew’s personalized approach makes for an extra special day.

The all-inclusive bar, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and fishing equipment** are included, adding to the overall value. Plus, the safety and comfort offered by the modern yacht and facilities are significant perks for travelers seeking a relaxed yet upscale adventure.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an upscale day on the water without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families celebrating special occasions like birthdays, where personalized touches like surprises have been praised. Those who enjoy good food, scenic views, and engaging activities will find this tour checks all boxes.

Practical Details & Tips

Meeting Point is at the Marina Café in Heraklion Port; arrive 15 minutes early.
Duration is typically a full day, with departure and return times aligned to maximize daylight.
Group Size capped at 22, ensuring a semi-private, intimate atmosphere.
Price at $117 includes gourmet lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and other water toys.
Reservations are flexible, with options to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
What to Bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen — essentials for a day in the sun.
Meal Preferences: Vegetarian, chicken, and kids options available; inform the team a day in advance.
Additional Services: Private transfers, cocktails, and sea scooter bookings are available upon request.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
Not automatically, but private transfers can be arranged if requested. The meeting location is at Marina Café in Heraklion Port.

What should I bring on the boat?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The boat has facilities like a shower and WC, but it’s always good to have your essentials handy.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian, chicken, and kids menus are available. It’s best to inform the team at least one day before to ensure your preferences are prepared.

How many people are on the boat?
The tour is semi-private, with a maximum of 22 guests, ensuring a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

What activities are included?
Snorkeling with high-quality gear, paddleboarding, canoeing, fishing, and inflatable water toys. Sea scooters are available with advance booking.

What is the best time of day for this trip?
Most cruises depart in the morning to early afternoon, allowing plenty of time for activities, lunch, and enjoying the sunset on the way back.

Final Thoughts

The Heraklion Luxury Sailing Catamaran to Dia Island offers a combination of luxury, adventure, and authentic Greek hospitality. The modern yacht, gourmet onboard cuisine, and stunning scenery make it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable day at sea. From the attentive crew to the diverse activities, this tour promises an experience that balances relaxation with exploration.

For travelers who prioritize comfort, quality food, and scenic beauty, this cruise delivers in spades. It’s especially suited for small groups and special occasions where personalized service and a touch of luxury are desired. Although the price reflects the high-end experience, many guests leave feeling they received excellent value for their money.

If you’re looking to enjoy Crete from a different perspective and indulge in a truly picturesque day on the water, this cruise might be just what you need.