Heraklion Luxury Catamaran to Dia Chef Lunch & Open Bar

If you’re eyeing a relaxing day at sea in Crete, this luxury catamaran trip to Dia Island promises a blend of comfort, adventure, and incredible scenery. While I haven’t personally sailed this route, reviews paint a vivid picture of an experience that many travelers find unforgettable. From the spacious, well-maintained vessel to the expertly prepared Mediterranean meal, there’s a lot to love here.

What immediately draws attention is the small-group vibe—a more intimate, personalized atmosphere than larger boat trips. Plus, the gourmet lunch curated by an onboard chef and limitless drinks make this a food and beverage lover’s delight. The stunning waters around Dia appeal to snorkelers and swimmers, and the included water toys bring a playful edge.

One thing to keep in mind is that this cruise is weather-dependent; bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellations. This trip suits those who love a mix of leisure and activity, especially families, couples, or groups seeking a special day at sea without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Spacious, well-maintained catamaran with shaded and sun areas.
• Gourmet Cuisine: Freshly cooked lunch with options for seafood, meat, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
• Unlimited Drinks: Open bar includes wine, beer, soft drinks, and water—ideal for relaxed socializing.
• Activities: Included snorkeling gear, SUP boards, floaties, fishing equipment, and inflatables offer plenty of fun.
• Stunning Scenery: Crystal-clear waters around Dia make swimming and photos memorable.
• Small Group: Intimate experience with friendly, professional crew, led by Captain Giannis and team.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This cruise begins in Heraklion, where you’ll meet your crew at the Marina Café, a convenient spot with parking nearby. The crew, including knowledgeable guides like Captain Giannis and Gianna, are praised for their friendliness and professionalism. Once on board, you’ll be welcomed with coffee, tea, fresh pies, and a cheese platter—an inviting start that sets the tone for the day.

The Journey to Dia Island

The first leg of the trip involves a one-hour sail on a spacious, modern catamaran. Reviewers mention how clean and well-equipped the vessel is, with plenty of shaded and sunbathing areas. The onboard Wi-Fi and curated music playlist add a touch of modern comfort, making it easy to relax or snap some photos of the scenic coastline.

Throughout this part, you’ll get a feel for the boat’s steady handling and the crew’s attention to guest comfort. Many reviews highlight how friendly and attentive the staff are, ensuring everyone feels welcomed. You might also appreciate the smaller number of passengers, which makes for a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere.

Arrival at Dia Island

Once at Dia, you’ll find yourself in calm, crystal-clear waters—an ideal setting for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The reviews rave about the beautiful, transparent waters and the marine life, which makes exploring underwater a genuine pleasure. Snorkeling gear is provided, and reviewers mention how easy it is to hop in and explore thanks to the crew’s helpful instructions.

For those who prefer staying dry, stand-up paddleboards and floaties are available, providing a fun and lighthearted way to enjoy the water. Kids and adults alike love the inflatable flamingo, perfect for fun photos and making the most of the day.

The Gourmet Lunch

After working up an appetite, you’ll gather on deck for a delicious Mediterranean lunch. The menu includes fresh salads, hot dishes with seafood or meat, and a homemade dessert. Several reviews highlight how the food exceeds expectations, with many praising the quality, presentation, and flavor of the hot dishes and seafood.

The lunch caters well to children, vegetarians, vegans, and those on gluten-free diets, which shows the crew’s attention to guests’ needs. The onboard chef, Konstantinos, is often mentioned as doing an excellent job of creating a satisfying, flavorful meal that feels more like a restaurant experience than a typical boat buffet.

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The Return Journey

Sailing back, you’ll have time to soak up the sun or simply relax with a drink in hand. Many guests comment on how the scenic views, peaceful atmosphere, and attentive crew make this part of the trip just as memorable as the stops. The crew’s tips about the best photo spots and local stories add an extra touch of authenticity.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Guests meet at the Marina Café, arriving 15 minutes early to settle in. The experience begins with a warm welcome, safety briefing, and refreshments, including coffee, pies, and soft drinks. This grounding start helps settle nerves and set expectations for the trip.

First Sail (1 Hour): The boat departs Heraklion, offering stunning views of the coastline and the open sea. The crew’s professionalism is evident—reviews mention crew members like Gianna and Konstantinos by name, citing their friendly attitudes and helpful advice.

Arriving at Dia (Approximately 2.75 Hours): The boat anchors in one of Dia’s tranquil bays. Here, guests are free to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or relax on deck. Many reviews describe the water as incredibly clear, with marine life visible just below the surface. The crew is proactive in providing snorkeling gear, safety instructions, and assistance, ensuring even beginners feel comfortable.

Lunch and Relaxation: The freshly prepared meal is served on deck, with options to suit all tastes. Guests appreciate the delicious seafood and meat dishes, along with the vegetarian and gluten-free choices. The dessert adds a sweet finish.

Return Sail (1 Hour): After lunch, guests can continue their water activities or unwind as the boat heads back to Heraklion. Sunbathers and photographers enjoy the last scenic views, and many mention the “beautiful sunset” on the return leg as a highlight.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the all-inclusive nature—luxury vessel, gourmet lunch, unlimited drinks, water sports gear, and small-group atmosphere—the price is highly competitive. Guests frequently comment that the experience feels exclusive without the hefty price tag of private charters.

The quality of food and service is consistently praised, with reviews mentioning that the crew goes out of their way to make celebrations special, such as birthdays or anniversaries. The fact that vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request adds a layer of flexibility not always found on similar tours.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a balanced mix of relaxation and fun in Crete’s waters. It appeals especially to those who value high-quality food and drinks, appreciate small-group intimacy, and enjoy water-based activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.

If you’re seeking a luxury feel with a personal touch and want to explore Dia Island in style, this cruise ticks the box. It also suits first-time visitors who want a safe, well-organized trip with friendly guides and beautiful scenery.

Final Thoughts

This Heraklion luxury catamaran cruise to Dia boasts a reputation for high-end comfort, excellent food, and genuine hospitality. The crew’s dedication to guest experience shines through in reviews, with many mentioning the friendly, attentive service and the beautiful, clear waters of Dia as a highlight.

The combination of luxury amenities, diverse water activities, and a gourmet meal makes it a standout choice for travelers looking for a memorable day at sea. The small group size ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere—ideal for those who prefer a more intimate adventure over crowded tour boats.

While weather can influence the day’s plans, the overall experience is highly regarded for its value and authentic, enjoyable atmosphere. If you’re after a stylish, fun, and truly relaxing cruise in Crete, this trip deserves a serious look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is not included. However, transfer arrangements from select areas can be made upon request.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, swimwear, and your passport or ID. It’s also helpful to have a camera or phone for photos.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 5 hours, with specific starting times available based on your booking.

Is there Wi-Fi on board?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available during the cruise, which is great for sharing photos or staying connected.

Can I request special meal options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, and the meal is kid-friendly as well.

Are water sports equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear, SUP boards, floaties, and fishing equipment are included. Inflatables like the flamingo are also available for fun photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, reviews mention kids enjoying the water activities and inflatables, and the crew provides special care for young guests.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for everyone to enjoy.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent; it can be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe.

Do I need to pay anything extra once onboard?
No, all drinks, food, and water activities are included in the price, making it a great all-in-one experience.

This cruise offers a luxurious, well-organized day out on Crete’s waters, blending comfort, adventure, and delicious food. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a beautiful day at sea, this experience promises plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: