Heraklion Private Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Lunch

Planning a day out on the water in Crete? This private sailing cruise to Dia Island offers a combination of relaxed luxury, authentic Greek flavors, and plenty of adventure opportunities. While it’s not a budget option, the exclusivity and high-quality amenities make it a compelling choice for those seeking a memorable day at sea.

What we love about this experience? First, the personalized nature of a private group makes it perfect for family, friends, or a couple looking for an intimate escape. Second, the well-equipped catamaran ensures comfort and fun, from snorkeling gear to paddleboards. Lastly, the delicious Mediterranean lunch prepared onboard, paired with unlimited drinks, adds a touch of indulgence that’s hard to beat. The only thing to consider is that the price might seem steep for some, but it’s justified by the all-inclusive nature and exclusivity.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who value comfort, stunning scenery, and immersive experiences without the hustle and bustle of crowded tours. If you’re after a blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic flavors, this trip can truly deliver.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience for up to 10 guests guarantees personalized service
• Scenic sailing to the uninhabited Dia Island with beautiful views
• Water activities like snorkeling, swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding included
• Gourmet Mediterranean lunch with a variety of local dishes and unlimited drinks
• Top-notch amenities such as Wi-Fi, snorkeling gear, and inflatable flamingo for memorable photos
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

The Experience in Detail

Setting off from Heraklion

The tour begins at the meeting point at Cafe Marina in Iraklio, usually around 9:30 am. From there, you’ll board the luxurious Excess 11 catamaran—a vessel that combines style with comfort. The crew, including the captain and chef, are frequently praised for their attentiveness, ensuring your day runs smoothly from start to finish. The process from pickup to drop-off is seamless, as noted by past guests who appreciated the thoughtful assistance throughout.

Sailing to Dia Island

Once aboard, you’ll set sail towards Dia, an uninhabited island known for its pristine waters and natural beauty. Unlike other tours, this one emphasizes the quiet, untouched environment—no busy beaches or crowds, just you and the sea. The views are described as picturesque, with the vessel offering ample space for lounging and taking photos. Guests have shared that the boat was well-equipped and beautiful, making it a pleasure to relax aboard.

The Stop at Dia Beach

The primary highlight is the stop at Dia Beach, a scenic bay where the waters are famous for their clarity. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or fish, with high-quality gear provided for all water activities. One reviewer mentioned how they loved the opportunity to jump from the boat into crystal-clear waters, which was both exhilarating and refreshing.

However, a reviewer pointed out that there’s no sandy beach on Dia, as the coast is rocky, and the activities are mostly limited to water-based fun or floating near the boat. This is worth keeping in mind if you’re expecting a sandy beach day; this tour leans more toward water-based adventure and relaxation from the deck.

Water Activities and Relaxation

Guests can enjoy paddleboarding with supplied SUP boards or try their luck at fishing with professional equipment. The atmosphere is designed for enjoyment—soothing music, free Wi-Fi, and the inflatable flamingo offer fun photo opportunities. The calm waters and stunning scenery provide a perfect backdrop for relaxing or taking vibrant vacation shots.

The Gourmet Mediterranean Lunch

One of the most praised aspects of this cruise is the home-cooked Mediterranean meal served onboard. The menu features a diverse selection, including cheese platters, green and Greek salads, shrimp pasta or rice with feta, mussels in turmeric sauce with ouzo, and chicken with oranges. For kids, simpler options like chicken nuggets or pasta are available, ensuring everyone’s tastes are covered.

Guests consistently highlight the delicious, freshly made dishes, which elevate the experience from simple boat trip to culinary delight. The lunch is served with unlimited beer and local white wine, adding a celebratory feel to the day. Past guests, like Alissa, have raved about the chef’s skills, describing the food as “amazing” and remarking that they even booked a second day based on the meal alone.

Post-Lunch Leisure and Return

After the meal, there’s plenty of time to relax, swim, or explore further. The crew is attentive to guests’ wishes, helping with water activities or just ensuring you enjoy the tranquil cruise back to Heraklion. The cruise typically lasts around 6 hours, providing a generous window to enjoy the sea and the company.

What Past Guests Say

A glowing review from Alissa praised the crew’s professionalism and friendliness: “The boat, captain, and chef were amazing. The operators assisted from pick-up to drop-off. We had an amazing day, followed by even better food homemade on board by the chef.” This highlights the personalized attention and high-quality service you can expect.

In contrast, a less favorable review pointed out that Dia’s rocky coast doesn’t align with expectations of sandy beaches and that the meal quality didn’t satisfy everyone. While the tour is transparent about Dia’s natural landscape, it’s a reminder that this experience is more about sailing, water activities, and cuisine than beach lounging.

The Practical Side

Pricing and Value

At $1,462.77 for a group of up to 10, this experience is priced for those seeking a private, exclusive day on the water. When you consider the inclusions—luxury boat, gourmet lunch, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, Wi-Fi—the cost reflects a comprehensive, high-end offering. For smaller groups or special occasions, the intimacy and personalized service are particularly valuable.

Duration and Group Size

The cruise lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, providing ample time to explore Dia, enjoy water activities, and savor the meal. The private nature means no crowded tours—perfect if you prefer a tailored experience.

Accessibility and Convenience

The meeting point is centrally located in Heraklion, with easy access to public transportation. Although hotel pickups and drop-offs aren’t included, the meeting point is straightforward to reach. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a note that alcohol consumption is restricted to those over 18.

Cancellation Policy

The flexible cancellation policy—full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind, especially for those concerned about weather conditions or changing plans.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This trip is best suited for travelers who value privacy, comfort, and gourmet food. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion or families wanting a relaxed yet adventurous day on the sea. If you’re after a more active water experience combined with excellent local cuisine, this cruise ticks all those boxes.

Important Considerations

• Expect a rocky coast rather than a sandy beach on Dia
• The price is on the higher end, reflecting exclusivity and premium services
• No hotel pickup, so plan to arrive at the meeting point
• The focus is on water activities and dining, with limited land-based exploration

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, this cruise is exclusive to your group of up to 10 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is included in the price? The price covers the private catamaran, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, a gourmet Mediterranean lunch, unlimited beer and wine, coffee/tea, sodas, Wi-Fi, and fishing equipment.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable; you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long is the cruise? The total duration is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, from departure to return.

Are there any age restrictions? Alcoholic drinks are only for guests 18 and older. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but parental discretion is advised for young children.

Is hotel pickup available? No, guests need to meet at the designated starting point at Cafe Marina in Iraklio.

What should I bring? Swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The boat provides snorkeling gear and paddleboards.

What about the food? The onboard lunch includes a variety of Greek and Mediterranean dishes, with options suitable for children, and desserts made on board.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard? Yes, free Wi-Fi is available during the cruise, perfect for sharing photos or checking messages.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing trip to Dia Island offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and fine dining. The high level of personalization, along with quality amenities, makes it a top choice for those seeking a memorable, hassle-free day on Crete’s waters. The experience’s value is tied directly to its exclusivity, gourmet meals, and the chance to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty in a relaxed setting.

If you’re craving a luxurious, intimate escape with plenty of water-based fun and authentic Mediterranean flavors, this cruise is well worth considering. It’s a wonderful way to see Crete’s coast from a different perspective, away from crowded tourist spots, and to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in the best Crete has to offer, this private catamaran cruise promises a day of pure enjoyment, scenic views, and delicious food.