Heraklion: Private Catamaran Cruise to Dia with Meal&Drinks

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water, soaking up the sun and enjoying some of Crete’s most beautiful scenery, this private catamaran cruise to Dia Island might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but from what we can gather, it offers a blend of luxury, fun, and relaxation that appeals to a wide range of travelers—families, friends, couples celebrating something special, or anyone craving a peaceful escape from the busy coast of Heraklion.

What immediately caught our eye is the idea of having a private luxury vessel all to yourself, which means no crowded tours or noisy groups—just your crew, your plans, and the sea. We also love the versatility offered: you can choose to sail in the gentle morning sun or watch a breathtaking sunset, adding a personalized touch to your day. However, a potential consideration is the price point; at $1,920 per group for up to 10 people, it’s definitely a splurge, but one that many will find worth it for the exclusivity and tailored experience.

This experience is ideal for those who want to celebrate a special occasion, enjoy a relaxing day with family or friends, or simply indulge in Crete’s stunning waters with all the comforts of a private boat. If you’re after a memorable day of leisure, water fun, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, this cruise could be a perfect match.

Key Points

• Private Luxury Experience: You’ll have a spacious, modern catamaran at your exclusive disposal.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose between morning or sunset departures, tailoring the vibe of your day.
• Water Activities Galore: Swimmers, snorkelers, fishers, and paddleboarders will find plenty to do.
• Gourmet Meals & Drinks: Freshly cooked Mediterranean dishes, with options for kids and dietary preferences.
• Family Friendly: Kids are welcomed with dedicated toys and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Stunning Views: Whether under the sun or during sunset, the scenery is unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Check-in

The adventure begins at the marina, where you’ll meet a crew member wearing a DanEri t-shirt at the Marina Café. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start. Parking is straightforward, with a municipal lot nearby costing around 5 EUR daily. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with coffee, tea, and pies, setting a warm, welcoming tone for the day.

The Journey to Dia Island

The cruise to Dia is broken into manageable parts: an hour sailing to your destination, followed by a couple of hours at the island, then a return leg. The boat itself is described as luxurious and spacious, meaning you’ll have plenty of room to relax and move around freely. The crew, certified by the Red Cross, will prioritize safety without sacrificing friendliness or fun.

Water Activities and Relaxation

The highlight for most is the variety of water-based activities available once you arrive. The crystal-clear waters around Dia are perfect for a refreshing swim, and snorkeling gear is provided to see the marine life up close. If fishing interests you, equipment is on hand, and stand-up paddleboards are included for those who want to test their balance or just have a playful paddle.

Kids, in particular, seem to love this part—plenty of toys and inflatables like flamingos keep them entertained. The boat provides arm floaties, inflatables, and life jackets, so safety isn’t overlooked. We love the idea of relaxing on deck while the kids splash around or exploring the scenic bays.

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Food and Drinks

One of the real treats of this cruise is the freshly cooked Mediterranean meal served on board. The menu is diverse, featuring seafood, meat, salads, and a summer dessert—something for every palate. For families, a kids’ menu is available, which means everyone leaves well-fed and happy.

Unlimited drinks—soft drinks, white wine, and beer—are included, allowing you to toast to the scenery or just unwind with a cold beverage. The stereo system can play your favorite tunes, or you can enjoy the curated playlists, while onboard Wi-Fi means you can share your moments instantly.

The Scenic Return and Sunset Option

For the evening sail, the sunset adds a magical glow to the waters, turning the sea into a canvas of fiery hues. This makes for stunning photos and a peaceful, almost meditative experience. The morning cruise, by contrast, is quieter, with softer light and a calmer atmosphere—ideal if you prefer a peaceful start to your day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Check-in and Welcome: 15 minutes with snacks and safety briefing.
• Sailing to Dia: About an hour on the water, enjoying the views and music.
• Time at Dia: Nearly 3 hours for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, paddleboarding, and enjoying regional cuisine.
• Return: Around an hour back to the marina, with relaxed vibes and beautiful scenery.

What Makes It Special

The combination of luxury, personalization, and the natural beauty of Dia Island makes this cruise stand out. According to reviews, guests appreciate the “stunning views” and the fact that the experience is tailored to their wishes. Several mention the excellent drinks selection and delicious food as highlights, with one noting how perfect the sunset cruise was for creating memorable photos.

While the price might seem high at first glance, consider what’s included: a private vessel, water toys, gourmet meals, drinks, and a dedicated crew. For a celebration or a special day, many find it a worthwhile splurge, making it a truly exclusive experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re celebrating something special—like a birthday, anniversary, or wedding—or if you simply want a private day out on Crete’s waters. It suits travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and the convenience of having everything curated for them. Families with kids will appreciate the kid-friendly facilities and options, but even groups of friends or couples will find plenty to love.

If you’re after a quick, budget-friendly boat trip, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re willing to spend a bit more for a tailored, luxurious experience with water activities, fantastic food, and stunning scenery, this cruise offers a memorable day on the sea.

Final Thoughts

The Heraklion private catamaran cruise to Dia with meals and drinks strikes a good balance of comfort, fun, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for those wanting to indulge in Crete’s waters without the crowds, enjoying personalized service in a luxurious setting. Though the price point is on the higher side, the inclusions—water activities, gourmet food, drinks, and the exclusivity—are well worth considering for a special treat.

Remember, this experience is weather-dependent, so be flexible with your dates if needed. And arriving early at the marina ensures you start your day smoothly. Whether you opt for a sunrise or sunset sail, you’ll leave with wonderful memories and plenty of photos to look back on.

Is this cruise suitable for families with children?
Yes, kids are warmly welcomed. There are toys, inflatables, and kid-friendly meals, making it a fun and comfortable experience for young travelers.

What is included in the price?
You get a private, spacious catamaran, crew with Red Cross certification, water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, a freshly cooked Mediterranean meal, unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi, and safety equipment.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts about 5 hours, including check-in, sailing, time at Dia, and return.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, you can select either a morning or evening (sunset) departure, depending on your preference.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, there’s a municipal parking lot costing approximately 5 EUR per day.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your passport or ID.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Will the trip be canceled for bad weather?
Yes, the cruise is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility, but full payment is required prior to the cruise.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, private day on Crete’s waters with good food, water fun, and spectacular views, this cruise could be just the thing. It offers a chance to celebrate, unwind, and take in the island’s beauty in style and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: