Heraklion Luxury Sailing Catamaran Dia Island | Gourmet Menu

Dia Island by luxury catamaran.

This 5.5 hour EOS Yachts cruise pairs real time in the water with a genuinely special chef-prepared gourmet menu, so it feels more like a private day at sea than a standard boat outing. I especially love how the day is paced, snacks and sailing early, then a long Dia Island stop for swimming, snorkeling, SUP, canoeing, and relaxing in a quiet cove. One thing to keep in mind is that sea conditions can affect how many activities run smoothly, so plan to be flexible if the Aegean decides to get a bit lively.

On top of that, you start right in Heraklion with a photo pause at Rocca a Mare Fortress and an on-board setup that stays comfortable the whole way. You can also spot wildlife, and the vibe stays attentive, thanks in part to the captain and crew team, including Captain Thanasis and the chef team (you may see Chef Charis mentioned). If you’re chasing nonstop high-energy adventure, note that this is still a “sit back and enjoy” luxury cruise, not a rugged sailing expedition.

Quick, high-impact highlights

• Dia Island anchored in hidden bays for easy swimming and snorkeling right from the boat
• Chef-cooked gourmet seafood and Mediterranean dishes served onboard, not catered trays
• Snorkeling, fishing, SUP, and canoe board gear included with water toys for downtime
• Open bar basics included (white wine, beer, soft drinks, water) plus seasonal fruit and local desserts
• New, modern catamaran feel with shaded comfort, WC, and a shower onboard
• Wildlife spotting opportunities like dolphins and seabirds during the sail

Setting Sail From Heraklion for Dia Island

Heraklion makes a good starting point because you’re already close to the port action, and the cruise launches from the heart of the city area. You meet at the entrance of Marina Café in Heraklion Port, and from there the crew handles the flow so you’re not standing around wondering what happens next.

The real draw is Dia Island. It’s the kind of place that feels half myth, half science, with the water clarity that makes snorkeling worth the effort. You’ll spend the majority of the half-day anchored in a quiet cove where the island looks close enough to touch, but you still get that open-sea perspective that makes photos look cinematic.

Cafe Marina Check-In, Welcome Bites, and a Clear Safety Run-Through

The first part of the cruise is about getting you comfortable fast. You arrive a little early, check in with the EOS Yachts crew, and you’ll get greeted before you do anything else. The welcome includes local Cretan treats along with coffee, so it feels like a proper morning or afternoon start, not a rushed boarding process.

Right after that, you’ll get a short safety briefing. It’s not the scary kind, and it matters because the day includes side jumps, water access, and gear use like snorkeling masks and paddle equipment. I like this approach because you can focus on the sea once you understand where the equipment is and how water access works.

Then you’re off, with the catamaran cruising into the coastline views that Heraklion does best.

Rocca a Mare Fortress Photo Stop: Heraklion’s Coastline in Miniature

There’s a quick photo stop at Rocca a Mare Fortress. It’s brief, but it adds context to your day, especially if you’re only in Heraklion for a short time. You get scenic views on the way, and the whole moment works as a visual warm-up before the water time starts.

The practical value here is simple. Even though your main event is Dia Island, this little stretch helps you feel like you’re moving through the real Heraklion coastline, not just sitting on a boat.

The First Sailing Hour: Getting Comfortable on EOS Yachts

Once you’re moving, you settle in. The catamaran is set up for comfort, including onboard conveniences like a WC for men and women and a shower. There’s also free Wi-Fi, so if you need to message home or plan the rest of your day, you can.

This first sailing hour is also your “gear staging” window. If you want to be efficient, it’s when you can figure out where snorkeling gear is stored, how SUP equipment is handed out, and what the water-to-boat access looks like. If you prefer to stay low effort, that’s fine too, because this is a cruise where shade and relaxation are built into the experience.

Dia Island Time: Snorkeling, SUP, Canoeing, and Calm-Bay Swimming

This is the part you’re really booking for: Dia Island time. The boat anchors in a hidden bay that’s reachable only by water, so you’re not dealing with a crowded beach scene. Once you’re moored, you get a long window for swimming and snorkeling, plus additional activities if you want them.

Water activities that are actually useful

Snorkeling is set up with included snorkeling gear and swimming vests. That matters, because you’re not trying to shop for last-minute equipment or guessing what to bring. The seabed around Dia is full of life, so snorkeling here is one of those “you’ll be glad you took the mask” moments.

If you like being active, you can use SUP boards or a canoe board. There’s also fishing gear included, plus inflatable sea toys and swimming noodles. I like that mix because it works for different energy levels within the same group, from total relaxation to active exploration.

Sea scooter note

Sea scooters are not automatic. They’re available on request with advance booking, and priority order is respected. If sea scooters are a must for you, treat it like a planning item, not an impulse decision when you arrive.

Wildlife sightings

During the journey, keep an eye out for dolphins and seabirds. Even if you don’t see them, you’ll still get long stretches of Aegean views that make it feel like the day is unfolding at a slower pace.

Why the Gourmet Menu Feels Like the Main Attraction

Let’s talk food, because this is where this cruise often earns its wow factor. The key detail is that the menu is premium seafood Mediterranean and it’s freshly prepared onboard using high-quality local ingredients. You’re not just getting a plated lunch dropped onto the table. You’re eating while at sea, and the food is treated as part of the experience.

There’s a seafood menu, plus meat and vegetarian options, and a kids’ menu if needed. The cruise also includes gourmet platters of assorted cheeses and cold cuts early in the day. Then the main lunch comes on during the Dia Island break.

Drinks included with the meal

The open bar is also included, with unlimited water, soft drinks, local white wine, and beer. That’s an important value point because lots of boat trips advertise drinks, but the list is often narrow or you end up paying for everything after lunch. Here, wine and beer are part of the all-inclusive package.

Dessert, fruit, and raki

After lunch, you get seasonal fruits and a local dessert. Raki is also included, which is a great fit for a Cretan-focused day. You end up with a food rhythm that feels like a proper meal, not a snack break between swims.

Itinerary Flow: How the 5.5 Hours Actually Works

This cruise is built around three time blocks, and knowing how they connect helps you enjoy the pacing.

1. Heraklion departure window: local snacks, a welcome, a safety briefing, then sailing begins.
2. Dia Island anchored bay (about 3.25 hours): swimming, snorkeling, SUP, canoeing, fishing, and free time in the cove.
3. Return sailing (about 1 hour): you head back toward Heraklion with the Aegean scenery as your backdrop.

The nice part is that Dia Island gets the bulk of your time. Most “boat and lunch” trips cram in one short swim. This one gives you enough time to do water activities, then relax afterwards without feeling rushed.

Onboard Comfort Details That Matter More Than You Think

Luxury on the water is not just about looks. It’s about how easily you can move, rinse off, and stay comfortable through a multi-hour trip.

On this catamaran, you have:

• A shower onboard, which is huge if you plan to keep exploring Heraklion afterward
• WC facilities split by men and women, so there’s less waiting and more comfort
• Shaded spaces to cool down between swims
• Free Wi-Fi, if you want it, but you can also disconnect easily

Small comfort wins add up, especially on a day where you’ll likely get wet and sun-exposed.

Price and Value: Is $141 Worth It?

At $141 per person for a 5.5 hour cruise, this isn’t a budget activity. But it can make sense if you compare what you get against typical paid add-ons on other boat days.

You’re getting:

• Chef-prepared gourmet food with multiple menu paths (seafood, meat, vegetarian, kids)
• An all-inclusive bar with white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water
• Snorkeling gear and vests
• Fishing gear
• SUP boards and canoe board equipment
• Inflatable water toys
• Shower and WC onboard
• A semi-private group size capped at 22 participants

Here’s the value lens I use: how many line items would you pay for separately if you tried to recreate this day on your own? For many people, the biggest costs are usually the boat rental, guided crew, and food. If you price out a similar meal and organized water activities, the cruise starts to look more like “a packaged experience” than “a boat ride with lunch.”

Also, it’s rated 4.9, and you’re paying for the operational quality. A lot of pricey tours fall apart in the details. This one has a strong reputation for service and organization, and you feel that in how smoothly the day runs.

Who This Cruise Fits Best in Your Crete Plan

This is a great match for you if you want a high-comfort half-day that still has real water time. It’s especially ideal for:

• Couples who want photos, sunset views, and a relaxed pace
• People who care about food quality on trips
• Families who still want gear included for kids and adults
• Anyone who wants snorkeling and paddle-style activities without planning equipment rentals

It’s less ideal if you’re hoping for a rough-and-ready adventure where you’re constantly on the move. The day is designed around comfort, swimming breaks, and a gourmet lunch rhythm.

Also, it suits short stays. If you’re in Heraklion for just a day or two, you can do this without needing a full travel day elsewhere.

Practical Tips Before You Go (So You Enjoy Every Swim)

Do a little prep and you’ll feel more comfortable the whole time.

What to bring:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen

Onboard rules you should know:

• No pets
• No smoking indoors

Punctuality matters because the cruise departs exactly at the scheduled time. Arrive at the meeting point about 15 minutes early so check-in is smooth.

And one more real-world tip: sea conditions can change how water activities feel. If the day is choppy, you’ll still have the overall cruise and meal, but some activities may be limited. Keep your mindset flexible and the experience usually stays enjoyable.

Should You Book the Heraklion Luxury Sailing Catamaran to Dia Island?

If you want a luxury-feeling Crete day where swimming and snorkeling are built in, I’d book it. The best reason is the combination: Dia Island water time plus an onboard gourmet menu plus included gear, all delivered on a modern catamaran with practical comfort like WC and a shower.

Book it especially if you care about food quality and you don’t want to pay for “extras” after you get on board. If you’re traveling when weather is unpredictable, still consider it, just go in knowing the sea state can affect how many water activities run exactly as planned.

In short, this is a strong choice for anyone who wants a premium half-day in Crete that feels polished, relaxed, and worth the price.

FAQ

How long is the Dia Island catamaran cruise from Heraklion?

It lasts 5.5 hours.

Where do I meet for the cruise?

You meet at the entrance of Marina Café in Heraklion Port. The crew will guide you to the boat.

What food and drinks are included?

You get welcome coffee and Cretan delicacies, gourmet platters with assorted cheeses and cold cuts, a premium seafood Mediterranean lunch menu (with meat and vegetarian options), seasonal fruits, local Cretan dessert, and raki. Drinks include unlimited water, soft drinks, local white wine, and beer.

Are cocktails included?

Cocktails are not included and are available upon request.

What water activities are included?

Snorkeling with gear and swimming vests are included, along with fishing gear, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) equipment, canoe board equipment, and inflatable sea toys like swimming noodles.

Is a sea scooter included?

No. Sea scooters require advance booking and priority order is respected.

What do I need to bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

What personal details are required for booking?

Greek naval regulations require full name, passport or ID number, date of birth, nationality, and gender, provided during booking or at least 1 day before departure.

Is the tour refundable if plans change?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.