Day Cruise to Dia island from Heraklion/ Hersonissos port

Exploring the Crete Coast by Catamaran: An Honest Look at the Day Cruise to Dia Island

If you’re in Crete and looking for a relaxing day on the water, a Day Cruise to Dia Island from Heraklion or Hersonissos might catch your eye. This experience offers a mix of scenic sailing, quality food, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. It’s particularly well-suited for families, small groups, and anyone who appreciates the comfort of modern boat tech combined with authentic local flavors.

What I like most about this cruise is how the catamaran’s latest technology ensures a smooth, comfortable ride—important when you’re out on the open sea. Plus, the onboard menu, crafted from local organic ingredients, offers more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Crete’s genuine culinary spirit. The chance to snorkel or paddleboard in crystal-clear waters makes the day active as well as relaxing.

One possible consideration is that availability can be competitive because this activity is in high demand. Booking through the app doesn’t guarantee your spot, so it’s wise to wait for confirmation from the tour provider. If you’re flexible with your dates, this won’t be an issue, but it’s worth keeping in mind, especially during peak season.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Modern Catamaran Comfort: Equipped with the latest technology for a smooth journey.
• Authentic Crete Cuisine: Organic, locally sourced food served with scenic sea views.
• Flexible Water Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, SUP, and fishing in Dia Island bay.
• Seasonal Menu Changes: Expect fresh, regional dishes, but menu details can vary.
• Transportation Options: Arranged after booking, including wheelchair access and large group facilities.
• Duration & Schedule: A full 6-7 hour day, with specific start times and activities.

A Closer Look at the Cruise Experience

The Starting Point and Booking Process

From Heraklion or Hersonissos, the meeting point varies depending on your chosen option, but the key takeaway is that transportation isn’t included in the base price of $166 per person. This gives you flexibility—whether you book a transfer through Allcretetours or organize your own. The process is straightforward: you’ll receive an email with your voucher and details a day before. However, keep in mind that booking through the app alone doesn’t guarantee availability. The tour operator reviews your request, confirms or offers alternative dates, or processes a refund if needed. This extra step in the booking might seem cumbersome, but it helps ensure you’re not disappointed.

The Itinerary: What’s in Store

The cruise kicks off at 9:00 am with a warm welcome aboard. You’ll enjoy coffee, tea, soft drinks, cheese pies, and biscuits, all served as you settle in and listen to safety instructions. The boat itself is a Premium Catamaran, offering a stable and comfortable ride—something I appreciate after hearing from previous travelers that boat tech really does make a difference.

By around 10:45 am, the boat stops in Dia Island bay, and this is the highlight for many: swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or even fishing. As one guest put it, “While staying in Dia Island bay, you can swim on an inflatable flamingo or take photos with crystal-clear waters as your background.” The waters are famously clear, and the landscape’s simplicity creates an ideal backdrop for memories or just unwinding.

The Food: A Highlight of Authenticity

Lunch begins around 13:00, and it’s a feast. The menu features green and Greek salads with BIO ingredients, pasta with traditional shrimp saganaki, feta, and mussels in turmeric sauce and ouzo. There are also chicken breasts, nuggets for kids, fresh fruits, and homemade sweets. Drinks include water, coffee, tea, soft drinks, white Cretan wine, beer, and even raki—Greek vodka. Reviewers rave about the quality and freshness of the food, noting that it’s prepared with local organic products. One guest described it as “delicious, authentic, and filling,” perfect for recharging after a morning of swimming.

Leisure and Exploration

Post-lunch, you’ll have some free time—roughly an hour and a quarter—to sunbathe, swim, or explore the island. You can also take photos, relax on deck, or try SUP surfing. The cruise offers a relaxed, unhurried pace, allowing you to savor the scenery and the company. Some guests appreciated the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who shared local insights and made everyone feel at home.

Return and Reflection

The boat arrives back at the port around 16:00, ending a day that balances adventure and comfort. Many travelers say this cruise is a great value considering the included meals, activities, and the quality of the boat. One traveler noted, “This isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s a well-rounded experience with friendly service and authentic Cretan flavors.”

Who This Cruise Is Perfect For

If you love relaxing days with a mix of water fun and good food, this cruise hits the sweet spot. It’s especially ideal for families, small groups, or couples looking for a manageable, well-organized outing. The wheelchair accessibility and availability of large coaches make it accessible for travelers with mobility challenges or big groups. If you’re traveling with children, the variety of activities and the casual pace are a plus.

However, if you’re seeking a highly exclusive or luxury experience, this might not be the right fit. It’s more about good value, genuine experiences, and relaxed enjoyment than opulence.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

• The modern catamaran’s comfort ensures a smooth ride, a big plus for those prone to seasickness or looking for a comfortable journey.
• The authentic Crete-inspired menu offers a taste of regional ingredients, elevating the meal beyond typical boat fare.
• Swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters make for memorable moments, especially when complemented by options like SUP.
• The friendly, knowledgeable guides contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, sharing tidbits about the area and ensuring safety.
• Flexible transportation options mean you can tailor your arrival and departure based on your travel plans.
• The seasonal menu variation keeps the experience fresh and highlights local produce.

Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Worth It?

If you’re after a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water, this cruise offers a solid experience. The combination of comfortable sailing, delicious organic food, and water-based fun makes it a good choice for anyone wanting to explore Dia Island without the hassle of navigating solo. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic flavors and a relaxed pace, rather than high-end luxury.

For families and small groups, this cruise provides a chance to bond over swimming, sunbathing, and sharing local dishes. The included drinks and meals, along with the picturesque scenery, make it a relaxing escape from crete’s busy towns.

Just remember, availability can be tight during peak season, so booking early and confirming your reservation directly with the provider is wise. Also, consider transportation logistics since they’re arranged separately.

This cruise balances comfort, authenticity, and good value—an experience likely to leave you with plenty of memorable moments and a deeper appreciation for Crete’s coastal charm.

FAQ

Is transportation to the port included?
No, transportation can be arranged after reservation. The tour provider offers transfer options at the best prices, including accessible options for mobility difficulties.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning by 16:00, depending on the selected schedule.

What kind of food is served?
The onboard menu features organic, local ingredients, including green and Greek salads, pasta with shrimp saganaki, feta, mussels in turmeric sauce, chicken, fruits, and homemade sweets. Menu details may vary during the season.

Is the boat suitable for families with children?
Yes, children are catered for with pasta options and a relaxed schedule. The boat also has facilities like inflatable flamingos and SUP boards for fun.

Are water activities included?
Yes, swimming, snorkeling, SUP surfing, and fishing are available during the stop in Dia Island bay.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, and you’ll be contacted for confirmation or alternative options.

Choosing this cruise means opting for a blend of scenic sailing, authentic cuisine, and laid-back fun—perfect for creating relaxed, memorable moments on Crete’s stunning waters.