Catamaran Sailing to Dia with Lunch in Heraklion, Crete(EST 2024)

Dia Island is a swim-and-snorkel day made easy. From Heraklion you cruise on the Lagoon46 catamaran, then spend time in the clear coves while the crew serves a traditional Cretan pasta lunch onboard. The only catch is timing can slip if the group is running late.

I like that the day stays practical and hands-on: snorkeling gear and SUP are included, so you can switch between active water time and straight-up relaxing. With a maximum of 17 people and a quieter dock once you arrive, it often feels calmer than the usual big-island tours.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Lagoon46 catamaran sailing from Heraklion, built for comfort on the water
• Crystal-clear Dia Island coves where swimming feels effortless
• Snorkeling equipment included so you can explore Cretan sea life on your terms
• Free SUP boards for an extra activity without paying more
• Traditional Cretan lunch on deck plus included drinks
• Small group size (max 17) for a more relaxed feel

Dia Island from Heraklion: why this catamaran day works

I’m a fan of tours that don’t try to cram a dozen “checklist” stops into one day. This one is built around a simple rhythm: sail out, play in the water, eat well, then sail back.

What makes it click is the mix of time and choice once you reach Dia. You’re not forced into one activity. You can swim, snorkel, try SUP, fish, or just hang out and soak up the sun.

And the base is smart, too. Starting from Heraklion means less time transferring around Crete and more time on the sea.

Getting aboard at Cafe Marina in Heraklion

You meet at Cafe Marina on Leof. Nearchou in Iraklio 712 02. It’s listed as near public transportation, which matters if you’re not driving.

You’ll also use a mobile ticket, so you can keep your plans in your phone and move on. That’s one less thing to worry about when you’re matching timing in a busy port city.

The tour is run by Green Cruises, and the boat is a new Lagoon46 catamaran. That “new” detail isn’t just marketing. On a half-day tour, comfort on deck and smooth sailing make a noticeable difference.

The sailing portion: about an hour to Dia Island

After you leave Heraklion, you spend about one hour sailing to Dia Island. That’s long enough to settle in, enjoy the ride, and get that “we’re actually going somewhere” feeling without turning into an all-day ordeal.

Catamaran sailing also changes the vibe compared with smaller boats. Expect a steadier ride and plenty of room to move around on deck. You’ll likely find it easy to grab a spot for photos, then rotate as you feel like swimming or just watching the coast slide by.

If you’re picky about timing, keep this in mind: the day can start late if late guests come into the mix. It doesn’t happen constantly, but it’s a real consideration for schedules.

Dia Island time: swimming, snorkeling, and SUP without extra fees

Dia Island is the star, and the tour gives you several ways to enjoy the water there.

Swimming in clear cove water

Once you arrive, you’ll get a stretch of free time for swimming. The water around Dia is described as crystal-clear, and the stop is set up for easy access from the catamaran into the sea.

This is the part of the day that’s hardest to fake on a land tour. No rides over rough terrain, no walking break to “earn” your views. You’re right on the water with space to cool off.

Snorkeling gear included for Cretan sea life

You’ll have snorkeling equipment included, which is a big deal for value. Instead of paying for rentals or switching into “guess-and-hope” mode, you can plan to spend time looking at underwater life.

The activity is framed around exploring the Cretan north coast fauna. I’d think of it as a fun, no-stress way to see more than just surface scenery—especially if this is your first time snorkeling with a guided setup.

Stand-up paddle boards are included

Here’s another practical win: you can use stand-up paddle boards (SUP) with no extra charge. That turns the island stop from a “swim and snack” day into something more active and memorable.

SUP also works for different comfort levels. If you’re confident, you can go exploring. If you’re not, you can still practice balance and enjoy the moment without being forced to commit to long distances.

Fishing and sunbathing options

The tour also lists fishing and plenty of time for sunbathing. If you want a slower pace, that’s built in. You’re not required to be in the water every minute.

Lunch onboard: traditional Cretan pasta plus drinks

This is one of the strongest parts of the experience because it’s not just “something to eat.” The crew prepares a freshly made lunch onboard after your water time.

The meal is described as traditional Cretan pasta. In practice, this kind of simple, local comfort food is exactly what you want after swimming and snorkeling—filling enough to reset you, but not heavy.

Included with lunch are:

• Fruits
• Soft drinks
• Water
• White wine
• Beer, with responsible consumption

That mix helps you avoid the all-too-common “tour food tax” problem where lunch costs extra or drinks aren’t actually included. Here, the lunch and basic drinks are part of the ticket price.

One more small but important detail: lunch happens after you’ve had time in the water. It means you’re not eating in a hurry right at departure, then scrambling to get comfortable for snorkeling.

Where you’ll dock and why it feels quieter

Dia is set up so you’re not stuck in a crowded harbor scene. The stop is described as quiet and private once the catamaran docks.

That matters more than it sounds. With smaller, calmer docking, you spend less time threading through people and more time enjoying the water directly from the boat. It also tends to make photos and changing activities (snorkeling, SUP, swimming) feel smoother.

What to pack (and what the tour doesn’t provide)

You’ll be happier if you treat this like a true water day.

Not included:

• Swimwear
• Beach towels
• Sunscreen

A basic packing list is simple:

• Swimwear you’re comfortable getting wet in
• Towel (or plan to dry off some other way)
• Reef-safe or regular sunscreen
• A small dry bag if you want to protect your phone and camera
• Water shoes if you prefer extra grip (not listed, but helpful in general)

If you forget swimwear or towels, you’ll have to improvise. Since those items aren’t included, it’s worth planning ahead.

Price and value: what $142.19 gets you in the real world

At about $142.19 per person, this isn’t the cheapest thing you can do from Heraklion. But it’s also not just a “seat on a boat” deal.

Here’s the value angle that stands out:

• You’re sailing on a catamaran Lagoon46, not a basic ferry-style ride
• You get snorkeling equipment included
• SUP boards are free
• Lunch is included, and it’s traditional Cretan pasta, prepared on the day
• Drinks include white wine and beer plus soft drinks and water
• The group is limited to max 17, which can improve the whole vibe

For me, the best value is when activities that usually cost extra are included. Snorkeling gear and SUP are the two big ones. If you were doing those separately in Heraklion, the total cost often climbs fast.

So I’d think of this as paying for a structured half-day at sea where most of the day’s “extras” are already handled.

Who this trip suits best (and who may want something else)

This is a great fit if you want:

• A half-day break with real sea time
• A mix of active options (swim, snorkel, SUP) and easy relaxation (sunbathing)
• A calmer group size (max 17)
• Included lunch that isn’t a sad afterthought

It may be less ideal if you’re looking for a long, land-based sightseeing day. Dia Island here is about water play, not walking tours or museum stops.

Also, if you’re very strict about exact start times, remember that late guests can affect the schedule. The tour is designed to be relaxed, but sailing days are still shared logistics.

Should you book the Dia Island catamaran tour with lunch?

I’d book it if you want a straightforward Crete sea day where you’re not constantly paying extra for equipment or food. The combination of Dia Island water time, included snorkeling gear, free SUP, and a real onboard traditional pasta lunch makes the price feel justified.

I’d skip it (or switch to a different option) if you hate water activities, don’t want any sun/time on deck, or you’re traveling without the basics like swimwear and sunscreen.

If you’re traveling around Heraklion and you want one memorable half-day that feels authentic and not overplanned, this is a strong choice.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the Dia Island catamaran trip?

The duration is listed as about 5 hours 30 minutes.

What’s included in lunch?

Lunch includes traditional Cretan pasta, plus fruits and soda/pop.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

Yes. White wine is included, and beer is also provided for free with responsible consumption.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Are stand-up paddle boards included?

Yes. SUP boards are available for use with no extra charge.

Where do you meet, and where does the tour end?

The tour starts at Cafe Marina, Leof. Nearchou, Iraklio 712 02, Greece, and ends back at the same meeting point.

How many people are on the tour?

The maximum group size is 17 travelers.

What should I bring since it’s not included?

Swimwear, beach towels, and sunscreen are not included.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience starts, the amount paid is not refunded.

What if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

When will I get confirmation?

Confirmation is received at the time of booking unless you book within 4 hours of travel, in which case confirmation is received as soon as possible subject to availability.