This small-group catamaran cruise departs Heraklion Port at 09:30 and reaches Dia Island — a protected nature reserve roughly 10 nautical miles north of the city — in about an hour. The vessel is a Fountaine Pajot 41, a wide-deck catamaran with sunbeds, shaded lounges, freshwater shower, marine WCs, and free Wi-Fi. The maximum group size is 14 guests, which keeps the experience close to a private charter.
The morning crossing is accompanied by welcome pastries, espresso, tea, and an open bar stocked with local white wine, Greek beer, soft drinks, detox waters, and protein cocktails. At Dia Island the crew anchors in calm, clear bays. Guests can snorkel — the site is known for ancient Minoan pottery fragments on the seabed — paddle on SUP boards, try the onboard fishing setup, or float on an inflatable. Swim vests and fins are provided.
The centrepiece of the day is a gourmet Mediterranean lunch cooked to order by the onboard chef from roughly 13:00. The menu draws on local organic produce, fresh seafood, and tender meats, with vegetarian and child-friendly alternatives available on request. Premium wine and beer are served alongside. After lunch there is free time on deck before the boat heads back, arriving at Heraklion Port at 16:00.
A few practical points: guests must supply their full name, date of birth, passport or ID number, and nationality at booking — a Port Authority requirement for cruise permission. Arrival at the port at least 20 minutes before departure is mandatory; the vessel cannot hold for late arrivals. The cruise is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled for safety. Hotel transfers are not included but can be arranged on request for an additional charge.
