Spend a half-day aboard the largest catamaran in Heraklion’s waters: snorkel crystal Aegean coves, try paddleboarding, and enjoy a gourmet Cretan lunch crafted by a Top-100 Greek chef. This balanced cruise pairs easy sea time with marine wildlife viewing and generous local flavors.
Spend a half-day aboard the largest catamaran in Heraklion’s waters: snorkel crystal Aegean coves, try paddleboarding, and enjoy a gourmet Cretan lunch crafted by a Top-100 Greek chef. This balanced cruise pairs easy sea time with marine wildlife viewing and generous local flavors.
The catamaran eases out of Heraklion harbor and the city’s stone quay recedes as the Aegean opens, a wide blue that dares you to jump in. On deck, salt air mixes with the scent of citrus, olives and freshly baked bread—an opening note for a day that alternates between slow sun-soaking and sharp, clear swims.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Cyma Sails · Heraklion, Crete
The catamaran eases out of Heraklion harbor and the city’s stone quay recedes as the Aegean opens, a wide blue that dares you to jump in. On deck, salt air mixes with the scent of citrus, olives and freshly baked bread—an opening note for a day that alternates between slow sun-soaking and sharp, clear swims.
Dia Island sits a short sail north of Heraklion; its limestone cliffs and small coves have sheltered vessels since Venetian times. Geologically the island is a compact band of Mesozoic carbonates; undersea shelves and pockets of Posidonia seagrass create clear, marine-rich water where dolphins and loggerhead turtles sometimes appear. Cretan food culture shapes the day: the onboard menu leans on local olive oil, fresh seafood and seasonal fruit, curated here by a chef ranked among Greece’s top 100.
Expect time split between cruising, a long swim/snorkel stop near Dia’s sheltered coves, optional paddleboarding or fishing, and a relaxed seated lunch with unlimited soft drinks and select alcoholic options. Snorkel gear and life jackets are provided; restrooms and shaded seating keep the trip comfortable for families.
Practical notes: arrive early at the Heraklion quay to board smoothly, bring reef-safe sunscreen and a lightweight cover-up for wind on the crossing, and keep a waterproof pouch for your phone. If you plan to snorkel, basic swimming ability is required. The trip is ideal for travelers who want a mix of marine wildlife, good food, and easygoing sea time without long transfers.
easy.
5–6 hours.
Light activity—suitable for most people comfortable boarding a vessel and doing short swims; basic swimming recommended for snorkelers.
The trip lasts about 5.5 hours (approximately 330 minutes); check start times with the operator—most departures are mid-morning from Heraklion harbor.
Yes—breakfast items, a curated lunch by the onboard chef, fresh fruit, desserts, and unlimited soft drinks plus selected alcoholic beverages are included; special dietary menus can be requested in advance.
Yes—snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are provided; basic swimming ability is required and life jackets are available for safety.
Yes—the vessel is equipped with restrooms, shaded areas, and kid-friendly options like inflatable toys; however small children should be supervised at all times near railings and water.
Dia appears on Venetian and Ottoman charts as a useful anchorage; the stretch of sea between Heraklion and Dia has long been part of local maritime routes.
Keep waste and plastics off the boat and avoid anchoring on seagrass meadows—Posidonia beds are essential for local biodiversity and recovering slowly from damage.
Cyma Sails operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The catamaran eases out of Heraklion harbor and the city’s stone quay recedes as the Aegean opens, a wide blue that dares you to jump in. On deck, salt air mixes with the scent of citrus, olives and freshly baked bread—an opening note for a day that alternates between slow sun-soaking and sharp, clear swims.
The catamaran eases out of Heraklion harbor and the city’s stone quay recedes as the Aegean opens, a wide blue that dares you to jump in. On deck, salt air mixes with the scent of citrus, olives and freshly baked bread—an opening note for a day that alternates between slow sun-soaking and sharp, clear swims.
Dia Island sits a short sail north of Heraklion; its limestone cliffs and small coves have sheltered vessels since Venetian times. Geologically the island is a compact band of Mesozoic carbonates; undersea shelves and pockets of Posidonia seagrass create clear, marine-rich water where dolphins and loggerhead turtles sometimes appear. Cretan food culture shapes the day: the onboard menu leans on local olive oil, fresh seafood and seasonal fruit, curated here by a chef ranked among Greece’s top 100.
Expect time split between cruising, a long swim/snorkel stop near Dia’s sheltered coves, optional paddleboarding or fishing, and a relaxed seated lunch with unlimited soft drinks and select alcoholic options. Snorkel gear and life jackets are provided; restrooms and shaded seating keep the trip comfortable for families.
Practical notes: arrive early at the Heraklion quay to board smoothly, bring reef-safe sunscreen and a lightweight cover-up for wind on the crossing, and keep a waterproof pouch for your phone. If you plan to snorkel, basic swimming ability is required. The trip is ideal for travelers who want a mix of marine wildlife, good food, and easygoing sea time without long transfers.