Hersonissos Catamaran Cruise: A Real Review of Dia Island, Lunch, & Drinks

So, you are perhaps considering a fancy day out from Hersonissos to Dia Island on a catamaran? That’s what is what I did recently, and I thought I’d share, just a little, my experience. This review gives you, like your best mate would, the real deal, without the brochure fluff. We will cover everything from what the boat is actually like to if the lunch is any good. Was it worth the money? Keep reading, because that is what you’ll find out.

Setting Sail from Hersonissos Harbor: What to Expect

Alright, so the meeting point is at Hersonissos harbor. It’s often fairly crowded, but the catamarans are, very much, easy to spot. Expect a bit of a wait while everyone gets checked in; just use that time to admire, almost, the view, maybe? The crew are normally really welcoming, though, and will point you towards your spot on the boat. When you see the catamaran for the very first time, make your mind up; it normally looks exactly like the photos, or fairly close, anyway. There’s normally plenty of space to spread out and catch the sun. Getting on board is, I would say, generally pretty smooth.

The Catamaran Experience: Is it really ‘Luxury’?

Now, about that “luxury” bit. That word is certainly thrown around a lot, too it’s almost like sprinkles on a cake. It’s probably more accurate to say that the catamarans are comfortable and well-maintained. There will definitely be spots for sunbathing, shaded areas if you would rather something else, and usually clean toilet facilities. They are generally, actually, well-equipped for a day on the water, yet maybe don’t expect the level of pampering you might get at a posh hotel, is that correct? The seating is pretty relaxed, which means that it is spot-on for lounging and enjoying the sail.

Sailing to Dia Island: Views and Voyage

That is it; you’re off! The sail to Dia Island takes, typically, around an hour, maybe slightly more, just depending on the wind. So that bit is a good opportunity to sit back, relax, and soak it up like a sponge, right? The views of the Cretan coastline are really wonderful. The water can sometimes be a bit choppy, yet the catamarans are usually stable. They seem to make light work of it. The crew will possibly offer you a drink soon after setting off – usually some type of local wine or maybe a soft drink. I’d say, make sure you keep an eye out for dolphins; they’re sometimes spotted playing in the waves! Also, generally remember your sunscreen, and use it generously, as that hot Mediterranean sun can catch you off guard.

Dia Island: Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxation

Finally, arrival at Dia Island! It’s often like stepping into a postcard, very still, if you catch my drift? The water is really, really clear and inviting, which makes it totally ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Snorkeling gear is usually provided on board, very similarly to you get on other boat trips, or could be just a little bit better, but make sure to check beforehand. The island is protected, so there’s that thing, that it’s a beautiful, preserved natural area. You’ll normally get a couple of hours to explore, swim, and generally unwind. The boat typically anchors in a quiet bay. You’re certainly able to swim straight from the catamaran.

Lunch on Board: What’s on the Menu?

So, what about the lunch? So that’s a pretty important part of the cruise, because a hungry person is not a happy sailor! The menu often features a Greek salad, BBQ meat (chicken or pork are actually common), and some bread, yet there are also vegetarian choices typically available, which might be great, depending on who you are, right? Don’t get over excited; it’s not fine dining, more like very tasty and filling food, very suitable after a swim. Drinks, maybe wine, water, and soft drinks, are often included during the lunch. Now, that the food tastes very good. It tastes especially, maybe even significantly, great when you eat it on deck with the beautiful island views all around you. They will also usually have something for you if you have allergies; they are, potentially, something you want to double-check at the time you book your ticket.

Drinks and Ambiance: Setting the Mood

The atmosphere, so, too it’s almost as good as the scenery! The drinks keep flowing throughout the day. You are always able to go to the bar and order a drink, as a matter of fact. The music is normally kept at a reasonable level, which will keep you from being too annoyed. The crew are generally pretty keen to create a laid-back, actually rather enjoyable vibe. The overall vibe of the cruise makes you feel rather festive, which means it might be quite good, that you’re able to meet people. This would especially make sense, of course, if you’re traveling solo.

Value for Money: Is the Cruise Worth It?

Here is the important bit. The million-dollar question is, very much, “Was the cruise a great deal for the cost?” I feel that if you value a relaxed day out on the water, beautiful scenery, and a few hours to swim in crystal-clear waters, it is quite likely that you would want to do this, which does potentially mean the cost would not be much of a concern, maybe? While that “luxury” label might be a stretch, it’s still quite an enjoyable experience that, I would hazard to say, most people like. A slightly less expensive thing is often a good way to see Dia Island; if you just desire to check it out and get your photograph, anyway, right?