Set sail from Heraklion aboard a catamaran for a day at sea built around two things Crete does best: its waters and its wine. This isn't just another boat trip to Dia Island, it's a journey that brings the island's culinary and winemaking heritage right onto the deck with you.

The journey to Dia Island takes about an hour, giving you time to settle in, take in the views of the Cretan coastline, and enjoy the breeze as you make your way across calm, sheltered waters. Dia Island itself is a protected, uninhabited gem just off Heraklion, known for its crystal-clear sea and quiet, untouched landscape, a world away from the busier beaches on the mainland.

Once anchored, the adventure begins. Jump into the pristine waters for a swim, grab a mask and snorkel to explore the underwater world below, or take a stand-up paddleboard out for a glide across the bay. If you're curious to try your hand at traditional fishing, the crew is on hand with gear and guidance to help you give it a go.

Midway through the day, slow things down with a guided tasting of local Cretan wines. The crew walks you through a selection of wines from the island, paired with traditional Cretan bites, a relaxed, sociable moment to learn a little about the island's winemaking traditions while sipping something distinctly local, with the sea as your backdrop.

As the afternoon continues, enjoy a freshly made lunch onboard: Skioufichta with apaki, a beloved Cretan pasta dish made with smoked pork, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and grated graviera cheese. It's a dish rooted in Cretan home cooking, and a proper introduction to the island's food culture. Alongside lunch, enjoy a refreshing spread of fresh fruit, soft drinks, and more wine if you're after a second glass.

With full bellies and the sun overhead, there's plenty of time left to sunbathe on deck, take photos of the dramatic island scenery, or simply relax and enjoy the calm before you set sail back to Heraklion.