Full Day Santorini Boat Cruise -License Free-

Introduction

Thinking about exploring Santorini from the water? This Full Day Santorini Boat Cruise offers a unique way to see the island’s famous caldera, volcanic hot springs, and colorful beaches—all without needing a license. From the moment we first read about it, we loved the idea of being your own captain and creating a personalized adventure on a brand-new, spacious boat.

What caught our eye? It’s the flexibility to design your route, the high-quality fleet that promises safety and comfort, and the all-inclusive amenities that make for a worry-free day. On the flip side, the price does not include fuel, and the maximum capacity is 6 people, so it’s best suited for intimate groups or families. If you’re after a flexible, private water adventure with a personal touch, this cruise could be perfect.

Contents show

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Create your own route and cruise theme.
No License Required: Easy to operate with safety features.
High-Quality Fleet: Brand-new vessels with ample space and stability.
All-Inclusive Amenities: Water, beverages, snorkelling gear, and more.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Ideal for Small Groups: Comfortable for up to 6 guests for a private experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Santorini Boat Cruise Stands Out

What makes this experience special? First, the license-free boats mean you don’t need a boating license to take control—perfect for anyone craving a bit of adventure without formal certifications. The fleet’s impressive size and build mean you’ll enjoy more space and stability than many other options on the water. Plus, the brand-new vessels indicate a commitment to safety and comfort, ensuring a smooth ride as you explore.

Second, the personalization aspect is a major draw. You’re not tied to a preset itinerary—while we’ll suggest a route, you can tailor your trip. Whether you want to visit secluded beaches, the volcanic hot springs, or just cruise around admiring the caldera, you’re in charge.

Third, the quality of service and amenities elevates the experience. Bluetooth speakers, USB chargers, snorkel masks, and an ice box with water and beverages mean you’re well-equipped for a relaxing, fun day on the water. And with prompt, clear communication from the team, your adventure is likely to go smoothly.

Finally, the option to reserve with flexibility—book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours before—makes this an accessible, risk-free choice for travelers who want to plan ahead but retain flexibility.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Fira

What To Expect from the Full Day Cruise

This nine-hour adventure is designed to give you a comprehensive yet personalized exploration of Santorini’s best water sights. You’ll be aboard a large, stable, and safe vessel that can comfortably seat up to six people (though the boat’s maximum capacity is 8, the experience is most enjoyable with a small, intimate group). The boat is equipped with modern navigation tools like a GPS, and safety features to ensure peace of mind.

Starting the Day

Your day begins with a flexible start time—check availability for the exact starting hours. Once onboard, you’ll receive a quick intro from the crew about how to operate the boat, which is straightforward thanks to the user-friendly design. The crew, speaking English and Greek, is praised for their professionalism and helpfulness, often offering tips about the best spots to visit.

Exploring the Caldera and Volcano

One of the key highlights is cruising around the iconic Santorini Caldera. The views from the water are stunning—cliffs rising sharply from the sea, with the whitewashed towns clinging to the hills. You can choose to anchor near the volcano, where hot springs await. The water around the springs is rich in minerals, and the snorkelling gear provided allows you to explore underwater life or simply enjoy a refreshing swim.

More Great Tours Nearby

Beach Visits and Hidden Gems

The cruise isn’t just about the volcano. You’ll have the freedom to visit colorful beaches and secluded spots that larger tour boats often overlook. Whether it’s lounging on the teak deck, chatting with friends, or snapping photos of the caldera, the vessel’s design promotes comfort and enjoyment.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Fira

Food and Refreshments

While the tour price covers water and beverages, any extra food or lunch options require additional arrangements. The crew is happy to assist if you want to bring your own or arrange for a meal. Some reviews mention that on a special request, you can have transportation or even a catered meal onboard, turning your cruise into a true feast.

Midday Flexibility

Since you’re in charge, you can decide how much time to spend at each stop. The boat’s stability and spaciousness make swimming, relaxing, or just soaking in the views very comfortable. Plus, deck pillows, a sun shade, and a deck table ensure you can lounge in style.

The Practicalities: Price, Capacity, and What’s Included

Price and Value

At $407 for a group of up to six, the cost might seem steep compared to larger group tours, but the private, customizable nature makes it worthwhile. You’re paying for exclusivity, comfort, and the ability to craft your perfect day—something hard to find with larger, cookie-cutter cruises.

All the essential amenities are included—Bluetooth speakers, USB charger, GPS, snorkel masks, water, beverages, and port fees—meaning there are no unexpected costs during your trip. However, fuel isn’t included, so if you’re planning a longer or more elaborate route, this is something to keep in mind.

Group Size and Booking

The vessel comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests, making it ideal for small families or friends seeking a private escape. The experience is private, with the crew speaking both English and Greek, ensuring clear communication and local insights.

The flexible reservation process allows you to book now and pay later—a smart choice if you’re still finalizing travel plans. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, giving peace of mind.

The Route and Customization Options

While the specific route is customizable, the cruise typically includes:

Circling around the Caldera for breathtaking views
Visiting volcano hot springs for a swim
Exploring colorful beaches and hidden coves
Potential stops at local islands or points of interest, depending on your preferences

The local tips provided by the crew ensure you’ll see the most photogenic spots or lesser-known beaches that larger tours often miss.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviewers

Many reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides and the stunning vistas they shared. One guest mentioned, “The crew’s local tips made all the difference—seeing the hot springs from the water was just magical.” Others appreciated the extra comfort features like deck pillows and sun shades, which made lounging all day much more pleasant.

Some reviewers noted that because fuel isn’t included, longer routes or extended time at certain stops could add to the cost, so plan accordingly. Yet, the overall consensus is that the personalized, flexible nature of the cruise makes it a worthwhile investment.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re looking for a tailored, private water adventure in Santorini, this cruise ticks all boxes. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or couples wanting more control over their day. The no-license feature makes it approachable even for first-time boaters, while the high-quality vessels ensure safety and comfort.

It’s also perfect if you want to avoid crowded tours, as you control the pace and stops. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a relaxing day on the water, this cruise offers genuine value and memorable moments.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Santorini Boat Cruise combines the freedom of creating your own island adventure with the comfort of a modern, spacious vessel. The personalized approach means you’re not just another passenger but the captain of your own experience, with the flexibility to explore the caldera and beaches on your terms. With all amenities included and a trusted local team guiding you, it’s a memorable, intimate way to experience Santorini from the water.

While the price might seem higher than group tours, the exclusivity, customization, and high quality make it a fitting choice for those seeking something more personal. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, this cruise promises a relaxing, visually stunning day that’s tailored just for you.

FAQ

Is a boating license required for this cruise?
No, the boats are license-free, so you don’t need any prior boating experience or license to operate them.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers Bluetooth speakers, USB chargers, GPS, an ice box with water and beverages, snorkelling masks, port fees, VAT, and safety features.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
While water and beverages are provided, you can arrange your own food or drinks. Additional catering or transportation requests can be made upon contact.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boats are designed to comfortably seat up to 6 guests, with a maximum capacity of 8. For a more spacious experience, smaller groups are recommended.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts around 9 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather isn’t suitable, the cruise may be rescheduled or canceled, with options for cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, as long as families are comfortable with boat outings; just keep in mind the boat’s capacity and the need for supervision during water activities.

Can I customize my route?
Yes, the experience allows for route customization based on your preferences, with local tips provided for the best spots.

To sum it up, this personalized, license-free day cruise in Santorini offers an excellent blend of freedom, comfort, and authentic exploration. For travelers wanting control over their water-bound adventure, with the reassurance of new, high-quality vessels and attentive service, it’s a compelling choice. Perfect for small groups who value flexibility and a touch of luxury, this cruise makes the most of Santorini’s stunning scenery from the water.