Deluxe Santorini Sailing with BBQ and Drinks Shared Tour

Sailing around Santorini is often considered one of the best ways to truly appreciate its captivating scenery. This Deluxe Santorini Sailing with BBQ and Drinks tour promises a luxurious, all-inclusive half-day adventure that combines stunning views, volcanic island exploration, and a hearty barbecue. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, reviews and detailed descriptions provide a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of included hotel pickup and drop-off, the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and the delicious barbecue meal washed down with unlimited local wine, beer, and soft drinks. A potential consideration might be the weather dependency, as the stops at White or Red Beach are weather-dependent, and the barbecue isn’t included in all reviews. This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day on the water without worrying about extra costs or logistics.

Key Points

• All-inclusive: Meals, drinks, transfers, and snorkel gear are covered, enhancing value.
• Flexible stops: Visit iconic beaches, volcanic islands, and the lighthouse, with weather-dependent variations.
• Comfortable group size: Limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Experienced crew: Friendly, professional, and attentive, with some reviews highlighting excellent service.
• Authentic experience: Combining sightseeing with relaxation, swimming, and a tasty BBQ.
• Weather-dependent highlights: The choice between Red or White Beach depends on conditions, so flexibility is key.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Sailing Tour

The Booking and Planning

Booking this tour typically requires about a month’s notice, which indicates it’s popular among travelers seeking a quality experience. The price at roughly $185.77 per person reflects its all-inclusive nature—covering transfers, snorkeling gear, towels, and unlimited drinks—making it a convenient option for those wanting to avoid surprise costs. Most travelers who book are keen to secure their spot about 30 days in advance, emphasizing its appeal and popularity.

The Day Starts with Ease

One of the standout features is the hotel pickup and drop-off service, which takes away the stress of finding a meeting point. The actual cruise lasts about 5 hours, enough time to explore the highlights without feeling rushed. The mobile ticket system ensures a smooth check-in process, and the maximum group size of 18 keeps things intimate and manageable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Red Beach
The journey begins with a visit to the famous Red Beach, renowned for its dramatic red volcanic cliffs and soft sand. This stop gives travelers a quick 20-minute window to take photos, relax, or dip their toes in the water. Reviewers mention the crystal-clear seas and spectacular scenery, with Angie_R describing the beautiful catermaran and the crew’s excellent service.

Stop 2: White Beach (weather dependent)
The second stop is either at the White Beach, accessible only by boat, or back at Red Beach if conditions don’t favor the alternative. This beach’s white calcareous cliffs create a stunning contrast against the blue waters. Guests typically get around 20-30 minutes here, enough for a swim or some quick exploration. Amy_A appreciated the lots of chances to swim and the nooks and crannies around the coast that are only visible from the water.

Stop 3: Lighthouse and Coastal Views
Sailing past the Old Venetian Lighthouse and the Indian Head Mountain offers superb photo opportunities. The views of these landmarks are particularly striking from the water, and reviewers note that these sights are spectacular to see from the catamaran.

Stop 4: Palea Kameni (Old Burnt Island)
The next stop takes you to the volcanic Palea Kameni, a volcanic island with a stark, black landscape. It’s a brief 20-minute visit, but enough to appreciate the island’s unique volcanic terrain, as Angie_R highlights the fabulous sunset tour with spectacular scenery.

Stop 5: Nea Kameni (New Burnt Island)
The highlight for many is a 30-minute stop at Nea Kameni, where the warm springs from the volcano provide a natural hot tub experience. Reviewers like LoriLarsen mention the wonderful arrangements made to ensure they didn’t miss the experience despite early travel logistics, and describe the crystal waters and volcano views as unforgettable.

The Food and Drinks

The barbecue meal is a key part of the experience, often described as delicious and filling. The soft drinks, beer, and wine are available unlimited, which means you can indulge throughout the cruise without worry. Several reviews mention the excellent wine selection and good quality food, adding to the relaxing vibe. A reviewer noted that although there were two BBQs on board, unfortunately, one wasn’t available during their trip, but the food was still praised.

Snorkeling and Swimming

Guests are provided with snorkels and masks, enabling them to explore the waters at each stop. The clear sea, combined with the lack of crowds, makes swimming and snorkeling a relaxing highlight. Reviewers mention the excellent service from crew members who are attentive and friendly, often assisting with gear or giving tips for the best spots.

The Crew and Service

The crew earns consistent praise for their professionalism and friendliness. Several reviews describe them as excellent and helpful, often going the extra mile to accommodate special needs like vegetarian or gluten-free options. LoriLarsen appreciated the crew’s flexibility in handling her schedule when she had transportation issues earlier in the day.

The Experience’s Flexibility and Weather Considerations

This tour is weather-dependent, especially for stops at White Beach or Red Beach. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the itinerary might change, or you could be offered a different date or a full refund. That said, many reviewers found that the team was responsive, and the experience still felt seamless and enjoyable.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

For travelers who want to combine sightseeing, relaxation, and excellent food while staying within a reasonable budget, this cruise offers great value. The all-inclusive nature means you don’t need to worry about extra expenses, and the small group size ensures a more personal, less crowded atmosphere. The combination of stunning scenery, volcanic island visits, and delicious food makes it a well-rounded day out.

However, those who prefer a more flexible or private experience might find the fixed schedule limiting. Also, if the weather turns bad, your plans could shift, which might be disappointing for some.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure. It’s perfect for those who love snorkeling, good food, and drinks while exploring iconic beaches and volcanic landscapes. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the all-inclusive pricing without sacrificing quality or comfort. If you’re looking for a beautiful, hassle-free way to experience Santorini from the water, this tour hits most marks.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated points near your hotel, making logistics hassle-free.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to see the sights, swim, and enjoy your meal.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, towels, the barbecue meal, and unlimited drinks including beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Can I participate if I have children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a good idea to check with the provider if you have very young kids.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. The cruise provides towels and snorkel gear, but you might want sunglasses or a waterproof camera.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. It’s best to advise at the time of booking if needed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the boat?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This Deluxe Santorini Sailing tour offers a fantastic way to soak up the island’s beauty while enjoying comfort and convenience. The combination of stunning vistas, volcanic islands, a tasty BBQ, and unlimited drinks makes it a standout choice for those wanting to experience Santorini from the water without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day with friendly crew members and plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos, this cruise is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for those who value value, authentic experiences, and a touch of luxury amid breathtaking scenery. Just keep an eye on the weather and book in advance to secure your spot on this memorable adventure.