Santorini:Catamaran: private cruise with food & drinks

If you’re dreaming of exploring Santorini beyond its iconic cliffside villages and winding streets, a private catamaran cruise might be just what you need. We’ve looked into a highly-rated option offered by SantoCruises that promises a personalized, luxurious day on the Aegean Sea, complete with delicious Greek food and plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel. This review covers what makes this experience stand out, along with some practical insights to help you decide if it’s the right adventure for you.

What immediately catches your eye is that this isn’t just a standard boat tour—it’s a family-run operation that emphasizes intimacy, flexibility, and authentic experiences. Plus, sailing into those hard-to-reach spots around Santorini’s caldera and cooking your meal on board are features that really elevate the experience. The only notable consideration? The price point is on the higher side, but for many, the personalized service and access to secluded beaches make it a worthwhile splurge. This cruise is perfect for couples or small groups seeking a bespoke, relaxing day with stunning scenery and excellent food.

Key Points

• Family-operated experience with personal attention and care
• Access to hidden spots around Santorini’s caldera not reachable by land or larger boats
• Freshly cooked meals on board paired with Greek wines and drinks
• Flexible itinerary tailored to guests’ preferences, including swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing
• All-inclusive with food, drinks, safety equipment, and transportation included
• An ideal choice for romantic getaways or intimate adventures that prioritize comfort and exclusivity

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Catamaran Experience

Starting Point: Vlychada Marina and Departure

The journey begins at the Vlychada Marina, a lesser-crowded, scenic departure point that offers a more relaxed vibe compared to the busier ports. The tour includes hotel pickup and transfer to the marina, making logistics simple and stress-free. This convenience is especially appreciated after a day of sightseeing, allowing you to start your adventure smoothly.

The Itinerary: From Beaches to Hot Springs

Once aboard, your captain and host take charge, ensuring everyone’s comfortable and informed. The itinerary covers several highlights, each with its own appeal:

• Red Beach: Known for its striking red volcanic cliffs, this is a perfect spot for your first swim. The boat drops anchor here for a refreshing dip, with the option to snorkel in crystal-clear waters—an activity many reviewers, like Maeve, found unforgettable. She shared, “swimming with the fishies was a highlight,” illustrating how accessible and enjoyable the snorkeling spots are.

• White Beach: Accessible only by boat, this secluded gem offers a peaceful setting to relax or take photos. The exclusivity of this spot makes it a favorite among guests looking for a quiet escape.

• Black Mountain and Indian Rock: Sailing past these geological marvels gives guests a chance to marvel at Santorini’s volcanic origins without the crowds. The views here are particularly stunning, especially with the chance to capture memorable photos.

• Lighthouse and the Caldera: Approaching the island’s iconic caldera, you’ll get breathtaking panoramic views. Traveling along the caldera edge provides a unique perspective on Santorini’s rugged beauty that only a boat can deliver.

• Old Volcano & Hot Springs: The highlight for many is stopping at the Hot Springs, where mineral-rich waters invite guests to unwind. Maeve raved about the meal served here, describing it as an “amazing Greek buffet” with homemade touches like Greek salad and orzo, perfectly paired with local wine or cold drinks.

Lunch and Drinks: Onboard Gourmet Experience

A major perk of this cruise is the homemade Greek lunch buffet cooked on board. The meal includes beef, pasta, salad, and appetizers, with vegetarian options available upon request. Reviewers like Maeve mention how the quality and authenticity of the food enhanced the overall experience, turning a scenic cruise into a culinary delight. The drinks selection covers local wine, beer, and soft drinks, providing a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customization and Personal Touches

One of the standout features is the flexibility of this tour. The team adjusts the itinerary to suit guests’ preferences, whether you want more swimming, sightseeing, or simply relaxing with a glass of wine. The guided tour aspect is not overly structured, allowing you to enjoy the day at your own pace.

Safety and Comfort

The cruise includes safety equipment, snorkeling gear, and beach towels, making sure everything is set for a worry-free adventure. The boat is operated by a captain and a crew member, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude. Plus, insurance coverage offers peace of mind, especially if you’re trying snorkeling for the first time.

The Sunset Option

The sunset cruise offers the same beautiful itinerary but culminates in watching the sunset over the caldera—one of the most iconic vistas in Greece. Given the reviews mentioning Maeve’s glowing praise, it’s clear that many find this moment to be a truly unforgettable highlight.

Value and Cost

At $997 per group for up to two people, this experience is definitely on the premium side, but it reflects the exclusivity, personalized service, and access to secluded spots. When you consider that the price includes food, drinks, transportation, snorkeling gear, and a private tour, it becomes easier to see the value. For travelers wanting an intimate, all-inclusive day with no worries about logistics, this cruise offers a lot for the price.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups seeking a private escape, or anyone wanting a luxurious, personalized day at sea. If you prefer big group tours or are on a tight budget, there are other options, but for those craving exclusivity and authentic, hands-on experiences, this cruise hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts: Is This Santorini Catamaran Tour Worth It?

For travelers wanting a personalized, relaxed way to explore Santorini’s coastline, this private catamaran cruise offers a compelling mix of stunning scenery, authentic Greek cuisine, and flexible planning. The family-run nature of the operation shines through in the attentive service and access to less crowded beaches and spots only a boat can reach. You’ll love the beautiful views of the caldera, the opportunity to snorkel and swim in clear waters, and the delicious homemade food paired with local wines.

While the price might seem high, the all-inclusive nature—covering transportation, meals, drinks, and safety—makes it a convenient and luxurious choice for a special day. The tour’s adaptability means it’s suitable for those who value comfort, intimacy, and a taste of authentic Greek hospitality.

This experience offers an excellent balance of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight. If you’re after a memorable, private day on the water with incredible views and a touch of luxury, this cruise could be one of the best investments in your Santorini trip.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a Greek buffet with beef, pasta, salads, and appetizers, plus dessert, local wine, beer, soft drinks, safety equipment, snorkeling gear, transportation from and to your hotel, beach towels, and a guided personal experience.

Can I request vegetarian or special meal options?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available upon request, and the meal is cooked onboard, offering fresh, homemade Greek dishes.

How long is the tour?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, typical private cruises around Santorini last a full day, allowing ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the meal.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to explore the waters around the beaches and caldera.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, a jacket for cooler moments, beachwear, and a charged smartphone for photos. Passports or IDs are also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families or non-swimmers?
The experience is primarily tailored for adults or small groups, but families with children comfortable in water may enjoy it. The boat provides safety equipment for snorkeling and swimming.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The crew adjusts stops and activities based on weather conditions and guest preferences, ensuring a tailored experience. You can prioritize swimming, sightseeing, or relaxation as you wish.

If you’re looking for a memorable, intimate way to see Santorini’s coast, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, and swim in crystal waters, this private catamaran cruise could be just the ticket. It combines luxury, adventure, and personalized service to create a day that many travelers, like Maeve, describe as unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here: