Fira: Private Day Cruise with BBQ, Drinks, & Hot Springs

Fira: Private Day Cruise with BBQ, Drinks, & Hot Springs — A Detailed Look

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of the Aegean, with the iconic Santorini cliffs looming in the distance and the gentle hum of a private motorboat beneath you. That’s exactly what you get with the Fira Private Day Cruise offered by Pelagos Cruises. While we haven’t personally set sail with this tour, extensive reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this experience is a fantastic way for couples, small friends groups, or families to explore the island’s coastline in comfort and style.

Three features truly stand out: the chance to visit both famous beaches and hidden gems, the opportunity to indulge in a delicious Greek BBQ while cruising, and the stunning views of Santorini’s caldera villages. Plus, the hot springs bring a unique, relaxing twist. That said, one thing to consider is the price — at $1,129 for up to four people, it’s definitely an investment. This tour works best for those craving privacy, personalized service, and a luxury experience that beats crowded boat trips.

If you’re after a memorable, intimate adventure with authentic touches and spectacular scenery, this cruise could be your ideal day out. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and a blend of adventure with leisure.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Perfect for small groups or couples seeking intimacy and tailored service.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines beaches, volcanic springs, villages, and caldera views in one trip.
• Gourmet Onboard Meal: Enjoy a freshly prepared Greek BBQ with local ingredients and unlimited drinks.
• Flexible and Convenient: Includes hotel transfers and free WiFi, simplifying logistics.
• Ideal for Photography: Offers spectacular photo opportunities of volcanic landscapes, villages, and caldera cliffs.
• Value for the Price: All essentials like fuel, taxes, snorkeling equipment, and crew are included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the Santorini Private Day Cruise

The Departure and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins at the marina of Vlychada around 10:00 am, with a relaxed check-in process and a friendly crew ready to welcome you aboard. The boat is a comfortable motor vessel designed for privacy and smooth cruising. The journey lasts about five hours, giving ample time to explore, relax, and indulge without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to your private party, which means plenty of personalized attention — no overcrowding here.

From the start, the emphasis is on comfort and exclusivity. Reviews frequently mention the professionalism of the crew, including the captain and guide, who are keen to ensure guests feel at ease and informed throughout. With free WiFi onboard, you can even share your scenic moments in real-time.

First Stops: Iconic Beaches of Santorini

The initial part of the cruise is dedicated to visiting Volcanic Red Beach and White Beach, both celebrated for their striking natural hues and crystal-clear waters. These beaches are accessible only by boat, making this a real highlight. Expect to swim in inviting waters and snorkel with the provided equipment — reviews mention how clean and inviting the snorkeling spots are, with some guests noting they saw fascinating marine life.

The Red Beach’s vivid volcanic sand contrasts sharply with the white cliffs, giving you plenty of fantastic photo opportunities. White Beach, with its beautiful sandy shoreline, offers a different vibe—quiet and scenic, perfect for a dip or lounging for a bit. You’ll appreciate the time here to relax and soak in the scenery.

Crossing to Akrotiri and the Volcano

Next, the cruise takes you past the Village of Akrotiri, where you’ll enjoy views of the Indian rock formation and the lighthouse. Many guests find the landscape fascinating—these geological formations tell stories of Santorini’s volcanic history, and the views from the boat make it all the more striking.

The highlight of this section is the visit to Hot Springs near the volcano. The sulfurous waters are believed to have therapeutic qualities, and swimming here is a unique experience. While some reviews advise not to wear white swimsuits due to sulfur deposits, the warm waters are considered relaxing and fun. The crew often provides towels and snorkeling gear, making it easy to enjoy a swim.

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Cruising Along the Caldera and Villages

Afterward, you’ll cruise around the volcano, sailing along the caldera cliffs. This stretch offers jaw-dropping views of Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and the picturesque village of Oia. The panoramic scenery is perfect for photos — the colorful buildings perched on cliffs, the ancient volcanic formations, and the deep blue waters.

Guests often mention how spectacular the photo opportunities are here, especially with the contrast of the villages against the volcanic backdrop. It’s a peaceful moment, perfect for soaking in the beauty of Santorini.

The Oia or Thirasia Stop & the Greek BBQ

The boat then anchors near Oia or Thirasia, giving you time to relax, swim, or explore the village. Many reviews highlight the calm, scenic nature of this stop and the chance to take in the iconic sunset views, if timing aligns.

While anchored, the crew prepares a delicious Greek BBQ onboard, featuring local specialties and Mediterranean flavors. The meal is complemented by unlimited soft drinks and a selection of Santorinian wines, which many guests praise for their quality. The experience of eating a fresh, homemade meal while floating on the water with such breathtaking views makes for a truly memorable moment.

Final Leg: Asponisi and Return to Vlychada

As the tour concludes, the boat cruises past Asponisi Island, another scenic highlight before heading back to Vlychada port. The entire journey feels like a carefully curated blend of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, swim, or simply enjoy the quiet luxury.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before Booking

Price and Value: At $1,129 for a private group of up to four, this experience is a splurge — but it’s designed to be a personalized, luxurious day on the water. The inclusive extras like meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, fuel, and transfers make it a smooth and hassle-free outing.

Duration & Timing: With a five-hour window starting at 10:00 am, you’ll want to plan your day accordingly. The flexible start times mean you can check availability and pick a slot that fits your schedule. Reviewers mention that the timing feels just right — enough to see everything without feeling rushed.

Transportation & Convenience: Hotel transfers are included, which is a big plus in Santorini’s sometimes tricky logistics. The crew’s professionalism and the boat’s amenities contribute to a comfortable experience from start to finish.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera are essentials. Since snorkeling is included, packing a favorite swimsuit and towel makes sense, though towels are provided.

Special Requests: Vegetarian meals are available upon request, and detailed passenger info (full names and passport numbers) need to be sent at least four days in advance, which is typical for international cruises.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Guests consistently commend the crew for their friendliness and professionalism. One review notes, “The crew made us feel very special, and the food was surprisingly tasty for a boat meal.” Others loved the flexibility — “We loved how we could swim in the hot springs and then relax with a glass of wine while watching the caldera glow.”

Some mention that the hot springs sulfur smell can be strong, so avoiding white swimsuits is advisable. The inclusion of unlimited drinks, especially the local wines, was a highlight, with many referring to the meal as “delicious and freshly prepared.”

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is an excellent choice for couples or small groups looking for an intimate, high-quality experience. If you’re eager to avoid crowded boat tours and prefer personalized service with a touch of luxury, this is ideal. It’s also perfect for those who love photography, scenic landscapes, and authentic Greek cuisine.

However, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer more active, group-oriented excursions, you might find this experience on the pricier side. Still, the inclusion of everything from transfers to meals makes it a good value for those seeking a hassle-free, memorable day.

The Sum Up

The Fira Private Day Cruise through Pelagos Cruises offers a blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and culinary delights. It’s a chance to explore Santorini’s most iconic spots without the crowds, all while enjoying a relaxed, luxurious atmosphere. The combination of snorkeling, hot springs, caldera views, and a freshly prepared Greek BBQ makes for a well-rounded adventure.

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who desire privacy, personalized service, and a taste of authentic Greek hospitality. The price reflects the exclusivity and quality—if you’re after a memorable, intimate day on the water, it’s worth considering.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or just wanting to treat yourself to a spectacular day, this cruise promises a genuine and enjoyable way to see Santorini’s stunning coastlines.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 10:00 am and finishing around 3:00 pm, giving you ample time to explore and relax.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfers, a Greek BBQ meal with local ingredients, unlimited soft drinks, Santorinian wines, snorkeling equipment, towels, fuel, taxes, and the crew.

Are there vegetarian meal options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring dietary preferences are accommodated.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and your swimsuit and towel for swimming and snorkeling.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the experience is flexible and private, making it suitable for families or small groups looking for a relaxed day on the water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind for flexible travel plans.

Do I need to provide passport details?
Yes, full names and passport numbers of all passengers should be sent at least 4 days before the cruise to facilitate check-in and safety procedures.

This private cruise in Santorini offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, relaxation, and authentic Greek cuisine—all wrapped up in a luxurious, intimate package. It’s a fantastic way to see the island’s highlights in style, making it a memorable highlight of your Greek vacation.

You can check availability for your dates here: