Santorini isn’t just about stunning sunsets and dramatic cliffs. This island in Greece offers some of the most memorable food and drink experiences in the Mediterranean. Whether you want an intimate sunset dinner, a luxurious boat trip with onboard dining, or a guided tasting of local wines and spirits, Santorini has something to satisfy every palate. We particularly love the Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks, which combines the thrill of sailing with a delicious onboard meal, all while soaking in spectacular views.
Santorini’s combination of volcanic landscapes, fresh seafood, local wines, and unique hot springs makes it a perfect destination for food-loving travelers. While many tours focus on wine, the island also offers opportunities to enjoy fresh fish caught that very morning, as well as local spirits like ouzo. The tours highlighted here showcase different ways to experience Santorini’s flavors, from private boat outings to sunset wine tastings, giving you plenty of options depending on your budget, interests, and style.
1. Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks
At number 1 on our list is the Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks. Priced at $1,286 per group for up to four people, this luxury private cruise offers an exclusive experience aboard a sleek catamaran. The tour lasts around five hours, departing either in the morning or afternoon, and includes stops at the iconic Red Beach, White Beach, and Akrotiri Lighthouse, among others.
What makes this trip stand out is the personalized service. You’ll enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear Aegean waters, with plenty of time to relax on deck. The onboard lunch is a highlight—freshly prepared with Greek flavors, served with free Wi-Fi to share your pics in real time. The itinerary also includes a visit to the volcanic islands Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni Hot Springs, making this a great mix of sightseeing and leisure. The reviews consistently praise the attentive crew and the high-quality meal, with travelers calling it “the highlight of their trip.”
Bottom Line: If you want a private, all-inclusive experience with the chance to snorkel in volcanic waters and enjoy a luxurious meal on the sea, this cruise delivers. Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a memorable, tailored day.
2. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Food and Drinks
Next up is the Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Food and Drinks, rated 4.6 stars from 228 reviews. For about five hours, this scenic boat ride takes you past volcanic lava formations, into thermal hot springs, and along the caldera. The tour features snorkeling in the clear waters, a Greek BBQ buffet onboard, and lively music that makes the sail fun and relaxing.
What sets this tour apart is the mix of adventure and comfort. You’ll get a chance to swim in volcanic thermal waters, take photos of the lava islands, and enjoy a hearty meal with drinks as you sail. The itinerary includes stops at Red Beach, White Beach, Palea Kameni, and a scenic sail through the caldera. Guests often comment on the friendly crew, the delicious food, and the vibrant atmosphere. One review noted, “The crew fully explained all safety and shared interesting stories about the island,” making it both informative and enjoyable.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who want a lively, all-in-one day out with snorkeling, swimming, and great food, all while soaking in the magnificent views of Santorini’s volcanic landscape.
3. Flavors of Santorini Food and Wine Private Sunset Tour
Third on our list is the Flavors of Santorini Food and Wine Private Sunset Tour. This 4-hour private experience costs around $253.53 per person and begins around 4 pm, perfectly timed for sunset. Your guide will take you to a local distillery to taste traditional spirits like ouzo, then to a family-run tavern where they catch their own fish for a fresh seafood dinner.
The highlight of this tour is the focus on authentic local flavors and the intimate setting, with dinner overlooking the caldera at sunset. The tour includes wine tastings at a local vineyard, where you can enjoy the stunning vistas while sipping some of Greece’s best wines. Reviewers note the personalized service, the delicious food, and the beautiful setting as major pluses. One said, “The food was amazing, and sitting by the window watching the waves was unforgettable.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed evening with good food, local spirits, and spectacular sunset views in a private setting.
4. Santorini: 7-Hour Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drink
Finally, the Santorini: 7-Hour Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drink offers an extended, all-day private sailing experience. For $2,064 up to seven people, this tour departs around noon, allowing you to avoid early mornings. It covers similar stops as the shorter cruise but includes additional time at Oia, and a longer sunset viewing.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy swimming in front of the Black, White, and Red beaches, snorkeling, and a gourmet lunch served onboard, with free Wi-Fi to share your photos. The trip is perfect for those wanting an ultimate private experience with plenty of time to relax, explore, and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. Reviewers frequently mention the attentive crew, high-quality meals, and the beautiful sunset as memorable highlights.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a luxurious, all-day private cruise with ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and sunset views in a relaxed, exclusive setting.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Santorini
Choosing between these options depends on what you’re after. If you want a luxurious, private day on the water with all the bells and whistles, the first and fourth cruises are excellent; the 7-hour version offers more time and comfort. For a more lively, social atmosphere with snorkeling and a traditional BBQ, the second cruise hits the spot. If your idea of a perfect evening involves authentic local delicacies and sunset views, then the private sunset wine tour suits you best.
Consider your budget, group size, and whether you prefer a private experience or a more social boat trip. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time. Each of these tours offers something unique—whether it’s the intimacy of a private cruise or the lively energy of a day at sea.
In summary, Santorini offers a wide spectrum of food and drink experiences that’ll satisfy even the most discerning palate. For a truly unforgettable adventure, a private catamaran cruise provides luxury and privacy, while the sunset wine and food tour offers an intimate taste of local life. Whichever you choose, booking early will help you enjoy the island’s flavors at their best.