Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise: Lunch, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers

If you’re dreaming of sailing around Santorini’s iconic coastlines, this catamaran day cruise promises a fantastic mix of scenic views, relaxing swims, and authentic Greek flavors. The experience is designed to give small groups the chance to enjoy the island’s highlights in comfort and style, all while soaking up the sun and the Aegean breeze.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning stops at Red Beach and Mesa Pigadia, offering both sightseeing and swimming opportunities. Second, the hot springs visit provides a chance to rejuvenate in volcanic waters, a truly unique experience. Lastly, the delicious Greek lunch with drinks and the opportunity to capture incredible views of the Caldera make it a memorable day.

One consideration? The tour runs for about 5 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet packed half-day adventure. If you’re after a more extensive cruise or prefer private experiences, this might feel a little compact. Still, it suits those looking for a well-organized, value-for-money outing that covers the essentials of Santorini’s coastal beauty.

This cruise is perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to see Santorini from the water, enjoy tasty local cuisine, and relax in a friendly, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Small group experience with a maximum of 2 travelers, creating a more personalized and intimate outing.
• All-inclusive pricing covers lunch, BBQ, open bar, and transfers, making it great value for a day of sightseeing.
• Multiple stops include Red Beach, White Beach, Indian Rocks, and Mesa Pigadia Beach, offering a variety of swimming and sightseeing spots.
• Hot springs visit provides a unique volcanic bathing experience.
• Breathtaking views of the Caldera make the return journey visually unforgettable.
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 rating from 80 reviews and 99% recommending it.

Introduction

Sailing around Santorini on a catamaran may be one of the most relaxing ways to see this volcanic island. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of an enjoyable day on the water.

What we love about this experience? The scenic stops at iconic beaches, the hot springs visit for a unique volcanic swim, and the delicious Greek lunch served onboard, complete with drinks. Plus, the small group setting promises a more personal touch than larger cruise options.

A potential downside? The tour duration is roughly five hours, so if you’re after an all-day adventure or want to explore more hidden corners, this might be a bit brief. Nevertheless, it’s ideal for those wanting a well-rounded taste of Santorini’s highlights without feeling rushed.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates scenic sailing, local cuisine, and a relaxed pace, this cruise offers a fantastic way to enjoy Santorini’s coastal beauty in style.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off at Vlychada port at 10:00 am, a scenic spot in the southern part of the island. Transportation is included, so you won’t need to worry about logistical details — just show up ready for a day on the water.

Stop 1: Red Beach

The first stop is the famous Red Beach, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and striking red sands. Reviewers describe this as a great spot for sightseeing and a refreshing swim. One guest noted, “The crew were friendly, welcoming, and very informative,” making the experience more engaging.

Stop 2: White Beach, Indian Rocks, and Venetian Lighthouse

Sailing past these sights, you’ll get a chance to see the White Beach, known for its white cliffs, and the Indian Rocks, named for their unique shape. The Venetian Lighthouse offers an excellent photo opportunity, standing as a historic sentinel over the Caldera’s edge. The sail here is comfortable, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and enjoy the sea breeze.

Stop 3: Mesa Pigadia Beach

The final swimming stop is at Mesa Pigadia Beach, located in the island’s southern tip. The waters here are crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. Many reviews mention the delicious Greek lunch served onboard during this break, which includes traditional dishes and drinks, making it a true flavor of Greece.

The Volcano and Hot Springs

After lunch, the boat heads into the Caldera, an awe-inspiring volcanic crater. The highlight? A visit to the Hot Springs, famed for their sulfur-rich waters. Reviewers describe the experience as rejuvenating, with one saying, “We felt like we were bathing in volcanic energy.” The sulfur smell is noticeable but part of the charm of this geothermal soak.

Return to Vlychada

As the cruise winds down, you’ll enjoy a scenic sail back to Vlychada, with spectacular views of the Caldera’s cliffs and the island’s coastline. This is the perfect time to take in those breathtaking vistas and reflect on your day.

What Makes This Cruise Special?

Small Group Atmosphere

Unlike many larger tours, this cruise limits the number of travelers to just 2, creating a cozy environment. Guests consistently mention how this small group setting enhances the experience, making interactions with the crew more personal and allowing for better service.

Scenic Stops with Authentic Charm

The beaches and landmarks visited aren’t just picturesque — they’re iconic. The Red Beach and Mesa Pigadia are both beautiful spots for swimming, with reviewer comments highlighting the “crystal-clear waters” and “spectacular scenery.” The stops at Indian Rocks and the Venetian Lighthouse add an extra layer of historic charm.

Rejuvenating Hot Springs

A visit to the volcanic hot springs is a unique feature that many other cruises don’t include. Reviewers describe the experience as both relaxing and invigorating, adding a special volcanic twist to your day.

Tasty Greek Cuisine and Drinks

The onboard lunch includes traditional Greek dishes and drinks, often described as “absolutely delicious.” The open bar is a highlight, with many guests appreciating the variety of beverages offered, which makes the experience feel more relaxed and indulgent.

Practical Details and Value

Duration and Pacing

At around five hours, this cruise strikes a balance between seeing key sights and not feeling rushed. It’s long enough to enjoy swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing on deck, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring.

Price and What’s Included

Priced at $127.92 per person, the tour includes all stops, lunch, drinks, transfers, and admission tickets for the beaches and hot springs. This makes it a good value, especially considering the personalized experience and all-inclusive nature.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 2 travelers, the tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a more exclusive experience. It’s also suitable for solo travelers or couples who want a private feel.

Booking and Cancellation

Most travelers book about 57 days in advance, which indicates good demand. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior adds flexibility, especially if weather conditions threaten your plans.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One guest called the trip “a little piece of heaven,” praising the friendly crew for their informative and welcoming attitude. The lunch was described as “absolutely delicious”, with a special mention of the ice-cold drinks constantly offered, enhancing the leisurely vibe.

Another reviewer, writing in French, appreciated the nice crew, the top-notch day, and the good food, including the provision of snorkeling gear and music onboard, which added to the fun atmosphere.

The scenic views of the Caldera at the end of the tour often leave travelers in awe, making this cruise a perfect way to cap off your day in Santorini.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise is ideal for travelers who want a small-group experience with a focus on scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and relaxation. It’s perfect for those who value personalized service and love taking memorable photos of volcanic landscapes and stunning beaches.

It suits couples, solo adventurers, or small groups looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and culture. For travelers who prefer a more extensive or private cruise, or want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, this might feel a little limited.

Overall, if you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable half-day with fantastic views, lively yet intimate atmosphere, and delicious Greek food, this cruise offers excellent value and unforgettable experiences.

FAQ

What time does the cruise start?
The tour departs at 10:00 am from Vlychada port.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers are part of the package, making it easy to start your day stress-free.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including stops and swimming time.

Are drinks included?
Absolutely, the cruise features an open bar with drinks available throughout the trip.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a delicious Greek lunch is served onboard, typically during the stop at Mesa Pigadia Beach.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially since it’s a small group and the pace is relaxed.

What sights will I see?
Expect to see Red Beach, White Beach, Indian Rocks, the Venetian Lighthouse, and the Caldera.

Will I get to swim and snorkel?
Yes, multiple stops are designed for swimming and snorkeling, especially at Mesa Pigadia Beach and the hot springs.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the calm waters and scenic stops make it suitable for most age groups.

In all, this cruise offers a balanced blend of stunning scenery, cultural sights, and relaxing moments, making it a standout way to experience Santorini from the water.