Santorini: Private Boat Tour with Sea Caves and Hot Springs

Introduction: Exploring Santorini from the Water

Taking a boat trip around Santorini offers a different perspective of this iconic island—less crowded, more intimate, and filled with stunning natural sights. This Private Boat Tour with Sea Caves and Hot Springs promises a tailored experience along the island’s southern coast, away from the busy crowds of popular spots like Oia.

What drew us to this tour are three standout features: the chance to snorkel in sea caves, the relaxing dip in therapeutic hot springs, and the opportunity for personalized service on a luxury speedboat. A possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to coordinate your own transportation. That said, this experience suits travelers seeking a private, authentic, and scenic escape—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a more relaxed way to see Santorini.

Contents show

Key Points

Private Experience: Small group up to 4 ensures personalized attention.
Unique Sights: Visit Red Beach, White Beach, and see volcanic formations.
Activities: Snorkeling in caves and swimming in hot springs.
Expert Skipper: Local guide with extensive knowledge of the coastline.
All Necessary Gear: Snorkeling equipment, safety gear, and dry bags included.
Flexible Timing: 2-hour tours available with different start times.

This tour offers a fantastic way to explore Santorini’s rugged coastline and volcanic landscape. The journey begins at Extreme Water Sports, where you check in and meet your experienced local skipper—who’s often praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The boat itself is a luxury speedboat, designed to provide comfort and a smooth ride even along the sometimes choppy waters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour?

What makes this experience stand out is its private nature—you’re not stuck with a large group, which means more flexibility and a quieter, more personal adventure. The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, floating devices, and safety equipment, so you have everything you need for fun in the water without worrying about logistics. Plus, the inclusion of dry bags, towels, sunscreen, and water adds convenience, making it easier to focus on soaking up the scenery.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Perissa

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

This tour focuses on the southern coastline of Santorini, renowned for its volcanic terrain and striking rock formations. The first stop is the Red Beach, famous for its red volcanic cliffs contrasting with the dark sands and turquoise waters. As one reviewer noted, “The Red Beach is one of the best-known sights on the south coast,” and it’s easy to see why. The striking color and dramatic landscape make it a must-see.

Next, the boat cruises past Perivolos Beach, one of the island’s lively spots, but here you’ll be away from the crowds, enjoying calmer waters. The journey along the coastline reveals White Beach and Black Mountain, where your captain will point out rock sculptures and caves that are best appreciated from the water.

Snorkeling in Sea Caves

The highlight for many guests is the opportunity to snorkel inside the sea caves. The caves are relatively accessible, and the water clarity allows for great underwater visibility. One reviewer highlighted the experience: “Snorkeling in the caves was incredible—such unique rock formations and clear waters.” It’s important to note that snorkeling gear is provided, and the tour includes instruction and safety measures which make even novices comfortable.

Hot Springs and Volcano Visit

The tour culminates at the active volcano, where you’ll anchor at the hot springs—known for their healing and detoxifying waters. The sulfur-rich waters are a relaxing end to the trip, and many guests describe the experience as both invigorating and soothing. As one traveler put it, “Taking a dip in the hot springs felt like a natural spa day, with waters that seemed to revive the whole body.” The hot springs are also a unique feature that sets this tour apart from standard boat trips.

More Great Tours Nearby

What To Expect in Terms of Comfort and Safety

While the tour lasts approximately 2 hours, there’s enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The boat has music and floating devices, creating a laid-back atmosphere. The local captain—praised for their expertise—guides the boat skillfully along the coastline, sharing insights about the volcanic landscape and island history.

Because the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, you’ll need to arrive at the designated meeting point, but this allows for flexibility in your plans. The full insurance and safety equipment ensure peace of mind, even if you’re new to boating or snorkeling.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Perissa

Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour is best suited for travelers who value privacy and personalized attention. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or friends wanting a relaxed, scenic experience. Because it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, it’s more tailored toward active guests comfortable with water activities and boat rides.

Pricing and Value

At $508 for a private group of up to 4, the cost might seem high compared to larger group tours, but it corresponds to a highly personalized and flexible experience. The inclusions—gear, safety, and insurance—add to the overall value. If you’re looking for an exclusive, scenic, and activity-rich way to see Santorini’s coast, this is a worthwhile investment.

Final thoughts

This private boat tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation. The chance to snorkel inside caves, bathe in hot springs, and enjoy the volcanic landscape from a luxury speedboat creates lasting memories. Its small-group format ensures an intimate experience, perfect for those wanting to avoid crowded tourist spots and connect more deeply with Santorini’s natural charm.

If you’re after a luxury, authentic, and adventure-filled day on the water, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate flexibility, personalized service, and stunning views—making it a highlight of any Santorini trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the Extreme Water Sports meeting point, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 2 hours, with specific start times available depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, and a camera to capture the scenic views and underwater moments.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included along with safety equipment and floating devices.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users. No alcohol or drugs are allowed onboard.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the best time to go?
Check availability for specific start times, but generally, sunny days with calm seas offer the best experience.

Does the tour include a guide?
Yes, the skipper is an experienced local guide who provides commentary in English and Greek.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the water activities and boating are best suited for older children and teenagers comfortable with seawater.

To sum it up, this Santorini private boat tour combines scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation into a compact 2-hour package. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience with stunning views, snorkeling, and hot springs—offering a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a day to unwind on the water, this tour offers a memorable slice of island life.