Santorini:All-inclusive Catamaran Cruise with Thirassia Stop

When it comes to exploring Santorini from the water, few experiences match the charm and diversity of a half-day catamaran cruise. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty compelling picture of what it offers. From stunning volcanic views to a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, this trip promises a blend of scenery, relaxation, and good food—all in a small-group setting.

What really makes this experience stand out for us are three things: the opportunity to see Santorini’s iconic beaches like Red and White Beach from the water, the included snorkeling gear that lets you explore undersea life, and the onboard meal that’s reportedly a highlight, with fresh Greek dishes and local wine. That said, a potential bump might be the route’s variability due to weather or vessel availability, which could impact the exact stops or timing. Overall, it seems perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure that combines sightseeing with good eats and swimming.

If you love being on the water, enjoy discovering off-the-beaten-path spots, and want a taste of authentic Greek hospitality, this cruise could be a great fit. Families, couples, or groups of friends who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: See Santorini’s famous beaches, volcanic caldera, and hot springs from sea level.
• Snorkeling and Swimming: Plenty of opportunities to cool off and explore underwater life with included gear.
• Gourmet Meal: Enjoy a freshly-prepared meal onboard, paired with local wine, beers, and soft drinks.
• Small Group Atmosphere: More intimate than large tour boats, often praised for friendly crew and personalized service.
• Flexible Options: Available as a day or sunset cruise, with pickup from your hotel included.
• Authentic Experience: Discover hidden coves and scenic spots that aren’t accessible from land.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Catamaran Experience

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This cruise provides several key inclusions that elevate the value: hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, a full meal with drinks, snorkeling gear, and towels. These details mean you won’t have to worry about separate arrangements — the logistics are handled for a stress-free adventure. The meal, often highlighted as a standout, includes Greek favorites like seafood, chicken, grilled sausages, and veggie rice, plus fresh salads and desserts. Pairing this with local white wine, beers, and soft drinks ensures you can relax and enjoy the setting.

Some reviews note that soft drink options might be limited, but overall, the bar is well-stocked with unlimited wine and beer during the cruise, which adds to the laid-back vibe.

The Itinerary: What Will You Actually See?

The cruise starts from Thera and takes you along the coast to several breathtaking locations. The first stop at Vlichada offers a chance to hop on and off, giving you some flexibility. Then, the route includes iconic stops like Red Beach and White Beach, perfect photo opportunities and swimming spots. You’ll visit the Akrotiri Lighthouse, an excellent vantage point for scenic photos and some quiet swimming.

A particularly popular part of the itinerary is the visit to the Hot Springs of the volcano. According to reviews, swimming here isn’t just about soaking—it’s about experiencing the geothermal energy firsthand. The waters are warm, and the experience of floating in such a naturally heated environment is often described as surreal.

Next, you’ll visit the Santorini Volcano itself, where snorkeling and swimming are on offer. The volcanic environment makes for some dramatic scenery, with views of the caldera’s largest volcanic crater. The trip then takes you to Thirassia, a quieter island where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Finally, after roughly five hours, the boat returns to Thera, often with time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Highlights That Travelers Love

• Red and White Beaches: These legendary spots are more impressive from the water. Reviewers like Denise loved seeing these from sea level, noting how stunning and unique they are.
• Snorkeling in Clear Waters: Many guests, including Stephanie, found snorkeling to be a highlight—even in the cold waters, the experience was worthwhile thanks to the clarity and variety of spots.
• Volcanic Hot Springs: The geothermal waters offer a natural, warm soak that enriches the experience.
• Scenic Photo Stops: From Akrotiri Lighthouse to the volcanic caldera, each vantage point offers picture-perfect moments. Reviewers like Shaun appreciated the well-maintained boat and the incredible views.

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The Crew and Atmosphere

Guests often praise the crew for their friendliness and professionalism. Daniela mentions that the staff was “so friendly and fun,” making the experience even more memorable. Plus, some reviews highlight a touch of personalization—like a surprise birthday celebration for a guest’s boyfriend, which adds a special, authentic touch that makes this more than just a typical tour.

Food and Drinks: A Core Part of the Experience

The onboard meal receives high marks, especially considering the value for a half-day cruise. The menu features Greek staples, seafood, and grilled meats, paired with local wines and beers. Guests like Madison called the experience “absolutely amazing,” with the food and wine being “delicious” and “part of the reason the cruise is so memorable.”

Timing, Duration, and Group Size

The tour lasts around five hours, with starting times depending on whether you choose the day or sunset option. Pickup begins approximately 90 minutes before departure, depending on your hotel location. The small-group setting enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy personalized attention.

Practical Considerations

The route may be altered or canceled due to weather, so flexibility is key. The vessel might vary depending on availability, but overall, the reviews suggest that the quality remains high regardless. Packing swimwear, sunscreen, and a jacket is recommended, and bringing your passport or ID is necessary for identification purposes.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and good food. If you’re keen on exploring multiple scenic spots, snorkeling, and enjoying traditional Greek cuisine, you’ll find this cruise hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who prefer a small-group, intimate atmosphere rather than a crowded tour. Families, couples, and groups of friends who want a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities, good drinks, and a touch of adventure will enjoy this.

It’s especially suitable if you want a convenient, all-in-one experience that handles transportation, food, and activities, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery and making memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour? The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle, a full meal with drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and a small group atmosphere.

How long does the cruise last? The cruise runs for approximately 5 hours, with starting times depending on whether you choose the day or sunset option.

Do I need to bring anything? Pack swimwear, sunscreen, a jacket for the cooler parts of the day, and your ID or passport.

Can I swim at all the stops? Yes, swimming and snorkeling are available at several locations including the volcanic hot springs, Black Mountain cove, and Thirassia.

What sort of food is served onboard? Expect Greek delicacies such as seafood, grilled chicken, veggie rice, Greek salad, and desserts, all paired with local white wine, beers, and soft drinks.

Are drinks unlimited? During the cruise, unlimited wine and beer are available, alongside soft drinks, making it a relaxed, social experience.

Is this tour suitable for children? With a focus on swimming, sightseeing, and a relaxed atmosphere, families with children who are comfortable in water should enjoy this experience.

What if the weather is bad? The route may be modified or canceled due to weather conditions, so it’s good to be flexible and check the weather forecast beforehand.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this all-inclusive Santorini catamaran cruise offers a combination of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and delicious Greek cuisine—all wrapped into a relaxed half-day adventure. The small-group setting, friendly crew, and thoughtfully curated stops make it stand out from more commercial offerings. The chance to see iconic beaches, volcanic sights, and the quieter Thirassia island from the water makes this particularly appealing.

The onboard meal, with fresh, traditional dishes and local wine, is a definite highlight. Plus, the snorkeling gear means you can get a little underwater time, which many guests find adds a special touch to the trip.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized, and memorable way to experience Santorini’s natural wonders and scenic marvels, this cruise is very much worth considering. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a balance of relaxation and adventure, and who value good food and friendly service during their holiday.

To sum it up, this cruise offers fantastic value for a half-day outing, delivering stunning views, cultural flavor, and a chance to unwind. It’s a great pick for anyone wanting to make the most of their time in Santorini without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this journey promises beautiful scenery, memorable moments, and a taste of genuine Greek hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: