Santorini:Private Catamaran Tour with BBQ & Unlimited Drinks

Getting a fresh perspective of Santorini by sea is an experience many travelers dream of. This private catamaran tour offers a luxurious way to explore the island’s stunning coastlines, hidden beaches, and natural hot springs—without the crowds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a laid-back day on the water, this cruise promises a memorable adventure.

What really sets this experience apart are three standout features: the customizable route (a great way to tailor your day), the on-board BBQ (a delicious, freshly prepared meal), and unlimited drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks). The inclusion of hotel transfers adds convenience, making the entire day fuss-free. One consideration is that the tour is quite intimate, with a maximum of four guests per group, which might not suit larger groups or those seeking a party atmosphere.

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a personalized, relaxing, yet indulgent day on the water. It’s particularly perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to enjoy Santorini from a private, luxury vessel. If you’re after authentic, undisturbed moments and personalized service, this experience could be just what you need.

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Key Points

Private luxury experience with a maximum of four guests
Flexible itinerary tailored with your captain
Swim and snorkel at iconic beaches away from crowds
Gourmet BBQ meal paired with unlimited drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience
Sunset or morning options available to match your plans

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Intimate Look at the Santorini Catamaran Experience

This private tour offers a detailed yet relaxed way to see Santorini’s coastline from the comfort of a modern, fully equipped catamaran. For those who appreciate privacy and exclusivity, the fact that it’s limited to just four people per booking means a more personalized experience. It’s a great way to get away from busier group tours and enjoy a calm, tailored journey.

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The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The tour kicks off from Ammoudi port, a charming location with views of sunset-lit cliffs and clear waters. From here, the captain might suggest a route or you can customize your journey—this flexibility is a big plus. The planned stops include the Hot Springs, White Beach, and Red Beach.

Hot Springs: Warm, Sulfur-Rich Waters

A popular highlight, the Hot Springs are known for their warmer sulfur waters, which are said to have therapeutic benefits. A 30-minute swim here lets you unwind, soak, and enjoy the natural mineral waters. The reviews mention that the sulfur smell is quite strong, so if you’re sensitive, pack some extra deodorant and prepare for a slightly earthy aroma. Some guests appreciated this as part of the authentic experience, while others found it a bit overwhelming.

White Beach: Scenic and Refreshing

Sailing past Aspronissi island and Akrotiri, you’ll arrive at White Beach, famous for its dramatic white cliffs and clear waters. Here, the crew will prepare your BBQ meal on the boat—pork, chicken, vegetarian options, or shrimp saganaki—served alongside traditional Greek salads, pasta, bread, and tzatziki. According to reviews, the food is very fresh and well-cooked, with many mentioning how unexpectedly generous the portions were for a cruise meal.

Red Beach: Picture-Perfect and Unique

The final swim stop is at Red Beach, with its striking red cliffs and dark sands. This is the spot for photos, snorkeling, or simply relaxing. Some reviews highlight that the scenery here is truly postcard-worthy, making it an excellent choice for memorable snaps.

The On-Board Experience

The luxury catamaran is equipped with modern technology, towels, snorkeling gear, floating devices, and music, creating a comfortable atmosphere. The unlimited drinks—including white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water—are served throughout, keeping guests refreshed. Many reviewers note that the drinks flow freely, but responsibly, and alcohol consumption is strictly regulated (no intoxication allowed).

The Atmosphere and Service

Sunset Oia, the operator behind this tour, is known for attentive service. Guests have mentioned that the crew is friendly, professional, and eager to make the experience special. The local host greets guests at the port, helping with boarding, which adds a personal touch. The tour guides, speaking English, are knowledgeable but don’t overload you with information—perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery.

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Morning or Sunset: Your Choice

Depending on your schedule, you can opt for a morning cruise to enjoy calmer waters and cooler weather or a sunset tour, which ends at Oia for spectacular views. The sunset cruise reverses the route, ending at Ammoudi port, giving you a chance to enjoy Oia’s famous sunset from the water.

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Practical Considerations

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with hotel transfers included. Pickup can be up to 1.5 hours before departure, so be prepared for some early mornings or late afternoons, depending on your choice. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and it’s essential to bring essentials like passport or ID, sun protection, swimwear, and a light jacket.

What Really Makes This Tour Stand Out

The key is the combination of luxury, privacy, and authentic experiences. Unlike crowded group tours, this private experience offers a tailored route and intimate setting, ensuring you enjoy each stop at your own pace. The onboard BBQ is a significant perk—many guests mentioned how unexpectedly tasty and filling the meal was, with some noting the shrimp saganaki as a highlight.

The swimming stops at iconic beaches like Red and White Beach are carefully chosen for their scenery and ability to escape crowds, making for a more relaxing experience. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and floating devices means you can easily explore beneath the surface, adding a fun and adventurous element to your day.

From the reviews, one guest noted, “The crew was attentive and made us feel special, especially during the BBQ—absolutely delicious and plenty of drinks to go around.” Others appreciated the comfortable facilities on the boat and the calm, unobstructed views during the cruise.

Pricing and Value

At $1,412 per group up to four, this experience is priced for couples or small groups who value exclusivity and comfort. When you consider the private boat, the gourmet BBQ, unlimited drinks, hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and personalized service, the value becomes clearer. It’s a premium experience, but one that offers a level of intimacy and service hard to match with larger group tours or day trips.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers seeking a luxurious, private way to see Santorini. It’s perfect for honeymooners, small groups of friends, or couples looking for an unforgettable day on the water. While it may be less suited for larger groups or those on a tight budget, the personalized touches and comfort make it well worth the splurge for a special occasion or simply a day of indulgence.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a smooth, elegant, and personalized way to explore Santorini’s coastline, this private catamaran tour is a standout. The combination of top-notch service, flexible itinerary, delicious BBQ, and stunning swimming spots ensures a memorable day. It’s a chance to see the island from a different perspective, relax in style, and enjoy the Aegean Sea without the hustle of crowded tours.

While the price is on the higher side, the exclusivity, comfort, and authentic experience justify the cost—especially if you’re celebrating something special or simply want a day to unwind in luxury. Just remember to pack sun protection, your favorite swimwear, and an adventurous spirit.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers by minibus are part of the package, making it easy to start and end your day without logistical worries.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. The tour offers a suggested route, but you and your captain can personalize stops based on your preferences, weather conditions, and local advice.

What should I bring?
Make sure to bring your passport or ID, sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, a lightweight jacket, and warm clothing, especially if you plan to stay for sunset.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts around 5 hours, including transfers, swimming stops, and the meal.

Is this experience suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour is designed for adults and children who can swim; snorkeling equipment and floating devices are provided, but the experience may not be ideal for very young children or non-swimmers.

What is included in the BBQ meal?
The meal features options like pork, chicken, vegetarian dishes, shrimp saganaki, stuffed vine leaves, Greek salad, pasta with red sauce, bread, and tzatziki—plenty to satisfy different tastes.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, guests can enjoy unlimited white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water during the cruise, promoting a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

This private catamaran tour presents a blend of luxury, authentic experiences, and personalized service—perfect for those wanting to truly savor Santorini from its most beautiful vantage point.