Santorini isn’t just about stunning sunsets and postcard-perfect views; it’s also a fantastic place to indulge in some memorable drinking experiences. With its world-famous wines, vibrant boat cruises, and scenic spots, the island offers a variety of ways to enjoy a drink while soaking in the scenery. We’ve tested a range of options, from lively catamaran days to exclusive private yacht charters, each with its own unique twist. For instance, the Santorini Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal and Open Bar offers a lively, all-included water adventure, ideal for those who love a bit of party atmosphere mixed with sightseeing. If you prefer a private, tailored experience, the Private Motor Yacht Cruise combines luxury and privacy, perfect for special occasions. Whether you’re after a fun group outing or a romantic sunset sail, Santorini’s drinking tours have something to satisfy every taste.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top six drinking tours—all carefully selected for their quality, value, and uniqueness. From half-day cruises with unlimited wine to full-day private yacht adventures, each offers a different way to enjoy the island’s incredible waters and views. Keep reading to find the perfect companion for your Santorini trip.
1. Santorini Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal and Open Bar
At number one on our list is the Santorini Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal and Open Bar, which consistently earns a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 180 reviews. This half-day small-group cruise offers a dynamic mix of swimming, sightseeing, and onboard feasting. The tour departs from Vlychada port, located in the island’s southern tip, and takes you past the iconic Red Beach, White Beach, and the Venetian Lighthouse—famous for their striking colors and history. The highlight is swimming at the hot springs of Palea Kameni, where sulphur-rich waters warm the sea, offering a unique experience you won’t forget.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a fresh Grecian meal or dinner served onboard, paired with unlimited wine, local beer, and soft drinks. The tour is tailored to smaller groups, which means more personalized service and better opportunities for photos and chatting with the crew. The reviews reflect how much travelers enjoy the mixture of fun and relaxation, often noting the excellent food and knowledgeable captain. For $148.30 per person, you get about five hours of island beauty, great food, and lively drinks—an excellent value for the memory-making potential.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a lively, all-included day on the water with great food, drinks, and stunning views. Just note that it’s a shorter cruise, so those craving a longer private experience might prefer other options.
2. Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise: Lunch, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
Coming in at number two, this full-day catamaran cruise offers a longer, more comprehensive exploration of Santorini’s waters and beaches. Starting from Vlychada at around 10 a.m., the tour takes you past the Red Beach, White Beach, and the Venetian Lighthouse, with multiple swimming stops for snorkeling and relaxing. The highlight is entering the caldera, where the views of the volcanic landscape unfold before you, and the hot springs for a sulfur soak.
This tour emphasizes delicious Greek-style lunch with BBQ, served onboard, along with unlimited drinks including wine, beer, and soft drinks. The reviews praise the crew’s friendliness and the overall smooth experience, with many noting the delicious food and excellent service. The price, at $127.92 per person, reflects a good value for a full-day adventure, especially given that the tour includes transfers, making logistics hassle-free.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a longer, more relaxed day on the water with multiple swimming stops, hearty food, and plenty of drinks, all with a friendly crew.
3. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal & Open Bar
Third on our list is a luxury catamaran experience that combines comfort and scenic beauty, costing around the same as the first tour but offering a slightly more upscale vibe. This cruise, rated 4.7/5 by 156 reviewers, takes you along the southern coast, with stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and Akrotiri Lighthouse. It includes swimming and snorkeling gear, so you can explore the volcanic waters up close.
The real draw here is the luxury aspect—a more refined onboard atmosphere with a fresh meal and open bar, perfect for those looking to indulge in style. The crew’s professionalism and the boat’s amenities make for a comfortable journey, with reviews mentioning how memorable and well-organized it is. The tour’s flexible schedule allows for either a day or sunset cruise, fitting a variety of preferences.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers who want a more refined, comfortable cruise experience with excellent scenery, good food, and plentiful drinks.
4. Santorini: Private Day Cruise with a BBQ meal and Open Bar
For those seeking exclusivity, the Private Day Cruise is a top-tier option. Costing $994 per group (up to six people), this tailored experience allows you to customize your itinerary and enjoy the Caldera in total privacy. The boat visits volcanic islands, natural hot springs, and beaches like the black, white, and red sand varieties, offering plenty of opportunities to swim and relax.
This tour stands out because of its personalized service and flexibility—you can choose where to go and when. The onboard BBQ meal, combined with unlimited drinks, makes for a luxurious, intimate day. Reviewers highlight how attentive and friendly the crew is, making it perfect for special occasions or a quiet escape. Keep in mind that this is a significant investment but offers the kind of exclusive experience that justifies the price.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples, small families, or groups celebrating a special event who want privacy, tailored itineraries, and the full luxury yacht experience.
5. Santorini Cruise on Catamaran with BBQ & Open Bar
Number five features a full-day, laid-back catamaran cruise starting from Ammoudi or Athinios. For around $126.76, you’ll enjoy stops at the volcano’s hot springs, Red Beach, and White Beach, with ample opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The trip includes a Greek barbecue lunch with vegetarian options, plus unlimited drinks, making it a delicious escape from the crowds.
This tour is especially notable for its comfortable open-air style, providing 360-degree views of Santorini’s coast. Many reviews mention the friendly crew, tasty food, and the relaxed yet lively atmosphere. The boat’s design allows for plenty of sunshine and lounging, making it ideal for those looking to unwind while enjoying the scenery.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting a balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and great food with a friendly vibe, all on a spacious boat.
6. Santorini: Private Motor Yacht Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
Our final pick is the Private Motor Yacht Cruise, a premium experience costing $1,807 for up to six people. This cruise offers a luxurious private setting on a 46-foot Targa yacht, ideal for celebrating something special or just enjoying total privacy. It covers all the must-see spots—Red Beach, White Beach, volcanic hot springs, and the lighthouse—while giving you the flexibility to customize your journey.
The onboard meal and open bar elevate this experience into a floating feast, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing. The reviews are glowing about the exclusivity, comfort, and personalized service. It’s a significant purchase, but for those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime, upscale experience, this is hard to beat.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups looking for a private, indulgent day on the water with every detail tailored to your preferences.
How to Choose Your Perfect Drinking Tour in Santorini
The best tip for choosing the right tour? Think about your budget, style, and what kind of experience you want. If you’re after a lively, social experience with an all-you-can-drink vibe, the Santorini Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal and Open Bar is a great fit. For a more relaxed, longer day with plenty of swimming, the Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise offers excellent value. If privacy and exclusivity are your priorities, the Private Motor Yacht will make your trip unforgettable.
Consider how much time you want to spend on the water—half-day or full-day—and whether you prefer a guided group experience or a private charter. Booking early is recommended, especially for private options or during peak season. Many tours include convenient transfers, simplifying logistics since they pick you up at your hotel or nearby location.
To sum it up, Santorini offers a wide range of drinking tours suited to different preferences and budgets. The lively, social atmosphere of the catamaran cruises makes them ideal for groups and those who want to mingle with fellow travelers. On the other hand, the private yacht experience is perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting a quiet, luxurious day on the water. No matter your choice, these tours promise a memorable way to enjoy Santorini’s stunning waters, volcanic scenery, and fantastic food and drinks. Be sure to book early, especially if you want to secure a private boat or a spot during the busy summer months.