Santorini’s spectacular coastline, volcanic islands, and crystal-clear waters make it one of the top destinations worldwide for sailing experiences. The island’s unique geological features—like the red and white beaches, the volcano itself, and hot springs—are best appreciated from the water. Whether you’re after a luxurious private cruise or a lively group tour with food and drinks, the options are diverse and tailored to different tastes. For example, some tours like the Santorini Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks offer intimacy and exclusivity, while others like the Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip combine fun, food, and a personal touch.
From snorkeling at volcanic hot springs to watching the sunset over Oia, these sailing trips give you a chance to see Santorini from a different perspective—one that often surprises first-timers with its beauty and tranquility. Many tours include hotel pickup, lunch, and unlimited drinks, making them a seamless way to enjoy the island without the hassle of planning every detail.
Quick Overview of the Best Santorini Sailing Tours
The list below features a variety of sailing experiences—from half-day group cruises to private charters—each with its own special features:
- Small Group and Private Catamaran Tours with BBQ, drinks, and snorkeling
- Sunset Cruises with dinner, wine, and breathtaking views
- All-Inclusive Day Cruises with multiple stops, hot springs, and island visits
- Luxury Private Charters for a personalized experience with flexible itineraries
Explore each one to find the perfect fit for your style and budget.
1. Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip (BBQ, drinks, transfer)
At number 1, this five-star tour boasts a perfect 5.0 rating from nearly 200 reviews. It’s a half-day cruise designed for a smaller group, which means more personal attention and flexibility. The tour includes hotel transfers, making logistics easy. You’ll sail around Red Beach and White Beach, stopping to swim, snorkel, and relax in hot springs. The highlight is the delicious Greek BBQ lunch served on board, paired with drinks and lively music.
Most travelers rave about the combination of sightseeing and relaxation—”Great value,” says one reviewer, mentioning the friendly staff and unique access to spots few others see. The itinerary’s stops at Palea Kameni and the Ancient Lighthouse offer dramatic views and memorable photo moments. The tour’s mix of adventure and comfort makes it ideal for those wanting a relaxed yet active day on the water.
Bottom Line: This tour balances a personal experience with excellent value, perfect for travelers wanting to see the volcanic landscapes and beaches without the crowds.
2. Santorini Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal and Open Bar
Number 2 offers a five-star experience with a focused small-group setting, rated 5.0 by 180 reviewers. It’s a half-day cruise departing from Vlychada and includes snorkeling at the volcanic hot springs. What sets this apart is the fresh Greek lunch or dinner served onboard, along with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks—a real treat for those who love pairing their adventure with good food and drinks.
The tour’s itinerary features iconic sights such as Red Beach, White Beach, and the Venetian Lighthouse. Many guests comment on the knowledgeable crew and the delicious homemade meal—”The best part of our Greece vacation,” says one reviewer. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, food-focused trip that showcases Santorini’s volcanic scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for food lovers and those wanting a lively, social atmosphere with spectacular views and excellent service.
3. Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with BBQ Meal and Drinks
Number 3 scores a perfect 5.0 and offers a fully private experience that’s ideal for couples, families, or groups celebrating special occasions. This five-hour cruise can be tailored to your preferences, with the guide preparing a BBQ onboard and serving local wine and drinks.
What makes this tour stand out is the exclusive atmosphere and flexible itinerary—you can choose which beaches or volcanic sites to visit. Guests rave about the knowledgeable crew and the delicious food, describing the experience as “an excellent adventure.” The privacy ensures a tranquil day on the water, away from the busy crowds.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking luxury, privacy, and personalized service—especially romantic getaways or special celebrations.
4. Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks
Rated 5.0, this five-hour private cruise offers a luxurious and completely tailored experience. The tour navigates around Caldera, with stops at Red Beach and White Beach, as well as the volcano and hot springs. Guests enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing in total privacy.
The chef-prepared meal and local wine onboard elevate the experience, which is suitable for groups up to 4. Many reviewers highlight the exceptional service and spectacular scenery. The private setting is a big selling point if you want an intimate day on the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting ultimate privacy and a bespoke itinerary with all the bells and whistles.
5. Santorini: Caldera Classic Catamaran Cruise w/ Meal & Drinks
Rated 4.9, this five-hour cruise offers a classic caldera experience with options for sunbathing or sunset viewing. The tour visits Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni with stops for swimming in hot springs. The onboard BBQ meal pairs with local wine and beer, making it a great choice for a relaxed, scenic day.
Guests praise the delicious food and friendly crew, with some noting the value for money considering the itinerary and inclusions. The water activities and stunning views make it a favorite for those wanting a more traditional sail around Santorini’s volcanic islands.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, value-packed cruise for anyone wanting a classic caldera experience combined with good food.
Rated 5.0, this shared group cruise emphasizes all-inclusive comfort. It includes shuttle transfers, snorkeling basics, and a seafood BBQ with free-flow wine, beer, and soft drinks. The stops at Red Beach or White Beach are chosen based on weather, ensuring a good experience regardless.
Travelers highlight the great value and friendly crew, with many quoting the delicious BBQ and ample swimming opportunities. The relaxing atmosphere makes it suitable for travelers who want to avoid the hustle but still enjoy a full day on the water.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for value-conscious travelers craving a comprehensive yet relaxed sailing day.
7. Beautiful Day Catamaran Caldera Cruise incl. Meal & Drinks
Rated 5.0, this mid-morning cruise features a calm, scenic sail around Mesa Pigadia and the volcano with snorkeling and swimming stops. The Greek-inspired BBQ lunch served on board complements the wine and soft drinks.
Guests appreciate the casual yet luxurious vibe and the intimate small-group atmosphere. The itinerary includes swimming at Red Beach and snorkeling at the volcanic hot springs, making it ideal for those who want relaxation and sightseeing in one package.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic day with good food and drinks in a comfortable setting.
8. Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise: Lunch, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
Rated 5.0, this day cruise offers the full Santorini experience—sailing past Red Beach, White Beach, and Venetian Lighthouse. The lunch and BBQ onboard are complemented by an open bar, and hotel transfers make it very convenient.
Guests describe it as a “spectacular” trip with friendly crew and great food. The stops for snorkeling and swimming are well timed, and many say they’d do it again.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, all-inclusive day afloat with local food and drinks.
9. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Food and Drinks
Rated 4.6, this five-hour cruise combines snorkeling, swimming, and scenic sailing with a Greek buffet and drinks. It’s a popular option for those who want more time on the water and access to volcano and hot springs.
Guests mention the delicious food and friendly crew, with many appreciating the informative narration about the sites. The tour is flexible, with stops at key volcanic sites and plenty of swimming opportunities.
Bottom Line: A strong choice for active travelers wanting value and variety in their sailing day.
10. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal & Open Bar
Rated 4.7, this five-hour cruise features scenic sailing, snorkeling, and a delicious onboard meal. The open bar includes wine, beer, and soft drinks. The itinerary hits the main volcanic sites, with swimming stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and hot springs.
Many reviewers highlight the friendly crew and amazing food, describing it as a “must-do” for water lovers. It’s perfect for those who want relaxation with some active parts like swimming.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a relaxed, social atmosphere with great cuisine.
11. Best of Santorini Private Half-Day Catamaran Cruise with transfer and meal
Rated 5.0, this private tour offers a personalized itinerary with hotel transfers included. It explores Red Beach, White Beach, the lighthouse, and hot springs, with snorkeling and swimming in comfort.
The welcome drink and flexible schedule make it popular among couples and families. Guests mention the attention to detail and exceptional service like “perfect for a romantic or special day.”
Bottom Line: Best suited if you want a private, tailored experience with all the comforts.
12. Santorini Private Daytime Sailing Cruise with Meal, Drinks & Transfer
Rated 5.0, this luxurious private option focuses on customized sightseeing—from Red and White Beaches to the hot springs—with swimming and a home-cooked meal. Including hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s a hassle-free way to see all the highlights with privacy.
Guests praise the expert narration and flexibility of the route. It’s an excellent choice for special occasions or those wanting a tailored adventure.
Bottom Line: The best pick for luxury seekers and privacy lovers wanting a bespoke experience.
13. Santorini Caldera Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine
Rated 4.5, this full-day cruise is perfect for sunset lovers. It combines volcano visits, hot springs, and a dinner with wine as the sun dips behind Oia. The guided volcano hike adds a memorable touch, with spectacular views from the summit.
Reviewers appreciate the romantic atmosphere and delicious food. The foam noodles during swimming are a fun addition, and many say it’s the highlight of their trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for romantic couples or anyone wanting a comprehensive day ending with a breathtaking sunset.
14. Santorini: Private Catamaran Tour with BBQ Meal and Drinks
Rated 5.0, this private five-hour cruise offers a custom itinerary with stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and Palia Kammeni. The BBQ lunch and open bar create a relaxed, intimate setting for up to 4 people.
Guests rave about the personalized service and spectacular scenery—perfect for romantic getaways or small groups wanting total privacy with all the comforts.
Bottom Line: For those seeking luxury, intimacy, and a tailored experience, this tour is hard to beat.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience in Santorini
When selecting a tour, think about your budget, group size, and what experience you value most. If you want privacy and a luxury feel, the private charters like the Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks are perfect. For a social atmosphere with lively music and food, consider the Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip. If your goal is to see the volcano and hot springs while enjoying snorkeling and swimming, many tours include those highlights, so check the itinerary.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date, private experience, or group size. Consider your fitness level for some tours offering volcano hikes or swimming stops. Also, pay attention to whether meals, drinks, and transfers are included—many tours bundle these for convenience and value.
Final Thoughts
Santorini offers a rich variety of sailing tours tailored to different tastes—whether you’re after luxury, adventure, or family-friendly fun. The private charters provide intimacy and custom routes, while group cruises often include lively atmospheres with plentiful food and drinks. If you’re unsure, a half-day tour with snorkeling and a meal like the Santorini Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal and Open Bar strikes a good balance.
To avoid missing out, especially during busy seasons, it’s best to book your preferred experience well in advance. Whichever tour you choose, you’re in for a memorable day on the water—an authentic way to appreciate the stunning caldera scenery and volcanic beauty that makes Santorini so special.