Santorini: Day Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks

Imagine sailing across the sparkling waters of Santorini, with the sun warming your skin and the breeze gently tousling your hair. This luxury catamaran cruise offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s iconic volcanic scenery, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, and unwind in style. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable day on the water, this tour combines comfort, scenic beauty, and delicious food into a four-hour adventure.

What we love about this experience is the combination of stunning vistas, knowledgeable crew, and well-curated stops along the way. The all-inclusive drinks—ranging from white wine to soft drinks—and freshly prepared BBQ are a definite highlight. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel at Thirassia Island and swim near the volcanic islets makes it both relaxing and adventurous. The only thing to consider might be the possible itinerary changes due to weather, but that’s common with open-water tours, and safety always comes first.

This cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a luxurious yet authentic day on the water, especially those who want to combine sightseeing with good food and easy relaxation. It suits couples, small groups, or even solo travelers eager to explore Santorini from a different perspective — all while enjoying the comforts of a modern yacht.

Good To Know

• Comfortable Luxury: Modern catamaran equipped with cabins, toilets, and floating gear ensures a comfortable day afloat.
• Authentic Greek Cuisine: Enjoy a freshly cooked BBQ with options like fish, chicken, or vegetarian skewers, plus Greek salads and desserts.
• Scenic Stops for Swimming and Snorkeling: Multiple stops at Thirassia Island and volcanic islets offer opportunities to swim, snorkel, and explore.
• Knowledgeable Crew: Guides provide insightful commentary on the islands’ history and significance, enhancing the experience.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and water keep you refreshed without extra costs.
• Flexible Booking & Pickup: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and multiple pickup locations make planning easier.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Setting Sail in Santorini: What to Expect

This 4-hour luxury catamaran cruise unfolds as a scenic journey with plenty of relaxing moments and opportunities for adventure. Starting with hotel pickup in a luxury minibus, you’ll be whisked away to the port, where the sleek yacht awaits. Once onboard, the experience begins with the gentle sway of the boat and panoramic views of Santorini’s famous cliffs and caldera.

The Stops and Highlights

First Stop: Thirassia Island
Your initial swim takes place here, at a quiet spot where crystal-clear waters invite you to float or snorkel. Reviewers have appreciated how well-maintained the snorkeling gear is, and how the calm waters make for a pleasant experience—even for beginners. One guest, Nathalie, mentioned how the crew took care to ensure everyone had what they needed and offered a brief but informative explanation of each location’s importance, adding an educational layer to the trip.

The Volcanic Islets of Nea Kameni
Next, you’ll head towards the black lava formations and deep blue waters of the volcanic islets. The boat gets close enough for photos and offers a chance to marvel at the raw power that shaped Santorini’s landscape. While some reviews note that snorkeling near the caves can be limited due to restrictions, the overall view of the volcanic terrain is impressive. The crew provides commentary about the volcanic activity and geological significance, which enriches the experience.

A Greek BBQ Feast on the Volcano
On Nea Kameni, a traditional Greek BBQ is served, featuring fresh fish, chicken, or vegetarian skewers. Reviewers like LorettaLynne rave about the homemade feel of the meal—“fantastic BBQ lunch with Greek salad, stuffed mushrooms, pita, and tzatziki.” The meal is served on board, paired with unlimited wine, beer, and water, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings. The food quality meets high expectations, with comments highlighting the freshness and home-cooked feel.

Additional Stops: Fira Old Harbor and Armeni Bay
After lunch, the boat makes a brief stop in Fira’s old harbor for photos, giving you a chance to admire the cliffside architecture from the sea. Armeni Bay offers a peaceful setting for a quick swim or a rest before heading back.

Ammoudi Bay and Return
Your journey ends at Ammoudi Bay, renowned for its charming tavernas and stunning cliffside setting. From here, a minibus transports you back to your hotel, completing a full day of scenic sailing, delicious food, and memorable swims.

The Experience from Reviews

Guests consistently praise the professional and friendly crew, like Nathalie’s comment about how they made sure everyone’s needs were met. The quality of the food is another standout, with many reviewers emphasizing the freshly prepared BBQ and Greek salads, along with unlimited drinks that keep everyone refreshed.

One traveler, LorettaLynne, appreciated the limited group size of only six guests, which allowed for more personalized attention and space to relax. They found the experience “so relaxing to be gliding on the water surrounded by the glorious sights and cliffs,” making it a highlight of their Mediterranean cruise.

While snorkeling was generally enjoyed, some noted that fish sightings near caves weren’t abundant, partly due to restrictions on swimming too close to the rocks. Still, the opportunity to snorkel and swim in the volcanic waters is seen as a worthwhile part of the trip.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing
At $135 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the inclusiveness of the meal, drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary. For many, the quality of food and the comfort of the yacht justify the price, especially given the all-day, all-in nature of the experience.

Duration & Schedule
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. Be sure to check the schedule when booking to align with your day’s plans.

Transportation & Pickups
Multiple pickup points around Santorini (like Oia, Fira, Kamari, and others) make it convenient. The hotel transfer ensures a hassle-free start and end to your day.

What to Bring
Pack essentials like your passport or ID, sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a light jacket for the boat ride. Towels are provided, but bringing your own can add to convenience.

Weather & Changes
The itinerary can be altered in case of high winds or rough seas, which is common in open-water tours. Flexibility is key, and the crew prioritizes safety.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers who want a luxurious yet relaxed day on the water. It suits those interested in scenic views, good food, and light adventure like swimming and snorkeling. It’s a fantastic choice for couples and small groups seeking a more intimate experience, especially given the limited number of guests some reviews mention.

If you’re after a full-day sightseeing and culinary experience, this tour hits a sweet spot. However, if you are looking for more intense snorkeling adventures or a party atmosphere, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This luxury catamaran cruise offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek flavors. The knowledgeable crew and high-quality meal are standout features, making it a worthwhile addition to any Santorini itinerary. The focus on relaxation, combined with the chance to see volcanic landscapes and swim in clear waters, creates a memorable day for many travelers.

It’s best suited for those who value comfort, good food, and gentle adventure, rather than high-energy activities or large crowds. The price point reflects the quality and inclusiveness of the experience, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking a special day out on Santorini’s azure waters.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from various hotel locations around Santorini, making the start and end of your day seamless.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the catamaran cruise, lunch or dinner, unlimited white wine, beer, soft drinks, water, snorkeling equipment, towels, a map of Santorini, and onboard facilities.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian skewers are available as part of the BBQ meal.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and the stops are in calm waters suitable for beginners.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 years old.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun protection, swimwear, a hat, and a light jacket. Towels are provided.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, in case of strong wind or weather conditions, the itinerary may be adjusted for safety.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, unlimited white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water are included onboard.

This Santorini catamaran cruise blends scenic sailing, authentic Greek flavors, and relaxing swims — a genuinely enjoyable way to see the island from the water while indulging in comfort. Perfect for those wanting a memorable, hassle-free day with a touch of luxury.

You can check if your dates are available here: