Private, fully customizable cruise in Santorini’s caldera

Imagine cruising along the edge of a volcano, the whitewashed villages slipping past, and the Aegean Sea shimmering under the sun. That’s exactly what this private, fully customizable boat tour offers in Santorini — a chance to see the caldera from a perspective few get to experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a unique way to explore, this tour promises a blend of stunning scenery and relaxed elegance.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized approach, allowing you to choose your start point and tailor the route. Second, the chance to swim and snorkel in secluded spots away from crowds — a real advantage in Santorini’s popular sites. Lastly, the expert skipper, who not only navigates the waters but enriches your trip with local insights and a friendly vibe.

That said, a note of caution: the tour’s duration is just 3 hours, so it’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule wanting a taste of the caldera’s highlights. If you’re after a full-day experience or a gourmet meal onboard, you might need to look elsewhere. Still, for a relaxed, intimate escape on the water, this cruise hits the right notes. Perfect for couples, small groups, or families eager for a more private adventure.

Good To Know

• Fully customizable: Tailor your route and stops based on your preferences.
• Private group experience: Small, intimate tours with a dedicated skipper.
• Stunning viewpoints: See the volcano, hot springs, and caldera from close quarters.
• Snorkeling and swimming: Explore hidden bays and reefs away from crowds.
• Local insights: Guides like Hector or Costas provide fun facts and personal attention.
• Flexible options: Add-ons like volcano hikes or hotel transfers available upon request.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering Santorini’s Caldera on a Private Boat

Santorini’s caldera is one of the most striking natural sights in Greece, and seeing it from the water offers a fresh perspective that beats land-based viewpoints. This private cruise provides an intimate way to explore, with the flexibility to customize your route, making it ideal for those who want a tailored experience rather than a generic tour.

The vessel is an 8-meter RIB (rigid inflatable boat) — roomy enough for comfort, yet small enough to navigate shallow waters and get close to the rock formations and hidden bays. The boat’s size allows for a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a small group or family. Since the tour is private, you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, making it more relaxed and personal.

The crew, including the knowledgeable guides like Hector and Costas, are praised for their friendly attitude and local expertise. One reviewer mentioned Hector’s skill at finding beautiful swimming spots and sharing insights about the landscape and history, which adds a lot of value for those interested in the stories behind the scenery.

Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point and Duration

The tour lasts around 3 hours, with the possibility of a pickup at your hotel or the Fira old port. While some tours stick to predetermined routes, this one’s fully customizable, so you can decide to focus on specific sights or swimming spots if the weather permits.

Volcano and Hot Springs

A major highlight is seeing the volcano of Thira up close, which is a fascinating sight, especially from the sea. Many guests love the opportunity to swim in the hot springs, a naturally warm and mineral-rich spot that’s uniquely accessible by boat. The water’s temperature and mineral content contribute to a relaxing experience, perfect after a morning of sightseeing.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Views and Photo Opportunities

Photographers and scenic lovers will appreciate the views of traditional fisherman boat houses and the elephant skin rocks of Therasia. These unusual geological formations provide striking backdrops for photos and offer a different perspective from the typical land vantage points.

Swimming and Snorkeling

You’ll be taken to hidden bays and reefs, where the blue waters invite you to swim and snorkel. Reviewers mention how much they appreciated the secluded spots that felt more private and peaceful than the crowded beaches. Snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to explore underwater life in the transparent waters.

Food and Drinks

While a full meal isn’t included, the tour makes up for it with ice-cold refreshments, beer, wine, and snacks onboard. Many guests raved about the quality and quantity of drinks, which kept everyone refreshed and in good spirits throughout the cruise.

The Experience of the Skipper and Crew

The success of this private experience hinges largely on the crew’s attitude. Tour participants repeatedly emphasize how Costas and Hector make the trip memorable with their friendliness and local knowledge. One guest noted Hector’s ability to spot beautiful swimming spots and share interesting facts about the area, adding depth to the trip. Others appreciated the timely embarkation and gear provided, including towels, noodles, and snorkeling equipment, which made the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Their flexibility is another plus — if you want to add a volcano hike or request specific stops, they’re accommodating, often for a small extra fee. This personal touch helps make the cruise feel tailored to your interests.

Practicalities and Logistics

Pricing and Value

The tour’s cost reflects its private nature and customization options. While not a full-day extravaganza, the 3-hour cruise offers a high-value, intimate alternative to larger group excursions. Guests report that the experience is worth the price, given the personalized service, stunning views, and the chance to swim in exclusive spots.

Transportation and Pickup

You can request hotel transfers for an extra charge or be directly picked up from the Fira old port, where tenders from cruise ships dock. This flexibility means you won’t need to worry about logistics once you’ve booked, adding to the overall convenience.

Cancellation and Booking

The tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving travelers peace of mind. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to lock in your preferred time and avoid disappointment.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups wanting a personalized adventure, or families who appreciate private, flexible experiences. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer to avoid crowded boat tours and want to see the caldera from close up with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

Since the tour can be customized and includes snorkeling and swimming, it’s perfect for active travelers who want to combine scenic sightseeing with some fun in the water. However, those looking for a full-day excursion or gourmet onboard meal might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This private cruise in Santorini’s caldera offers a fantastic mix of personalized exploration, breathtaking scenery, and relaxed luxury. Its small size and flexible itinerary make it ideal for travelers who value intimacy and authentic experiences over mass-market tours. The crew’s friendly approach and local insights elevate the experience, turning a scenic boat ride into a memorable adventure.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the value lies in the exclusivity, customization, and access to hidden spots that larger tours often miss. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking tranquility, or simply craving a new way to see Santorini, this cruise provides a memorable, scenic escape that you’ll cherish long after you leave the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The cruise duration is approximately 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable based on your preferences and weather conditions, including stops at specific sites or swimming spots.

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup can be arranged upon request for an extra charge. Alternatively, you can be picked up directly from the Fira old port.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes ice-cold refreshments, beer, wine, snacks, towels, and snorkeling gear. Add-ons like volcano hikes or transfers are available at extra cost.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore the reefs and underwater scenery comfortably.

Can I add a volcano hike?
Yes, a volcano hike is available upon request for a small on-site fee, providing an adventurous extension to your cruise.

Are meals included?
No, a full meal isn’t part of the package, but drinks and snacks are provided to keep you refreshed.

What is the boat like?
The vessel is an 8-meter RIB, offering ample space and comfort for small groups, with a sturdy and stable ride.

Is this suitable for children?
Much of the experience, including swimming and snorkeling, is family-friendly, but supervision is recommended, especially around the water.

How do I book?
Reservations can be made through the tour provider’s website or platforms like GetYourGuide, with flexible options for payment and cancellation.

This private cruise offers a relaxed, authentic way to see Santorini’s caldera and its volcanic wonders, perfect for those wanting a personal touch on their Greek island adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: