Santorini: Full Day Catamaran Cruise with BBQ & Drinks

Santorini: Full Day Catamaran Cruise with BBQ & Drinks

Exploring Santorini by boat is often considered a highlight of any Greek island trip, and this full-day catamaran cruise promises to deliver a blend of stunning scenery, delicious food, and relaxing sailing. While we haven’t personally been aboard, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that balances adventure and comfort.

We love that the tour includes multiple swim stops at iconic beaches, offers a delicious Greek BBQ onboard, and features a sunset that’s hard to beat. The inclusion of a wine tour at Thirassia Island adds a touch of local flavor, and the pickup/drop-off service makes it a stress-free way to explore.

One possible consideration is the length of the day—at 11 hours, it’s quite a commitment, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy full-day excursions and don’t mind an early start or long hours at sea.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxing, and scenic experience that captures the essence of Santorini’s coastline, cuisine, and sunsets.

Good To Know

• Stunning Swim Spots: Multiple stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and Mesa Pigadia offer crystal-clear waters and photo-worthy scenery.
• Cultural & Tasting Experience: A wine tour at Thirassia Island (extra charge) enriches the journey with local flavors.
• Gourmet Onboard Meal: A Greek BBQ with fresh fish, chicken, or veggie skewers makes the day more than just sightseeing.
• Sunset Views: The tour wraps up with a spectacular sunset over the Red Beach, a truly memorable moment.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup, drop-off, towels, snorkeling gear, and facilities are included, making it hassle-free.
• Balanced Schedule: The itinerary balances sightseeing, swimming, dining, and relaxing, appealing to a variety of travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Catamaran Cruise Experience

Morning Departure and Practical Planning

The cruise starts around 11 AM, with pickup from 11 different locations across Santorini, such as Oia, Fira, Kamari, and Pyrgos. This flexibility makes it easier to organize transport, especially if you’re staying outside central Fira. Once onboard, there’s a 30-minute transfer to Vlichada Marina, where the boat awaits.

This timing ensures you’re out on the water during the daylight hours and can enjoy the full range of stops and activities. The total tour duration is about 11 hours, including transportation, so packing light and comfortable clothing is advisable. The boat provides towels, blankets, and facilities, which adds to the overall comfort during a long day at sea.

Exploring the Beaches and Iconic Landmarks

The first part of the day involves visiting Red Beach, famous for its striking red cliffs that contrast beautifully with the clear waters—an ideal spot for a swim and some photos. The shallow waters here are perfect for cooling off after some sunbathing.

Next, a brief stop at White Beach offers a unique chance to capture its seclusion and pristine sands—access only by boat makes it feel like your own private paradise. A further swim at Mesa Pigadia Beach provides calm, inviting waters and a stunning view of the volcanic landscape.

Cruising past the Akrotiri Lighthouse offers a picturesque moment, with its famous white structure standing against the blue sky and sea backdrop. The guide might point out interesting facts about the lighthouse’s history and role in maritime navigation.

Thirassia Island: Culture and Local Flavors

The highlight for many is the stop at Thirassia Island, where you can wander for 90 minutes or opt for a wine tour (extra charge). The free transfer to the island’s center makes it easy to explore at your own pace, whether you’re interested in taking photos, relaxing at a local café, or browsing small shops.

The wine tour offers a taste of local Santorini wines, often enjoyed at a small, family-run winery, giving you insight into the island’s viticulture. Several reviews mention the charm of Thirassia’s laid-back vibe and authentic hospitality, which makes it a worthwhile addition to the day.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting Volcano and Snorkeling

A stop at Nea Kameni, the volcanic island, often includes short opportunities for snorkeling and sightseeing. The volcanic landscape is dramatic, and the views from this stop add to the sense of exploring a unique geological site.

Snorkeling gear is provided, and the clear waters make it easy to spot fish and underwater formations. Remember, the 20-minute stops here are brief but packed with visual interest.

Gourmet Greek BBQ Under the Sun

Back on the boat, the onboard Greek BBQ is a major highlight. The meal includes appetizers like pita, tzatziki, eggplant salad, and grilled octopus, along with main courses of fish, chicken, or vegetable skewers. For dessert, Greek yogurt with a sweet spoon offers a perfect finish.

Guests often comment on the quality of the food—fresh, flavorful, and satisfying after a day in the sun. The unlimited wine, soft drinks, and water keep the mood lively, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easier to socialize or simply enjoy the scenery.

Sunset Finale

As the day winds down, the cruise offers a chance to witness the breathtaking sunset over the Red Beach and the open sea. Many reviews mention that this moment is one of the most memorable parts of the trip—perfect for taking photos or just soaking in the spectacular colors.

Additional Comforts and Practical Details

The cruise is well-equipped with toilets, rinse facilities, cabins, and floating equipment, ensuring comfort throughout the long day. Towels and blankets are provided, and the music adds a cheerful backdrop to the experience.

The entire experience is designed to be smooth and enjoyable, with professional crew members and reliable transportation. Tips are appreciated, as with most service-based experiences, but the value for the included meals, drinks, and sightseeing is generally considered fair by travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers who seek a comprehensive day on the water, combining swimming, sightseeing, and dining. If you love stunning scenery and memorable sunsets, this tour’s closing moments won’t disappoint.

It’s also a great choice for those who want to experience local flavors with the wine tour option, or prefer a relaxed, all-inclusive excursion that covers many highlights in one day.

However, if you prefer very short tours or are not comfortable with long days at sea, you might find the 11-hour schedule a bit tiring. Families with children and groups who enjoy social atmospheres will likely find this cruise a fantastic fit.

Final Thoughts

This full-day catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Santorini’s coastal beauty, delicious cuisine, and iconic sunsets. The stops at beaches like Red and White Beach provide ample swimming opportunities, while Thirassia introduces you to local island life and wine. The onboard BBQ elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing, providing a hearty and tasty meal in a relaxed setting.

The combination of scenic sailing, cultural touches, and the simple pleasure of floating on the Aegean makes this tour a standout option for travelers eager to make the most of their time on Santorini. The value lies in the inclusions—meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and convenient transportation—making it a solid choice for those wanting an all-in-one adventure.

If you’re after a full day of sun, sea, and spectacular views—plus a touch of authentic Greek flavor—this cruise will deliver. It’s perfect for those who want to see the best sights without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers or meal stops, all while soaking in the magic of a Santorini sunset.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a cruise with multiple stops, onboard buffet meal, unlimited white wine, soft drinks, water, snorkeling equipment, towels, blankets, a map of Santorini, and facilities to rinse off.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, the wine tour at Thirassia Island is available for an additional charge, allowing you to explore and taste local wines.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 11 hours, including transportation to and from the marina.

What are the main stops on the itinerary?
Stops include Red Beach, White Beach, Mesa Pigadia Beach, Akrotiri Lighthouse, Thirassia Island, and Nea Kameni volcano, with opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and photos.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s relaxing pace, included amenities, and scenic stops make it family-friendly. Be mindful of the long day, especially for young children.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for the sunset. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

This well-structured, scenic, and delicious tour is suited for travelers looking to experience the best of Santorini’s coast in one memorable day. With stunning views, local flavors, and a relaxed vibe, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, making it a worthwhile addition to any Greek island itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: