Santorini: Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, BBQ & Drinks

Thinking about exploring Santorini from the water? This luxury catamaran cruise offers a 5-hour journey around the island and Thirasia, promising stunning views, refreshing swims, and a delicious Greek feast.

We love how this experience combines the beauty of Santorini’s iconic caldera with the comfort of a small-group setting, making it feel exclusive yet relaxed. The highlight for many travelers is the variety of swim stops — from volcanic hot springs to crystal-clear beaches — and the chance to indulge in authentic Greek cuisine while soaking up panoramic views.

That said, it’s worth noting that this cruise is a full-day affair with multiple stops, so it requires a moderate level of physical activity, especially if you plan to swim and snorkel. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic day with excellent food and drinks, this cruise suits couples, small groups, and anyone wanting to see Santorini from a different perspective.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Get panoramic perspectives of Santorini’s caldera, lighthouse, and coastline.
• Varied Stops: Enjoy swimming at beaches, volcanic hot springs, and on Thirasia.
• All-Inclusive: Includes Greek buffet, BBQ, open bar, towels, snorkeling gear, and transfers.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides ensure smooth sailing and share interesting tidbits.
• Small Group: An intimate experience with personalized service.
• Good Value: Combines sightseeing, dining, and drinks into one well-rounded package.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Catamaran Cruise Stand Out

This Santorini day cruise offers a balanced blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic local flavors. As a passenger, you’re transported from Vlychada Port aboard a luxurious catamaran, designed for comfort and style. The small-group format typically includes around 20 guests, which enhances the feeling of exclusivity and allows the crew to attend to your needs more personally.

The cruise’s five-hour duration strikes an ideal balance—long enough to cover several key sites but not so lengthy that it becomes tiresome. Departure is from Vlychada Port at 10:00 am, with a pickup from various locations, making it accessible regardless of where you stay on the island.

Analyzing the Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Red Beach, White Beach, and Indian Rocks

Your adventure begins with striking views of Red Beach and White Beach. These iconic spots aren’t just postcard material—they’re also great for quick photo stops and a chance to see Santorini’s colorful volcanic formations. The inclusion of Indian Rocks offers a scenic sail past these uniquely beautiful coastlines.

Reviewers mention the “stunning views of the Caldera,” a highlight that continues throughout the cruise, making every moment a picture-perfect one. You can expect to see the Venetian Akrotiri Lighthouse, adding a historic touch and excellent photo opportunities.

Stop 2: Mesa Pigadia Beach

Next, the cruise takes you to Mesa Pigadia — a more secluded beach where you can jump into crystal-clear waters. Reviewers like Andreas praised swimming here, remarking on the “fish visible in the water” and “refreshing swims.” Snorkeling gear is provided, letting you explore beneath the surface to see marine life in this pristine environment.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Stop 3: The Volcano Hot Springs

The highlight for many is the hot springs of Palea Kameni. The sulfurous waters are reputed for their therapeutic qualities, and the experience of floating in these naturally heated waters is often described as rejuvenating. Be aware that the sulfur can stain light-colored clothing, so packing a darker bathing suit is advisable.

Stop 4: Thirasia Island

Your final stop is Thirasia, an island often overshadowed by Santorini but equally charming. Here, you can swim in calmer waters, relax, and enjoy a traditional Greek lunch buffet and BBQ. The reviews highlight the delicious food, with one guest noting, “excellent food as well,” paired with stunning views. After eating and relaxing, you’ll have time to explore or simply bask in the scenery.

The Food and Drinks

No cruise is complete without good food and drinks, and this experience delivers on both. An authentic Greek buffet and BBQ are included, featuring local flavors that complement the scenic backdrop. An open bar offers white wine, beer, and soft drinks, keeping everyone refreshed throughout the voyage.

Guests report the quality of the food as excellent, with some emphasizing how well the meal is prepared and the variety offered. The inclusion of bottled water, towels, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi, and life jackets makes the experience feel well-rounded and comfortable.

The Crew and Guides

Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable guides who make the journey informative and engaging. They share interesting facts about the sites, the volcanic activity, and local history, adding depth to the scenic experience. Reviews like “the crew was AMAZING and so accommodating” reflect a high level of service.

Practical Details and Value

The price for this all-inclusive experience represents good value, considering the included transport, meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and scenic stops. The hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience, especially for those staying outside the main port area.

The tour operates daily, with departures at 10:00 am, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in planning. Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve now and pay later, ideal for flexible travel plans.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who want a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and excellent food in a small-group setting. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, families, or friends looking for a relaxed but scenic day on the water.

Those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a curated experience will find the commentary engaging and informative. If you’re after a luxurious, all-inclusive day that showcases Santorini’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple activities, this cruise ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded day on the water, blending stunning views, refreshing swims, and tasty Greek cuisine. Its small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of snorkeling gear, towels, and drinks makes it feel effortless and enjoyable.

While it’s a full-day commitment, most guests find the trip relaxing and worth every penny. The combination of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and excellent service makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking a memorable way to explore the island.

If you love islands views, good food, and swimming in natural hot springs, this cruise is likely to be one of the highlights of your trip to Santorini.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately five hours, starting at 10:00 am, with a flexible schedule depending on availability.

Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with multiple pickup points around Santorini.

What meals are provided?
A Greek buffet and BBQ are included, along with open bar service featuring white wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and towels are provided for your convenience.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, beachwear, and a towel. Dark-colored swimsuits are recommended if swimming in sulfur springs.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is the tour suitable for?
Ideal for small groups, couples, families, or anyone wanting a scenic, relaxing day with excellent food, drinks, and sightseeing.

In summary, this Santorini luxury catamaran cruise combines breathtaking scenery, authentic cuisine, and personalized service in a way that makes exploring the island’s most iconic spots both easy and enjoyable. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, it’s a fantastic way to experience Santorini from a fresh perspective.

You can check if your dates are available here: