Island Hopping: Santorini to Anafi

If you’re dreaming of sailing between some of Greece’s most unspoiled islands, this private island-hopping tour from Santorini to Anafi might just catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough details from travelers and the tour provider to give you a clear picture of what you can expect.

What immediately makes this experience appealing? First, the luxury of a private yacht means you’ll dodge crowded tours and enjoy a tailored day. Second, the combination of crystal waters, scenic views, and authentic Greek cuisine promises a feast for the senses. That said, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone—if you’re after a quick, budget-friendly day, or aren’t comfortable with a full-day cruise, it might be worth considering other options.

This tour is well suited for travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic, and indulgent experience—perfect if you want to explore a less-visited island like Anafi, or simply enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and good food with a small, private group.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Perfect for those who prefer a more intimate, personalized adventure
• Beautiful Sights & Waters: Expect stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of swimming opportunities
• Authentic Greek Cuisine & Open Bar: Enjoy traditional meze, fresh seafood, and a selection of drinks including wine and beer
• Flexible Itinerary: Visits to multiple spots, including Anafi’s untouched beaches and scenic photo stops
• All-Inclusive Comforts: Towels, snorkeling gear, maps, and hotel transfers included
• Considerations: Longer day (around 10 hours), possible extra costs for fuel surcharge or tips, and limited onboard meal options

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers significant value for the price when you consider the all-inclusive onboard menu, which features a generous array of cold “meze”, fresh seafood, and fruit salad. The open bar with white wine and beer, plus soft drinks and water, means you can toast your way through the day without worrying about extra costs—unless you indulge in extras like a fancy cocktail or additional meals on Anafi itself.

Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easy, easing the stress often associated with island tours. Plus, snorkeling equipment, towels, and detailed maps ensure you’re well-equipped to enjoy every stop.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour begins with pickup from one of 27 possible locations around Santorini, including popular spots like Fira, Oia, and Firostefani. After a brief van ride to Vlychada Marina, you’ll board a boat, where a safety briefing kicks off the day.

The first stop on the water is at Vlychada Marina, a calm spot perfect for orientation and further safety instructions. Then, you’ll hop onto a speedboat — a fun way to cover more ground and enjoy the breeze.

The main action happens at Stop 5, where you’ll get a good chunk of time to relax, swim, snorkel, or enjoy the scenery. This could be at Anafi’s hidden beaches, known for their untouched beauty and golden sands, or other scenic spots chosen by the crew. Travelers often mention how the waters are crystal-clear and ideal for snorkeling, so bringing your gear and jumping in is definitely encouraged.

Later, you’ll cruise back towards Santorini, with a photo stop optional at the iconic Sunset Viewpoint or other scenic outlooks. The whole day wraps up with around 30 minutes of scenic views on the way back, ending with a return to your original pickup point.

What Travelers Love

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who are keen to share insights into the islands and local history, making the trip both scenic and educational. The quality of the food and drinks also gets high praise—fresh seafood, well-prepared meze, and a sparkling Moscato D’asti wine at sunset elevate the experience, turning it into a true celebration of Greek island life.

The small group size and private vibe also stand out. Unlike crowded tours, you can relax, take photos without feeling rushed, and genuinely soak in the surroundings. Travelers have called it a “luxurious way to explore”, emphasizing the comfort and personalized touch.

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Downsides and Considerations

A big consideration is the length of the tour—at around 10 hours, it’s quite an all-day commitment, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full-day boat trip. If you’re prone to sea sickness, the movement of the boat might be a concern, especially since you’ll be on a speedboat for part of the journey.

Another point is the cost—this is a premium experience, and while it offers good value considering the inclusions, it’s not the cheapest way to see Anafi. Also, there are extra costs not covered: fuel surcharge, tips, and any additional meals or drinks on the island.

Who This Tour Is For

If you’re after a luxurious, relaxed, and scenic exploration with a focus on comfort and quality, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a personalized experience without the crowds. Families with older children might also enjoy it, especially if they like swimming and boat trips, but keep in mind the longer hours.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini to Anafi private cruise offers a well-rounded blend of scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and comfort. It’s a great choice if you’re seeking an indulgent escape with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and taking in stunning views—all away from the hustle and bustle of crowded tours.

The experienced guides, combined with the quality food and drinks, help elevate it beyond a simple boat ride. You get the sense that every detail is thought through, from snorkeling gear to hotel transfers, making it a smooth and memorable day.

However, it’s a full-day affair, so it’s best for those who enjoy spending significant time on the water and exploring at a relaxed pace. It’s not the right fit if you prefer quick, budget-friendly excursions or are sensitive to boat movement.

All in all, this tour makes for a special way to see a truly lesser-known side of Greece—ideal for travelers craving comfort, scenic views, and a slice of Greek island elegance.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
It can be, especially if your kids enjoy swimming and boat trips. However, since it’s about 10 hours long, it’s best for older children who can handle a full day on the water.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling equipment, towels, a selection of Greek meze and seafood, and an open bar with wine, beer, and soft drinks. A sparkling Moscato D’asti at sunset is a lovely touch.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the tour mentions a fuel surcharge and tips are not included. Onshore meals or extra drinks on Anafi may also cost extra.

How long is the overall tour?
Approximately 10 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and perhaps some cash for extras. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you some peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

If you’re craving a day of luxury, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek flavors, this private island-hopping cruise might just be your perfect day out. With personalized service, gorgeous views, and a chance to explore Anafi’s quiet beaches, it’s an experience worth considering—especially if you appreciate the finer things in life on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: