Santorini isn’t just about stunning sunsets and iconic whitewashed buildings — it’s also one of the best places in Greece for sailing adventures. With calm, sun-drenched waters and volcanic landscapes that look like they belong to another planet, it’s no surprise that many travelers find sailing the best way to see the island up close. We especially love the Santorini: Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner, Drinks, and Music, because it combines relaxing swimming spots, lively onboard atmosphere, and a hearty barbecue that makes you feel like a true islander. Whether you’re after a sunset cruise or a full-day private experience, Santorini offers something for every kind of sailor.
What makes Santorini stand out as a sailing destination is its dramatic volcanic coastline, warm waters, and the chance to see active hot springs and volcanic craters close-up. Many tours include snorkeling, swimming at famous beaches like Red and White Beach, and enjoying the island’s famous sunsets from the water. For those wanting to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury, options like the Platinum Catamaran Cruise with BBQ and Open Bar deliver both style and substance. If private luxury is more your style, the Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks offers an intimate, tailored experience. More budget-friendly yet equally fun options include the Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Open Bar, perfect for groups looking for a lively day on the water.
Below, we’ve detailed each of the top 12 sailing experiences in Santorini, highlighting what makes each one special, who it’s best suited for, and practical tips to help you choose.
1. Santorini: Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner, Drinks, and Music
At number 1 on our list, this catamaran combines a 5-hour cruise with a lively onboard atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to relax, swim, and enjoy good food while soaking in a sunset or morning breeze. The tour includes swimming and snorkeling near Red Beach and White Beach, with plenty of time to float in the warm Aegean waters. The barbecue meal, paired with unlimited white wine and soft drinks, makes this a hearty outing, especially if you’re a fan of casual, fun sailing.
What’s especially appealing are the cheerful music and the proximity to the volcano, adding a sense of adventure to the laid-back vibe. The reviews are glowing — “The snorkeling was amazing! The guides made the experience so enjoyable,” says one happy guest. And at just under $90 per person for 5 hours, it’s fantastic value for a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and lively entertainment.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a relaxed yet lively experience with great food, music, and the chance to snorkel in beautiful spots. Perfect for groups or families seeking a fun, social day on the water.
2. Santorini: Platinum Catamaran Cruise w/ BBQ Meal & Open Bar
Ranked just slightly higher, the Platinum Catamaran offers a touch more luxury for around $124 per person. This 5-hour cruise stands out for its premium features, including an open bar and a carefully curated itinerary that takes you around secret island of Thirasia and the famous Red and White Beaches. Guests rave about the high-quality Greek food and wine onboard, and snorkel gear is provided so you can explore the crystal waters at your leisure.
The experience is designed for travelers who want a more upscale day at sea, with fewer crowds, more scenic stops, and the chance to avoid the busy sunset spots. The itinerary includes scenic photo stops, a guided tour, and a lunch with a view. Reviewers highlight the attentive crew and the delicious meal as key highlights. “The view of Santorini from the ocean is something you can’t miss,” one visitor notes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or groups seeking a more elegant sailing experience with excellent food, scenic stops, and a more intimate atmosphere.
3. Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with BBQ Meal and Drinks
For those wanting complete privacy and customization, the Private Catamaran is unbeatable. It’s a 5-hour experience designed for up to 4 people, with the boat’s guide preparing a personalized itinerary. You’ll visit White Beach and Red Beach for swimming and snorkeling, soak in the volcanic hot springs, and enjoy a delicious BBQ with Santorinian wine.
Guests rave about the peaceful atmosphere — “The sunset cruise was amazing! Captain Kostas and Sailor Giannis were the best,” says a reviewer. This option is best suited for couples or small groups wanting an exclusive experience, perhaps for a special occasion or just a private day on the water.
Bottom Line: This tour is best if you value privacy and tailored experiences, with all the comforts of a private yacht at a more accessible price point.
4. Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks
At number 4, the Private Catamaran Cruise offers an intimate 5-hour voyage that can be scheduled morning or afternoon. It’s designed for up to 4 people, with the boat’s guide preparing a Greek meal onboard, including unlimited wine and soft drinks. Visiting the White Beach and Red Beach, along with the Hot Springs, makes this a full sensory experience.
Guests mention how relaxing it is to soak in the volcanic waters and have their own private space. “Doing a private cruise is definitely the way to go,” reports one reviewer. The flexibility of the itinerary and comfort onboard make this a popular choice for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups who want a bespoke, private day on the water with excellent food and incredible views.
5. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
This Catamaran balances affordability and fun. For $124 per person, it offers a 5-hour trip with snorkeling at Red Beach and Thirasia Island, plus a freshly cooked meal and unlimited drinks from the open bar. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a lively, all-inclusive experience.
Reviewers mention the friendly crew and the delicious onboard meal. “The food was amazing! The crew was fantastic,” reports a traveler. The carefully planned itinerary includes stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing in the hot springs, making it a well-rounded choice.
Bottom Line: Great for groups looking for an energetic, budget-friendly day on the water with plenty of food, drinks, and snorkeling.
6. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Food and Drinks
Ranked slightly lower, this catamaran offers a 5-hour trip that emphasizes scenic sailing, swimming, and snorkeling. It includes a Greek buffet, with options to relax and soak in the views of the volcanic caldera. Its reviews praise the crew’s attentiveness and the beautiful spots visited, including volcanic thermal waters.
Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, with many noting the value — the meal, drinks, and swimming in scenic locations for a fair price. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a balanced tour without the extra frills but still full of memorable moments.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a straightforward, well-rounded sailing experience with good food and beautiful scenery.
7. Santorini: Majestic Catamaran Cruise with Meal and Drinks
The Majestic Catamaran offers a larger, more spacious vessel with top-notch comfort. It features stops at Red and White Beaches, with options to swim or snorkel. The highlight is the sunset view from the caldera, combined with a delicious meal served onboard, complemented by Santorinian wine.
Guests mention how the boat’s modern design and ample space make for a luxurious experience. It’s best suited for those who want comfort and scenic beauty without sacrificing the social, lively atmosphere.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a comfortable, scenic cruise with great sunset views and good onboard dining.
8. Santorini: All-Inclusive Private Catamaran Experience
This private experience is excellent for groups wanting full control. It includes a private transfer, a customizable route, and a full Greek meal with unlimited drinks. You can visit White Beach, Red Beach, soak in Hot Springs, and explore Thirassia.
Reviewers love the flexibility and personalized service. “The experience was to be remembered forever,” says one. It’s best for families or small groups celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: Choose this if you want a fully tailored, luxurious day with privacy and flexibility.
9. Santorini: All-inclusive Catamaran Cruise with Thirassia Stop
Ranked highly for its inclusivity, this cruise covers the north-to-south route with stops at Red, White, and Black Beaches, along with Hot Springs. It features snorkeling and swimming, with a meal onboard that’s freshly prepared.
Guests praise the boat’s friendly crew and the variety of swimming spots. The itinerary includes a stop at Thirassia, giving a taste of the local village life. It’s good for travelers wanting a comprehensive, all-in-one experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a full, guided tour that touches on all the major sights with plenty of swimming and good food.
10. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise, Winery, & Oia Sunset Combo Tour
This full-day combo tour combines a morning cruise with an evening in Oia for the sunset and wine tasting. The 10-hour itinerary offers a leisurely sail, a BBQ onboard, and a visit to local wineries. It’s suited for those wanting a comprehensive experience that combines sea, wine, and sunset views.
Reviewers highlight how memorable the sunset over Oia is, and many note the friendly, knowledgeable crew. The tour provides a great balance between sailing and land exploration.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting to combine sailing with a cultural and scenic land experience, especially if they love wine.
11. Santorini: Private Day Cruise with Catamaran
Ranking at the top for intimacy, this private day cruise offers a 5-hour personalized voyage around Santorini, with stops at White and Red Beaches and Hot Springs. It’s perfect for families or couples seeking privacy and a tailored route.
Guests enjoy a full Greek meal onboard, with unlimited wine, beer, and beverages. The crew’s attentive service and flexibility make it stand out. “We felt like VIPs,” says one reviewer.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want an exclusive, flexible experience with personalized service and all the comforts.
12. Santorini: Private Motor Yacht Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
Finally, the Motor Yacht Cruise offers a luxurious 5-10 hour private charter on a sleek 46-foot yacht. It features visits to Red and White Beaches, as well as Hot Springs, with the option to enjoy a meal and drinks onboard.
Guests rave about the panoramic views from the yacht and the flexibility to customize the route. It’s ideal for larger groups or those seeking a premium, private experience.
Bottom Line: The top pick for those who want a high-end, private yacht experience with plenty of options to swim, snorkel, and relax in style.
How to Choose Your Sailing Experience in Santorini
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time available, and interest level. For a lively, social atmosphere, the group catamarans with BBQ and drinks or Meal & Open Bar are excellent choices. If privacy and customization are your priorities, the Private Catamaran or All-Inclusive Private offer the most flexibility.
Budget travelers will appreciate the budget-friendly options that still include snorkeling, swimming, and onboard meals. For a full day of diverse experiences, the combination tours that include wine tasting and sunset viewing are ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially for private tours or during peak summer months. Always check what’s included (meals, drinks, snorkeling gear) to match your expectations.
Final Thoughts
Santorini’s sailing options are as varied as the island’s landscape. Whether you want a luxurious private yacht, a lively group cruise, or a family-friendly adventure, there’s something to suit your style. For a lively, social experience with excellent food, the Catamaran Tour with BBQ provides great value and fun. If privacy and bespoke service appeal more, then the Private Catamaran with Food & Drinks should be your pick.
Remember, booking ahead ensures you get the date and experience you want — don’t wait too long to secure your spot. Whichever tour you choose, sailing in Santorini is sure to be a highlight of your trip, with unforgettable views, delicious food, and the warm Aegean sun.