Semi Private Santorini Catamaran Tour

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing afternoon or evening soaking in the beauty of Santorini from the water, a semi-private catamaran cruise might just be your best pick. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the details and reviews paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone eager to combine sightseeing, swimming, and good food into one memorable experience.

What really catches our eye about this tour is its spacious, luxurious Lagoon sailing catamaran—allowing up to 15 guests, but with a maximum capacity of 20, so it never feels crowded. We also love that it offers a balanced mix of scenic stops, snorkeling, and a sunset, all wrapped up with Greek cuisine and wine. But, like any tour, it’s worth considering some of the finer details before booking.

One potential drawback? Some reviews suggest that, despite claiming to be semi-private, the boat can feel a bit crowded, especially when it’s closer to full capacity. Also, the possibility of smokers in communal areas might not appeal to everyone. Still, if you’re looking for an intimate, well-organized way to enjoy Santorini’s highlights and sunset, this tour offers a lot.

This experience is probably best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic adventure focused on comfort, good food, and spectacular views. It’s ideal if you’re traveling in a small group or with friends, and if you’re happy to indulge in some snorkeling and swimming along the way. For those who love wine and local cuisine with a view, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Limited to 15 guests, ensuring comfort and space during the cruise.
• Stunning Stops: White Beach, Red Beach, Nea Kameni, and Palea Kameni all offer unique sights and swimming opportunities.
• Incredible Views: Perfect vantage points for watching the Santorini sunset.
• Good Food & Drinks: BBQ chicken, shrimp, vegetarian options, Greek wine, and bottled water included.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Equipment provided for exploring the volcanic waters and hot springs.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

The Experience Breakdown

What the Tour Offers

This 5-hour cruise is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Santorini’s water-bound beauty, with the bonus of a delicious Greek meal and drinks. Operating on a luxurious Lagoon sailing catamaran—roughly 44 feet long and 7 meters wide—it’s big enough to feel open but intimate enough to enjoy personalized service.

With pickup offered and a mobile ticket, the logistics are smooth. From the moment you’re picked up, the emphasis is on comfort and relaxation. The boat’s limited capacity, capping at 15 guests, means you’ll have plenty of room to unwind, chat, or just take in the view.

The Itinerary

Stop 1: White Beach
You’ll start with a visit to White Beach, famous for its unusual rock formations and stark white cliffs. It’s a quick stop—about an hour—but enough to snap some photos of this distinctive landscape. The reviews suggest this stop is appreciated for its unique geology and quiet beauty.

Stop 2: Red Beach
Next, you’ll sail past and learn about Red Beach—another standout for its reddish volcanic cliffs. The boat crew is noted for their knowledge, making the experience more engaging as they explain the significance of each site. This stop also lasts around an hour, giving you time to appreciate the contrast of colors and the volcanic history.

Stop 3: Nea Kameni (Volcano & Hot Springs)
This is the highlight for many—swimming and snorkeling at Nea Kameni’s volcanic waters. With about two hours here, you’ll have ample time to dip into the hot springs, explore the volcanic terrain, and enjoy the clear waters. The reviews emphasize that the hot springs are “magical,” and snorkel gear is provided, making it easy to explore beneath the surface.

Stop 4: Palea Kameni
The final stop is at Palea Kameni, where the crew offers a quick history session and a chance to enjoy some local food. It’s a relaxed way to wrap up the day, with a chance to chat about the island’s volcanic past and soak in the sunset views.

Food & Drinks

One of the standout features is the Greek cuisine served onboard—barbecued chicken, shrimp, and vegetarian options are included. The reviews love the quality of the food, describing the chicken as “best in the Aegean.” The included wine and bottled water round out the experience, catering to those looking to enjoy a truly Mediterranean feast as the sun dips below the horizon.

Snorkeling & Equipment

Snorkel gear is supplied, making it easy to explore the waters around the volcano and hot springs. Towels, pool noodles, and WiFi are also available onboard, adding convenience to your trip. The availability of snorkeling equipment is a big plus if you’re into exploring marine life or just want a quick swim in the volcanic waters.

The Sunset & Overall Atmosphere

The sunset is the centerpiece of this cruise. According to reviews, the views are breathtaking, and being on the water with a small group makes it all the more special. The boat’s open layout ensures everyone gets a good vantage point, and the relaxed vibe makes it feel more like a gathering of friends than a generic tour.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the overall experience. One called it “a fabulous afternoon/evening sunset cruise,” praising the knowledgeable crew, especially Felipe, for their attentiveness. Others highlight the delicious food and generous portions, stating that the grilled chicken and seafood exceeded expectations.

Some reviews note that, despite claims of being semi-private, the boat can feel crowded with 16-20 people. One reviewer pointed out that the smokers allowed in the main area might bother non-smokers, so keep that in mind if you’re sensitive. But overall, most find the balance of intimacy and comfort to be quite good.

Practical Details & Value

With a price of around $185 per person, this tour offers a lot for those who value a relaxed, scenic experience with good food and wine. Considering the included stops, snorkeling gear, and the scenic sunset, the cost is reasonable for the quality and intimacy you get.

The tour’s advance booking window—most travelers book about 126 days out—indicates it’s popular among those planning ahead. Plus, the free cancellation policy provides flexibility if weather or other plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates small group experiences that focus on comfort and quality, this cruise will likely appeal. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying Greek cuisine in a relaxed setting. It’s less ideal if you’re after a party vibe or a large, boisterous group. Also, if you’re sensitive to smoking in shared spaces, it might be worth considering other options.

The Sum Up

The Semi Private Santorini Catamaran Tour offers a well-rounded, intimate way to enjoy some of the island’s most spectacular sights and sunsets. With a focus on comfort, good food, and relaxed exploration, it caters well to those looking for a more personal experience on the water. The stops at White Beach, Red Beach, and the volcanic hot springs are highlights, complemented by the chance to sip Greek wine and feast on BBQ seafood.

While some reviews mention that the boat can get a little crowded and that smoking in common areas is permitted, most guests find the overall vibe warm, friendly, and worth the price. If you’re after a peaceful yet engaging way to see Santorini from the water, this cruise is worth considering.

For travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and sunset views with good food and a small-group feel, this tour hits the right notes. It’s an experience that combines the magic of Santorini’s landscape with the comfort of a relaxed cruise. Just remember to book in advance to secure your spot and prepare for a memorable day on the Aegean.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, most bookings include a pickup service, making it convenient to start your day or evening hassle-free.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience is approximately 5 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and dining.

What’s the maximum number of passengers?
Up to 20 people are allowed on the boat, but current policies keep it at a maximum of 15 for more comfort.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for use during the stops at Nea Kameni and other swimming spots.

What food is served on the cruise?
A Greek BBQ with chicken, shrimp, and vegetarian options is included. The reviews praise the quality, especially the chicken.

Are drinks included?
Alcoholic beverages are provided for guests over 18, along with bottled water and soda.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The policy is flexible and offers peace of mind.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While kids may enjoy the boat and swimming, alcohol is restricted to adults, and some stops may involve walking or swimming that requires caution.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. The boat offers WiFi and towels, but personal items like waterproof bags are handy.

If you’re seeking a beautiful, relaxing way to see Santorini from the water, enjoy some delicious Greek food, and watch one of the world’s most famous sunsets, this cruise could be a great choice. It’s not the wildest party, but it’s authentic, comfortable, and packed with memorable moments.