Santorini Private Daytime Sailing Tour with Meal, Drinks &Transfer included

If you’re dreaming of cruising around Santorini’s famous caldera, soaking up the views, and enjoying a personalized experience, this private sailing tour might be just what you’re looking for. Offered by Angel Sailing, this five-hour adventure combines the beauty of the island’s coastline with a relaxed atmosphere, delicious local food, and plenty of drinks. It’s especially appealing for those wanting a more exclusive, intimate way to see Santorini rather than joining crowded group excursions.

What really caught our eye is the personalized touch that Angel Sailing promises, thanks to their family-owned vibe and captain George’s extensive maritime background. The fact that they limit the group size to just up to 10 passengers means you get a quieter experience, with plenty of opportunity for tailored sights and conversations. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it feel a lot less like a tour and more like a day spent with friends.

However, it’s worth noting that at over $600 a person, this isn’t a budget option. But if splurging on a private, well-curated day at sea sounds appealing, and you value quality over quantity, this could be a worthwhile investment. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a seamless, hassle-free way to explore Santorini’s caldera with a knowledgeable guide.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a family-owned touch
• Includes all logistics: transfer, meals, drinks, and guided commentary
• Flexible itinerary with stops at iconic beaches, hot springs, and swimming spots
• Small group size ensures intimacy and attention from the captain
• Great value for the quality of the experience, especially considering meals and drinks are included
• Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, luxurious day on the water without the crowds

What to Expect from the Santorini Private Sailing Tour

This tour is designed to give you a full yet laid-back day on the water, all wrapped up in a private setting. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, the focus is on comfort and ease. The boat itself is a 44-foot yacht, capable of accommodating up to 10 guests comfortably—so it’s not cramped, and there’s plenty of space to relax or socialize.

The core of this experience is the combination of sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying good food and drinks. The itinerary is crafted to show you some of Santorini’s most photogenic spots, along with opportunities to dip into the volcanic hot springs and swim in the calming waters of Thirasia Bay.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Vlychada at 9:00 am—this is your departure point, from which you’ll begin your scenic cruise. The first stop is at the Red and White beaches, which are brief but perfect photo ops. These beaches are famous for their striking colors and unique volcanic formations, making them a hit on Instagram.

Next, you’ll pass between the active volcanoes, a highlight for many travelers. Cruising between these formations is not just visually impressive but also gives you a sense of the island’s fiery past. From here, you’ll enjoy views of the Capes lighthouse and the hot springs, both of which are classic Santorini sights.

One of the tour’s shining features is the stop in Thirasia Bay for swimming. This quieter island offers a serene swimming spot, where you can cool off and relax after hours on the boat. The meal served here is homemade, cooked onboard using ingredients mostly sourced from Santorini itself—think fresh local produce and simple yet flavorful preparations.

The final leg of the tour takes you past the crocodile-shaped island of Thirasia and Aspronisi, returning you to Vlychada around 2:00 pm. Throughout the trip, your captain and guide will share stories and insights about the island’s geography, history, and local culture.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the biggest draws is the personalized nature of the experience. Unlike large group cruises, here you get the captain’s undivided attention, and you can customize the schedule a bit if you wish. Reviews highlight this, with one guest mentioning George’s hospitality and the ability to act as a photographer and guide.

The scenic views are breathtaking—from the striking beaches, volcanic formations, to the caldera vistas. The boat’s small size enhances the feeling of intimacy, making it more like sailing with friends than being part of a crowd.

The food and drinks are another highlight. Included in the price, the onboard meal is homemade and features ingredients from Santorini, adding a local flavor. Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks keep everyone refreshed as you soak in the sun and scenery.

Several reviewers mentioned how knowledgeable and accommodating George was, providing plenty of tips and interesting facts about the island. The relaxed pace and intimate setting made for a memorable day.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

Price and Value: At around $616.76 per person, this isn’t the cheapest way to see Santorini, but when you factor in everything—private boat, meals, drinks, transfers—the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for exclusivity, comfort, and a curated experience that’s hard to match with larger tours.

Duration: At about 5 hours, it’s a manageable half-day adventure. You won’t feel rushed, but you’ll also have enough time to enjoy swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing onboard.

Booking & Planning: Most travelers book around 19 days in advance, so it’s worth planning ahead if you want to secure a spot. The tour operates rain or shine, with a full refund if canceled due to bad weather, which is reassuring.

Suitability: Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or very young children should consider the boat’s size and the tour’s physical demands. It’s also worth noting that vegetarian options are available if requested in advance.

Logistics: The pickup service is included, easing the hassle of getting to the boat. Just remember to provide your ship details or hotel information for pickup.

How the Experience Feels in Reality

From the reviews, it’s clear that this tour delivers on its promises. One guest called it an “amazing sailing experience” and appreciated the mix of sights, historical insights, and hospitality. Another mentioned how George customized their trip, acting as both guide and photographer, which added a personalized touch many travelers seek.

The stops at beaches and hot springs are well-loved for their stunning scenery. The homemade meal onboard, cooked on the yacht, is often praised as a highlight—simple, fresh, and satisfying after swimming and sunbathing.

The small group size means you get more attention, more flexibility, and a chance to truly relax. The absence of large crowds is a big selling point, especially during busy seasons when larger tours tend to get crowded.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value personalized service and comfort over budget options. If you’re seeking a relaxing day on the water with stunning views, good food, and a knowledgeable captain, this is an excellent choice. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples looking for an intimate escape.

Those who enjoy learning about local culture and geography will find the guide’s insights enriching. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the stops and scenery provide plenty of opportunities to capture memorable shots.

However, if you’re after a super budget-friendly day or prefer a more active, adventure-focused tour (like snorkeling or hiking), this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Santorini Private Daytime Sailing Tour by Angel Sailing offers a well-rounded, intimate, and scenic way to explore the caldera and surrounding beaches. The combination of expert guidance, homemade meals, and the tranquil setting makes for a memorable day on the water.

While the price point might be steep for some, the personalized experience, quality food, and stunning views justify the cost. It’s especially suited for those who want a calm, luxurious, and flexible day at sea without the hustle and crowds of larger tours.

If you’re after a smooth, private cruise that balances sightseeing with relaxing swim stops and great food, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to book ahead, especially during the busy summer months, and prepare for a day that’s as much about the tranquility and beauty of Santorini as it is about the adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing onboard.

What’s the maximum group size? The yacht can carry up to 10 guests, ensuring a more private and personal experience.

Are meals and drinks included? Yes, a homemade onboard meal is served, and unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are provided.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour is private, so there’s room for some flexibility if you want to prioritize certain sights or stops.

What stops are included? The tour features stops at Vlychada, the Red and White beaches, hot springs, Thirasia Bay for swimming, and passing by volcanic formations.

Is it suitable for families? Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the boat size and physical demands. Children should be supervised.

What about weather cancellations? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book? Booking about 3 weeks in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

If you’re looking for a calm, scenic, and personalized way to enjoy Santorini’s coast and caldera, this sailing tour might just be the highlight of your trip. With its blend of stunning views, local flavors, and attentive service, it’s a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation that many travelers cherish.