Full-Day Private Tour in Santorini by Luxury Catamaran

If you’re dreaming of exploring Santorini from the deck of a luxury catamaran, this full-day private tour might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally cruised this experience, the reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this is a top-tier way to see the island’s highlights in style and comfort. It’s designed for those who want a seamless, personalized adventure—think private beaches, volcanic hot springs, and picture-perfect sunsets—all with a splash of elegance.

What really catches the eye here is the combination of intimate exploration and luxury amenities. You’ll be sailing aboard a VIP catamaran, enjoying unlimited drinks, a delicious Greek meal, and even aerial photos taken by a professional drone. Plus, the itinerary covers some of Santorini’s most iconic spots, from the colorful Red Beach to the charming alleys of Oia. Yet, it’s not all sunshine—this tour is quite pricey, and you’ll need to book well in advance. Still, if you value exclusivity and comfort, it’s likely worth it.

One thing to bear in mind is the duration—it spans roughly 9 to 11 hours, so it’s a full day on the water. While the experience seems tailored for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic day rather than fast-paced sightseeing, it might be less suitable if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or traveling with very young children who might find a long day on a boat challenging.

This tour suits travelers who want to indulge in Santorini’s beauty without the crowds, appreciate fine service and scenery, and don’t mind the cost for a more personalized experience. If a private, luxurious adventure sounds appealing, you’re in for a treat.

Key Points

• Luxury and Privacy: It’s a private tour for up to 15 people, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Stops include Red Beach, Mesa Pigadia, volcanic hot springs, Therasia, Oia, and Vlychada, covering many of Santorini’s highlights.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Enjoy unlimited wine, Greek beer, a full meal, snorkeling gear, towels, WiFi, and a professional drone for photos.
• Expert Navigation: The boat is piloted, so you can relax while the crew manages the journey.
• Ideal for Relaxation and Photography: The tour offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and capturing stunning vistas.
• Advance Booking Recommended: Most travelers book about 20 days ahead, indicating high demand.

The Itinerary in Detail

Red Beach

We start our day at Red Beach, renowned for its striking red cliffs and sand, which make it one of the most recognizable beaches in Greece. The vivid color contrast of the iron-rich cliffs against the dark blue sea creates a scene that feels almost otherworldly. It’s a perfect first stop for a quick swim and photos. Since admission is included, you can hop off and dip into the water or just marvel at the landscape.

Mesa Pigadia Beach

Next, we sail to Mesa Pigadia, a quieter, more secluded spot with black pebbles and crystal-clear waters. Here, you can relax without the crowds and take advantage of the snorkeling and swimming opportunities. It’s a great break from busier beaches, offering both tranquility and beauty—surrounded by cliffs and natural scenery.

Akrotiri Lighthouse and Black Mountain

Passing by the lighthouse at Akrotiri, you’ll get a scenic view of one of the Cyclades’ most beautiful lighthouses, perched atop a high cliff. The contrast of whitewashed walls against the dark volcanic landscape makes it a perfect photo op and a reminder of the island’s volcanic origins. It’s a brief pass-by, but a memorable view.

Palea Kameni Hot Springs

A highlight for many is a swim in the hot springs of Palea Kameni, known for their therapeutic sulfur-rich waters. The volcanic activity has created these natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. The small cove in Nea Kameni offers a relaxing soak, and with admission included, you can enjoy these waters without extra fuss.

Therasia

The island of Therasia is a less-visited gem, formed after a volcanic eruption that separated it from Santorini. Here, you’ll have about three hours to explore, enjoy the beaches, and have a leisurely lunch. The stop provides a chance to see a different side of the island—less touristy, more authentic—and relax at your own pace.

Oia

No trip to Santorini is complete without a visit to Oia. The iconic village with its white houses, colorful accents, and narrow winding streets will leave you breathless. You might want to spend your hour wandering, shopping, or simply taking photos of that world-famous sunset. We love how Oia’s charm is rooted in its details—small churches, blue-domed rooftops, and spectacular views over the caldera.

Fira and Vlychada

As you cruise back, the boat passes by Fira, the bustling capital with its dramatic cliffs and lively streets. You’ll get a glimpse of its charm without stopping, which helps you appreciate the scale and beauty of the island.

Finally, the Vlychada port offers a serene ending with its dark grey sands, unusual rock formations, and a quirky old factory. It’s a calmer, less commercialized spot to conclude your island adventure.

What It Feels Like on the Water

The boat itself looks to be a luxurious vessel, equipped with all the comforts needed for a full day on the water. With wifi available, you can share your trip in real-time or disconnect and just enjoy the scenery. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and towels means you’re all set for water activities, while the full Greek meal is a well-deserved treat after a morning of swimming and sightseeing.

The professional drone photography is a particularly popular feature, offering stunning aerial shots that capture the entire experience. It’s a little luxury that adds a special touch to your memory-making.

The Cost and What You’re Getting

At around $5,495 for up to 15 guests, this tour isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with value. You’re paying for a private boat, expert crew, a full-day itinerary, and luxury amenities. For travelers who want a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience with personalized service, the price is quite reasonable—especially when compared with the cost of similar private tours or multiple individual activities.

The price includes all taxes, fuel, and environmental charges, so no hidden costs. Plus, with pick-up and drop-off service anywhere on the island, you avoid extra transportation hassles.

What the Reviews Say

One enthusiastic reviewer called it the “Best Tour in Santorini period,” praising the crew’s professionalism, the quality of food, and the overall service experience. They highlighted the amazing staff and captain as making the day truly special.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who value privacy, comfort, and personalized service. It suits travelers who want to see the island’s highlights without the typical crowds and are happy to spend a bit more for a premium experience. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway, a small group of friends, or a family with older children who can appreciate a full day on the water.

If you’re a couple or a group looking for an indulgent, memorable day with fantastic scenery and excellent service, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more spontaneous, flexible sightseeing, this might not be the best choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, providing a full day of exploring and relaxing.

• What is included in the price?
  The price covers private transportation, all taxes, fuel, reef tax, snorkel equipment, water, soft drinks, wine, beer, a full Greek meal, towels, WiFi, restroom, and drone photography.

• Can I choose a departure time?
  Yes, you can select either a Morning (Daytime) or Afternoon (Sunset) departure to fit your schedule.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  While not explicitly stated, the long duration and water activities suggest it’s better suited for older children or teenagers. Always check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

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

• Do I need to book in advance?
  Yes, most travelers book about 20 days ahead due to the tour’s popularity.

• Is there a limit on the group size?
  Yes, it’s a private tour for up to 15 guests, ensuring personalized attention.

• Are meals and drinks included?
  Absolutely. You’ll enjoy a full Greek meal and unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks.

• Can I bring my own beverages or food?
  The tour provides all beverages and food, so bringing extra isn’t necessary, but check with the provider if you have specific requests.

• What are the main highlights?
  Expect breathtaking views, volcanic hot springs, secluded beaches, stunning villages like Oia, and a luxurious sailing experience.

Final Thoughts

This full-day private Santorini catamaran tour offers a well-rounded, elegant way to discover the island’s most famous sights and hidden gems. With expert crew, all-inclusive amenities, and stunning scenery, it’s a strong choice if you’re aiming for a relaxed, personalized adventure that combines comfort with breathtaking views.

It’s best suited for travelers who cherish quality over quantity, and who want their Santorini experience to be memorable, effortless, and exclusive. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to the best, this cruise delivers a taste of luxury on one of Greece’s most beautiful islands.

If you’re ready to indulge in Santorini from a different perspective—surrounded by sea, sun, and beauty—this tour might just be the highlight of your trip.