Santorini Sailing for Cruise Guests A Volcano and Beach Tour

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing, scenic adventure around Santorini’s iconic volcanic landscape, this Private Volcano and Beach Sailing Tour is worth considering. Although we haven’t personally taken this tour, it’s designed for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and a touch of indulgence—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more intimate experience.

What really catches our eye are the stunning views of the caldera and Vlychada Beach—sights that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard—and the opportunity to swim in thermal hot springs and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The personalized, private experience also means fewer crowds and more tailored moments, which can make a big difference on a busy cruise stop.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour lasts around 6 hours, which is a good chunk of time to set aside, especially if you’re on a tight cruise schedule. It’s also priced at just over $160 per person, which might seem steep until you consider that it includes private transportation, a Greek dinner, snorkeling gear, and bottled water. If you’re after a memorable, relaxed day with plenty of stunning scenery and thoughtful touches, this experience could really hit the mark.

This tour is best suited for those who want a more exclusive, romantic, or quiet way to see Santorini’s best natural sights without the crowds. It’s ideal if you value personalized service, scenic beauty, and local flavors, but if you’re looking for something very active or family-friendly with kids, this might not be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private experience means fewer crowds and more personalized attention
• Stunning views of volcanic cliffs and caldera create perfect photo moments
• Includes snorkeling and swimming in hot springs for a refreshing adventure
• A great mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and local cuisine
• Cost reflects the personalized service and all-inclusive features
• Limited to eight travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour offers a carefully curated journey around Santorini’s most dramatic natural features. Starting at the Thira Santorini Port, you’ll be greeted with private transportation, making it easy to get to the boat without any hassle. The boat itself is a comfortable, private vessel designed for small groups, which makes it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery undisturbed.

Visiting Nea Kameni and Hot Springs

The first highlight is a stop at the volcanic islet of Nea Kameni. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim in the thermal hot springs, feeling the warm waters soothe your muscles while taking in the raw, volcanic landscape. This part of the tour is especially popular because the hot springs are believed to have healing properties, and they add a unique element that larger, crowded tours might miss.

Snorkeling in Clear Waters

Next, you’ll enjoy some time snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. The snorkel gear is provided, so you can dive in and explore the lively marine life beneath the surface. We loved the way this activity breaks up the day with some fun, aquatic exploration, all while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Exploring Vlychada Beach and Hidden Coves

As the boat sails past Vlychada Beach, the landscape really captures the imagination. The towering white volcanic cliffs are sculpted by wind and sea over years, creating a moon-like terrain that’s both eerie and beautiful. The quiet, untouched nature of this coastline makes it an ideal spot to relax or snap some memorable photos.

The tour also explores hidden coves and serene shores, which can be hard to reach on land. These secluded spots are perfect for unwinding and soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

Dinner and Sunset

As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a Greek dinner onboard, featuring fresh, local ingredients. The meal is paired with the finest local wines, which you can sip as the sun sets over the caldera. The combination of gorgeous views, delicious food, and good wine makes for a truly memorable experience.

Authentic Reviews and Feedback

A recent review from a traveler highlights the quality of the service, stating, “Paris and Arietta are wonderful people—extremely attentive, giving all the details their attention to make this excursion memorable.” This shows that the hosts take pride in providing a warm, attentive experience, which truly enhances the overall trip.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 6 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure—perfect if you’re on a cruise or have limited time in Santorini. The cost of $161.63 per person accounts for the private transportation, the dinner, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and the guided experience. It might seem a bit pricey, but considering the exclusivity and the inclusions, it offers good value for a high-end, personalized outing.

The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The tour includes pickup service, which adds to the convenience, especially if you’re arriving from a cruise terminal.

Weather and Cancellation

The experience depends on good weather, and if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled time, which is reassuring if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, romantic day with plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy local flavors. It’s ideal if you want to avoid large crowds and prefer a more tailored, private outing. If you’re a fan of scenic sailing, natural wonders, and authentic Greek cuisine, this tour hits all those notes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, bottled water, dinner, private transportation, soda/pop, and snorkeling equipment are included.

Do I need to bring anything?
You might want to bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen for the snorkeling and swimming parts. The tour doesn’t specify if breakfast or coffee is provided, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the tour’s small group size and focus on relaxation suggest it’s more suited for adults or older children comfortable with boat trips.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. The tour will be canceled in case of poor weather, with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

How many people can join?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a private, intimate experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Thira Santorini Port, with pickup offered for convenience.

Is there any special dietary accommodation?
Yes, you should indicate any dietary restrictions when booking so the hosts can prepare accordingly.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about a week in advance, but availability can vary, so it’s best to secure your spot early.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing tour around Santorini offers a thoughtful, scenic way to experience the island’s volcanic beauty and gorgeous beaches. With the chance to swim in hot springs, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy a delicious Greek dinner as the sun sets, it combines adventure with relaxation seamlessly. The small group size and personalized service make it a standout choice for travelers seeking intimacy and quality.

While it’s priced higher than some group tours, the inclusions and private nature provide good value if you’re after a more exclusive experience. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic day with stunning views and excellent wine.

If you’re after a memorable, less crowded way to enjoy Santorini’s natural wonders and local flavors, this tour is definitely worth considering.