Luxury Small-Group Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Open bar & Transfer

If you’re heading to Santorini and want to see the island from a fresh perspective, a luxury catamaran cruise like this one might just be your best choice. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a memorable, well-organized experience that combines stunning scenery, delicious food, and a laid-back vibe.

What makes this cruise stand out? For starters, it offers free round-trip transfers, which take the hassle out of logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transport. Plus, the small group size—no more than 20 guests—means you’re likely to enjoy a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere compared to larger tours. The all-inclusive open bar and barbecue feast are other big highlights, promising a day full of good food and drinks without constantly fishing for your wallet.

But, it’s worth noting that the 5-hour duration and the specific stops might not be ideal if you’re looking for a long, leisurely day on the water. Some travelers also mentioned the industry policy that prevents swimming at both beaches, which could be a bummer if your main goal is to spend ample time in the water. This cruise seems best suited for those who want a mix of scenic sailing, quality refreshments, and a snapshot of Santorini’s iconic spots, all in a comfortable, luxurious setting.

If you enjoy stunning views, excellent service, and a taste of local cuisine with a bit of luxury thrown in, this tour could very well be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling as a couple, in a small group, or just want a hassle-free way to see some of the island’s most famous sights.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Limited to 20 guests for a more personal vibe.
• All-inclusive amenities: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and towels included.
• Flexible transfers: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel make it easy.
• Variety of stops: Hot springs, White Beach, Red Beach, and scenic sailing.
• Stunning views and excellent service: Multiple reviews praise the crew and scenery.
• Value for money: Many feel the experience is worth the price, considering the amenities and inclusions.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

This cruise departs from either Ammoudi Bay, located just below Oia, or from the Port of Vlychada. We love the convenience here—being able to hop on a boat directly from some of Santorini’s most picturesque spots is a plus. The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, which is enough time to see key sights, enjoy some swimming, and take in the sunset if you opt for the evening sail.

The package offers free pickup and drop-off, removing one of the logistical headaches of travel. This kind of service means you can relax knowing your transport is sorted, and you won’t need to worry about navigating the island’s often winding roads.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The cruise begins by heading out towards the volcanic area off Oia, where the crew provides background information about the volcanic explosion—an interesting tidbit that adds context to the breathtaking landscapes.

Stop at Palea Kameni Hot Springs: Here, you get about 30 minutes to soak in the sulfurous waters. Many reviews highlight this as a highlight—an opportunity to relax in natural thermal waters and enjoy the mineral-rich environment. It’s free to enter, which adds to the value. The crew is attentive, helping guests with towels and blankets if it’s breezy.

Sailing past Indian Rocks and the caves: The scenery here is classic Aegean—craggy rocks and caves carved by millennia of wind and waves. It’s a chance to snap some photos and take in the landscape without overcrowding.

White Beach Stop: Accessible only by boat, White Beach offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. For around 30 minutes, you can dive into the water, explore reefs, or just float around. Many reviews commend the rich underwater world and reef life, making this a favorite spot.

Red Beach Visit: With its striking red cliffs and mineral-rich soil, Red Beach is a visual treat. It’s a quick stop—about 20 minutes—to take photos and admire the landscape. Some reviews mention that while swimming here isn’t always possible due to industry policies, the scenery more than makes up for it.

Return and Sunset Experience: The cruise generally concludes either back at Vlychada or Ammoudi Bay. In the evening, the same route is taken in reverse, offering spectacular sunset scenery—many guests talk about how unforgettable the sunset views are, with the ship’s vantage point adding a new perspective.

Food and Drink

The included barbecue is often described as sumptuous, with meats, seafood, and salads that satisfy even the most discerning palates. Many reviews mention the delicious food, with some saying it’s better than they expected for a cruise.

The open bar features local wine and cocktails, and guests consistently praise the quality and abundance of drinks. You won’t find yourself rationing your beverages here, and the crew’s attentive service ensures you’re always topped up.

Crew and Service

If there’s one thing that stands out in reviews, it’s how helpful and friendly the crew is. Many mention Captain Leo, Neda, Jehovah, and Heleni as being particularly personable and attentive. Guests highlight that crew members often go above and beyond—helping with photos, providing blankets, and sharing interesting facts about each location.

One review even noted that crew members told guests how to pose for photos, making it a fun and interactive experience. The small group size definitely contributes to this relaxed, friendly atmosphere—you’re not just a face in a crowd, but part of a cozy little adventure.

The Price and Overall Value

At around $174 per person, this cruise is on the more luxurious side, but many feel it’s justified given the inclusions and service quality. With snorkeling gear, towels, food, drinks, and transfers included, it’s a package that offers quite a lot for your money.

Considering the beautiful scenery, excellent food, and attentive service, many reviews describe it as “worth every penny.” Of course, it’s not the cheapest activity on the island, but it delivers a level of comfort and intimacy that larger boats or more commercial tours might not match.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, scenic day on the water with great food and drinks. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to enjoy Santorini from a different vantage point without the crowds.

It’s also suited for those who appreciate good service and a relaxed atmosphere—the small group size, attentive crew, and inclusive amenities foster a friendly, personalized experience.

Things to Consider

• The 5-hour duration might feel a bit short if you’re craving a long day at sea.
• While swimming at the hot springs is straightforward, some beaches like Red Beach may have policies preventing swim access, so don’t expect long hours in the water.
• The tour requires participants to be 18 or older to enjoy alcohol, so families with younger children might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

All in all, this luxury catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to see some of Santorini’s most famous sights, enjoy local flavors, and relax in style. It’s a good choice if you’re after a smaller, more intimate experience with excellent service, scenic stops, and a delicious BBQ.

While it might not be the best fit if you’re seeking a full day of swimming or outdoor adventure, it more than compensates with its stunning views, friendly crew, and high-quality amenities. For those wanting a taste of luxury on the water, this tour remains a top recommendation.

If you’re traveling with adults who appreciate good food, scenic sailing, and a relaxed vibe, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the cruise offers free round-trip transfers, making pickup and drop-off from your hotel easy and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 5 hours, giving enough time to visit several spots, enjoy swimming, eat, and take in the sunset.

Are snorkeling equipment and towels provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and towels are included, so you can dive into the water without worrying about bringing your own.

Can I swim at the beaches visited?
You can swim at Palea Kameni Hot Springs and White Beach, but swimming at Red Beach might be limited due to industry policies.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 20 guests, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested upon booking, so let the provider know if you need special meals.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is approximately $173.79 per person, which many feel is reasonable considering the inclusions and quality.

What’s the best time for this cruise?
Most bookings are made around 36 days in advance, and the tour is available during good weather conditions, including sunset cruises.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Since alcohol consumption is restricted to guests 18 and over, this tour is best suited for adults.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

This cruise offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and excellent service. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a relaxing day on the water, it’s a memorable way to experience Santorini beyond the usual sightseeing.