Motor Yacht (2020)Luxury Private Cruise Around Santorini

When thinking about visiting Santorini, the images of white-washed buildings, breathtaking sunsets, and volcanic landscapes often come to mind. But one of the most memorable ways to see this island’s highlights is aboard a private motor yacht. Recently, we looked into a 2020 Sea Ray Sundancer 265 cruise offered by Baikas Travel, and it seems like a fantastic way to soak up the island’s natural beauty, with a dash of comfort and exclusivity.

This tour promises a personalized experience on a sleek 27-foot yacht that accommodates up to eight guests. It combines scenic stops, swimming, and island exploration—all wrapped in just under five hours. What really caught our interest are the stunning views of Santorini’s volcanic beaches, the opportunity to relax at the thermal hot springs, and the chance to enjoy a traditional lunch on Thirasia island.

That said, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The price is around $409 per person, which is a fair chunk of change, but considering the exclusivity and the inclusions—Wi-Fi, drinks, and snorkeling gear—it can be a good value for those wanting a luxe experience. Also, some reviews mention that the itinerary and service can vary depending on weather and the day’s skipper, so flexibility is key. This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a more intimate, scenic, and comfortable way to explore Santorini’s coast, especially if you are traveling in a small group or family.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience on a modern yacht for up to eight guests.
• Multiple scenic stops, including volcanic beaches, hot springs, and Thirasia island.
• Comfortable amenities like Wi-Fi and onboard drinks, making the cruise relaxing and connected.
• Well-planned itinerary with highlights like the Red Beach, White Beach, and Aspronisi sunset views.
• Good reviews mention knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, though service consistency can vary.
• Price reflects a high-quality, intimate experience, ideal for those wanting something more personalized.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Boat and Its Features

One of the main draws here is the modern Sea Ray Sundancer 265, built in 2020. It’s a compact yet stylish vessel that offers a sense of luxury without feeling overwhelming. The boat’s size makes it perfect for smaller groups, so you won’t be lost in a crowd—just your friends, family, or fellow travelers.

Passengers can stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi, which is a nice touch, especially if you want to share snapshots or keep in touch with friends. The boat also provides snorkeling equipment, so if you love floating around in clear water and exploring beneath the surface, you’ll find this handy. The trip includes all taxes and fees, so what you pay upfront is pretty much what you get.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The cruise’s itinerary is quite thoughtfully curated, featuring some of Santorini’s most iconic spots. The journey starts with a visit to White Beach, called “Aspri Ammos” locally, renowned for its striking white sands that contrast beautifully against the dark volcanic rocks. It’s a quick stop, about 30 minutes, giving you just enough time to snap some photos and maybe dip your toes in the water.

Next, the boat heads to Black Beach, famous for its dark volcanic sand, the result of Santorini’s volcanic eruptions. This stop is perfect for a swim or just to relax on the boat, soaking up the sun while taking in the scenery. The boat then makes a quick visit to the Lighthouse of Akrotiri, an old sentinel built in 1892. It’s a good photo opportunity and gives you a sense of the island’s maritime history.

The Volcano and Hot Springs

One of the highlights is the stop at Nea Kameni, the volcanic island at Santorini’s center. This area features hot springs with warm, mineral-rich waters believed to have therapeutic qualities. The waters contain iron and manganese, making them not only enjoyable but also potentially beneficial for health—according to some reviews, a relaxing bath here is a real treat.

However, since the hot springs are a natural feature, the experience can vary with weather conditions and volcanic activity. Still, most guests find the experience worthwhile, with some reviews mentioning how the boat took them to these volcanic waters for a swim.

Thirasia Island: The Lunch Stop

The cruise includes about an hour on Thirasia, a little island with a small population and authentic Greek charm. It’s less crowded than Santorini’s main towns, making it a peaceful spot. The tour typically takes you to one of the local taverns where you can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine—think fresh seafood, local wines, and homemade meze.

Guests have praised the food here, with comments about the authentic flavors and friendly service. The stop is flexible; you can choose to eat at the recommended taverns or explore on your own if you prefer.

Ammoudi and Oia

Another picturesque stop is Ammoudi Bay, with its red cliffs and rocky beach. The steep steps leading down from Oia are well-known, and while 300 steps might be a bit much for some, the bay itself offers great snorkeling opportunities. It’s a brief visit—around 20 minutes—perfect for a quick photo or a dip in the waters.

Sunset and Aspronisi

The last part of the cruise often includes admiring the sunset from Aspronisi, a small volcanic islet formed during a major eruption thousands of years ago. Approaching the island just before sunset adds a romantic feel to the trip, and guests have enjoyed the peaceful, scenic moment.

This stop, around 45 minutes, is a good way to unwind and take in the landscape one last time, especially since many say Santorini’s sunsets are a must-see.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews give a pretty balanced picture. Many highlight the breathtaking views and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer loved how the captain explained the history and culture of the caldera, making the experience more meaningful. Others appreciate the smooth organization and the comfort of the boat, noting that it was clean and well-driven.

On the flip side, some reviews mention issues like service inconsistencies or delays due to weather. A few people felt the transfers to the port could be smoother and that there was some disappointment over Wi-Fi issues or the limited scope of the itinerary when conditions changed unexpectedly.

Interestingly, a couple of reviewers pointed out that the timing can be tight, especially if the boat is delayed or if there’s a late sunset. Still, most seem to agree that the overall experience is worthwhile if you’re after a scenic, laid-back day on the water.

The Value for the Price

At around $409 per person, this cruise isn’t cheap. But it’s important to think about what’s included: a private, guided experience, multiple stops, Wi-Fi, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a scenic route that covers some of the most beautiful sites around Santorini.

For people craving exclusivity and comfort, this can be a worthwhile splurge. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups of friends, or families who want a relaxed, scenic day out without the hassle of crowded tours. If you’re after a sunset experience, you might want to consider doing the afternoon cruise instead, as one review pointed out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal if you prioritize personalized service, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to explore Santorini’s volcanic landscape from the water. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort, good food, and the ability to swim in natural hot springs.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, families with children comfortable on boats will likely find this a relaxing and enjoyable outing. Just keep in mind the weather and itinerary flexibility—if you’re looking for a rigid schedule or a large group experience, this might not be the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it can be, especially if your kids are comfortable on boats and enjoy swimming or exploring beaches. The small group size makes it more manageable for families.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts roughly 5 hours, including stops and lunch, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

Does the price include lunch?
Lunch is not included. You’ll have about an hour on Thirasia island, where you can choose to dine at the local taverns or explore.

What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes, onboard Wi-Fi, snorkeling equipment, and drinks—like wine and fruits—are part of the package. You just need to bring your own lunch if you want to eat on Thirasia.

Are drinks and Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, there are onboard drinks, including alcoholic beverages, and Wi-Fi is available, though sometimes signal issues can occur.

How many people can join?
Up to eight guests can fit comfortably on the boat. It’s a private experience, so it’s just your group.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and possibly a light jacket for the evening. Snacks or extra drinks are your choice, but they are not provided.

What happens if the weather cancels the trip?
You can get a full refund or reschedule if poor weather conditions make sailing unsafe.

How do transfers work?
Most travelers are picked up from their hotel or a nearby location and taken to the marina, usually with punctuality, though some reviews note delays.

This private motor yacht cruise around Santorini offers a blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural exploration. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want an intimate, well-rounded water-based experience. The stops at volcanic beaches, hot springs, and Thirasia provide a mix of relaxation and adventure, with the added bonus of enjoying the island’s famous sunset from a scenic vantage point.

While the tour does come with a premium price tag, the personal nature, beautiful scenery, and inclusions like Wi-Fi and drinks make it a worthwhile splurge for those who value comfort and exclusivity. Be prepared for some variability based on weather and weather-related delays, but overall, the experience looks to deliver a memorable way to see Santorini from the water.

In essence, this cruise is perfect for those wanting a calm, scenic adventure with a touch of luxury—ideal for small groups, couples, or families looking to explore Santorini’s coastline in style.