Platinum Santorini Cruise Catamaran with BBQ & Open Bar

If you’re considering a boat trip around Santorini, this Platinum Santorini Cruise on a spacious catamaran might catch your eye. It promises a mix of swimming, snorkeling, spectacular scenery, and all the good stuff like food and drinks included. From the reviews and details, it looks like a popular choice, especially for those wanting a relaxed day on the water with easy logistics.

What we love about this experience is how it combines all the highlights—beautiful coastal stops, hot springs, and beaches—into a 5-hour trip that also feeds you well and keeps you connected with Wi-Fi onboard. Plus, the convenience of round-trip transfers from your hotel or Airbnb can really take some stress out of planning. However, a point to keep in mind is that the tour is capped at 14 travelers, which is great for intimacy but might fill up quickly.

This cruise seems best suited for those who want a comfortable, all-inclusive day on the water with excellent scenery, good food, and relaxed cruising. If you’re after a lively party or a full-day adventure, you might want to look elsewhere. But if a scenic, laid-back trip with good amenities sounds perfect, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with Greek BBQ, wine, water, and soft drinks.
• Hassle-free transfers from all hotels or rentals in Santorini.
• Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring beaches like Red and White Beach.
• Wi-Fi onboard helps you share your trip or look up info without using roaming data.
• Short duration of about 5 hours makes it manageable for most schedules.
• Limited group size (max 14) creates a cozy, less crowded atmosphere.

What You Can Expect from the Santorini Catamaran Cruise

This cruise offers a straightforward, well-organized way to see some of Santorini’s most famous spots from the water. We’re talking about a spacious catamaran, either 74 or 80 feet long, which means plenty of room to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. The experience is designed to be smooth and enjoyable, with pick-up included, so you won’t have to worry about finding your way to the boat.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day starts with a pick-up from your hotel or Airbnb, which is a real plus—it’s one less thing to think about. The boat departs from Ammoudi or Athinios port, sailing below the striking Caldera. Early on, you’ll get the chance to admire the cliffs and coastline from the water, which really sets the tone for the day.

Stop 1: Ammoudi Bay or Athinios Port
This is where the cruise begins, providing fantastic views below the cliffs. It’s a quiet but scenic spot to start your journey.

Stop 2: Santorini Volcano & Hot Springs
Next, the boat heads to the volcanic waters. You’ll stop at the Hot Springs for about 30 minutes, giving you time to swim in mineral-rich waters. It’s a unique experience, though don’t expect a long soak—it’s more about a quick dip and photos. As you cruise past landmarks like Aspronisi and the Indian Rock, you’ll get a sense of the island’s volcanic origins.

Stop 3: Red Beach
Known for its vibrant reddish cliffs, Red Beach is perfect for snorkeling and swimming. About 30 minutes here, so bring your gear if you want to explore underwater or just enjoy the scenery from the boat.

Stop 4: White Beach & Mesa Pigadia
This is the highlight for many—a longer stop of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The White Beach’s secluded bay offers clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also where the onboard Greek BBQ takes place. You’ll enjoy grilled chicken or pork skewers, roasted vegetables, and fresh salad—all washed down with Greek wine, water, and soft drinks. The meal feels hearty but not overly heavy, giving you energy to relax or explore.

Final stretch inside the Caldera
After eating, the boat drifts inside the Caldera, providing excellent opportunities for photography. This stretch offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the island, and the sea—ideal for snapping memorable images.

The Food & Drinks

The onboard Greek barbecue is a major plus. It’s freshly prepared, and the menu includes options for vegetarians as well. The drinks selection is good, with wine, water, and soft drinks included. Notably absent are beers, which might be a disappointment if you’re a beer lover, but the wine and soft drinks tend to satisfy most guests.

The Wi-Fi is a thoughtful touch, letting you upload photos or check in with friends without using your data plan. It’s a small detail that can really make a difference during a day at sea.

The Group & Comfort

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the cruise feels intimate. We’ve heard from reviews that the crew deliver professional, welcoming service—something that can elevate the experience from just a boat ride to a genuinely enjoyable outing. The round-trip transfers are convenient, ensuring you’re picked up and dropped off at your accommodation without stress.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

From the enthusiastic review we found, one guest raved, “Beautiful scenic cruise with amazing views, delicious food, and an even better crew—professional, welcoming, and top-notch service!” That sums up what many find appealing—the combination of gorgeous scenery and good service.

On the flip side, the tour’s 5-hour duration is quite manageable but might feel rushed if you’re someone who loves lounging for longer or wants more time at each stop. The hot springs, although fun, are brief, and the snorkeling stops are limited to about 30 minutes each, which might be quick for serious underwater explorers.

The price point at about $211 per person is fair considering the inclusion of food, drinks, transfers, and Wi-Fi, especially for a well-organized, all-inclusive experience. It’s not a bare-bones trip; it’s designed to give you a taste of Santorini’s highlights with comfort and convenience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a stress-free day on the water, with everything taken care of—from transportation to food. It’s perfect if you value comfort, good scenery, and a relaxed pace. Families with older children or groups looking for an intimate setting might also appreciate the smaller group size.

If you’re someone who prefers a very active, long day of exploring or is seeking a party atmosphere, this might not be the best fit. But if you want to sit back, take in stunning views, and enjoy good food and drink, this cruise can deliver.

Final Thoughts

The Platinum Santorini Cruise Catamaran with BBQ & Open Bar offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience some of Santorini’s most beautiful spots from the water. Its highlights include breathtaking vistas, snorkeling, hot springs, and a delicious Greek BBQ, all wrapped into a manageable 5-hour adventure. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi and hotel transfers makes it especially appealing for travelers who want convenience and comfort without sacrificing scenery.

While it may not be the cheapest option, the value is evident when considering the all-inclusive nature and high-quality service. It’s particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water with good amenities, rather than a wild party or a full-day exploration.

If your goal is to soak in the sights, indulge in tasty food, and enjoy a smooth, hassle-free trip, this tour deserves a serious look.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round trip transfers from all hotels and rentals in Santorini, making it very convenient.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience takes about 5 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including stops and meal time.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, a vegetarian meal is available on the onboard BBQ.

What’s the best time of day to take this cruise?
The tour departs at 2:30 pm, making it perfect for a late afternoon or sunset experience.

Can I snorkel?
Absolutely. Snorkelling gear (mask and snorkel) is provided, and you’re welcome to explore at stops like Red Beach and White Beach.

Is Wi-Fi reliable onboard?
Most reviews mention the Wi-Fi as a helpful feature, allowing you to share your trip or do quick searches while at sea.

What’s included in the price?
Drinks (wine, water, soft drinks), the BBQ meal, snorkeling gear, transfers, and Wi-Fi are included. Beers are not, though.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the moderate pace and family-friendly stops suggest it could be good for older children, but always check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

How many people are usually on this tour?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, which keeps it intimate and comfortable.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent, and in case of poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This cruise is a solid choice if you want a hassle-free, scenic, and enjoyable day on Santorini’s waters, with a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good eating. It’s not overly hectic, which is exactly what many travelers seek after a few busy days exploring the island’s famous sights.