Private Boat tour with snorkeling, Hot Springs & Caldera

Discovering Santorini from the Water: A Deep Dive into the Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Hot Springs & Caldera

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and see Santorini’s natural beauty up close, this private boat tour offers a relaxing way to do just that. While I haven’t personally taken it, reviews and details suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that combines scenic sailing, unique geological sights, and a bit of local flavor.

What really stands out is the intimacy of a private group—imagine having a dedicated skipper showing you the best spots without the hustle of large tour crowds. Plus, with snorkeling gear included and stops at hot springs, you can enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.

A quick heads-up: at 3 hours, it’s a shorter tour, so it’s ideal if you’re tight on time or prefer a quick yet meaningful taste of Santorini. It’s best suited for travelers who love beautiful views, want to explore off the beaten path, and appreciate a personalized experience.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Small groups ensure a tailored experience with your own skipper.
• Scenic Highlights: View caldera, volcanic terrain, and iconic beaches like Red and White Beach.
• Snorkeling & Hot Springs: Swim in caves and relax in detoxifying waters, with all gear provided.
• Spectacular Views: See the island from the water, including Oia’s picture-perfect village under the caldera.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Safety gear, towels, drinks, and music make for a hassle-free outing.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ideal for spontaneous plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What This Tour Is All About

Santorini’s landscape is captivating, with its volcanic cliffs, colorful beaches, and charming villages. This boat tour offers a chance to see some of these highlights from a different perspective—out on the water, away from crowded streets and busy beaches.

Starting from Perivolos beach, you’ll hop aboard a luxury speedboat driven by an experienced local skipper who’s familiar with the island’s hidden spots. You’ll want to bring your camera, sunglasses, and swimwear—trust me, the views are like postcards, and the water looks inviting.

The overall vibe is one of relaxation and discovery. You’re not just ticking off sites; you’re floating along the coast, soaking in the scenery, and pausing when something catches your eye. Expect a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and quiet moments admiring the caldera’s dramatic cliffs.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

Red Beach & White Beach
Your adventure kicks off with a sail along Santorini’s coastline of Akrotiri, where you’ll get a glimpse of the legendary Red and White Beaches. These beaches aren’t just pretty—they’re iconic symbols of the island’s volcanic origins. Red Beach, with its striking cliffs, is one of the most photographed spots, and you’ll love the way it contrasts with the deep blue sea. White Beach, accessible only by boat or a steep hike, offers a serene spot to swim.

Sea Cave Snorkeling
One of the tour’s highlights is snorkeling into one of Santorini’s sea caves. The clear waters and the opportunity to explore beneath the surface make this a favorite for many. Snorkeling gear is provided, and your skipper might choose the best cave based on weather conditions or your group’s comfort level. Expect to see rock formations and possibly some marine life—an intimate encounter with the island’s aquatic world.

Hot Springs
Next, you’ll head toward the volcano’s sulfur-rich hot springs. This is a prime moment for relaxation—soaking in naturally heated waters said to have healing properties. It’s a chance to unwind and enjoy a detoxifying dip while surrounded by volcanic scenery. Keep in mind, the waters are mineral-rich, so a towel and swimwear are essential. The experience is often described as calming and rejuvenating, especially after the snorkeling.

Final Stop: Thirasia & Oia Views
The tour concludes with a passage to Thirasia Island, an often-overlooked gem that offers spectacular views of the caldera. From here, you’ll get a picture of the island’s rugged beauty, with an enchanting view of Oia’s iconic white buildings perched atop the cliffs. It’s a serene way to end the trip, soaking in the scenery before heading back.

What’s Included & What That Means for You

The tour package covers almost everything you might need for a comfortable outing: experienced local skipper, safety and snorkeling gear, dry bags, towels, sunscreen, water, music, floating devices, and full insurance. Basically, you won’t need to worry about bringing much besides your camera, sunglasses, and swimwear.

The inclusion of all taxes means no hidden fees sneaking up later, which is always a plus. The fact that it’s private and flexible makes it a great choice if you prefer a more personalized, less crowded experience.

How It Feels in Practice

Reviewers highlight the stunning views as a top factor—”The scenery under the caldera is breathtaking, and the boat is luxurious.” Many mention the peaceful nature of the tour, with comments like, “It was so nice to sail away from the crowds and enjoy the coastlines at our own pace.”

Snorkeling is often praised for being easy and accessible, thanks to the provided gear and clear waters. Some reviews note that the hot springs offered a relaxing break after a busy morning of swimming and sightseeing, with one traveler calling it “a perfect detox spot.”

However, a few mention that the tour’s 3-hour length is on the shorter side, especially if you’re eager to explore more. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so those with mobility concerns should consider this.

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Price & Value

At $666 for a group of up to four, this tour might seem steep at first glance. But when you factor in the exclusivity, personalized service, all gear, and the convenience of private transportation, it’s quite competitive. If shared with friends or family, it becomes a more manageable expense for a memorable, tailored experience.

For travelers who want a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of Santorini’s beauty—covering beaches, caves, hot springs, and caldera views—this is a solid investment. Plus, booking in advance and canceling free up to 24 hours beforehand offers flexibility in case your plans change.

Who It’s Best For

This tour suits adventurous travelers seeking tranquility and scenic beauty. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxed, intimate experience on the water, with the option to snorkel and unwind in thermal waters. It’s also well-suited for those who value comfort and convenience, thanks to the all-inclusive setup.

Families with older children or teens might enjoy it, especially if they love swimming and nature. But pregnant women and wheelchair users should look for alternatives, as this experience isn’t designed with accessibility in mind.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of sweeping views of Santorini’s caldera, magical caves, and soothing hot springs, this private boat tour checks a lot of boxes. It offers a balance of adventure and relaxation, all wrapped up in a cozy, personalized setting.

While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the exclusivity and all-in-one experience make it worth considering for those who want a memorable day out without the hustle of larger tours. Expect stunning scenery, peaceful snorkeling, and a chance to see the island from a perspective only a boat can give.

This trip is especially well-suited for those who appreciate natural beauty and want to avoid the crowds—an experience that can genuinely enhance your time in Santorini and leave you with lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it might be best for older children or teens who enjoy swimming and boat rides. The experience isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, and a camera. Sunscreen is provided, but it’s a good idea to reapply throughout the trip.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, so it’s a quick but comprehensive outing.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Do I need my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear is included in the price, so you can just enjoy exploring the caves and waters.

Is food or drinks included?
The package includes water and drinks, along with music and floating devices, but no meals. You might want to bring snacks if desired.

What’s the starting point?
The tour begins at Perivolos beach, a convenient and scenic launching spot.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, all taxes and fees are included in the price.

Will I see Oia from the boat?
Yes, part of the tour offers a view underneath the picturesque village of Oia, especially from Thirasia Island.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, like all boat trips, it depends on weather conditions for safety and comfort. Check availability and weather forecasts before booking.

In all, this private boat tour offers an excellent way to soak in Santorini’s beauty with a touch of exclusivity. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and personalized experience, it’s a solid pick that captures many of the island’s best features from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: