Rent a boat

Imagine having the entire waters around Santorini at your fingertips, with no need for a license and the freedom to shape your own adventure. That’s exactly what this boat rental experience offers. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on your own schedule, snorkel in clear waters, or just enjoy the epic scenery with friends and family, this tour promises a laid-back yet memorable day on the water.

What really catches our eye about this experience are two things: first, the flexibility to create your own itinerary—no fixed tour stops here, just your plans and the open sea. And second, the fully-equipped boats that come ready with modern gadgets like GPS, Bluetooth, and safety gear, making the experience both fun and secure.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the additional costs that aren’t included in the base price, like fuel and the skipper, which can add to your overall budget if you opt for a guided experience. Still, for travelers wanting a personalized, self-directed adventure in Santorini, this rental is a fantastic option.

This experience suits those comfortable with a bit of independence, or at least eager to steer their own boat and explore at their own pace. If you prefer guided tours or are traveling with very young children, it might require some extra planning. But if you’re craving a day of freedom on the water with beautiful views and the ability to stop where you want, then this boat rental could be just the ticket.

Key takeaways

• Self-guided adventure: Rent your own boat and design your route around Santorini.
• No license required: Perfect for beginners and casual boaters.
• Flexible timing: Choose between morning or sunset slots for different vibes.
• Modern equipment: Boats are equipped with GPS, Bluetooth, and safety gear.
• Excellent value: Includes snacks, bottled water, and a cooler, while the price covers up to 6 people.
• Additional costs: Fuel, skipper, and transportation are extras to consider.

An overview of what to expect

The experience lasts about five hours, offering enough time to explore the waters and enjoy some leisure activities. You can pick a morning slot from 9 am to 2 pm or opt for the sunset cruise from 3 pm to 8 pm, which is especially popular for the stunning views as the sun dips behind the caldera. The team at Santorini Blue Waves Cruises will walk you through safety procedures and share tips on hidden spots around Santorini and Thirasia islands, enhancing your adventure.

The boats are fully outfitted with essentials like life jackets for all ages, fire extinguishers, GPS, fish finder, emergency smoke signals, and even USB chargers or MP3 players, so you can add your own music. Snorkeling and fishing equipment are available if you want to bring some extra fun into your day, and you can arrange for transportation to and from your accommodation for a small extra fee.

All of this is designed to make you feel secure and prepared, whether you’re a confident boater or a first-timer. The experience is private, allowing you to escape the crowds and set your own pace.

What the reviews tell us

The overall feedback is glowing with a 4.8/5 rating from 26 reviews, many highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, especially crew members like Leo, Louis, George, and Alex. Guests appreciate the modern features on the boats, like GPS and Bluetooth, which make navigation and music choices much easier, especially when you want a relaxed vibe.

Numerous reviewers mention how easy and fun it is to handle the boat, even first-timers. One reviewer said, “The boat was really nice. It was quite modern with GPS and Bluetooth so you can put your music on!” Others loved the sense of freedom, with comments like, “We could rent a boat on the spot without prior booking,” which speaks to the flexibility of the service.

The scenery and swimming stops seem to be a highlight, with travelers praising the ability to explore hidden beaches and enjoy swimming in the clear waters. Several reviews mentioned how the views from the boat surpassed expectations, describing them as “unreal” and “breathtaking.”

Not all reviews are perfect, though. A negative review pointed out that the skipper spoke only Greek, and the boat wasn’t equipped for rough waters, which could be a concern if you’re particularly anxious about safety or weather conditions. Also, some users noted that leaky storage boxes might result in wet belongings, so packing carefully is advised.

Most reviews emphasize value for money, especially when considering the personalized experience and beautiful scenery, which many say is better than shared tours. The inclusion of snacks, bottled water, and a cooler enhance the comfort and convenience of the day.

The detailed itinerary and experience

When you arrive at the meeting point in Vlichada, the team will give a comprehensive safety briefing—an important step for your peace of mind, especially if you’re new to boating. The boats are fully insured and equipped with safety gear, so you can feel confident on the water.

Once you’re familiar with the boat, you’re free to chart your course. The flexibility is a huge plus: you can head toward iconic spots like the Red Beach, White Beach, or other less crowded hidden gems, stopping wherever the mood strikes. The GPS and fish finder help you navigate and locate prime snorkeling or fishing spots, which you can request in advance.

Most guests choose to start in the morning, enjoying calm seas and the chance to relax on the beaches or swim in crystal-clear waters. Alternatively, the sunset cruise offers a magical backdrop, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink as the sun dips behind Santorini’s caldera, creating picture-perfect moments.

Throughout the trip, you’ll have opportunities to swim, snorkel, or fish if you’ve arranged the equipment. Some guests mentioned that their crew was friendly and helpful, taking pictures and serving drinks, making the experience even more special. You can also bring your own music on a USB or MP3 device, thanks to the Bluetooth feature.

The duration provides ample time to explore multiple spots, enjoy leisurely lunches on the boat, or simply soak up the scenery. When the five hours are up, you’ll head back to the starting point, feeling like you’ve had a true adventure on the water.

The value and pricing

At $285.15 for a group of up to six people, this boat rental offers solid value—especially considering the flexibility and modern amenities. Comparing this to other tours, the focus on self-guided exploration means you’re paying for freedom and personalized fun rather than a fixed itinerary.

While you do need to cover the costs for fuel and the optional skipper, many reviews mention that the boat is in excellent condition, and the safety briefing makes handling it straightforward. The inclusion of snacks, bottled water, and a cooler stocked with ice adds to the comfort, turning a simple boat hire into a well-rounded experience.

If you’re a small group or family wanting a private adventure, this cost is quite reasonable, given the potential for a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and sunbathing. Just keep in mind that if you want a skipper to handle the boat, that’s an extra charge, which could influence your total budget.

Who should consider this experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who value independence and flexibility. If you’re comfortable with the idea of steering your own boat or don’t mind an extended safety briefing, you’ll likely find this a worthwhile way to see Santorini from a different perspective. It’s perfect for groups of friends or families who want a private day on the water, away from crowded tour boats.

Those interested in snorkeling or fishing will appreciate the equipment availability, and sunset lovers can enjoy a peaceful, picturesque cruise. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure, with the ability to set their own pace and visit lesser-known spots.

However, if you’re someone who prefers guided tours or isn’t comfortable with boat handling, you might want to consider hiring a skipper or opting for a more traditional tour. Also, travelers relying heavily on public transportation should note that transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

Do I need a license to rent this boat?
No, a license is not required. The boat is designed for self-guided use without needing a license, making it accessible for first-time boaters.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the boat rental for up to six people, snacks, bottled water, and a cooler stocked with ice. Safety gear, GPS, fish finder, and snorkel/fishing equipment (upon request) are also provided.

Are there options for snorkeling and fishing?
Yes, snorkeling and fishing equipment are available if you request them in advance, adding fun options for your day on the water.

How long is the tour?
The rental lasts approximately five hours, with options for a morning or sunset cruise, giving you plenty of time to explore or relax.

Can I bring my own music?
Absolutely. The boat is equipped with a USB charger and MP3 player, and Bluetooth connectivity lets you listen to your own playlist.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, transportation is not included but can be arranged at an extra charge. The meeting point is in Vlichada.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I rent the boat spontaneously?
Yes, some reviews mention that on-the-spot rentals are possible without prior booking, though booking in advance is recommended for peace of mind.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to six people per boat, making it perfect for small groups or families.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the safety gear includes life jackets for kids, you should consider your children’s comfort and confidence around water and boating.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a personalized day on the sea, with the freedom to visit your favorite spots or discover hidden corners around Santorini, this boat rental could be just what you need. The boats are modern, well-equipped, and come with safety features, ensuring a secure and enjoyable outing. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly staff, the ease of handling the boat, and the breathtaking scenery, making it clear that many find this experience to be a highlight of their trip.

It’s a great choice for small groups or families who want control over their day, especially if they appreciate a relaxed, private vibe over a guided tour. The option to snorkel, fish, and explore at your own pace adds extra layers of fun. Just remember to budget for some extras like fuel and a skipper if you want someone to handle the boat for you.

In short, this rental provides a memorable, flexible way to enjoy Santorini’s stunning waters, with enough comfort and modern features to keep things easy and enjoyable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just wanting a break from sightseeing, it’s a worthwhile choice that delivers a genuine sense of adventure.

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