Sailing Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with BBQ, Drinks and Transfer

If you’re dreaming of spending a day out on the water in Santorini, this sailing catamaran cruise promises to deliver a memorable experience. With its combination of scenic stops, delicious onboard barbecue, and unlimited drinks, it’s a popular choice among travelers looking to see the island from a different perspective. It’s easy to see why it’s booked on average 19 days in advance — the blend of comfort, breathtaking views, and good value appeals to many.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances a relaxing day with enough activity to keep things interesting. The hot springs and snorkeling spots are genuinely enjoyable, and the unlimited white wine and soft drinks add a fun, carefree vibe to the day. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off mean you don’t have to worry about navigating to the port, which can be tricky in Santorini’s narrow roads.

That said, it’s not without its considerations. The tour is about five hours long, which is generally a good length, but if you’re sensitive to choppy waters or prefer a more in-depth historical or cultural experience, this might feel a bit light on those aspects. Also, while the experience is family-friendly and suitable for most travelers, those seeking a more active or educational tour might find it a bit basic.

This catamaran cruise is ideal for anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic day — whether you’re a first-timer to Santorini or looking to relax after exploring the island’s more bustling sights. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a balance of swimming, scenic cruising, and enjoying good food and drinks in a beautiful setting.

Key Points

• Beautiful sailing experience around Santorini’s coast with multiple stops for swimming.
• Unbeatable views of beaches, volcanoes, and iconic landmarks like the lighthouse.
• Good value with included BBQ lunch, drinks, and hotel transfer.
• Relaxing and social atmosphere with friendly crew, music, and unlimited wine.
• Limited historical context — more about scenery and leisure than in-depth storytelling.
• Comfortable onboard amenities like restrooms, floating devices, and blankets.

Discovering Santorini from the Water

We loved the way this tour offers a different perspective of Santorini. Seeing the island from the sea is simply unbeatable — the caldera, the beaches, the volcano — everything looks different from the water. The boat itself, a gorgeous catamaran, adds a touch of luxury without feeling pretentious. It’s spacious enough for comfort, and the crew keeps things running smoothly throughout the day.

Booking this tour in advance (around 19 days ahead) is a smart move, especially if you’re traveling in peak season. The price of about $91.53 per person feels reasonable considering what’s included: roundtrip hotel transfers, a BBQ lunch, plenty of drinks, snorkeling gear, and a scenic cruise. It’s all about value for a laid-back, enjoyable day.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off with pickup from your hotel, which makes things super easy, especially if you’re staying in busy areas like Fira or Oia. You’ll be driven to the port, where boarding the catamaran is quick and straightforward. From there, the journey is as much about relaxing and taking in the views as it is about the stops.

Sailing Past Volcano and Palea Kameni

The first highlight is sailing next to the volcano, which is fascinating to see up close. The crew is knowledgeable, and you’ll get a good sense of the island’s volcanic origins. The boat stays about 50 meters away from the hot springs — enough for a safe swim while enjoying the bubbling geothermal waters. Several reviews mention the hot springs as a highlight, with one traveler noting, “Guests swim securely close to the volcano,” making it a safe and memorable experience.

Hot Springs and Lava Views

The hot springs are a popular stop, with about 30 minutes to swim and relax. The waters are up to 4 degrees warmer than the surrounding sea, which feels especially inviting on cooler days. It’s a unique experience, and many reviews praise the crew for their attentiveness here — some mention how the staff are always friendly and ready to assist.

Red Beach and Snorkeling Fun

Next, the boat anchors near Red Beach, known for its striking red cliffs and crystal-clear water. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkeling, and you might find yourself surrounded by colorful fish. Several guests mention how much they enjoyed snorkeling here, with one saying, “The landscape of Red Beach while swimming and snorkeling was spectacular.” The 30-minute stop allows enough time to cool off and explore.

White Beach and a Hearty BBQ

The last major stop is White Beach, where you’ll anchor for about an hour and a half. This is where you’ll get to enjoy a full-on barbecue on board, with plenty of food and drinks. The reviews consistently mention the delicious BBQ — one reviewer called it “amazing” and loved how fresh and flavorful the food was. The unlimited Santorinian wine, soft drinks, and water keep the mood light and cheerful.

Scenic Sailing and Final Views

Throughout the cruise, you’ll pass iconic sights, including the ancient lighthouse and the coastline’s colorful formations. The crew often points out landmarks, but if you’re expecting a detailed commentary, keep in mind that some reviews suggest the guide provides limited information. Still, the scenery speaks for itself and makes for perfect photo moments.

Experience Quality and Crew

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that the crew makes a big difference. Travelers talk about how attentive, friendly, and professional the staff are, often highlighting how they go above and beyond to make you comfortable. “The crew was so attentive and kind,” one reviewer shares, which echoes the overall sentiment.

Music adds to the relaxed vibe, and onboard amenities like restrooms, floating devices, and blankets (to stay warm if it gets breezy) contribute to a comfortable day. The boat can hold up to 55 passengers, which keeps the experience feeling lively but not overcrowded.

Food and Drinks

The BBQ lunch receives high praise, with many mentioning how flavorful and satisfying it is, especially considering it’s served on a boat. The unlimited white wine (Nychteri), soft drinks, and water are included, which helps keep everyone in a cheerful mood. Several reviews highlight the good value of this aspect, with comments like “the food was excellent” and “the drinks kept flowing.”

While beer is not included, you can always bring your own if you prefer, but be mindful of what’s allowed onboard. The quality of the drinks and the lunch definitely elevates the overall experience, making it perfect for a relaxed, social day on the sea.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers noted that there isn’t much commentary or historical info provided during the cruise — it’s more about the scenery and swimming than a detailed tour. If you’re hoping for a deep dive into Santorini’s history, you might find this a bit light.

A few reviews also mention the water being a bit cold in early spring, so if you’re sensitive to chilly waters, consider timing your trip for the warmer months or sticking to the hot springs.

Another consideration: towels aren’t included, so bring your own if you plan to swim. Also, blankets are provided but need to be returned, so don’t forget yours if you get cold easily.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxing day on the water, enjoying stunning views and good food without too much fuss. It’s perfect for those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and socializing in a friendly atmosphere. Families with older children will find it manageable, and couples or groups of friends will appreciate the lively, carefree vibe.

If you’re after an in-depth historical tour or prefer a more active or educational experience, this might not be your best fit. But for a peaceful day of scenic sailing, good eats, and warm camaraderie, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers roundtrip transfers from your hotel, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the tour, so you can explore the underwater scenery at the stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available if canceled in time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a family-friendly experience, especially for older children who can swim and enjoy the water activities.

What should I bring?
Towels are not provided, so bring your own if you plan to swim. A hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket or sweatshirt are recommended, especially if it gets windy or chilly.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini sailing catamaran cruise combines scenic beauty, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere that many travelers find irresistible. The crew’s friendliness and the quality of the stops make it a standout option for a relaxing day on the water. While it may lack in-depth commentary or historical details, the stunning views, the hot springs, and the delicious barbecue more than compensate.

It’s a tour that offers a balance of gentle activity and leisure, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy Santorini’s natural beauty without rushing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a break from island exploring, this cruise provides a memorable, scenic escape that many guests rave about.

If you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable day with a friendly crew and a focus on scenery and relaxation, this tour is definitely worth considering.