Santorini Caldera Gold Day Cruise with BBQ on board and Open Bar

Planning a day out on Santorini and considering a caldera cruise? This particular Santorini Caldera Gold Day Cruise has been catching attention, boasting a mix of sightseeing, swimming, good food, and plenty of drinks—all within about five hours. It’s designed for those who want a relaxing, scenic experience with some adventure thrown in.

We love that this tour offers several stops at iconic beaches and hot springs, mixed with the comfort of a well-maintained catamaran and a knowledgeable crew. The inclusion of a delicious onboard lunch and unlimited drinks from the open bar tend to make it feel like a proper treat. However, one common consideration is that the cruise doesn’t include volcano hiking, so if that’s a must-do, you might need to plan separately.

This experience definitely suits couples, friends, or small groups looking for a laid-back day of sailing around Santorini’s stunning caldera. Families with older children could enjoy it too, especially if they love swimming and snorkeling in warm waters. If you’re after a scenic, well-organized day with good food and drinks, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Sail around Santorini’s caldera with views of beaches, cliffs, and iconic landmarks.
• Swimming and snorkeling: Multiple stops at hot springs, Red Beach, and Thirassia make for a versatile water day.
• All-inclusive: Enjoy unlimited drinks from the open bar plus a tasty onboard lunch.
• Expert crew: Guides and crew are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the experience smooth.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off: Convenience is built-in, especially if you’re staying in Santorini.
• No volcano hike: If hiking the volcano is on your list, this cruise doesn’t include it.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

This cruise kicks off at Vlychada port at around 10:30 am. The whole adventure lasts roughly five hours, which is a good length—long enough to enjoy the scenery and various stops without it feeling overwhelming. The included pickup and drop-off are helpful, especially if you’re staying somewhere centrally or at your hotel, removing the hassle of logistics.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The cruise itinerary is packed with several highlights, each offering a unique view and experience:

• Vlychada: Starting from this port, you’ll be on the water and already immersed in Santorini’s landscape. It’s the launching point for what’s to come.

• Red Beach: Famous for its striking red cliffs and mineral-rich soil, this beach isn’t just beautiful but also a fantastic spot for a quick swim or photos. The fact that it’s close to Akrotiri makes it a notable stop—“one of the most scenic and famous beaches in Santorini,” as many describe it.

• White Beach: Known as one of the most private beaches, accessible only by boat, this spot offers crystal-clear waters and white rocks that contrast beautifully against the blue sea. Expect about 20 minutes here—enough time to dip in the water or snap a few pictures.

• Sailing past the Venetian Lighthouse: Standing on the cliffs of Akrotiri, this lighthouse is one of the oldest in Greece and adds a historical touch to the trip. It’s a great photo opportunity and a reminder of the island’s maritime past.

• Mesa Pigadia Beach: Sailing past the Black Mountain and Indian Rock, you get to enjoy views of volcanic formations—picturesque and impressive.

• Volcano and Hot Springs: The highlight for many is sailing around the volcano and stopping at the hot springs. The warm sulphurous waters are touted for their therapeutic properties, and many reviews mention how unique the experience of swimming in these natural hot waters is.

• Thirassia: This small, charming island feels like a peaceful retreat, and you get a 40-minute stop for swimming or snorkeling. The onboard lunch is served here, giving you a taste of local seafood and fresh salads—something many guests praise highly.

• Ammoudi Bay in Oia: The cruise ends in this picturesque harbor, famed for its colorful cliffside houses and calm waters. It’s a lovely final stop to soak in Santorini’s beauty.

Onboard Experience

The catamaran itself is described as gleaming and well-kept, creating an inviting atmosphere. The sun deck is perfect for sunbathing, while the snorkeling gear, towels, and swimming aids make water activities accessible and comfortable.

The lunch—which includes seafood, chicken, salads, and fruits—is consistently rated as delicious, and the unlimited drinks from the open bar are a major perk. Expect a selection of white wine, beer, and soft drinks, fueling your day of sightseeing and swimming.

Staff and Guides

Many reviewers mention the crew’s attentiveness and helpfulness. One reviewer noted, “The crew was amazing, helpful, knowledgeable, and fun,” which suggests that the guides add a layer of enjoyment by sharing insights into Santorini’s scenery and history. Their professionalism contributes significantly to the overall smoothness of the trip.

Price and Value

At $186.06 per person, this cruise might seem a bit on the higher side, but considering what’s included—lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, hotel pickup, and multiple stops—the value appears solid. Travelers praised the quality of the food and the service, which justifies the price for many.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those looking for a relaxed, scenic day without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s well-suited for couples and friends who want quality time on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos. Families with older children or teenagers who enjoy water activities might also find it appealing.

What Could Be Better?

One aspect to keep in mind is that volcano hiking is not included—something that might be a drawback if you’re eager for a more active volcano experience. Plus, since the cruise is limited to 16 travelers, it offers a more intimate experience, but this also means it could fill up quickly during peak times.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a beautiful, well-organized day on the water with excellent food and drinks, this cruise delivers. The stops at iconic beaches, the hot springs, and Thirassia are highlights that make this a memorable experience. The knowledgeable crew, the comfort of the boat, and the all-inclusive setup ensure you won’t have to worry about much beyond enjoying your time.

This is especially good for people who prefer a laid-back day with plenty of swimming and scenic views rather than strenuous hikes or overly commercialized tours. The price reflects the quality and inclusions, making it a practical choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free, enjoyable day in Santorini.

Who Should Book?

• Couples and small groups wanting a scenic, relaxing water day
• Travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing
• Those who appreciate good food and drinks included in the price
• Visitors looking for a guided experience with local insights
• People staying near Santorini’s ports or hotels, thanks to the included pickup

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

• Anyone eager to hike the volcano—this cruise doesn’t include that activity
• Travelers on a very tight budget—alternatives with fewer inclusions might be cheaper
• Those looking for a large, party-style cruise—this one is more intimate and relaxed

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the cruise include hiking the volcano?
No, the package offers a boat tour around the volcano but does not include any hiking activities.

Is the pickup really included?
Yes, hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off are part of this experience, adding convenience especially if you’re staying nearby.

How long do we stop at each location?
Stop durations vary but generally range from 20 to 40 minutes, giving enough time for swimming, photos, and a quick look around.

Can I bring children?
Children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour size is small, and water activities are suitable for older kids.

What’s the food like onboard?
The onboard lunch is seafood, chicken fillet, salads, and fruits—many reviews praise its quality and taste.

Is there an age limit?
There’s no specific age limit, but since swimming and snorkeling are included, children should be comfortable in the water.

In the end, this Santorini Caldera Gold Day Cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience the island’s natural beauty and iconic spots. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want a memorable day on the water, it’s worth considering. Just be sure to book in advance since it’s popular—and who doesn’t want a day on a beautiful catamaran with great food and views?