Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise with Meal, BBQ and Open Bar

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and considering a boat tour, the Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise might catch your eye. Rated a perfect 5 stars based on over 580 reviews and recommended by nearly all who’ve taken it, this cruise promises a day of scenic views, delicious food, and relaxing swims. But, as with any popular tour, it’s worth digging into what makes it special — and where it might fall a little short.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are its fantastic mix of sightseeing and leisure — with stops at iconic beaches and volcanic hot springs — and its all-inclusive food and drink offerings, which make it feel more like a floating feast than just a tour. On the flip side, a few reviews mention that the experience can feel a bit crowded or rushed, especially with a larger group. It’s a good option for travelers who want an efficient, well-organized day on the water, but if you’re after a more intimate, unhurried vibe, that’s worth considering.

This cruise is ideal for those who want to combine the best of Santorini’s scenery with onboard comfort and entertainment. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good value for money — considering the price includes meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and transfers — and aren’t expecting a completely secluded experience.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Includes BBQ with wine, beer, Greek appetizers, and unlimited drinks, making it great value.
• Varied Itinerary: Stops at Red Beach, Mesa Pigadia, volcanic hot springs, and Thirassia Island offer a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 18 travelers, so there’s space to move around and enjoy the trip without feeling overcrowded.
• Stunning Views: The sunset cruise offers one of the best sunset vistas in Santorini, with vibrant skies and memorable photo opportunities.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and hotel transfers are included, making logistics straightforward.
• Mixed Experiences on Timing & Crowds: Some reviews highlight that the experience can feel rushed or crowded, especially if the boat is full.

What to Expect from the Cruise: An In-Depth Breakdown

The Overview

This approximately 5-hour cruise kicks off with a convenient pickup from your hotel (or from a designated meeting point), which is a real plus if you’re not keen on organizing transport. The boat used is a catamaran, known for its stability and speed — meaning a smoother ride that’s less likely to cause seasickness, especially compared to larger, less agile vessels.

You’ll join a small group of no more than 18 fellow travelers, which helps keep the vibe intimate and less crowded — a common complaint with larger boats. The tour is available as a morning or sunset cruise, giving you flexibility depending on whether you want to start your day with scenic views or end it with Santorini’s famous sunset.

The Itinerary: What Stops Make It Worthwhile?

Red Beach is the first stop, and it’s a real highlight. The crew shares interesting facts about this striking location, famous for its red cliffs and unique landscape. The 15-minute stop allows enough time for photos and sightseeing, and the admission to the beach is included. Expect to be blown away by its wild beauty — it’s a quintessential Santorini spot.

Next, the boat sails to Mesa Pigadia Beach, where you get around 30 minutes to snorkel among colorful sea life or simply relax on the deck with a glass of wine or beer. Snorkeling gear is provided, and the water here is crystal-clear, giving you a real taste of the ocean. Several reviews mention how relaxing this stop is, especially with the option to lounge while enjoying appetizers served onboard.

The third stop is the volcano’s hot springs. Here, volcanic waters are said to have healing properties, and the boat anchors for about 30 minutes. You can swim in these warm, mineral-rich waters with caves and volcanic beaches surrounding you. It’s a unique experience, and the crew’s commentary — when available — adds context about the area’s volcanic activity.

Then comes a visit to Thirassia, often called Santorini’s best-kept secret. The island is less crowded and offers a more authentic vibe. You’ll have around an hour here to swim, explore, or enjoy a hearty meal. The onboard menu features a variety of finger foods, seafood pasta, Greek salads, vegetarian options, and desserts, all served with an unlimited bar that includes wine, beers, soft drinks, and sparkling wine for sunset departures.

The Food and Drinks

The onboard BBQ and buffet dinner are primary highlights, with many reviews praising both the quality and variety. Expect Greek favorites like chicken, pork, seafood pasta, and vegetarian ratatouille, plus Greek yogurt with cherries for dessert. The drinks flow freely, and the crew makes sure everyone stays refreshed, whether it’s soft drinks or local wines and beers.

This all-inclusive approach means you’re not scrambling for a drink or a snack — it’s part of the experience, adding to the sense of indulgence and relaxation. Several reviewers have called the food “delicious” and the drinks “never-ending,” which makes the cruise feel more like a floating party than just a sightseeing tour.

The Sunset Experience

For the sunset cruise option, the sky puts on a show. Reviewers recount how the vibrant oranges and pinks make for perfect photo ops. The crew’s friendly attitude and lively music enhance the atmosphere, making it a memorable way to end the day. One reviewer described their experience as “an unforgettable experience,” praising the “breathtaking” sunset views and the lively but relaxed vibe onboard.

What Are the Downsides?

While most feedback is glowing, a few travelers mention that the experience can feel rushed or crowded. For example, some found the boat a little tight, especially during peak times when the number of guests exceeds the expected capacity. Others noted that the stops, especially at the hot springs, are brief — around 10-15 minutes — which might not be enough if you’re a slow swimmer or want a more leisurely experience.

One review pointed out that the crew sometimes rushed through the stops, making it hard to fully enjoy each location. Another common complaint was that the sunset was spent mostly driving back, rather than watching it from the best vantage point. These are important points to consider if you’re looking for a tranquil, unhurried experience.

Is This Cruise Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a well-organized, fun-filled day on the water that combines sightseeing, swimming, good food, and lively company. The price of around $115 per person covers most essentials, including meals, drinks, transfers, and snorkeling gear, offering solid value compared to private tours or less comprehensive options.

The small group size contributes to a more personal, relaxed atmosphere — you won’t feel like just another face in a large crowd. Many travelers raved about the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness, which makes a difference when you’re spending hours on a boat.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a very quiet, unstructured day or is highly sensitive to crowds, this might not be your ideal choice. You might find the experience a bit rushed and the boat a little tight during busy times.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a fun, social atmosphere with a good balance of sightseeing and leisure. It’s especially appealing if you want a hassle-free experience with hotel pickup and inclusive drinks and food. Those interested in capturing stunning photos of the sunset, beaches, and volcanic landscapes will find plenty of opportunities.

It’s a good pick for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple stops. If you’re traveling with a group or family and enjoy lively, well-organized outings, this tour can be a real treat. Just be mindful of the potential for crowds and brief stops, and consider whether that matches your style.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, making it a comfortably paced day without feeling overly long.

What’s included in the price?
You get a BBQ meal, unlimited drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks), snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers. Admission to stops like Red Beach and the hot springs is also included.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the reviews don’t specifically mention children, the tour’s relaxed atmosphere and focus on sightseeing suggest it could work for families with older kids. However, the brief stops and potential crowding are factors to consider.

Can I choose between a morning or sunset cruise?
Yes, the tour offers both options, allowing you to pick based on your preference for sunrise/morning views or sunset scenery.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed. The tour is limited to 18 travelers, so booking well in advance (about 37 days on average) is recommended.

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

Final Thoughts

The Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise provides a well-rounded day of sightseeing, relaxing, and enjoying the island’s natural beauty. With its combination of scenic stops, good food, and lively atmosphere, it’s a popular choice for those who want to do a little of everything in about five hours. The small group size and all-inclusive approach make it a comfortable and convenient way to experience Santorini from the water.

While it’s not perfect — some reviews mention rushing or crowding — the overall experience is highly praised, especially by those looking for good value and enjoyable company. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to combine stunning scenery with a fun, social vibe in a stress-free setting.

If you’re after a lively, memorable day that captures the best of Santorini’s landscape, this cruise could be just what you need. Just keep in mind the potential for crowds and brief stops, and you’ll be set for a truly enjoyable adventure on the Aegean Sea.