Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks

If you’re dreaming of sailing around Santorini on a sleek, private catamaran, then this experience might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a memorable day on the water. It’s a perfect way to see the island from a different perspective — away from the crowds and with a touch of luxury.

What really catches our eye about this tour are two things: first, the private setting offers a level of exclusivity and relaxation that’s hard to beat — especially for those wanting some downtime while still taking in the sights. Second, the delicious onboard meal, paired with local wine and beer, sounds like a real treat. The only consideration? With a price point of over $1,200 for up to four people, it’s definitely on the pricier side, but many reviews suggest it’s worth the splurge if you’re after a special, personalized experience.

This tour suits travelers looking for a luxurious, private day on the water, those who want to avoid the busy public boat trips, or anyone celebrating a special occasion in Santorini. If you’re into snorkeling, scenic views, and gourmet food in a relaxed setting, you’ll probably find this cruise very appealing.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience with departure in the morning or afternoon
• Beautiful sailing route along the Caldera, including stops at famous beaches and volcanic sites
• Snorkeling gear included for exploring the clear waters of the Aegean
• Delicious onboard meal with fresh seafood, chicken, salads, and vegetarian options if requested
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable crew, fantastic food, and breathtaking views
• Cost reflects quality — a more premium experience with personalized service

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience of a Santorini Private Catamaran Cruise

Imagine sliding onto a sleek catamaran that’s all yours, feeling the gentle sway of the boat as the Aegean Sea sparkles around you. That’s what this experience promises from the start. Whether you choose a morning or afternoon departure, you’ll be whisked away from Vlychada Marina, leaving behind the busy streets and heading towards some of the most iconic sights of Santorini.

The Itinerary: A Cruise Packed with Highlights

The cruise typically kicks off with a pickup from your hotel (for an extra fee) to the Vlychada Marina, where your private vessel awaits. From there, the adventure begins. The itinerary includes stops at multiple scenic spots, each offering a different kind of beauty — from beaches to volcanic volcanic landscapes.

Red Beach and White Beach are prime photo stops, with their striking colors and dramatic cliffs. These beaches aren’t just pretty—they’re also accessible from the water, making swimming and snorkeling easy. The reviews are full of praise for the crew’s attentiveness: “The crew monitored our safety during swimming and snorkel stops, making sure everyone was comfortable,” one reviewer notes.

Next, you’ll pass by landmarks like the Akrotiri Lighthouse and Indian Rock, both offering fantastic photo opportunities. The boat then heads towards the volcanic islands—Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni—where you can admire the volcanic terrain and, in some cases, take a dip in the hot springs.

The highlight for many is the stop at Mésa Pigádia, where you can swim, snorkel, and soak in the sunset if you’ve booked the sunset cruise. The onboard meal is served here, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many reviews rave about the food—”The homemade Greek flavors and the fresh seafood were a revelation,” one guest shared.

What Makes the Cruise Special?

The private aspect means you get to customize your stops and pace, making this perfect for those who prefer a more intimate, relaxed day. The crew—comprising a captain, sailor, and hostess—are noted for their warmth and professionalism. “They made us feel like VIPs,” a reviewer comments. The onboard WiFi lets you share your photos in real-time, adding a social element that many travelers appreciate.

The Food and Drinks

The onboard meal is a significant part of the experience. Expect fresh seafood, chicken fillet, salads, and vegetarian options upon request—reviewers say it’s a simple yet delicious Greek-style feast. Accompany that with local wine, beer, or soft drinks, and you’ve got a luxury picnic on the sea.

Several reviews highlight how well the food is prepared: “The meal cooked onboard was the best we had in Greece,” one traveler raved. The dessert—often seasonal fruits or a sweet treat like pears in honey—is the perfect ending to a meal.

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Snorkeling and Swimming

The clear waters of the Aegean are perfect for a swim, and snorkel gear is included in the package. The reviews reveal that most guests enjoy taking advantage of these stops, with many noting how safe and attentive the crew was during these moments. “We felt very cared for, and the water was so inviting,” one guest says.

Sunset or Daytime — Your Choice

You can opt for a sunset cruise, which many reviews say is magical, with stunning views of the sun dipping into the caldera. Alternatively, a daytime trip offers more opportunities for swimming and sightseeing, with the same level of service.

The Practicalities: How It Works

The tour lasts around five hours, with departure times varying based on the season—from 9 AM in October to 10:30 AM in June-July. Pickup is included (with an extra charge), and the boat’s group size is limited to your private party, ensuring personalized attention.

The cost is $1,286 per group of up to four people, which might seem high, but many travelers find it offers excellent value for the experience—especially considering the private setting, gourmet meal, and all the stops.

The Reviews: What Travelers Are Saying

The overall rating is a perfect 5/5 from 154 reviews. People consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the delicious onboard food. Several mention that it was their favorite part of their trip to Santorini. “This cruise was the highlight of our Greece vacation,” one reviewer states, emphasizing the personalized care and stunning scenery.

Some reviews mention that the weather can be unpredictable (windy or cloudy days), but the crew is flexible and makes adjustments to ensure your comfort and safety. Others highlight how the privacy of the boat made for a very relaxing experience, especially compared to crowded public tours.

Is It Worth the Price?

At over $1,200, this experience isn’t cheap, but the reviews show many guests feel it’s worth every penny. The private setting, gourmet meal, and scenic stops create a personalized, luxury experience that you won’t get on larger, more crowded boat trips. For special occasions or romantic getaways, this cruise could be a memorable highlight.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

• Couples seeking romance and privacy
• Those celebrating a special occasion
• Travelers who value high-quality food and drinks
• People wanting a relaxed, personalized nature experience
• Anyone looking to avoid crowded tours and explore at their own pace

If you’re after a luxurious, intimate day on the water, with breathtaking views, great food, and snorkeling fun, this private catamaran cruise is a solid choice. It’s a balance of comfort, adventure, and exclusivity, tailored for those who don’t mind splurging a little for a unique experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for families or children?
While the reviews don’t specify age restrictions, the focus on relaxation, snorkeling, and scenic stops suggests it’s best suited for older children or teenagers. It’s a private experience, so you can customize if traveling with kids, but check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, all stops, onboard meal, drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks), snorkeling gear, and transfers (if booked). Tips and personal expenses are not included.

Can I request vegetarian or vegan meals?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available upon request, and vegan options can likely be arranged. It’s best to specify dietary preferences when booking.

What are the departure times?
Departure times vary from season to season. For example, in October, pickups are at 9 AM and 2 PM; in June-July, at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM. Check availability for your specific date.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts approximately five hours, from departure to returning to the marina.

Is pickup included?
Pickup is included at an extra charge, and the timing depends on the season. The exact pickup location is Thera, and the transfer is arranged via minivan.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, jacket, and your passport. Remember to bring beach towels and bath robes if you want additional comfort.

What are the main sights you’ll see?
You’ll see Red Beach, White Beach, Akrotiri Lighthouse, Indian Rock, Palea Kameni, Nea Kameni Hot Springs, and the Volcano. Each spot offers incredible photo opportunities and a chance to swim or snorkel.

How do the stops work?
The boat stops for sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling, with about 30 minutes at the volcano and one hour at Mésa Pigádia for relaxation, food, and sunset views if applicable.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is available, so you can post your pictures and stay connected during your cruise.

Final Thoughts

This private catamaran cruise around Santorini offers a personalized, relaxing way to experience the island’s most iconic sights with a touch of luxury. From the scenic stops to the expertly prepared onboard meal, many reviewers agree it’s a highlight of their trip. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating something special—and willing to invest a bit in a truly memorable day. If you’re seeking stunning views, excellent service, and a peaceful escape on the water, this cruise could well be your favorite memory from Santorini.

You can check availability for your dates here: