Santorini: Private Catamaran Tour with BBQ Meal and Drinks

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Santorini’s beauty from the water, a private catamaran tour might just be the highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally done this exact cruise, I’ve researched it thoroughly, and it definitely looks like a memorable way to see the island’s coastline with a touch of luxury.

What really stands out are the stunning views of the caldera and the chance to swim in volcanic hot springs, combined with a delicious Greek BBQ and drinks on board. On the flip side, some might find that a five-hour cruise is a bit long if you’re prone to sea sickness or prefer a shorter outing.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who love a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and good food — perfect for couples, friends, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. Families with older children might also enjoy it, especially if they’re comfortable on boats and love swimming.

Key Points

• Private and luxurious: The boat is designed for comfort, with a spacious interior and elegant finishes.
• Stunning itinerary: Stops include famous beaches, volcanic hot springs, and scenic photo opportunities.
• All-inclusive experience: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and safety equipment are included.
• Ideal for relaxation: Plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely exploring.
• Highly praised crew: Guests frequently mention attentive, friendly service.
• Great value for a private experience: For around $1,016 per group up to 4, it offers a personalized day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What You Can Expect

Imagine lounging on a beautifully appointed catamaran, the sun warming your skin as you glide along the coastline of Santorini. The vessel itself is a highlight—its modern, spacious design makes it a pleasure to be onboard, whether you’re soaking up the sun on the upper sundeck or relaxing inside in the refined lounge. The crew’s professionalism and friendly attitude immediately set the tone for what seems like a seamless, pampered experience.

The tour begins at Vlychada Marina, located on the island’s southern edge. From here, you’ll set sail towards some of Santorini’s most iconic sights. You’re likely to feel a bit of anticipation as you watch the landscape unfold—volcanic formations, colorful beaches, and the famous caldera all come into view.

The Itinerary: A Day in the Life of Your Private Cruise

Stop 1: Red Beach and Photo Op

Your first stop is at Red Beach, famous for its striking cliffs and red volcanic ash. This is a quick 15-minute photo break, giving you a chance to snap some shots of one of Santorini’s most recognizable beaches before moving on. The reviews highlight how this spot is unique geology, so it’s worth spending a few moments here.

Stop 2: Mesa Pigadia Beach

Next, you’ll hop over to Mesa Pigadia Beach for about 30 minutes of swimming and snorkelling. This beach is known for its black menir rocks and caves, making it especially appealing for underwater exploration. Guests mention how the crew helps with snorkel gear and ensures everyone feels comfortable in the water, so if you enjoy swimming, this will be a highlight.

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Stop 3: Passing Akrotíri

The boat glides past Akrotíri, the famous archaeological site. While you won’t stop here, cruising by this ancient town adds a layer of context to your journey, and it’s a good opportunity to appreciate the island’s history from the water.

Stop 4: Palea Kameni and Hot Springs

Your next stop is Palea Kameni, where you can snorkel and swim in the sulfurous hot springs for about 30 minutes. Guests rave about the therapeutic waters—some mention feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after soaking in the mineral-rich springs. The crew usually assists with snorkel equipment and safety, making it accessible even for less experienced swimmers.

Stop 5: Santorini Volcano and Lunch

The most anticipated part of the day is the volcano, where you’ll enjoy a one-hour meal on board. The included BBQ features chicken fillet, shrimp, beef sausage, and Greek salad, plus fresh fruit and dessert. The food receives high praise; guests often call it “spectacular,” and the open bar allows you to sip wine, beer, or soft drinks as you take in the view.

Final Stops: More Swimming and Snorkelling

After lunch, you’ll revisit the volcano area for another 30-minute swim, giving everyone a chance to cool off before heading back. The scenery here is truly impressive—whether you’re in the water or just taking it all in from the boat.

What It Feels Like to Be Onboard

The reviews provide a good sense of the overall vibe: guests describe it as relaxing, luxurious, and personalized. The crew is consistently praised for being attentive and friendly, often going beyond expectations to assist with everything from snacks to snorkel gear.

The hot springs are a big hit, with travelers appreciating the therapeutic waters and the chance to snorkel near the volcano. The snorkeling equipment is provided, and the crew’s careful guidance makes it accessible even for beginners.

The food, especially the BBQ, is considered top-class. Guests remark on how they could eat to their heart’s content, enjoying the fresh flavors amid beautiful scenery. The open bar adds to the carefree vibe, with guests mentioning how, after a few glasses of wine or beer, the experience feels even more special.

The Practical Side: Pricing, Duration, and Considerations

At $1,016 for a group of up to 4, this cruise offers a more exclusive experience. For the privacy, comfort, and customization it provides, the price is reasonable—especially considering the inclusive food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and hotel pickup. It’s a good value if you’re looking for an upscale, personalized sailing day rather than a crowded group tour.

The five-hour duration strikes a balance—long enough to enjoy several stops and activities without feeling rushed. Keep in mind, the start times vary, so it’s wise to check availability and plan accordingly. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics, but note that cruise ship guests must plan to reach the meeting point in Fira by cable car, as the tour provider cannot pick up from the Old Port.

It’s worth noting that children under 12 need to be accompanied, and pregnant women or those with mobility issues might want to consider how comfortable they’ll be on the boat, especially with swim stops.

The Downsides and Who Might Want to Think Twice

While the tour gets high praise, it’s not for everyone. If you’re not comfortable on boats or dislike being in the sun for hours, this might not be your ideal outing. The length (around five hours) could feel too long if you prefer shorter excursions or have limited time.

Plus, the cost might be steep for some travelers, especially if you’re on a tight budget. For the price, you’re paying for exclusivity and comfort, which isn’t a bad deal, but it’s worth considering whether a less expensive, group-based tour might suit your style better.

Who Should Book This?

This private cruise is perfect for couples celebrating something special, small groups seeking intimacy, or travelers who appreciate comfort, good food, and personalized service. It’s also a fantastic choice if you want to avoid the crowds often found on larger tours. Families with older children who are comfortable on boats and enjoy swimming will also find it a good fit.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with excellent food and a touch of luxury, this cruise will meet your expectations. Just remember to be prepared for a full day out at sea and plan accordingly.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves swimming stops and being on a boat for several hours, so it’s best suited for kids comfortable with water and boat travel.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun protection (sunglasses, sun hat, windbreaker), swimwear, and any personal items you might need during the stops.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, a vegetarian food option is available, so just let the crew know in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

What if I’m arriving on a cruise ship?
Cruise ship guests need to plan to reach Fira via cable car since pickup isn’t available from the Old Port. Check your tender schedule to ensure enough time for the tour.

Is the tour fully private?
Yes, it’s a private group tour for up to 4 people, making it a personalized experience that feels exclusive.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 5 hours, including pickup, sailing, stops, and return.

What about the weather?
Check the forecast before booking, as sailing might be affected by rough seas or storms, but generally, Greece’s weather in season is sunny and warm.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini private catamaran cruise offers a fantastic blend of scenic sailing, engaging stops, and gourmet food. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a luxurious, intimate way to explore the island’s coastline, especially if good service, beautiful views, and delicious food matter to you.

While it’s a bit on the pricier side, most reviews suggest it’s well worth the cost, thanks to the attentive crew, stunning scenery, and exclusive atmosphere. If you’re traveling as a small group or couple and value comfort and flexibility, this experience can elevate your Santorini trip to something truly memorable.

For those who prefer a more budget-friendly or social experience, other tours might be better suited. But for a day of relaxation, beauty, and indulgence, this private cruise hits the mark nicely.

Hope this helps you decide whether a private catamaran cruise fits your Santorini adventure. If you want an elegant, personalized sea day with incredible views and fantastic food, this might just be the perfect choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: