Santorini: Private Diamond 36 Motor Yacht Caldera Cruise

If you’re dreaming of exploring Santorini’s iconic caldera from the water, a private yacht cruise like this one might be just what you need. While we haven’t been on this exact trip ourselves, numerous travelers rave about how it offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery, personalized service, and delicious Greek food. It’s a way to see the island’s highlights without the crowds and with a touch of luxury.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to create your own itinerary means you can focus on what interests you most—whether that’s swimming in volcanic springs or enjoying a sunset. Second, the quality of the onboard meal and local wine gets consistently high praise, making it a delicious highlight of the day.

That said, a possible consideration is the price point of $779 per person—it’s definitely an investment, but many feel the exclusivity and personalized touch justify the cost. This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a more intimate, flexible, and indulgent way to experience Santorini’s caldera—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable day on the water.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You can tailor your route and activities to your preferences.
• Stunning scenery: Pass iconic spots like Thirassia, Red Beach, White Beach, and the Venetian Lighthouse.
• Swimming and snorkeling: Multiple stops for dips in volcanic hot springs, clear waters, and secluded beaches.
• Gourmet onboard meal: Enjoy Greek appetizers, a BBQ, local wine, and desserts—freshly prepared on the boat.
• All-inclusive experience: Wi-Fi, snorkeling gear, drinks, and pickup are included.
• Ideal for travelers seeking intimacy: Private groups ensure a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the Santorini Private Yacht Cruise

This cruise offers a wonderful way to see Santorini beyond its famous sunset shots. The journey begins with a hotel pickup, whisking you to Ammoudi Bay, the picturesque starting point. From there, you embark on a private, new Diamond 36 motor yacht—a vessel designed for comfort, style, and the kind of intimacy that makes this trip special.

Customizable Itinerary and Flexibility

One of the biggest perks is that you can create your own route. Whether you want to spend more time swimming or explore different islets, the itinerary is flexible. You might choose a sunny mid-day cruise or opt for the enchanting sunset experience—both options are available, and each offers a different vibe.

The cruise typically lasts 3 to 5 hours, giving you enough time for exploration, relaxation, and a delectable onboard meal. The passage of key sites like White Beach, Mesa Pigadia, and the Red Beach provides a cinematic backdrop for your trip. The boat stops at Aspronisi and the Venetian Lighthouse, ideal for photos or quiet moments with your loved ones.

Stops and Scenic Spots

The tour includes visits to Thirassia, a fisherman’s island with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and enjoying a slower pace away from the crowds. Reviewers like Zohra mention how the boat to themselves and the smooth operation made the experience feel exclusive and well-organized.

Next up, the volcanic hot springs are a highlight—here, you can swim in the rejuvenating waters while feeling the energy of the volcano beneath you. It’s a sensory experience that many find memorable. The boat then continues to round the caldera, passing landmarks like Indian Rock and the Venetian Lighthouse, offering fantastic views and opportunities for photos.

Food and Drinks on Board

The onboard meal is a true highlight, with Greek appetizers like tzatziki, dolmadakia, Greek salad, pitta bread, and seafood pasta. The BBQ features pork chops, chicken fillet, or vegetarian options, with vegan requests accommodated. Many reviews, such as Michelle’s, rave about the fresher-than-fresh BBQ cooked right on deck.

The open bar is another crowd-pleaser, offering local wine, beers, ouzo, soft drinks, juice, and water. A traditional dessert caps off the meal, making it not just a sightseeing trip but also a culinary delight. The Wi-Fi and snorkeling gear add convenience and fun for more active travelers.

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Views and Atmosphere

Sailing through the caldera during sunset is often called “magical,” and your crew will give you background about each site, enriching the experience. Reviewers describe the privacy and tranquility as unmatched, especially compared to the crowded cruise ships.

The timing is well-coordinated, with many guests commenting on how everything runs smoothly—from pickup to the final return to Ammoudi Bay. You’ll likely find yourself immersed in the peaceful beauty of Santorini, with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, or just soak it all in.

What to Expect from the Experience

The tour begins with a 45-minute shuttle transfer from your accommodation to Ammoudi Bay, ensuring a stress-free start. Once aboard, the crew will give you a safety briefing and help you settle into the vessel. The private group setting means no pushing or crowded spaces, creating a relaxed environment.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll have scenic views of the coastline, volcanic formations, and little islets. Stops for swimming and snorkeling are timed to maximize your comfort and enjoyment. You’ll feel the energy of the volcano at the hot springs and can choose to relax on the deck, sunbathe, or explore the waters.

The onboard meal is served during the trip, with the freshly grilled BBQ and Greek appetizers providing a hearty, flavorful experience. The local wine and drinks flow freely, making the entire journey feel festive yet intimate.

End of the Day

As the cruise winds down, many guests opt to watch the sunset from the boat, often cited as the highlight of the trip. The view of the sun dipping into the Aegean while the caldera glows in warm hues is truly unforgettable.

Finally, the boat returns to Ammoudi Bay, and your transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, leaving you with lifetime memories and plenty of stunning photos.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private yacht cruise is ideal for those who want a more exclusive, customizable experience. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating something special or simply prefer to avoid large tour groups. If you’re interested in swimming and snorkeling in volcanic waters, this trip checks that box.

The all-inclusive nature—food, drinks, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi—makes it excellent value for travelers wanting convenience and comfort. It’s especially suited for adults and couples seeking a romantic or peaceful escape, though families with older children who enjoy water activities may also find it appealing.

Keep in mind that at $779 per person, it’s a pricier option, but many reviews highlight the quality of the food, scenery, and personalized service as worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise duration is flexible, ranging from 3 to 5 hours, depending on your preference and availability.

Is pickup included?
Yes, your activity provider arranges hotel pickup and drop-off through a shuttle service, making the start and end of your trip easy.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. The cruise is designed as a private, customizable experience, so you can choose which sites to visit and how long to stay at each.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi, welcome snacks, traditional Greek appetizers, BBQ meal, open bar, and traditional dessert.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes. You can advise when booking if you need vegetarian or vegan options; vegan dishes are available upon request.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard suggests it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who enjoy water activities.

What is the best time of day to book?
Both day and sunset cruises are available. Sunset cruises tend to be more romantic and scenic, while daytime trips are great for swimming and exploring.

Are there any restrictions or things I should know?
Luggage or large bags are not allowed onboard. Also, the pickup is not available from the airport, only for accommodations within the designated pickup zone.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, flexible way to explore Santorini’s caldera, this private yacht cruise offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll savor authentic Greek cuisine, enjoy the best viewpoints, and have the freedom to tailor your day. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a more intimate, less crowded alternative to standard group tours.

While the price is on the higher side, most guests find that the personalized service, stunning scenery, and quality food make it worthwhile. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a memorable day, this cruise hits the right notes.

For those seeking a peaceful, scenic, and customizable adventure with excellent reviews backing it up, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Note: Always check availability and book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure your preferred date and time are secured.

You can check availability for your dates here: