Santorini: Private Highspeed Cruise to Antiparos & Paros

If you’re considering a day trip from Santorini that combines stunning scenery, charming villages, and some quality time swimming in crystal waters, this private highspeed cruise to Antiparos and Paros might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered enough details and traveler feedback to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What immediately appeals is the private transfer that takes the hassle out of transportation, and the chance to explore islands at your own pace on a modern speedboat. Two aspects I particularly like are the opportunity to relax at the Blue Lagoon and the flexibility to enjoy Naoussa and Antiparos without feeling rushed.

One thing to keep in mind: this experience is quite full-day, running around 10 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a packed itinerary and don’t mind a long day on the water. If you’re after a more laid-back, less structured experience, this might be a little intense.

This tour feels perfect for those who want a luxurious, private adventure that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor, especially if you’re keen on exploring beyond Santorini’s famous caldera.

Key Points

• Luxury and Privacy: This is a private tour, which means you can enjoy a more intimate experience compared to group boats.
• Stunning Scenery: The cruise promises beautiful views of the Aegean, especially at the Blue Lagoon and sunset in Santorini.
• Island Exploration: Ample time (around 1.5 hours at Antiparos and four hours at Naoussa) allows for sightseeing, relaxing, and sampling local flavors.
• Comfort and Convenience: Transfers from your hotel, snacks, snorkelling gear, and towels are included, making the day smooth.
• Flexible Schedule: Check availability for start times, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if needed.
• Potential Long Day: With roughly 10 hours on the go, it’s best suited for active travelers ready for a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect During the Day

This cruise begins with a pickup from your hotel in Santorini, ensuring no fuss with additional transfers. Once on board the sleek speedboat, you’ll start heading towards Antiparos, with the first major stop being the Blue Lagoon. This is a highlight for many — a half-hour stop where you can enjoy swimming in its notably clear waters and relax on the white sandy beaches. Travelers often mention how breathtaking the blue-green hues are, making it worth the early wake-up call.

From there, the boat heads toward Paros, with Naoussa being the next stop for about four hours. Naoussa is praised for its picturesque fishing port, lively atmosphere, and charming streets. You might find yourself wandering through narrow alleyways, sampling local seafood, or simply soaking in the views of boats bobbing in the bay. The ability to explore at your own pace is a significant plus, as you’ll have plenty of time for photos, shopping, or just unwinding at a seaside café.

The return leg features a scenic cruise back to Santorini, with the possibility of catching a spectacular sunset in the caldera. Many reviews highlight how the sunset on this cruise enhances the experience, adding a magical touch to the day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Thera, where your private transfer will meet you at your hotel or a nearby accessible point, eliminating the stress of finding the port.

Vlychada Marina: The first stop in the itinerary is here, serving as a hop-on, hop-off point. From this location, you’ll head out for sightseeing, swimming, and taking in the views along the way.

Antiparos (1.5 hours): The Blue Lagoon is the main attraction. Travelers love the turquoise waters and white sands, which are perfect for quick swims and photos. The half-hour stop is just enough to relax and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Naoussa (4 hours): This is where you get to really explore. Whether you want to stroll around the charming streets, enjoy some local food, or relax by the water, this sizable chunk of time offers flexibility. Reviews praise Naoussa as one of the prettiest villages in the Cyclades, famous for its fishing port and vibrant atmosphere.

Sunset in Santorini: The cruise’s highlight is the chance to watch the sun dip into the caldera, an iconic scene that many travelers find unforgettable.

Return to Thera: The trip wraps up with a relaxing cruise back to your hotel, completing a full and fulfilling day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Hotel transfers in a comfortable air-conditioned van, making the start and end seamless.
– A cool box with snacks, fresh fruit, water, and refreshments, so you’re not left hungry or thirsty.
– Snorkelling equipment and towels for your convenience.

Not Included:
– Onshore meals or additional activities, which you’ll need to pay for separately.
– Any off-board activity costs, like souvenirs or extra excursions.

This setup makes sense for those who prefer an all-in-one experience without worrying about additional costs once you’re underway.

Transportation and Practicalities

The pickup from your hotel is straightforward, and the entire day revolves around the boat’s schedule. The cruise is private, so the timing can be adjusted based on availability — just check with the provider. The trip generally starts in the morning, but exact times depend on your chosen slot.

Weather considerations: Since much of the day is on the water, bring sunscreen, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing. You’ll need swimwear for the water stops, and it’s worth noting that alcohol consumption isn’t allowed during the cruise.

Group size: This is a private experience, which means you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers — ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for exclusivity.

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The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The private setting means more flexibility and comfort.
– Beautiful views at every turn, especially during the cruise and at sunset.
– Time to explore islands leisurely, without feeling rushed, especially at Naoussa.
– Snacks and essentials are provided, so you won’t need extra planning.

Cons:
– The day can be quite long, which might be tiring for some.
– No included meals onshore, so you’ll need to budget extra for lunch or snacks.
– The itinerary is quite packed — if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit intensive.

Traveler reviews consistently mention how stunning the views are, with many praising the crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages. Some note that the Blue Lagoon is a true highlight, perfect for quick swims and photos, while Naoussa offers a lovely blend of scenery and local flavor.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy a full-day adventure, with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring. It’s ideal if you’re after a luxury experience with private transport and flexible timing. People who love scenic boat rides, picturesque islands, and memorable sunsets will find this trip rewarding.

If you’re traveling as a couple, a small group of friends, or even with family (if children are comfortable with a long day), this could be a fantastic way to experience the Cyclades from the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is a private experience that can be tailored, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with a full day on the water and some walking on islands.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly a hat. Towels and snorkelling gear are provided.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Does the experience include meals?
No, onshore meals are not included; you’ll need to purchase those separately if desired.

How long is each stop?
Antiparos gives you about 1.5 hours, and Naoussa allows for a generous four-hour visit, giving plenty of time to explore and relax.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary based on availability, so it’s best to check when booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and somewhat luxurious way to explore two beautiful islands from Santorini, this private highspeed cruise hits a lot of the right notes. The combination of stunning sea views, charming villages, and the comfort of private transfer makes it an appealing option.

It’s a full day, so be prepared for a busy but memorable experience. The chance to relax by the Blue Lagoon, wander Naoussa’s streets, and watch a sunset in Santorini alone makes this tour worthwhile for lovers of natural beauty and island charm.

In the end, this is a solid choice if you want to turn a day into an adventure filled with picture-perfect moments, with the added benefit of privacy and flexibility. Perfect for those who want to make the most of their time in the Cyclades without sacrificing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: