Santorini: Special Occasions Catamaran Cruise, All Inclusive

Taking a boat trip in Santorini is often on every traveler’s wish list, and if you’re considering a private experience for a special celebration, this All-Inclusive Catamaran Cruise promises a personalized day on the water. While it’s not a perfect fit for everyone—some reviews highlight room for improvement—many find it a worthwhile way to enjoy the island’s stunning coastlines and iconic sights.

What we really like about this tour is how flexible it is—you get to choose your route, swim at your preferred spots, and enjoy a gourmet meal onboard. Plus, the inclusion of drinks, snorkeling gear, and Wi-Fi makes it feel like a little luxury on the water. That said, the price tag of over $560 per person isn’t cheap, and some guests have expressed disappointment about the service quality, which is something to keep in mind. If you love a private, relaxed setting with the option to customize your day, this could be a good pick—especially if celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary or birthday.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: You can tailor stops along Santorini’s coast, choosing from beaches, hot springs, or scenic viewpoints.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Enjoy a gourmet BBQ, local wines, beer, soft drinks, and Champagne—perfect for celebrating.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup, Wi-Fi, shaded areas, and onboard facilities make the trip more comfortable.
• Swimming & Snorkeling Options: Multiple stops at beaches like Red Beach and Mesa Pigadia provide great water time.
• Mixed Reviews on Service: While some praise the crew, others mention poor handling and safety concerns.
• Ideal For Celebrations: Perfect for romantic getaways, anniversaries, proposals, or birthdays in a private setting.

What to Expect from the Tour

This private catamaran cruise is designed to cater to your personal wishes, which sets it apart from more structured group trips. Starting from Vlychada Port, the boat departs at a flexible time depending on the season, giving you a scenic first glimpse of Santorini’s volcanic landscape as you head out.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Vlychada Port
Your journey begins here—be sure to remove your shoes before stepping aboard. The port itself has a simple charm and serves as a launch point for exploring the coast. It’s a straightforward start, but the real magic begins once you hit the water.

Stop 2: Red Beach
This iconic crimson-sand beach is a highlight for many. With around an hour to swim or simply relax, it’s a great chance to cool off and take photos of the striking cliffside. Keep in mind, swimming is optional, and you’ll need to declare if you want to participate, as it’s only suitable for confident swimmers. Several reviews mention this stop as a favorite, praising the scenic beauty.

Stop 3: White Beach & Additional Sightseeing
The crew will stop at White Beach for photos and videos. The length of this stop varies depending on how many guests want to shoot pictures. Afterwards, the boat sails past Indian Rocks, offering excellent photo opportunities of the mountain textures and rock formations. During the cruise, you might have the chance to discuss with the captain a custom route, including visits to Hot Springs, Thirasia Island, or private volcano areas—adding a bespoke touch to your day.

Stop 4: Palea Kameni & Hot Springs
Access to the Hot Springs is included, with around 30 minutes to enjoy the warm waters near the old volcano. The experience of soaking in natural hot springs is undeniably relaxing and a unique part of the Santorini water adventures.

Stop 5: Mesa Pigadia Beach
Highly recommended for snorkeling, this crystal-clear water is perfect for observing sea life and exploring underwater. Gear is provided if needed, and the calm waters make it accessible even to less experienced swimmers. Guests often mention how stunning and peaceful this spot is for a swim or snorkel.

End of the Day: Return to Vlychada Port
The cruise concludes back at the starting point, with the timing depending on weather conditions. The return journey offers more scenic views and a chance to relax onboard before heading back to land.

The Food & Drink Experience

Onboard, you’ll be treated to a varied Mediterranean-style BBQ meal, including grilled chicken, seafood, veggies, and pasta with a Mediterranean sauce. Fresh salads, dips, bread, and dessert round out the menu. Most reviews highlight how tasty and fresh the food is, making it an enjoyable part of the trip.

Drinks include local wines, beer, soft drinks, and sometimes Champagne—though some options like Champagne may not be available for Bachelors or Birthdays. Throughout the cruise, soda and alcohol are served until supplies run out, which adds to the celebratory vibe. The onboard bar is well-stocked, but keep in mind the price of the overall experience reflects the quality and inclusiveness of these offerings.

The Experience on Board

The boat itself is comfortable, with shaded areas and lounging spaces. Wi-Fi is available, which is a nice touch for sharing your trip in real-time or just staying connected. Towels and blankets are provided, making it easier to relax whether you’re sunbathing or drying off after a swim. The crew is described as friendly and professional by some, though a few guests have expressed concerns about service quality—something to keep in mind if you’re expecting a high level of hospitality.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour fits travelers looking for a private, customizable day at sea with good food and drinks. It’s an ideal choice for couples celebrating an anniversary, honeymooners, or anyone wanting a special backdrop for a proposal. It’s also suitable for groups wanting a relaxed, scenic day on the water, though you should be comfortable with the price point and know that service quality may vary.

While not designed explicitly as a family-focused trip, it does accommodate guests of all ages if they’re healthy enough for the boat ride. Pregnant women and elderly guests are welcome, provided they are aware of the physical demands and have checked with their doctors.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you value privacy, customization, and a scenic coastal experience with good food and drinks, this cruise could be a highlight of your Santorini trip. The chance to swim at beaches like Red Beach, soak in hot springs, and enjoy a delicious Mediterranean meal makes it stand out from more generic excursions. However, the mixed reviews on crew service and safety highlight that it’s an experience that depends heavily on expectations and luck.

Given the price, you’re paying for exclusivity and comfort, which might not appeal to everyone. If you’re after a lively, energetic group tour with a focus on party atmosphere, this might not be your best fit. But if you want a peaceful, tailored day with intimate views and a gourmet meal, it could be just the thing.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The cruise typically lasts between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the route and season.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off with an air-conditioned mini bus are provided, making logistics easier.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, you can discuss with the captain to create a route that suits your wishes, including stops at beaches, volcano areas, or private sections.

What is included in the meal?
A Mediterranean BBQ with grilled chicken, seafood, veggies, pasta, salads, dips, bread, and dessert. Drinks include local wine, beer, soft drinks, and Champagne (except for some special options).

Are children allowed?
While not specifically for families, children are permitted if they are healthy enough for the boat ride. Please ensure they can handle the physical activity and check with your doctor if needed.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is the experience affected by weather?
Yes. The trip requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

In the end, this private Santorini catamaran cruise offers a personalized blend of scenic views, water fun, and good food—perfect if you’re celebrating something special and want to avoid large crowds. Just remember, it’s not without its quirks, so weighing the price against the reviews and your expectations is key.