Santorini: Standard Small-Group Catamaran Cruise with Food/Drinks

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the beauty of Santorini from the water, a small-group catamaran cruise might be just what you need. This tour offers a chance to see the island’s iconic sights, from volcanic beaches to the caldera, all while enjoying fresh food, unlimited drinks, and the breathtaking sunset. We’ve looked into it, and here’s a detailed look at what you can expect, what makes it special, and some things to keep in mind.

Two things we really like about this cruise are the all-inclusive experience—meaning tasty local food and unlimited drinks—and the flexibility of swimming stops at unique beaches like Red Beach and Mesa Pigadia. Plus, the small-group setting ensures a more intimate vibe than larger boat tours. However, a potential consideration is the price, which is quite reasonable but still worth comparing with similar options, especially if you’re particular about meal choices or activities.

This cruise suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water—perfect for those who enjoy good food, stunning views, and a little adventure with swimming and snorkeling. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or even small families, especially if you appreciate a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Key Points

• All-inclusive food and drinks make for a hassle-free experience.
• Multiple swim stops at Red Beach, Mesa Pigadia, and the volcanic hot springs provide variety.
• The small-group size (max 21 travelers) enhances comfort and intimacy.
• Sunset sailing offers a memorable end to your day on the water.
• Flexible pickup options and Wi-Fi on board add convenience.
• Active participation is required for swimming; no assistance provided.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Catamaran Experience

Introduction to the Tour

This small-group catamaran cruise is a popular way to explore Santorini’s coastline and caldera, combining sightseeing, swimming, and delicious food. With a rating of 5.0 based on 36 reviews and 94% of travelers recommending it, it clearly hits the mark for many visitors. It’s priced at around $97.44 per person, which, considering the inclusions, offers good value.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the all-inclusive menu features local specialties, and unlimited drinks — including wine and soft drinks — keep everyone refreshed. Second, the itinerary includes several swimming stops and scenic cruising, offering a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed.

A drawback? The duration of about 4 to 6 hours might be a stretch for some, especially if you prefer more active or tailored experiences. Plus, swimming and snorkeling are at your own risk, with no assistance available, so it’s best suited for confident swimmers.

Overall, if you’re after a cozy, scenic, and tasty day on the water, this cruise might be just right.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start: Pickup and Departure

Depending on your chosen option, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation or meet at the designated port—Vlichada. The pickup takes about 30-45 minutes, giving you a comfortable start without rushing.

Stop 1: Vlychada and Sailing to Akrotiri

Once onboard, the crew offers a safety briefing, and the sailing begins, passing by the Vlychada port and heading toward Akrotiri village. This stretch, about 20 minutes, is a good warm-up with views of the dramatic coastline. You’ll get to sit back or walk around, enjoying the sea breeze.

Stop 2: Red Beach

Your first swim stop is at Red Beach, famous for its striking red volcanic cliffs and clear waters. You can swim here or relax on the deck, soaking in the scenery. The crew can assist with life jackets if needed, but you’ll need to be comfortable with swimming or snorkeling independently.

Based on reviews, travelers love this spot for its unique volcanic backdrop. One reviewer mentioned that “the last moment sunset is stunning,” highlighting how this stop sets the tone for a memorable day. Keep in mind that swimming assistance is not provided, so children or less confident swimmers should be cautious.

Stop 3: White Beach & Coastal Passages

Next, the boat cruises past White Beach—a prime photo spot with white cliffs and turquoise waters. Though there’s no swimming here, the scenery alone makes it worth capturing. The same applies to the passing by of Indian Rocks and the lighthouse, offering excellent photo opportunities without stopping.

Stop 4 & 6: Santorini Caldera and Volcano Views

Cruising through the caldera, you’ll enjoy incredible coastal vistas and get close to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni. The boat stops about 10 meters from the hot springs, where you can dip into warm, mineral-rich waters. This is a highlight for many—soaking in natural thermal waters while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Swimming in the hot springs is optional but noted as not recommended for pregnant women. Creatively, the hot springs are praised for their therapeutic effects, and many reviews mention the thermal waters as a memorable part of the trip.

Stop 5: Mesa Pigadia Beach

Perhaps the most anticipated stop is at Mesa Pigadia, where you’ll have about 90-100 minutes to swim, snorkel, and indulge in the highlight of the tour—a local BBQ buffet. The meal features grilled chicken, pasta, Mediterranean salad, dips, bread, and a tasty dessert cookie. Drinks, including local wine, are served throughout.

From reviews, travelers rave about the delicious food and the friendly crew. One reviewer shared, “The food was amazing, the views were out of this world,” confirming how well this part of the trip hits the mark. Keep in mind, swimming here requires some independence; no assistance is provided, so be prepared.

Return & Sunset

In the late afternoon, the cruise heads back toward Vlychada port, often offering the chance to watch a spectacular sunset if you opt for that package. Many guests find that the sunset view from the boat adds a perfect capstone to the day.

What We Love About This Tour

The all-inclusive aspect takes the stress out of planning meals and drinks during the trip. You get a generous buffet and a selection of local wines and soft drinks, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without constantly reaching for your wallet. It’s especially valuable considering how many other tours charge extra for food or drinks.

The swimming stops are thoughtfully scattered around some of Santorini’s iconic spots, like Red Beach and Mesa Pigadia. These are places you wouldn’t easily see from land, making their inclusion a real bonus.

The small-group size (up to 21 travelers) ensures a more personal experience. Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew, which helps make the day even more enjoyable. The crew’s hospitality and communication seem to be consistent highlights.

Comfort and convenience are also front and center. Wi-Fi on board means you can share your experience instantly, and the pickup/drop-off service simplifies logistics—no need to worry about navigating ports or taxis.

What Could Be Better

While the experience is largely positive, some travelers mention the limited assistance during swimming, which could be a concern if you’re traveling with children or less confident swimmers. The cost, while reasonable for what’s included, might seem high for those expecting a more active or customizable tour.

Also, the duration—ranging from 4 to 6 hours—is a good length for most, but if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed activity, this might feel a little long. That said, many reviews emphasize how the pace is well-managed, and the time at each stop is sufficient.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who enjoy scenic sailing, good food, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to experience Santorini’s natural beauty with minimal fuss. If you’re comfortable swimming or snorkeling independently and value local cuisine, you’ll love the buffet and the stops.

It’s also great if you prefer a small-group environment over larger, more commercial tours. The intimate setting and friendly crew make it more personal, ensuring you get a more genuine experience.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini small-group catamaran cruise offers a wonderful way to see the island from its waters, combining scenic views, delicious local food, and memorable swimming stops. For around $97, you get a well-rounded experience with a lot of value—especially considering the inclusions like unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi, and a scenic sunset.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking a highly active or adrenaline-fueled day, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a comfortable, scenic, and tasty adventure. The reviews consistently praise the crew, food, and views, confirming it’s a solid pick for a relaxing day on Santorini.

If you love picturesque scenery, authentic Greek cuisine, and the magic of sailing at sunset, this tour is likely to be one of your highlights.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, depending on your selected option, hotel pickup and drop-off are offered via air-conditioned minibus, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, with stops at various beaches, caldera points, and scenic cruising.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited soft drinks, local wine, and other alcoholic beverages are included throughout the trip.

What’s the meal like?
The cruise features a BBQ buffet with grilled chicken, pasta with Mediterranean sauce, fresh salad, dips, bread, and a dessert cookie. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.

Can I swim at all stops?
Yes, swimming is optional at Red Beach, Mesa Pigadia, and the hot springs. Swimming assistance is not provided, so you should be comfortable swimming or snorkeling independently.

Is Wi-Fi available on board?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is included, so you can share your photos or stay connected during the cruise.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, children who can swim or snorkel confidently will enjoy the stops. Always consider your children’s comfort and safety during swimming activities.

What about the sunset option?
If you select the sunset sailing, you’ll enjoy the stunning view as the sun dips below the horizon at the end of the cruise—truly a memorable experience.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This small-group catamaran cruise combines the best of Santorini’s scenery, local flavors, and tranquility. Whether you’re in it for the views, the food, or the experience, it’s worth considering for a memorable day on the water.