Santorini isn’t just about sunsets and stunning caldera views— it’s also an excellent destination to enjoy authentic BBQ experiences on the water. Whether you’re after a luxurious private yacht or a lively catamaran trip with unlimited drinks, Santorini’s sea-based tours deliver some of the most memorable meals of your trip. We particularly love how some tours pair mouthwatering Greek barbecues with snorkeling in volcanic hot springs, like the Santorini Private Catamaran Cruise, or how others, such as Sunset Luxury Sailing, blend high-end comfort with incredible scenery. These tours let you enjoy authentic local flavors while soaking in the very best views.
Santorini’s BBQ tours come in several flavors—ranging from private yacht charters for those wanting exclusivity, to larger shared cruises that keep the price accessible. Many include stops at volcanic hot springs and secluded beaches, adding an element of adventure to your meal. The key is to decide what kind of experience suits you best: quiet intimacy or lively socializing, luxury or affordability. Below, we’ve gathered the top choices, each with its own style and highlights.
The list includes a variety of Santorini BBQ experiences, such as luxurious private yacht cruises, small-group catamaran adventures, and larger group tours—all with options for sunset or day tours, several with hotel transfers included. Many feature snorkeling, hot springs, and scenic stops at iconic beaches like Red Beach and White Beach. Explore all your options below.
1. Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise with Snorkel, BBQ & Open Bar
This popular cruise combines the best aspects of Santorini’s sea life with a classic BBQ. For around $136 per person, you spend 5 hours exploring colorful beaches like Red and White Beach, snorkeling in crystal waters, and soaking in volcanic hot springs. The onboard BBQ is prepared fresh and served with unlimited white wine, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and gourmet bites. With a guide explaining the volcanic history and scenic rock formations, this tour is a great all-in-one experience. Guests rave about the attentive crew, flavorful food, and breathtaking caldera vistas.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a lively, social boat tour with excellent food and wine, all in a flexible 5-hour trip. Ideal if you love snorkeling and learning about volcanic geology while dining well.
2. Santorini Sunset Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, drinks, transfer
At number 2, this 5-hour luxury cruise offers a more refined experience. For $127.44, you’ll board a sleek catamaran that provides hotel pickup and drop-off, with stunning views of Santorini’s iconic sunset if you opt for that. The tour stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and volcanic hot springs, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and relax. The onboard Greek barbecue is served with unlimited soft drinks, beer, and wine, making it an indulgent way to unwind. Reviews highlight the attentive crew and the spectacular scenery, especially at sunset.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a luxurious, sunset-focused experience with quality food and smooth logistics.
3. Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise with Meal, BBQ and Open Bar
This smaller group cruise offers a refined, intimate atmosphere at about $116 for 5 hours. It includes stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and Thirassia, with snorkeling gear, hot springs, and a seafood BBQ onboard. Guests love the chance to explore hidden coves away from the crowds, with the added bonus of fewer people onboard. The crew shares fascinating details about each site, and the smaller group size means more personalized service. The included BBQ features Greek appetizers, seafood, and fresh salads, paired with local wines and beers.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a more exclusive, relaxed adventure with great food and personalized attention.
4. Santorini Private Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Open Bar & Transfers
For those who want complete exclusivity, this private charter offers a tailored 5-hour experience for about $521 per person. Your own crew will take you to secluded spots like White Beach and volcanic hot springs, with options to customize the itinerary. The BBQ is a highlight, with unlimited drinks and Greek appetizers served onboard. The private nature means fewer crowds and more flexibility, perfect for special occasions or a romantic getaway. Reviews rave about the professional crew and the personalized service that makes this trip stand out.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prioritize privacy, luxury, and a fully customized day on the water. It’s a splurge but worth it for the experience.
5. Santorini Fishing Private Cruise boat tour – BBQ, Snorkeling
If you’re after a more active day, this private fishing and snorkeling tour offers a delightful mix of relaxation and sport. For about $492, you get your own captain and equipment to fish, snorkel, and explore the coast. The BBQ meal is homemade and served with plenty of drinks, all customized to your interests. Guests love how Mikey and Elias share their deep local knowledge, making this more than just a boat ride—it’s a personal adventure. You can expect to sail around Nea Kameni volcano and enjoy some secluded swimming spots.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers eager to combine fishing, snorkeling, and a home-cooked BBQ with a personalized touch.
6. Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Drinks and Hotel Pickup
This mid-priced tour at around $107 includes hotel transfer and a 5-hour sailing adventure. The route covers Red Beach, White Beach, and the volcanic caldera, with time for snorkeling and hot springs. The BBQ lunch or dinner features vegetarian options and is served with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks. Guests praise the crew’s friendliness and the flexibility of the departure times.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting a smooth, all-inclusive boat trip that combines scenic stops with excellent food.
7. Santorini Luxury Catamaran Sunset Cruise with BBQ, Drink and Transfer
At $150.61, this luxury sunset cruise aboard the Ipanema 58 offers a plush experience. Expect spacious decks, mineral springs, snorkeling, and superb views of Oia’s sunset from the water. The onboard Greek BBQ and unlimited drinks make it perfect for a special celebration or romantic evening. The reviews highlight the comfort and attentive service, making it one of the most elegant ways to enjoy Santorini’s beauty.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a high-end, memorable sunset experience with premium comfort and cuisine.
8. Sunset Sailing Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with BBQ and Drinks
For around $92, this relaxed 5-hour cruise offers a fantastic evening on the water. It includes snorkeling, volcanic hot springs, and the chance to swim at White and Red Beaches, topped with a BBQ meal and unlimited drinks. Guests enjoy the friendly crew and the chance to see the island’s scenery from the water while watching the sunset over Oia.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a casual, scenic sunset with plenty of time for swimming and a tasty BBQ.
9. Santorini Caldera Sailing Tour with BBQ Lunch and Drinks
This 5-hour tour at $220 offers a balanced experience of sightseeing and relaxation, with stops at Red and White Beaches, hot springs, and the volcanic islands. The BBQ features seafood and Greek appetizers, accompanied by unlimited soft drinks, beer, and wine. Guests report the trip as a highlight, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and soaking in volcanic waters.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a comprehensive caldera experience with excellent food and scenic stops.
10. Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip (BBQ, drinks, transfer)
This small-group experience at $150.61 offers a more personal touch. The 5-hour cruise includes stops at the Red and White Beaches, hot springs, and volcanic caves, with a delicious BBQ onboard. The reviews highlight the friendly crew and the chance to swim, snorkel, and relax in a more intimate setting.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a smaller, more relaxed, and personalized boat trip with premium BBQ.
11. Santorini Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise with BBQ, drinks, transfer
For about $192, enjoy this luxury daytime cruise aboard a spacious yacht. It includes stops at the Red Beach, hot springs, and snorkeling opportunities, with a Greek BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks. The trip garners praise for its comfort, stunning views, and attentive crew.
Bottom line: Top choice for travelers wanting a luxurious, all-inclusive day on the water with family or friends.
12. Private Motor Yacht Cruise with BBQ, Open Bar & Transfers
If privacy is your priority, this private motor yacht at $930 per person offers a fully customizable 5-hour experience. It includes stops at secluded beaches, hot springs, and volcanic islands, with a chef-prepared BBQ. Guests love the personalized service and exclusive access to hidden spots.
Bottom line: Best for high-end travelers seeking maximum privacy and tailored experiences.
13. Luxury Santorini Sunset Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
This 5-hour luxury sunset cruise for $154 offers an elegant way to enjoy the island. Starting from Vlychada Port, it hits all the major highlights like the Red Beach, White Beach, and volcanic hot springs, with a gourmet BBQ dinner and unlimited drinks. The reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and attentive service.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a sophisticated, scenic sunset with excellent cuisine.
14. Sailing Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with BBQ, Drinks and Transfer
At $92, this full-day cruise includes snorkeling, hot springs, and stops at White and Red Beaches. The onboard BBQ and unlimited drinks make it a relaxed, delicious way to see the island from the water. Guests love the friendly crew and the scenic views.
Bottom line: Good value for travelers seeking a full day of sailing, swimming, and excellent food.
15. Santorini Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Drinks and Transfer
For about $127, this luxury cruise offers a premium experience with stops at hot springs, volcanic islands, and the famous beaches, plus a Greek BBQ and unlimited drinks. The reviews highlight the boat’s comfort and the stunning scenery, making it a top choice for celebrating special occasions.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a high-end, all-inclusive day with scenic highlights and a relaxing atmosphere.
How to Choose Your Perfect BBQ Experience in Santorini
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, preferred pace, and interests. If you love privacy and customization, a private yacht is perfect. For a lively group with the chance to socialize and enjoy a classic BBQ, a shared catamaran might suit you better. If you’re dreaming of a sunset adventure with a touch of luxury, try the luxury sunset cruise.
Booking early is advisable, especially for high-end trips or private charters, which fill quickly during peak season. Think about time of day—day trips offer more exploration, while sunset tours provide a romantic finish.
Final Thoughts
Santorini offers a surprising variety of BBQ experiences on the water, whether you’re looking for a luxurious private yacht or a lively group cruise. For a balanced mix of scenery, food, and fun, the Santorini Gold Catamaran remains a top choice. For those seeking the utmost in comfort and privacy, the Private Yacht is unbeatable.
Travelers with a taste for adventure and great scenery will appreciate the small-group cruises that blend intimacy with fun. No matter your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable BBQ experiences in Santorini’s magical waters.
