Santorini Cruise on Catamaran with BBQ & Open Bar

Santorini Cruise on Catamaran with BBQ & Open Bar: An Authentic Day at Sea

Imagine cruising along Santorini’s coast, away from the crowds, with the wind in your hair, stunning views all around, and the smell of grilled food wafting through the air. For around $127 per person, you can experience all this during a 5-hour catamaran adventure that takes you past the island’s most iconic spots — volcanic hot springs, Red Beach, White Beach, and inside the Caldera.

What really makes this tour stand out is its combination of breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and a relaxed, all-inclusive atmosphere. We love how easy it is to leave the busy towns behind and enjoy a calm day on the water, swimming in thermal springs and snorkeling at unique beaches accessible only by boat. Plus, the onboard Greek barbecue and open bar turn a simple cruise into a true taste of Greek hospitality.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency—bad weather can alter the itinerary or cancel the trip altogether—so it’s best to plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who want an easy, enjoyable day with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, and savor local flavors. If you’re after a more active or exclusive experience, you might want to explore other options, but for a balanced, scenic, and social day out, this cruise hits the mark.

Key Points

• Scenic stops at volcanic hot springs, Red Beach, and White Beach provide unique swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
• All-inclusive: lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and transport included for great value.
• Relaxing pace: plenty of time to soak up the sun, enjoy the views, and indulge in a Greek barbecue.
• Limited crowds: escape the busier towns and experience Santorini’s spectacular coastline from the water.
• Family-friendly with vegetarian options and accessible amenities.
• Weather-sensitive: check conditions as the itinerary may change if sailing isn’t safe.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Catamaran Cruise

If you’re visiting Santorini, chances are you’ve seen the postcard-perfect views of the caldera, but experiencing them from the water offers a whole new perspective. This full-day catamaran cruise is designed to give you that panoramic, authentic experience. With pickup included, you’re transported smoothly from your hotel or nearby point to the Ammoudi or Athinios port, where the adventure begins.

The Boat and Onboard Experience

The vessel itself is an open-style catamaran, allowing for 360º views that are perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. As we settle into our comfortable spots on deck—some under the shade, others basking in the sun—we immediately notice the friendly crew ready to make the day memorable. The open bar offers water, soft drinks, and Santorini’s local white wine, ensuring everyone stays refreshed without feeling pressured to buy extras.

The boat’s design emphasizes space and comfort, with plenty of room to lounge, sit in the shaded area, or stretch out in the open sun. The floating devices and snorkeling gear are available for those eager to explore beneath the surface. The crew provides safety instructions in several languages, which makes the experience accessible to international visitors.

The Stops: A Closer Look

1. Santorini Volcano & Hot Springs

Our first stop is near the volcanic island, where the hot springs invite a warm dip in the sulfuric waters. The rocks here are black, formed by lava, creating an otherworldly landscape. The mysterious lava formations and the dark black rocks add a dramatic backdrop for photos. We loved the way the crew kept us safe as we swam close to the sulfuric water, which is about 4°C warmer than the open water — a bonus for those chilly days.

The proximity to the volcano means you can marvel at the Old Lighthouse, Indian Rock, and Black Mountain from the boat, giving you a sense of the island’s volcanic origins. The 30-minute stop here isn’t long, but it’s enough to admire the landscape and take a quick swim.

2. Red Beach

Next up is Red Beach, famous for its striking red volcanic cliffs. Here, you’ll find a swimming and snorkeling spot that can’t be reached by land, making it a special highlight. The 30-minute pause is perfect for snapping photos of the vibrant red cliffs, wading into the water, and exploring the marine environment. According to reviews, this stop offers some of the most stunning views and crystal-clear waters, making it a favorite for many.

3. White Beach

The third stop takes you to White Beach, characterized by its limestone formations. The full-length stop provides ample time for swimming or snorkeling, with equipment provided by the crew. Here, you’ll also enjoy your Greek BBQ lunch, which includes pork or chicken skewers, grilled vegetables, stuffed vine leaves, salads, and pita bread. The food is consistently praised as delicious, with travelers noting the generous portions and tasty flavors. This stop combines a relaxing swim with a hearty meal, making it an ideal break.

Inside the Caldera & Return

After the beach stops, the cruise takes a scenic journey inside the Caldera, where you can admire the iconic cliffs and panoramic views. This part of the journey provides perfect photo opportunities, especially as the sun begins to set or during calmer weather. The boat then heads back to the port, where a driver will transfer you back to your original meeting point.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

The value of this tour lies in its inclusiveness: transportation, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and multiple scenic stops all come together at a reasonable price. The reviews echo this sentiment, with travelers describing it as a “beautiful day in paradise” and “great day out,” highlighting the friendly crew, delicious food, and stunning scenery.

One traveler mentions, “the crew was fantastic, kept us safe, made it fun, and taught us about the island,” which adds an educational layer to the experience. Others appreciated the opportunity to relax, noting how laying on the boat’s front was “so enjoyable” — perfect for those who want a blend of sightseeing and leisure.

Practical Considerations

• Timing and Duration: The 5-hour cruise balances exploration with relaxation, making it suitable for most travelers. The pickup service is convenient, especially if you prefer not to navigate the busy town centers.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 55 travelers, the boat is large enough to feel social but not overcrowded.
• Weather Impact: As the itinerary might change depending on weather conditions, flexible plans are advised. If sailing isn’t possible, refunds or alternative dates are available.
• What to Bring: Towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended. Remember to bring a photo ID or passport for check-in.
• Accessibility: The tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate and service animals allowed.

Summary of the Experience

This catamaran cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and relaxation. The stops at volcanic hot springs, Red Beach, and White Beach are truly special, giving you access to areas you can’t reach by land. The Greek barbecue lunch is a highlight, with delicious food and good portions, often praised by reviewers. The open bar and snorkeling gear add to the carefree, fun atmosphere.

While the weather dependency is a downside, most travelers find that the benefits outweigh the risks, especially when the skies are clear. The family-friendly nature and vegetarian options make this a suitable choice for most visitors, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.

In essence, this cruise is a great way to see Santorini from a different perspective — on the water, surrounded by natural beauty, with the comforts of good food and an easygoing pace.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxing day on the sea, this tour offers excellent value and memorable scenery. It’s perfect for those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views, combined with good food and drinks. Family travelers, couples, or groups wanting a low-stress, all-in-one experience will find this cruise particularly appealing.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more active or private experience, or if you’re seeking a more exclusive or luxury outing, you might consider other options. But for most visitors wanting a fun, scenic, and laid-back day, this catamaran tour hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including transfers, stops, and the return journey.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers round-trip transportation from your hotel, snorkeling gear, a Greek BBQ lunch, soft drinks, water, and access to facilities on board.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarians can enjoy grilled vegetables and other vegetarian-friendly food options included in the lunch.

Can I swim and snorkel at the stops?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and the stops at hot springs, Red Beach, and White Beach are perfect for swimming and exploring marine life.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sunhat, and a photo ID or passport are recommended. Towels are not provided, and most travelers bring dry clothes for after swimming.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is family-friendly. Service animals are also permitted.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, depending on weather conditions, the stops and schedule might be altered or canceled for safety reasons.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather prevents sailing, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Santorini catamaran cruise balances spectacular views, local flavors, and relaxing stops to create a memorable day. Whether you’re keen on swimming in volcanic waters or simply soaking in the scenery with a glass of wine, it’s a solid choice for a laid-back yet lively adventure.