CRUISE AROUND SANTORINI IN STYLE AND SPEED

Imagine gliding across the water in a sleek, spacious motorboat, the wind tangling your hair as you cruise around Santorini’s iconic caldera. For about $258 per person, this private boat tour offers a flexible, personalized way to see the island’s most famous sights—St. Nicolas Island, the old port in Fira, and even hot springs—while enjoying drinks, snacks, and the best sunset views. This experience lasts around 4 hours if you choose the Oia Experience, with options to tailor your itinerary with a friendly skipper.

What we love most about this tour is its combination of comfort and adventure. The boat itself is described as “slick and comfy,” with ample space for up to eight guests—ideal for a small group or family. Plus, the snorkeling gear, beach towels, and safety equipment included make it easy to relax and get into the water without worries. The sunset champagne is another highlight, offering a picture-perfect moment that’s hard to beat.

One thing to consider is that this experience doesn’t include a meal (apart from snacks and fruit on board), so if you’re craving a proper Greek lunch, you might want to plan that separately. Also, transfers from the port aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point.

This private cruise is a fantastic choice for adventurous couples, small groups, or travelers seeking a personalized, memorable experience on Santorini’s waters. If you love stunning sea views, customized itineraries, and a dash of luxury, this tour could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a flexible itinerary and private skipper
• Comfortable, stylish motorboat suitable for up to 8 guests
• Includes drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, and towels for a relaxed water adventure
• Spectacular sunset views with champagne and drinks on deck
• Visits to iconic spots like hot springs, volcano, and hidden caldera viewpoints
• No included meals and additional transfer costs should be considered

The Cruise Around Santorini in Style and Speed is more than just a boat ride; it’s a curated journey designed for those who want intimate access to the island’s fabulous coastlines and legendary scenery. With a 28-foot motorboat as your chariot, you’ll set out from your chosen meeting point—likely in Oia or Fira—and cruise at a lively pace with a skilled skipper (like Thanos, from a positive review) guiding the way.

The tour options vary, but the core experience revolves around being out on the water—savoring breezes, discovering secluded spots, and soaking in views you won’t get from land. Let’s break down what each experience might include:

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Oia Experience (4 hours)

Starting from Oia, this route circles around the caldera, giving you views of the famous cliffside villages from the water. You’ll visit St. Nicolas Island, with its striking lighthouse, and have the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters or snorkel in spots accessible only by boat. The old port of Fira is another stop, where you can admire the steep staircases and vibrant harbor activity from a comfortable vantage point.

A highlight is relaxing in the hot springs, which some guests rave about. The thermal waters are known to be rejuvenating, and the boat’s crew typically provides towels and safety gear, making the experience comfortable and worry-free.

The Thirasia and Hidden Spots Option

This part of the tour takes you to the less-visited island of Thirasia, often described as unspoiled and peaceful. You might explore abandoned villages, enjoy the caldera views from different angles, or even visit a hidden winery—a treat for wine lovers.

The Greek Lunch Option (3 hours)

For those wanting a culinary experience, this cruise ends at a beautiful restaurant on Thirasia, where you can savor authentic Greek cuisine. While a full meal isn’t included in the price, the setting and food are likely to be memorable, especially with the stunning scenery around you.

Sunset Cruise

Watching the sunset from the deck is a romantic highlight. Guests have described the experience as “amazing,” with sparkling wine in hand and horizon ablaze with color. It’s a great way to cap off a day exploring Santorini by sea.

The motorboat itself is described as stylish, spacious, and comfortable, with all safety gear included. It’s designed for small groups—up to 8 people—making it an intimate experience. You’ll have beverages like beer, ouzo, and wine on board, along with fruits and snacks to keep you refreshed.

Snorkelers will appreciate the snorkeling equipment provided, and beach towels are available for lounging or drying off after a swim. Since there’s a WC and cabin on the boat, you can relax in privacy, which is quite a bonus compared to open deck-only boats.

The speed and style of the boat mean you can cover more ground in less time, giving you access to spots that are otherwise tricky to reach. Plus, the flexible itinerary allows your skipper to tailor the day based on weather conditions and your preferences.

At $258 per person, this private cruise offers good value, especially considering the personalized attention and comfort. Keep in mind the minimum rental time is 2 hours, with the price for up to 4 people included in the base rate. Extra guests cost 100 euros each, which might make it less budget-friendly for larger groups.

Transfers to and from the meeting point aren’t included, so you should plan transportation accordingly. The experience is not suitable for children under 2, non-swimmers, or people prone to seasickness, so be mindful if these apply.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later—and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind.

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Why You’ll Love It

• Stunning views of the caldera and sunset that are best appreciated from the water
• The friendly, knowledgeable guides like Thanos who make the experience informative and relaxed
• The luxury and comfort of a modern boat with plenty of amenities
• The opportunity to swim and snorkel in pristine waters, away from crowded beaches
• The chance to discover hidden spots and local gems that aren’t on typical tourist itineraries

What to Consider

• It doesn’t include a full meal, so plan for lunch if needed
• Additional costs for transfers and extra guests can add up
• Not suitable if you’re looking for a large group or a more budget option
• The weather can impact trip plans—be aware of potential cancellations or rescheduling

This private boat cruise is ideal for small groups, couples, or families looking for a personalized, relaxed way to explore Santorini’s coast. If you love the idea of floating along the caldera, enjoying sunset drinks, and having the freedom to customize your route, this tour checks many boxes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic experiences over large-group tours.

It’s perfect if you want a romantic sunset cruise or a family-friendly water adventure with all the amenities provided. However, if you prefer more extensive dining options or a larger group experience, you might want to consider other cruise options.

A private cruise around Santorini offers an intimate way to see the island’s breathtaking waters, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying stunning views. For around $258, you get a stylish boat, drinks, snacks, and a flexible itinerary—making it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a personalized experience on the caldera.

The experience shines brightest when you’re looking for a blend of adventure and luxury, especially if you’re eager to see hidden spots, enjoy the hot springs, and end your day with a spectacular sunset. The positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, excellent wine selection, and memorable scenery as key highlights, making it a good choice for travelers who prioritize quality and authenticity.

While it’s not a budget option, the comfort and customization make it a good value for those wanting to avoid crowded tours or overly scripted excursions. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a peaceful way to enjoy Santorini from the water, this cruise is likely to leave you with beautiful memories.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 2 years old. It’s best suited for adults or older children, especially if they’re comfortable on boats.

Are transfers to and from the port included?
No, transfers are not included, so you should arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Can I choose my stops during the cruise?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible and can be tailored with your skipper based on weather and your preferences.

What drinks are included on board?
You’ll find beer, ouzo, and wine available, along with fruits and snacks.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to explore the waters around Santorini.

How long is the average cruise?
Options range from 3 to 4 hours, with the main experience lasting around 4 hours if you pick the Oia route.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 guests, making it an intimate, personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the scenery.

This private boat tour around Santorini offers a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and scenic beauty—ideal for those who want to explore the caldera with a touch of luxury and a lot of authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: