Luxury Catamaran Sunset Cruise with BBQ Fresh Fish & Drinks

Setting sail on a luxury catamaran in Greece promises more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to experience Santorini from a fresh perspective. For about $176 per person, you’ll spend between 4 to 6 hours exploring volcanic islets, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and watching one of the world’s most incredible sunsets. Guided by friendly crew members and with all the comforts of a well-equipped yacht, this cruise offers a balanced blend of adventure, relaxation, and genuine local flavor.

What we truly appreciate are the authentic Greek meal onboard—featuring fresh fish, grilled octopus, and delicious salads—and the opportunity to snorkel at Thirassia Island and around the volcano. The beautiful sunset in Oia, viewed from the water, is truly a highlight; many travelers rave about the view that only Santorini can deliver.

A potential drawback? The itinerary may change if the weather turns windy—common in the Aegean—so flexibility is key. But overall, this tour suits those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and immersive experience of Santorini’s natural beauty and culinary delights without the crowds.

• Stunning Sunset Views: Watch the sun dip behind Oia from the deck of a luxury catamaran.
• Authentic Greek Cuisine: Enjoy a well-prepared BBQ with fresh fish, grilled octopus, and traditional Greek salads.
• Snorkeling Opportunities: Dive into the salty waters near Thirassia Island and volcanic islets.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, towels, toilets, cabins, and unlimited drinks.
• Flexible Schedule: Duration varies, with options for morning or evening cruises.
• Authentic Experience: Small group sizes and professional crew enhance the feeling of a personalized adventure.

Exploring the Experience

We found this cruise to be an excellent way to see Santorini from a different angle—away from the busy streets and into the open sea, where the landscape feels even more awe-inspiring. Since the tour lasts around 4 to 6 hours, it’s a manageable day trip that balances activity and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Itinerary Breakdown

Start with Hotel Pickup:
The tour begins with convenient pickup from your hotel in a luxury minibus, meaning you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics. This sets a comfortable tone from the start.

First Stop — Thirassia Island:
Once aboard the Lagoon catamaran, we set sail toward Thirassia, a smaller, less touristy island that offers some of the clearest waters for swimming. The water here is described as deep blue and crystalline, perfect for a refreshing dip. Many travelers mention that the snorkel gear provided allows you to get close to the marine life and explore the salty waters at your leisure.

Volcanic Islets and Black Lava:
Next, the cruise passes the historic volcanic islets, with their deep black lava formations. The opportunity to swim near these ancient lava rocks offers a unique perspective on Santorini’s volcanic origins. Passing the Lighthouse of Akrotiri—built in 1892—adds a touch of historical charm and photo-worthy scenery, especially at sunset.

Passing the Indian and Black Mountains:
The route also takes you past the Indian face mountain and the black mountain, providing a landscape that’s dramatically different from typical sea views—an instant photo-op and conversation starter.

Dinner Under the Stars:
As the boat anchors near the southern beaches, the crew serves a traditional Greek BBQ—featuring fresh fish, chicken or vegetarian skewers, along with grilled octopus and local cheeses. Many reviews praise the quality and authenticity of the food, noting that it’s a generous meal with plenty of Greek salads and Greek yogurt with spoon sweets for dessert.

Photo Stops and Sunset in Oia:
After dinner, the boat heads towards the Old Harbor of Fira and Armeni Bay for quick photo opportunities. The final and most anticipated part? Arriving just outside Oia to witness the famous sunset, where the sky turns to shades of orange and pink—viewed from the water, it’s a spectacle that’s worth every penny.

Return Journey:
Finally, the cruise brings you back to Ammoudi Bay, where a minibus awaits to return you directly to your accommodation, completing a seamless day.

What We Love

• The sunset in Oia, seen from the water, is arguably the best way to appreciate Santorini’s natural beauty. It’s a serene, unobstructed view that’s difficult to match from land.
• The food and drinks—unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks—are a real highlight. The quality of the dishes, especially the fresh fish and grilled octopus, elevates this from a simple boat trip to a memorable culinary experience.

Possible Drawbacks

While overall excellent, it’s worth noting that the itinerary can change if the weather is windy or rough—a common concern in the Greek islands. Also, the group size can vary, and some travelers might prefer a smaller, more private setting, especially for sunset viewing.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxed day of scenic beauty, good food, and culture. If you’re after a romantic sunset, a family-friendly outing, or a small-group adventure, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate authentic Greek cuisine and enjoy snorkeling or swimming in impressive volcanic waters.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pickup and Transportation

Starting with the hotel pickup is a thoughtful touch that sets a stress-free tone. The luxury minibus ensures comfort, giving you a chance to relax before the adventure begins. The 11 pickup locations reflect the tour’s accessibility—whether you’re staying in Oia, Fira, Kamari, or Pyrgos, chances are your location is covered.

The Sailing Experience

Once on the catamaran Lagoon, you immediately notice the spaciousness and comfort of the vessel. Many reviews mention the music and relaxing atmosphere, which contribute to the leisurely vibe. The floating equipment and towels provided make swimming more comfortable, and the toilets and cabins onboard add convenience for longer cruises.

Snorkeling and Swimming at Thirassia and Volcano

The first swimming stop at Thirassia is often praised as a highlight. The water is described as deep, salty, and crystal clear—ideal for cooling off after sunbathing on deck. Some guests mention how easy it is to get in and out with the provided snorkel gear, offering a chance to see the marine life.

Swimming near the volcanic islets is a unique experience—the black lava formations make the water even more striking. Many comment on how surreal it feels to be in such a volcanic environment and how the salty water is invigorating.

Passing Landmarks and Scenic Views

Sailing past the Lighthouse of Akrotiri, built in 1892, sparks interest due to its historical significance. The Indian face mountain and the black mountain provide dramatic backdrops for photos and add depth to the landscape.

Dinner and Sunset

The highlight is undoubtedly the sunset in Oia. Many travelers have remarked that viewing the sunset from the water offers a more expansive and uninterrupted view compared to land-based vantage points. The Greek BBQ, with its fresh fish and grilled octopus, is often described as generous and flavorful, with some reviews mentioning the excellent quality of the food.

Photo Opportunities

Stops at Armeni Bay and the Old Harbor of Fira allow for quick snapshots of the island’s charm. These are perfect moments to capture the stunning scenery and create lasting memories.

The Return

After the sunset, the cruise heads back to Ammoudi Bay, where the minibus awaits. Many travelers appreciate how smoothly the transfer operates, ensuring no stress at the end of a satisfying day.

• Arrive early for the best sunset viewing if you want a prime spot.
• Bring your snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater; it’s included, but your own equipment might be more comfortable.
• Be prepared for weather changes—the itinerary can shift if wind conditions become challenging.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with a good zoom—scenic photo stops and sunset shots are plentiful.
• Wear comfortable clothing and bring a light jacket for the evening as it can get breezy on the water.

This Luxury Catamaran Sunset Cruise offers a well-rounded glimpse of Santorini’s natural beauty, culinary delights, and unique volcanic landscapes. It combines the thrill of sailing, the serenity of swimming, and the awe of a sunset—making it a memorable highlight of any trip to the island.

It’s especially suitable for those who value authentic experiences with a touch of luxury, without sacrificing comfort or local flavor. If you love good food, scenic views, and a relaxed pace, this cruise is likely to be among your favorite moments in Greece.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the schedule and weather conditions.

What’s included in the price?
Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, the catamaran cruise, lunch or dinner, unlimited drinks (white wine, beer, soft drinks, water), snorkeling equipment, towels, toilets, cabins, and music onboard.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and you’re encouraged to explore the waters at Thirassia Island and volcanic islets.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian skewers are part of the BBQ menu, so vegetarians can enjoy a satisfying meal onboard.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change or be canceled if wind or weather conditions are too rough for safe sailing. Flexibility is key.

Is there a small group option?
Yes, private groups are available, and many reviews note the personalized attention from the crew.

What’s the best time to book?
Check availability early, especially for sunset cruises—these tend to fill up quickly.

Are there any hidden costs?
Tipping the crew is customary but not included, so factor that into your budget.

How do I get back after the cruise?
A minibus will take you back to your hotel from Ammoudi Bay, making the end of your day fuss-free.

To sum it up, this cruise strikes a fine balance—offering scenic beauty, engaging activities, and delicious Greek cuisine, all aboard a comfortable vessel. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Santorini from the water, enjoy a memorable sunset, and indulge in authentic flavors without the fuss of crowded land-based viewpoints. Whether celebrating a romantic getaway or seeking a relaxing family outing, this tour delivers a truly Greek experience with a touch of luxury.

You can check availability for your dates here: