Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, Drinks, & Oia Visit

Sailing around Santorini on a catamaran offers a unique way to see this iconic Greek island. This 5-hour cruise costs about $145 per person, and it promises a mix of stunning scenery, swimming in crystal waters, and enjoying a delicious meal with drinks. It’s offered by MAGIC STAR and covers some of the most sought-after spots, including Ammoudi Bay, Thirassia Island, the Hot Springs, and the Red and White beaches.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small group size—with a maximum of 18 passengers—means you’re not just another face in a crowd. Second, the skilled crew and knowledgeable guides enhance the journey, making it both fun and informative.

A potential consideration? The boat cannot moor directly on beaches, so if swimming right on the sand is your priority, you’ll need to be comfortable swimming from a short distance. But for those who want spectacular views, excellent food, and an authentic sailing experience, this cruise fits the bill perfectly.

This tour suits travelers looking for a comprehensive, relaxed day on the water—perfect for couples, friends, or families who want to see Santorini’s highlights without the hassle of land-based tours. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scenic vistas paired with good food and drinks, you’ll find this cruise is hard to beat.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with live commentary enhances the journey.
• Multiple stops allow for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing in pristine waters.
• All-inclusive food, drinks, and safety equipment make for a worry-free trip.
• Flexible pickup options from Oia or Thera provide convenience.
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Beautiful sunset viewing at Vlichada port adds a memorable finish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Catamaran Cruise

For travelers eager to enjoy Santorini from its most picturesque perspective, this cruise offers an authentic, relaxing escape. We loved the way this tour balances adventure and comfort—exploring remote spots while enjoying delicious food and drinks in a cozy group.

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

Starting from your pickup point, either Oia or Thera, the cruise begins with a scenic ride across the island’s coast. The first stop at Ammoudi Bay, right under the lively town of Oia, is a perfect photo opportunity. It’s a charming harbor famous for its vivid blue waters and cliffside tavernas, though the boat doesn’t dock here directly. Instead, you’ll cruise past this iconic spot, getting a sense of its charm from the water.

Next, you’ll head to Thirassia Island, a quieter sibling of Santorini. Here, the boat docks for about 75 minutes, giving you time to snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear waters. This is where many guests tell us they appreciated the opportunity to relax away from the crowds and enjoy the calm Aegean Sea. One review mentioned, “The sailing was amazing, and the crew took us through a fantastic route,” highlighting how the captain’s expertise enhances the experience.

A key feature of this cruise is the Hot Springs at Palea Kameni. You’ll have around 45 minutes to swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters, which many find both soothing and exhilarating. Some reviews note how the “healing waters” make this experience feel almost mystical, adding a healthful touch to the fun.

The cruise continues past the Santorini Volcano, giving you a chance to admire its impressive form and learn about the island’s volcanic past through live commentary. Passing by the Caldera Cliff, you’ll see Indian Rocks and the renowned Light House of Santorini, offering picture-perfect moments.

The stops at the Red and White beaches are brief but visually striking. The Red Beach, with its crimson cliffs, and the White Beach, with its pale sands, are famous for their beauty—and their inaccessibility by conventional land vehicles, which makes viewing them from the water a bonus.

Finally, the day concludes at Vlichada port, where you’ll enjoy a light dessert and watch the sunset, a breathtaking display of colors over the horizon. Many reviewers rave about this “stunning” sunset, and the inclusion of a glass of Prosecco makes it even more special.

The Food and Drinks

One of the biggest highlights, as echoed in reviews, is the quality of food. Onboard, you’ll find a variety of seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, including tapas-style appetizers and fresh fruit. Many travelers mention how accommodating the crew is—catering to dietary restrictions like gluten or dairy allergies, which means everyone can enjoy the meal.

The open bar features local white wine, beer, soft drinks, and a glass of Prosecco, letting you toast the stunning scenery or simply relax with a drink in hand. As one guest noted, “The staff always made sure we had a drink, making the experience effortless and enjoyable.”

The Crew and Guides

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable, friendly crew, with some mentioning specific captains like Vasilis or Nikitas for their professionalism and personable approach. The live commentary adds context to the sites, transforming a boat ride into a mini educational tour. Guests appreciate stories and insights about the island’s volcanic history, local culture, and the islands’ geography.

More Great Tours Nearby

Comfort and Practicalities

The small group size means fewer crowds and more personalized service. The luxurious, air-conditioned minibus transfers are a thoughtful touch, particularly in warm weather. The cruise itself lasts about five hours, which allows enough time to see many sights without feeling rushed.

While the boat cannot moor directly on beaches, most swimming is done from nearby, short-distance swimming spots. Travelers should be comfortable with a bit of water activity, as snorkeling gear and towels are provided.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who crave scenic beauty combined with good food and drinks. Couples seeking a romantic sunset, friends wanting a fun day at sea, or families looking for memorable water adventures will all find this tour appealing. The personalized experience and stunning vistas make it a standout way to spend a day in Santorini.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Cruise Best For?

If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and fine dining, this cruise ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided insight into the sites they visit and prefer a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. The quality of the crew, the delicious onboard meal, and the views of Santorini’s caldera truly make it a worthwhile investment.

That said, if your main priority is being right on the sand and swimming directly on beaches, you might find this cruise less satisfying, as it doesn’t dock on beaches. However, for stunning vistas, a peaceful atmosphere, and a well-organized day on the water, this trip is hard to beat.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Santorini Catamaran Cruise

What is included in the price?
The price covers roundtrip hotel transfers, the boat cruise, live commentary, snorkeling gear, towels, safety equipment, a delicious meal with seafood, meat, vegetarian options, and an open bar with wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Are there options for different pickup locations?
Yes. You can choose to be picked up from either Oia or Thera, with additional pickup details provided after booking.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, and starting times vary. You’ll need to check the availability for your preferred date.

Can I swim or snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. You’ll visit several swimming spots, including the Red Beach, Thirassia, and the Hot Springs. Snorkeling gear and towels are provided, and the crew is attentive to safety.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the boat accommodates up to 18 passengers, creating a more intimate experience with personalized attention from the crew.

What about dietary restrictions?
The crew accommodates dietary needs, including gluten and dairy allergies, and will prepare meals accordingly if specified during booking.

Does the tour include a sunset?
Yes, the cruise concludes at Vlichada port with a beautiful sunset view, accompanied by a glass of Prosecco, making a perfect end to the day.

In sum, this Santorini catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic experience—combining scenic beauty, engaging guides, and excellent food and drinks. It’s perfect for those wanting to see the best of Santorini from the water, all while enjoying a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking a romantic getaway, or simply eager to explore the island’s waters, this trip promises a memorable day to treasure.

You can check availability for your dates here: