Santorini: Traditional Fishing Trip and Fresh Fish Lunch

Santorini: Traditional Fishing Trip and Fresh Fish Lunch
Location: Greece
Price: $164 per person
Duration: 4 hours
Rating: 4.9/5 (128 reviews)

When you think of Santorini, images of sunsets over cliffside villages or the iconic blue-domed churches probably come to mind. But if you’re craving something more authentic and hands-on, this traditional fishing trip with a fresh seafood lunch might be just the ticket. For around four hours, you’ll sail on a wooden boat, learn time-honored fishing techniques, and enjoy the stunning southern coastline—an experience that connects you more deeply with the island’s maritime roots.

What stands out immediately are the personal touches: a small group capped at just 8 participants keeps the experience intimate, and the local guides, including captain Anthi, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. We love the opportunity to help fish ourselves—whether with a pole, nets, or hand line—and the delicious, freshly caught fish lunch served straight from the sea. Plus, the spectacular views of beaches like Red, White, and Black Beach from the water are a visual treat you can’t get from land.

A possible consideration might be weather dependency—if the sea is rough or windy, the experience could be less smooth, though most reviews highlight the comfortable boat with amenities like a toilet, a cabin, and shaded areas. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy learning new skills, savoring fresh seafood, and seeing Santorini from a different perspective. It’s especially popular among families, couples, and groups eager for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path activity.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Traditional fishing with local Greek fishermen offers a genuine taste of island life.
• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Fresh Seafood Lunch: The highlight is a tasty meal prepared from what you catch—great value for the price.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Sail along beaches only visible from the water, including Red, White, and Black Beach.
• Educational and Fun: Learn traditional fishing techniques, with options to help or simply observe.
• Comfortable Boat: Equipped with a cabin, restroom, and shaded areas for a comfortable day at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Highly Detailed Review

Setting Out on Santorini’s Seas
From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel by a luxury minivan, this tour feels thoughtfully organized. The transport is efficient, and the small group setting means you won’t be lost in a crowd. The journey to the harbor sets a relaxed tone, allowing you to chat with guides about the island’s history and fishing traditions.

Boarding a Wooden Fishing Boat
Once on board, you’ll meet captain Anthi and her crew, who are often praised for their warm, approachable manner. The boat itself is large and comfortable, with a cabin and multiple beds—perfect for relaxing between fishing or enjoying the scenery. There’s a kitchenette, so snacks and drinks are available, and a toilet onboard adds a touch of convenience missing from many maritime excursions.

Traditional Fishing Techniques
The core of this experience is learning authentic Greek fishing methods. You might try your hand at shrimp and octopus fishing, guided step-by-step by the crew. The reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are—many guests remember being carefully taught how to use different types of fishing gear, from poles to nets. One reviewer noted that they demonstrated how to fish using bait and other techniques, making it a very hands-on experience.

Stops at Red, White, and Black Beaches
The boat anchors close to the most picturesque beaches of Santorini—famous for their contrasting colors and striking scenery. Here, you can observe the wild beauty of the coastline and enjoy some snorkeling or just relax on deck. The crew often provides snorkeling masks, giving you a chance to see local fish up close.

The Fish Lunch
After fishing, the crew prepares and serves a delicious fresh fish lunch—the real reward for your efforts. Many reviews rave about the quality and freshness of the seafood, which is cooked right on the boat. Alongside the fish, you might find shrimp, squid, and side dishes, accompanied by local drinks. One guest described it as a “delicious meal that was cooked from the fish we caught,” emphasizing the fresh, authentic taste.

Views of Santorini’s Coastline
As the boat sails back, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the southern coastline, a perspective that’s hard to appreciate from land. This visual feast includes the famous beaches and rugged cliffs, making the trip both a visual and a sensory experience.

Reviews Revealing Authenticity and Value
Multiple reviewers mention how friendly and helpful the crew (including captain Anthi) are. One said, “Everyone was very friendly and helpful. Food and drinks were wonderful.” Several families echo that it’s great for children over 10, with some guides demonstrating how to use bait or reels—adding a learning element to the fun.

Pros and Cons
While most guests hail the authentic adventure and delicious, freshly caught lunch, some mention that fishing luck varies—some only caught small fish or none at all, which is a reminder that fishing is unpredictable. The boat’s large, comfortable design helps mitigate this, but it’s worth having realistic expectations if fishing isn’t successful every time.

Pricing and Value
At $164 per person, the price might seem steep for a four-hour tour, but considering the personalized service, fishing lesson, meals, and scenic views, many feel it offers excellent value. The trip combines culture, education, and leisure, making it a well-rounded experience worth the cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits adventurous travelers who are eager to try their hand at fishing, enjoy authentic local experiences, and love the idea of seeing Santorini from the water. Families with children over 10 especially appreciate the interactive fishing demonstrations and the delicious, self-caught lunch. It’s also perfect for those wanting a relaxed, small-group activity that offers a personal touch and a break from typical sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including pickup, sailing, fishing, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a fresh fish lunch, snacks and drinks onboard, fishing gear, snorkeling masks, towels, and a small group size for a more personal experience.

Are kids allowed on this trip?
Children over 9 years old can join, and the guides often demonstrate fishing techniques for children over 10, making it engaging for families.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes suitable for a boat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a change of clothes. Swimsuits and light jackets are also recommended.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat features a cabin, 5 beds, a kitchen, and a toilet, ensuring you stay comfortable during the trip.

What happens if we don’t catch much fish?
While many guests do catch fish—mainly medium-sized rockfish and breams—some only catch small fish or none at all. The trip is more about the experience, learning techniques, and enjoying the scenery.

Can I help with fishing?
Absolutely. Guides demonstrate various methods, and you’re encouraged to try your hand at fishing. Kids and parents alike often get involved.

What if the weather is bad?
The boat is designed to handle typical sea conditions, but rough weather might impact the experience. Check weather forecasts beforehand and be aware that some trips could be rescheduled or canceled for safety.

Is there vegetarian meal option?
Yes. You should advise the operator at least one day in advance if you want a vegetarian or kids’ meal.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, this Santorini traditional fishing trip offers a wonderful blend of authenticity, scenic beauty, and culinary delight. It’s particularly suited for those who want a meaningful connection with local fishing traditions, enjoy being on the water, and love fresh seafood. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and stunning coastal vistas make it a memorable experience—not just a tour.

While fishing success can vary, the overall value—combining education, scenery, and a delicious meal—makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your Santorini itinerary. If you’re seeking a relaxed, educational, and authentic adventure that takes you off the typical tourist trail, this fishing trip will meet and likely exceed your expectations.

Experience Tip: Book early, especially in peak season, to ensure your spot on this popular trip. And don’t forget your camera—those waterfront views are worth capturing.