Santorini:Private Catamaran Tour with BBQ & Unlimited Drinks

If you’re dreaming of a luxury sailing adventure in Santorini, this private catamaran tour is an excellent way to indulge. For about $1,412 per group of up to four, you’ll enjoy five hours on the water with a customizable route, inclusive of a delicious BBQ, unlimited drinks, and hotel transfers. Whether you choose a morning or sunset cruise, the experience combines comfort, authentic scenery, and a touch of exclusivity that’s hard to beat.

What we really love about this tour is the chance to visit less crowded beaches, like White Beach and Red Beach, while avoiding the hustle typical of popular spots. Also, the onboard BBQ meal with local wines and drinks offers a genuine taste of Greece in a relaxed setting. The hotel pickup adds convenience, making the whole day stress-free.

One potential consideration is the dependence on weather—as with any open-water cruise, weather conditions can alter the planned itinerary. Still, for travelers seeking a private, flexible experience on Santorini’s stunning waters, this tour suits couples, small families, or friends wanting a more intimate day away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Exclusive experience: Private group, customizable route, and luxury amenities.
• Scenic stops: Swim, snorkel, and take photos at unique beaches like White and Red Beach.
• Authentic meal: Onboard BBQ includes local Greek dishes and unlimited drinks.
• Convenience: Hotel transfers and a guide ensure smooth, hassle-free logistics.
• Flexible timing: Choose morning or sunset departure for different ambiance.
• Weather-dependent: Itinerary might shift if weather conditions change.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Santorini Private Catamaran Experience

When we think about what makes a memorable Santorini getaway, a private catamaran cruise often tops the list. This tour, operated by Sunset Oia, promises a five-hour journey through some of the island’s most iconic and secluded spots, all while enjoying the comforts of a modern luxury vessel. The fact that it’s tailored for small groups (up to four people) means you get a more personalized experience, with the option to customize the route with your captain—whether that’s sticking to the suggested itinerary or exploring some hidden corners of the caldera.

Starting Point and How You Get There

The tour begins from Ammoudi port if you opt for the sunset cruise, or from Vlychada port for the morning experience. Hotel pickups are included, reducing the hassle of figuring out transportation. Expect to be collected from your accommodation roughly 1.5 hours before your scheduled departure—so early mornings or late afternoons might require some planning. The crew greets you at the port, helping you settle aboard the vessel, which is equipped with high-tech amenities, towels, snorkeling gear, and music to set the mood.

Itinerary Breakdown

The route is carefully curated to showcase Santorini’s geological marvels and scenic beauty. If the weather cooperates, you’ll first head towards Ammoudi port, a charming spot nestled below Oia. From there, the journey takes you past Aspronissi Island, the Akrotiri peninsula, and Indian Rock, known for their striking landscapes and geological formations.

The Hot Springs are a highlight—though not a true hot spring, the sulfur-rich waters here are warmer and are a favorite swimming stop for many. You’ll spend around 30 minutes soaking and snorkeling, enjoying the mineral-rich waters that add a therapeutic touch to the experience. One guest remarked, “The sulfur waters in the Hot Springs felt surprisingly warm and soothing, making the swim even more special.”

Next, the crew prepares a fresh BBQ meal right onboard. The menu includes options like pork, chicken, vegetarian dishes, shrimp saganaki, vine leaves stuffed with rice, Greek salad, pasta with red sauce, bread, and tzatziki—plenty of options to suit different tastes. The unlimited drinks—white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water—complement the meal, allowing for a relaxed, festive atmosphere without overindulgence.

The final stops are at White Beach, famous for its pristine white cliffs, and Red Beach, known for its dramatic, colored cliffs and unique landscape. These are perfect moments to take photos and enjoy the scenery away from the crowds. You’ll appreciate that the cruise does not moor directly on the beaches, but gets you close enough for swimming and snorkeling—adding convenience without the hassle of beach access issues.

Sunset Option and Its Charm

If you opt for the sunset cruise, the route is reversed, ending at Ammoudi for that famous Santorini sunset. Watching the sun dip below Oia from the water adds a romantic, unforgettable ending to your day. Guests have shared that “seeing the sunset from the boat, with the cliffs glowing orange, was truly breathtaking.” The sunset cruise offers a quieter, more tranquil end to your day compared to the busy Oia viewpoints.

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Comfort, Amenities, and Overall Experience

The vessel itself boasts modern technology and high comfort amenities, including clean facilities to rinse off after swimming, towels, and floating devices. The onboard music and the scenery combine to create a relaxed yet lively atmosphere—perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking exclusivity.

The all-inclusive nature of the tour — from transportation to meals and drinks — adds excellent value, especially considering the personalized service and multiple swimming stops. Many guests mention that the luxury feel of the boat and the professional, friendly crew make the price well worth it.

Authenticity and Cultural Touches

One of the best aspects of this experience is its authentic Greek flavor. The meal highlights local ingredients, and the stunning views along the caldera are genuinely rare to come by. Guests have expressed appreciation for the small-group intimacy, which fosters a more genuine, less touristy experience. Plus, the tour’s flexibility means you can tailor it slightly, making your Santorini day truly your own.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers superb value, here are a few points to keep in mind: weather can influence the route and stops, so flexibility is essential. Also, as the boat cannot moor directly on the beaches visited, swimmers should be comfortable with snorkeling from the boat rather than a land-based beach entry.

The price point might seem high at first glance, but when you factor in all included amenities, private transportation, and the personalized experience, it becomes a strong value proposition—especially if you’re traveling as a small group or couple. For those looking for a more exclusive, less crowded experience, this cruise fits perfectly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private catamaran tour suits travelers who value comfort, exclusivity, and authentic scenery. Small groups or couples seeking a romantic escape or a special occasion celebration will appreciate the personalized touches and flexibility. If you’re someone who enjoys delicious local food, relaxing swims, and stunning sunsets, then this experience offers a wonderful blend of all those elements.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more energetic, social atmosphere, you might find larger group cruises more suited to your style. Also, those with mobility issues should note that the boat cannot moor directly on all beaches, and the itinerary may shift due to weather, which could affect certain stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers are part of the package, making the experience more convenient and reducing logistics stress.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts approximately five hours, with starting times available based on your booking date. Check availability for specific times.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, and a light jacket or warm clothing for the boat. Comfortable shoes are also recommended.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited drinks—white wine, beers, soft drinks, and water—are included throughout the cruise.

Can I customize the route?
The cruise follows a suggested route, but you can discuss with the captain to customize it, weather permitting.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be altered or canceled in case of bad weather, but the tour operator generally offers options for rescheduling or refund if necessary.

Is this experience suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Swimmers will enjoy the swimming and snorkeling stops, but non-swimmers or those with mobility issues should consider their comfort level, as direct beach mooring isn’t always possible.

Final Thoughts

This private catamaran tour offers a remarkable way to explore Santorini’s waters in comfort and style. With its combination of scenic stops, authentic Greek cuisine, unlimited drinks, and the flexibility to customize, it’s a memorable experience that appeals to travelers seeking privacy and a touch of luxury. The inclusion of hotel transfers and all amenities makes it a hassle-free option that truly enhances your island holiday.

Ideal for small groups, couples celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting to avoid crowded beaches and tour buses, this cruise delivers a personalized, relaxed, and scenic adventure. While weather can influence some aspects, the overall package promises a day of beauty, good eats, and peaceful waters—an experience worth savoring.

If you’re after a luxurious yet authentic sailing experience in Santorini, this tour checks all the boxes for value, comfort, and memorable views. It’s a fantastic way to see the island from a different perspective, with a touch of Greek hospitality and style.

You can check availability for your dates here: