Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise with Meal, BBQ and Open Bar

Experience the Best of Santorini on a Platinum Catamaran Cruise with Meal, BBQ, and Open Bar

When it comes to enjoying Santorini’s legendary scenery, few things compare to cruising the caldera on a catamaran. This 5-hour tour offered by ViSta Yachting costs around $115.86 per person and promises a blend of stunning vistas, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and authentic Greek charm. You’ll be picked up from your hotel, sail past volcanic cliffs, swim in crystal waters, and end your day watching that famous sunset — all aboard a luxurious and stable catamaran that keeps things smooth even in choppier waters.

What stands out most about this tour? First, its well-curated stops at iconic beaches like Red Beach and White Beach, plus the hot springs where volcanic waters are said to have healing properties. Second, the all-inclusive dining and open bar, which makes for a relaxed, easy-going experience with plenty of local wine, beer, and tasty Greek appetizers.

A possible downside? Because it’s a small-group experience (max 18 travelers), it can fill up quickly — on average, bookings are made about 37 days in advance, so planning ahead makes perfect sense. This cruise suits travelers who want a comprehensive, fun-filled day with lots of opportunities to swim, take photos, and relax with good company, all while soaking in Santorini’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second round, this trip offers a memorable way to see the island from the water.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Enjoy a BBQ with wine, beer, and Greek snacks included.
• Unique Stops: Visit Red Beach, White Beach, volcanic hot springs, and Thirassia Island.
• Small Group Setting: Fewer people mean more space and personalized service.
• Beautiful Views: Breathtaking scenery, especially at sunset, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling and Swimming: Gear included for exploring Santorini’s clear waters.
• Convenient Transfers: Hotel pickup and mobile tickets make logistics simple.

Exploring the Santorini Platinum Catamaran Tour

When we first hear about a catamaran cruise in Santorini, visions of postcard-perfect views and a relaxed day on the water come to mind. This particular tour, run by ViSta Yachting, delivers exactly that. Starting at around 8 AM or just before sunset, you’ll spend roughly five hours floating around the island’s caldera, with a series of stops designed to showcase Santorini’s most striking sights and natural wonders.

The Itinerary — What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Red Beach — A must-see for many visitors, Red Beach is famous for its striking color contrasts of red volcanic cliffs and azure waters. The crew shares interesting facts about the area’s geology and history, making your visit both beautiful and educational. Expect about 15 minutes here, enough time for photos and a quick walk along the cliffs.

Stop 2: Mesa Pigadia Beach — This is your first swimming opportunity. The water here is among the clearest on the island—perfect for snorkeling or just relaxing on the deck with a glass of wine. The inclusion of snorkeling gear means you can explore the rich marine life, while pool noodles and sun loungers are available for lounging. Reviewers say the water clarity and relaxed atmosphere make this a favorite stop.

Stop 3: Santorini Volcano & Hot Springs — The volcanic waters are believed to have healing properties, and the scenery here with caves and volcanic beaches is truly something. The tour spends about 30 minutes soaking in the natural thermal waters, which are a highlight for many guests. A chance to see the active volcanic crater up close makes this stop particularly memorable.

Stop 4: Thirassia Island — Often called Santorini’s best-kept secret, Thirasia offers a quieter, more authentic experience. You can swim here or enjoy a delicious Greek lunch or dinner onboard, featuring items like seafood pasta, grilled chicken or pork, vegetarian ratatouille, Greek salad, and yogurt with cherries. The unlimited bar includes white wine, beers, soft drinks, water, and, if doing the sunset option, sparkling wine Moschato D’Asti. Guests often mention how much they appreciated the relaxed pace and the delicious, plentiful food.

The Experience — What Makes It Stand Out

The environment onboard is intimate and lively, thanks to the small group limit of 18 people. This setup minimizes crowding and fosters a more personalized experience. Guests consistently praise the friendly and attentive crew, who go above and beyond to serve food, pour drinks, and share insights about the island. For example, one reviewer noted that “Vivian and Alex made the experience unforgettable,” highlighting the crew’s dedication.

The views from the boat are simply stunning. As the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a canvas of orange and pink, and the caldera’s cliffs glow with warm light. Many reviews mention the breathtaking sunset — one caller described it as “an unforgettable experience,” with vivid colors painting the scene.

Food and drinks consistently receive high marks. The onboard BBQ and buffet dinner are described as “delicious,” with some reviewers calling it “stellar.” The drinks flow freely, and the inclusion of wine, beer, and Greek appetizers means you can relax without worry. Guests also appreciate the champagne toast during sunset, adding a special touch.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some guests note that timing can be rushed. One review mentions feeling like the cruise was a “race around the island,” with only brief stops at beaches and hot springs. The sunset viewing, in particular, can be less than ideal if the boat is already heading back as the sun dips below the horizon.

Another point raised is space constraints — despite the small group size, some found the boat a bit tight, especially during busy times or the initial briefing. The boat’s size limits the number of seats at the front, and some guests had to settle for less-than-ideal spots. Also, the toilet was reportedly out of order on one trip, which could be inconvenient during a 5-hour tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded, fun-filled day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy Greek cuisine in a relaxed setting. It’s especially good for those who value small-group intimacy and high-quality food and drinks. Families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable experience without sacrificing comfort will find this tour hits the mark.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At around $115.86, you’re getting a lot for your money. The price covers hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, the BBQ dinner, unlimited drinks, and a series of fascinating stops. Many reviews highlighted the generous portions of food and drinks, which add to the perception of good value. Plus, the photo opportunities and the chance to relax on deck or swim in pristine waters make this a worthwhile splurge for those wanting an authentic, enjoyable day in Santorini.

Final Thoughts — Is It for You?

If you’re after a comprehensive day of sightseeing, swimming, and dining with a stunning view of Santorini’s caldera, this catamaran cruise is hard to beat. The addition of a small-group setting makes it a more intimate experience than larger tours, and the consistent praise for the crew’s friendliness and the quality of food speaks volumes about the care put into this trip.

However, if you’re particularly keen on catching the perfect sunset or desire more leisurely stops, you might want to consider the early or sunset options, and perhaps be prepared for some minor crowds or rushed moments.

This tour suits those who appreciate value and authentic experiences over a purely rushed sightseeing agenda. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a day to unwind with stunning views, great food, and good company, this cruise provides a memorable slice of Santorini.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, pool noodles, a BBQ meal with Greek appetizers, unlimited drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks, water), and visits to beaches, hot springs, and Thirassia Island.

How long does the cruise last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the sunset.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and families with young children have found it enjoyable. The crew is accommodating, especially for families with young kids.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most bookings are made about 37 days in advance, so it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 18 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and less crowded.

What are the main stops?
Red Beach, Mesa Pigadia Beach, volcanic hot springs, and Thirassia Island are the main highlights.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is provided, and many guests enjoy exploring the underwater scenery.

What about the sunset?
The afternoon cruise ends with watching Santorini’s famous sunset, but the exact experience may vary depending on weather and boat position.

Is there an option for a sunset cruise?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a sunset cruise, which many reviews describe as breathtaking.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, some cash for souvenirs or optional extras, and a camera for the stunning views.

To sum it up, this Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise offers a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, good food, and relaxed atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to truly enjoy the island’s water-based charms without feeling rushed or crowded. It’s best suited for those who value comfort, authentic Greek hospitality, and memorable vistas, especially at sunset.