Vlichada’s rugged coastline and quiet charm make it an ideal base for sailing adventures on Santorini. Unlike the busy port of Fira, Vlichada offers a more relaxed, authentic vibe, with fewer crowds and stunning views of the caldera. Whether you want to watch the sunset from a catamaran, enjoy a full-day trip with lunch, or indulge in a private cruise, there’s something here for everyone. We particularly love the Sunset Sailing Cruise for its scenic beauty and romantic sunset, and the Private Half-Day Cruise for an intimate, customizable experience. Each tour offers a different taste of Santorini’s maritime magic, with plenty of opportunities to swim in hot springs, explore beaches, and enjoy Greek food on the water.
Quick Overview
Vlichada is a hotspot for sailing tours that range from breathtaking sunset cruises to full-day excursions with lunch and drinks. The options include small-group shared cruises, private charters, and combination tours that feature swimming, sightseeing, and local food. For detailed descriptions, check out the Santorini: Sunset Sailing Cruise, with Dinner and Drinks and Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise: Lunch, Drinks and Transfers. Now, let’s explore each experience in detail.
1. Santorini: Sunset Sailing Cruise, with Dinner and Drinks
Starting at the top, the Sunset Sailing Cruise is a favorite for its combination of scenic beauty and romantic atmosphere. For around $147 per person, you get a 5-hour trip on a small, exclusive catamaran that explores the Santorini coastline. The cruise includes swim stops in hot springs and at Red Beach, where the striking red cliffs make swimming feel like entering another world. The highlight is definitely watching the sunset from the water—when the sky turns to shades of orange and pink, the caldera seems to glow.
This tour is particularly appealing because it combines sightseeing, swimming, and a traditional Greek dinner with BBQ. The open bar means you can indulge in local wines and drinks as you relax on deck. The itinerary is packed with stops at Mesa Pigadia, Nea Kameni Hot Springs, and White Beach, with pickup options from six locations including Oia, Imerovigli, and Thera. Many reviews mention how smooth the entire experience was, with one happy traveler saying, “We cruised to two spots for a swim, then back towards the port to see the perfect sunset!”
Bottom Line: Ideal for lovers of romance, scenic sunsets, and Greek food, this cruise offers a well-rounded evening on the water with stunning views and excellent value.
2. Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise: Lunch, Drinks and Transfers
If you prefer a full-day adventure, the Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise provides a relaxed 5-hour experience for about $124 per person. It’s perfect for those who want to see as much as possible without rushing. The tour includes multiple swim stops in hot springs and at Red Beach, plus a scenic sail past Indian Rocks and the Venetian Lighthouse.
This trip is especially good for travelers who want a hassle-free experience — transfers are included, and you’ll enjoy a traditional Greek lunch with BBQ and drinks. The tour emphasizes the stunning views of the caldera from the water, with frequent opportunities to snorkel or just soak up the sun. Reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the crew is, with one stating, “We had a great day, very friendly staff and everything was well taken care of.”
The itinerary covers seven pickup points, making it easy to join from most parts of Santorini. The combination of sightseeing, swimming, and delicious food makes this a balanced, enjoyable day on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who value comfort, great food, and a comprehensive day out with minimal hassle.
3. Best of Santorini Private Half-Day Catamaran Cruise
For those seeking a more personalized experience, the Best of Santorini Private Half-Day Catamaran Cruise is an excellent choice. At around 5 hours, this tour allows you to customize your route and enjoy the same highlights as the larger tours but with a more intimate feel. The private cruise typically includes stops at Red Beach, Black Rock, and the Hot Springs, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.
This option is especially attractive for couples or small groups who want to avoid the crowds and have a flexible itinerary. The guide’s local knowledge makes the experience richer—imagine swimming in volcanic hot springs and then relaxing with a drink while watching Fira’s cliffs from the water. The tour is priced based on the group size, so it offers good value for those wanting exclusivity.
One reviewer mentioned, “This is the best way to discover Santorini’s beauty at your own pace, with music, drinks, and lots of fun on board.” The flexibility and privacy make it stand out, especially if you prefer a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples, families, or small groups who want exclusive access and control over their day on the water.
How to Choose
Picking the right sailing tour depends on your priorities. Budget-conscious travelers may opt for the Day Cruise with Lunch, which offers great value. If romance and sunset views are your thing, the Sunset Cruise is hard to beat. For those craving a personalized experience, the Private Half-Day Cruise provides flexibility and intimacy.
Consider your time, budget, and whether you prefer a group or private setting. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to secure your preferred date.
To sum it up, Vlichada offers a fantastic range of sailing experiences that showcase Santorini’s beauty from the water. Whether you want a romantic sunset, a full-day adventure, or a private charter, there’s a tour tailored to your style. For a memorable trip, book early — these tours fill up quickly when the weather’s perfect. Now, all you need is your swimsuit, a sense of adventure, and a desire to see Santorini from its best angle.