Deluxe Santorini Sailing with BBQ and Drinks Shared Tour

A Sailing Adventure in Santorini: A Relaxed, Delicious Way to See the Caldera

When visiting Santorini, most travelers picture the iconic cliffside villages and sunset views, but there’s a different way to experience this island’s natural beauty — on a shared sailing cruise. For around $186 per person, you get a five-hour journey that takes you along the coast, to volcanic islands, and offers plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy a hearty barbecue meal with unlimited drinks. This tour includes hotel pickup, snorkel gear, and meant-to-be-relaxed stops at key sights like Red Beach, White Beach, and the volcanic islets Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni.

Two things stand out immediately. First, the all-inclusive aspect makes this a great value — no stress about paying for food, drinks, or transport. Second, the small group size (maximum 18 travelers) creates a more intimate, personal experience—perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting to explore without feeling lost in a crowd.

A possible consideration? The weather plays a big role in which beaches are visited, and sometimes the beach stops depend on ocean conditions, which might mean a change in plan. Still, many reviews praise the flexible, friendly crew for making the most of the day.

This tour suits those who want a comfortable, fun day on the water — especially if you enjoy good food, a lively atmosphere, and stunning panoramic views. It’s perfect for travelers who value authentic experiences over overly commercialized tours, and who appreciate a laid-back vibe with a dash of adventure.

Key Points

• All-inclusive: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and transfers included.
• Small group: Up to 18 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Varied stops: Beach, lighthouse, volcanic islands, and hot springs.
• Flexible options: Day cruise or sunset sailing available.
• Comfort: Towels provided, good crew service.
• Weather dependent: Beach visits may change based on conditions.

The Heart of the Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s five-hour journey balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on the boat. Starting with hotel pickup, the crew takes care of transportation, so you can leave behind the hassle of finding your own way to the marina. Once onboard, the experience begins with a sail along the coast, where you’ll get sweeping views of Santorini’s famous cliffs and volcanic landscape.

Red Beach is the first stop — a vivid reddish-hued shoreline known for its striking beauty. Here, you’ll get about 20 minutes to snap photos and dip your toes in the water. The next stop, White Beach, is only accessible by boat and offers a more secluded spot for swimming and relaxing, weather permitting. Many reviews appreciate the opportunity to explore these hidden nooks that are difficult to reach otherwise.

Sailing past the Old Venetian Lighthouse, you’ll get a chance to admire the spectacular coastline and the mountain formations. Then comes the highlight for many: visiting the volcanic islands Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni. Palea Kameni, known as the Old Burnt Island, offers a glimpse into Santorini’s fiery past, while Nea Kameni is famous for bubbling hot springs you can swim in — a surreal experience for anyone interested in volcanic activity.

Food and Drinks: The Heart of the Day

What makes this tour stand out is the culinary component. A barbecue feast is prepared on board, featuring seafood and grilled meats, complemented by unlimited local wine, beer, and soft drinks. Reviewers consistently mention the delicious food and the generous drinks as a highlight. Angie, one reviewer, said the food was delicious, even though the BBQ was not available on her trip, which shows the flexibility and quality the crew strives for.

Snorkeling and Relaxation

Included are snorkeling masks and snorkels, giving you the chance to explore the underwater world around the volcanic islands. Many travelers appreciated how ample opportunities to swim and explore the coast are built into the schedule. The towels and gear provided make it easy to jump right in.

Sunset or Daytime: Your Choice

While the core cruise lasts about five hours, you can opt for a sunset sailing for a romantic twist. Either way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, whether it’s during the day or as the sun dips below the horizon, casting the caldera in warm hues.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the friendly and professional crew, making the experience smooth and enjoyable. LoriLarsen shared that Santorini Sailing made arrangements for her to be picked up, even when her timing was tight — a sign of good customer service.

Angie appreciated the fabulous sunset and the beautiful catamaran, while Amy enjoyed the opportunities to swim and explore off the beaten path. Darcy noted the crystal-clear waters and crisp drinks, emphasizing the relaxing vibe.

A few comments cautioned that the beach visits are weather dependent, which can sometimes mean a different schedule. But overall, the flexibility and attentive crew help ensure travelers leave feeling satisfied.

Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At roughly $186 per person, this cruise offers a comprehensive package — everything from transport, snacks, meals, and drinks to snorkeling gear. Given that comparable private or larger boat tours can cost significantly more, this represents good value, especially considering the small group size and included amenities.

Duration and Group Size

It’s a five-hour trip, which is enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The max 18-person group fosters a friendly atmosphere, allowing you to chat with fellow travelers or enjoy some quiet time on deck.

Accessibility and Family-Friendliness

Most travelers, including children, can participate, provided they’re accompanied by an adult. Service animals are allowed, which is helpful for those with special needs.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels the cruise, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancelling more than 24 hours in advance guarantees a full refund, giving you peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers looking to combine sightseeing, relaxation, and good food in one package. If you enjoy small groups and authentic experiences, you’ll appreciate the personal touch of the crew. It suits families, couples, or friends who want a laid-back day, with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and tasty food.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the chance to visit volcanic islands make it perfect for those curious about Santorini’s geology and underwater beauty. And if you’re seeking a romantic sunset trip, the sunset option won’t disappoint.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For a well-rounded, enjoyable day in Santorini, this sailing cruise offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, authentic local food, and relaxed fun. The small group size and all-inclusive setup make it a standout choice for those who prefer an intimate experience without the hassle of extra costs.

While weather can sometimes influence the stops, the friendly crew and flexible planning help keep the experience positive. The opportunity to see Red Beach, White Beach, volcanic islands, and hot springs from a comfortable boat makes this tour a memorable highlight.

If you value authentic, relaxed adventures and want to enjoy Santorini’s natural highlights with good food and drinks in hand, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate value and comfort, rather than high-adrenaline or overly commercialized excursions.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a barbecue meal, snorkel gear, and unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks.

How long does the cruise last?
It lasts approximately five hours, giving plenty of time to see multiple sights, swim, and relax.

Can I choose between day and sunset cruises?
Yes, you can opt for either a day cruise or a sunset sail, depending on your preference.

What beaches are visited?
Depending on weather, stops are made at Red Beach and White Beach, both accessible only by boat, each offering unique scenery.

Are there options for vegetarians or special diets?
A vegetarian option is available if you request it at booking, accommodating dietary preferences.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers, including children, can participate when accompanied by an adult. It’s a family-friendly activity.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people participate in each tour?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Do I need to confirm the booking?
Yes, confirmation is received at the time of booking, and it’s recommended to book 30 days in advance to secure your spot.

By choosing this sailing tour, you’re investing in a relaxed, scenic, and enjoyable way to see some of Santorini’s most captivating sights. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, the combination of beautiful views, great food, and friendly service makes for a memorable day on the water.