From Santorini: Full-Day Escape Cruise to Ios

Sailing from Santorini to the nearby island of Ios on a semi-private catamaran for a full day sounds like a dream, but what does that experience really involve? For $352 per person, this tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, relaxing beach time, and excellent local cuisine, all wrapped up in a comfortable, well-organized package.

What we love most about this cruise is how it combines the spectacular views of Santorini’s caldera, including iconic sights like Red Beach, White Beach, and the Volcano—all from the water—plus the peaceful, uncrowded Maganari Beach on Ios. These stops give us a real taste of the Cyclades’ natural charm. We also appreciated the all-inclusive lunch featuring fresh seafood, Greek specialties, and drinks, making it both convenient and indulgent.

One possible consideration is the full-day length, which might be tiring for travelers who prefer shorter excursions or those prone to seasickness—though the tranquil waters and comfortable catamaran help mitigate this.

This cruise suits travelers looking for a luxurious, scenic, and authentic experience that balances relaxation with exploration. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the Greek islands from the water, indulge in good food, and witness sunsets that seem to set the sky on fire.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Sail through the caldera, passing iconic landmarks like Red and White Beaches and the Volcano.
• Beach Relaxation: Spend peaceful hours at Maganari Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters.
• All-Inclusive Dining: Enjoy a hearty Greek lunch including seafood, BBQ, and local drinks, with special menu options available.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation from your hotel, towels, snorkeling gear, and attentive service are all included.
• Unique Experience: Combining scenic sailing with beach relaxation and culture makes this a well-rounded day trip.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Full-Day Cruise

Departure & Sailing Through the Caldera

The adventure begins at Vlychada Marina, where you board your semi-private catamaran, a vessel designed for comfort and a bit of exclusivity. From there, the journey kicks off with a sail through Santorini’s famous caldera—a highlight in itself. You’ll glide past Red Beach, with its striking crimson cliffs, and White Beach, a quieter, pristine spot with dazzling white sands.

The boat’s crew—friendly and attentive—serve chilled drinks as you gaze at the volcanic formations, all while cozying into the relaxed atmosphere. The views are so good that many guests comment they could spend hours just watching the scenery change as the boat gently moves along.

Passing the Volcano and Thirassia Island

Next, the boat cruises past Santorini’s Volcano, offering an up-close perspective of the rugged volcanic landscape that shaped this entire region. As you sail on, Thirassia Island comes into view, a quieter neighbor often overlooked but full of character. This stretch of the journey provides ample opportunity for photography and simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Reaching Ios and Maganari Beach

After a couple of hours of sailing, you arrive at Ios, a lesser-known gem in the Cyclades. The highlight here is Maganari Beach, a stretch of golden sand flanked by turquoise waters that look like they belong in a postcard. Many travelers find Maganari’s peaceful, uncrowded vibe a welcome change from more tourist-heavy beaches. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, relaxing, or enjoying the scenery in silence.

The beach is famous enough to have been featured in “The Big Blue,” adding a cinematic touch to your experience. You’ll have several hours to unwind, swim, and explore.

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Lunch & Refreshments

No need to worry about packing snacks—your all-inclusive lunch awaits on the boat. The menu offers fresh seafood, BBQ chicken, pork sausages, and traditional Greek delicacies, complemented by veggie rice and Greek salad. A dessert rounds out the meal, and your open bar includes local white wine, beers, and soft drinks. Special diet requests can be accommodated, making this experience accessible to most dietary needs.

Guests have praised the quality and freshness of the food, emphasizing that it’s more than just a casual snack. One reviewer mentioned, “The seafood was fresh and flavorful, and the drinks kept flowing.”

Return Journey & Sunset Magic

As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Santorini. The return trip offers more stunning vistas, with the setting sun casting a golden glow over the caldera—an iconic sight that many describe as breathtaking. The sky’s colors reflect beautifully on the water, creating a perfect backdrop for photos or just soaking in the moment.

Throughout the day, the crew keeps everyone comfortable with towels, snorkeling gear, and snacks, adding to the relaxed vibe. Some guests take advantage of the snorkeling equipment to explore the underwater world, though the main focus remains on the scenery and the company.

Arrival & Final Impressions

Back at Vlychada Marina, you’ll leave with memories of a day filled with natural beauty, delicious food, and peaceful moments. The relaxed pace and attentive service make this cruise stand out, especially if you’re looking to experience the Cyclades from a different perspective—on the water rather than on land.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price of $352, this cruise provides more than just a boat ride. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines stunning scenery, comfort, authentic Greek cuisine, and relaxation. The inclusion of transportation, towels, snorkeling gear, and a generous meal means you’re getting a lot without hidden extras.

The small-group atmosphere on a semi-private vessel enhances the experience, making it feel more exclusive and personalized. Guests often mention how attentive the crew was, serving up refreshments and ensuring everyone’s comfort.

While the full-day length might not suit everyone—especially those with limited stamina or seasickness concerns—the overall experience offers a wonderful balance of adventure and leisure.

Ultimately, this cruise is best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, scenic, and culturally rich day. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or anyone eager to see the Cyclades from the water, enjoy authentic Greek flavors, and witness the legendary Santorini sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation to and from your hotel, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How long is the full-day cruise?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s designed as a full-day experience, likely around 8-10 hours including sailing, beach time, and meals.

Are dietary options available?
Yes, special diet menus are available upon request, ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a camera—most essentials like towels and snorkeling gear are provided.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Snorkeling equipment is included, so you can explore the underwater scenery if you wish.

Is the cruise appropriate for children or older travelers?
Given its relaxed, scenic nature, it suits most ages, though full-day sailing may be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What happens if I book and need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if plans change.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the open bar includes local white wine, beers, and soft drinks, with additional beverages available for purchase.

How crowded will the boat be?
It’s a semi-private vessel, offering a more intimate experience than large group tours, but specific group sizes aren’t listed.

Is this tour suitable for honeymooners or couples?
Absolutely. The scenic views, sunset, and romantic setting make it perfect for couples celebrating special moments.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Escape Cruise from Santorini to Ios offers a compelling way to see the Cyclades from the water, combining spectacular scenery, delicious local cuisine, and relaxing beach time. The attention to detail—from comfortable transportation to high-quality food and friendly service—makes it a memorable choice for those who value comfort and authenticity.

If your idea of a perfect Greek island adventure involves sailing past volcanic cliffs, swimming at peaceful beaches, and witnessing a sunset that turns the sky into a masterpiece, then this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and a touch of luxury, all wrapped into one day.

With its thoughtful balance of relaxation and exploration, this cruise promises a genuine, memorable slice of Greek island life. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to experience the best of Santorini and Ios from the water, this trip is likely to leave you with lasting memories—and maybe a few golden tan lines.

You can check availability for your dates here: