Luxury Small-Group Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Open bar & Transfer

Santorini’s best way to see the caldera and relax in style: the luxury small-group catamaran cruise. For $173.79 per person, you get a roughly five-hour journey that covers key sights like the volcanic islands, hot springs, and iconic beaches, all with an open bar and delicious BBQ. This trip is a favorite for travelers craving a blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic Greek hospitality.

What we love most about this tour is how intimate and personalized it feels, with a maximum of 20 guests. The crew, including a standout captain and attentive staff, makes everyone feel special. Plus, the stops for swimming and snorkeling are truly memorable, with crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater life. On the other hand, a possible consideration is the limited swimming time at certain beaches—if you’re hoping for full days of water fun, this cruise offers a more relaxed, scenic experience.

This trip suits those who want a well-organized, luxurious way to enjoy Santorini’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to combine great scenery, tasty food, and a touch of elegance on the water.

• Intimate group size keeps the experience personal and relaxed.
• Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling with provided gear and towels.
• Gourmet BBQ and free drinks including local wine and cocktails.
• Expert crew and captain who share insights about the volcanic landscape and islands.
• Pickup and transfer included for hassle-free logistics.
• Stunning sunset cruises that offer a perfect end to a memorable day.

An Introduction to the Tour

This luxury catamaran cruise from Spiridakos Sailing Cruises offers a unique way to see the highlights of Santorini from the water. At around $173.79 per person, it’s priced in the mid-range but delivers excellent value through a carefully curated experience. You’ll start with convenient hotel pickup and transfer, so no need to worry about logistics—just relax and look forward to a day of gorgeous scenery and good company.

The duration is about five hours, making it suitable for those who want a taste of the Aegean without it taking up an entire day. The group is capped at 20 guests, which means you won’t be lost in a crowd and can enjoy plenty of personalized attention from your crew, particularly Captain Leo, who gets rave reviews for his hospitality.

Why We Love This Tour

Two standout features are the well-planned stops and the quality of the food and drinks. Each stop offers a different perspective on Santorini’s volcanic landscape and beaches. The BBQ meal, served on deck, is well-regarded for its variety—meats, seafood, salads, and desserts—paired with local white wine and cocktails, which makes the experience feel indulgent yet authentic.

Another reason to love this trip is the expert narration by the crew, who explain the volcanic activity and geography, adding layers of understanding to the stunning views. Guests consistently mention the friendly, attentive crew, like Captain Leo and Neda, who go above and beyond to make everyone comfortable and to help capture memories with photos.

Possible Drawbacks

One thing to keep in mind is that, despite multiple stops, swimming at Red Beach and Black Beach is limited — the itinerary involves stops for swimming but not necessarily full access to the beaches themselves. If swimming is a primary goal, you might find these stops more about sightseeing and relaxing rather than full-on beach days.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

It’s ideal if you’re looking for a luxurious, small-group experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and great food in a relaxed setting. Perfect for couples, honeymooners, or small groups who enjoy a bit of sophistication without sacrificing authenticity and fun.

Setting Sail from Ammoudi Bay or Vlychada Port

You start your adventure from either Ammoudi Bay, right beneath Oia, or from the Vlychada Port. Ammoudi Bay is a charming, lively spot—expect scenic views of the colorful cliffs and waterfront tavernas. If you opt for Vlychada, you get a quieter, more scenic departure point with dramatic lunar-like landscapes.

Sail Around the Volcano and Visit Palea Kameni Hot Springs

The first major stop is Palea Kameni, the volcanic island where you get to swim in the sulphurous hot springs. This is one of the highlights, often praised for its natural spa qualities, and a unique experience to soak in mineral-rich waters while surrounded by volcanic scenery. Reviewers love how Captain Leo and crew explain the volcanic eruption history, making the experience both educational and fun.

Craggy Indian Rocks and Caves

Next, the boat cruises below the Indian Rocks, famous for their caves and interesting rock formations. You’ll get a close-up view of the rugged landscape that makes Santorini so distinctive—perfect for photos and just soaking in the natural beauty.

White Beach: A Hidden Gem

The White Beach is only accessible by boat, which makes it extra special. Known for its crystal-clear waters and underwater reefs, it’s a popular stop for swimming and snorkeling. The reviews repeatedly mention how inviting the water is, with plenty of marine life to see. You might spend about 30 minutes here, as the crew prepares the BBQ. You’ll love the underwater scenery and the chance to cool off in the Aegean.

Red Beach with Its Dramatic Colors

The trip also includes a visit to Red Beach, famous for its vivid red cliffs and mineral-rich soil. It’s one of Santorini’s most striking landscapes, and the crew often point out the geological significance as well as great photo opportunities. While swimming here isn’t guaranteed, it’s a chance to marvel at nature’s palette.

Return and Sunset Cruise

The tour concludes at either Vlychada Port or Ammoudi Bay, depending on conditions. The sunset sail in the evening follows the same route in reverse, offering breathtaking views of the setting sun casting warm hues over the caldera and islands.

The BBQ meal is a major draw. Guests consistently praise the delicious meats, seafood, salads, and desserts served onboard. The local white wine and cocktails are unlimited, allowing you to relax without worry about running out of drinks. Several reviews mention the generous portions and quality of the food, which feels more like a private dinner than a typical tour meal.

The crew, including the chef, are attentive to special requests, like vegetarian options, which should be requested upon booking. Guests often mention how much they appreciated the care taken in preparing the meal, making the cruise feel luxurious and authentic.

From the comfortable catamaran, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of Santorini’s iconic cliffs and volcanic islands. The stunning scenery, combined with the relaxed pace and friendly crew, makes this tour a highlight. You’ll be able to snorkel in clear waters, capture photos of the volcanic formations, and savor the sunset—a truly memorable experience.

Many reviewers mention how they felt like they were exploring the island from a privileged perspective, away from crowds and noise, in a boat that feels new, spacious, and well-maintained.

The Crew and Hospitality

The crew receives top marks for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness. Captain Leo, in particular, is praised for making guests feel comfortable, sharing interesting facts, and keeping the mood lively. Guests also love how crew members are personal photographers, helping capture special moments, so you don’t have to worry about taking pictures yourself.

This cruise offers a blend of scenic sailing, cultural insights, and relaxed luxury. Its focus on small-group intimacy means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the quality of the food, drinks, and service often exceeds expectations for the price. The stops at volcanic hot springs and iconic beaches are well-chosen, offering both adventure and stunning visuals.

While it may not be suited for those seeking a full day of intense swimming or beach time, it excels at providing a high-quality, memorable introduction to Santorini’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point. It’s especially perfect if you want to enjoy the island’s highlights in style, with excellent hospitality and a touch of elegance.

How long is the tour?
The entire cruise lasts about five hours, including stops for swimming and sightseeing.

Are transfers included?
Yes, hotel pickup and transfer are included for your convenience, making logistics stress-free.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment and towels are provided, and the water at the stops is often praised for its clarity and marine life.

What is the menu like?
A BBQ with meats, seafood, salads, and desserts is served. Guests mention the delicious, plentiful food and local wine and cocktails.

Is there a dress code or any restrictions?
Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and windbreaker. Remember, minimum age for alcohol is 18, and vegetarian options are available if requested beforehand.

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

In sum, this catamaran cruise offers an excellent mix of scenic beauty, comfort, authentic Greek hospitality, and memorable experiences. It’s perfect if you’re looking to see Santorini from the water without sacrificing quality or intimacy. Whether celebrating a honeymoon or just seeking a special day out, you’ll come away with photos, stories, and a new appreciation for this volcanic island.