Sailing Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with BBQ, Drinks and Transfer

Sailing Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with BBQ, Drinks, and Transfer offers a delightful way to see the island from its iconic waters. For around $92 per person, you’ll spend about 5 hours aboard a comfortable catamaran, starting with a hotel pickup—an especially nice touch for easing into your day. The tour takes you along Santorini’s west coast, stopping at hot springs, Red Beach, and White Beach, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the scenery.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the onboard barbecue and limitless drinks (including Santorinian white wine) turn a boat trip into a festive outing. Second, the friendly, attentive crew consistently earns praise, helping create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. One potential consideration is that some reviews mention the water can be cold, especially early in the season or in April, so packing a warm layer might be wise.

This tour suits travelers looking for a blend of scenic sailing, light activity, and good food—perfect for those who want a comprehensive yet laid-back day on the water. If you enjoy sailing, a lively crew, and stunning views with minimal hassle, this cruise is likely to satisfy.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal cruising with stops at volcanic hot springs and beaches.
• Onboard barbecue offers a hearty, tasty meal with unlimited drinks, including local white wine.
• Snorkeling equipment included for those eager to explore beneath the surface.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward and stress-free.
• Experienced crew praised for friendliness, attentiveness, and helpful guidance.
• Limited beach mooring means you’ll get close but not directly on the beach, a common feature for boats in Greece.

Why Choose This Santorini Catamaran Tour?

We loved the way this tour combines comfort with authentic Greek island charm. Starting with the hotel transfer, it’s clear that Sunset Oia Nepa aims to make things simple for you. Once on board, the stunning vistas of the caldera, volcano, and colorful beaches are spectacular. You’ll enjoy sailing along the coast, passing iconic spots like Palea Kameni, and stopping at hot springs where you can take your first dip in the Aegean Sea.

The hot springs stop is especially popular. As one reviewer put it, “Guests swim securely close to the volcano,” which highlights the unique experience of floating in waters warmed by volcanic activity—an uncommon thrill for most travelers. Just be aware that the hot springs are about 50 meters away from the boat, so don’t expect to swim directly ashore.

The trip’s highlight for many appears to be Red Beach, where you can snorkel among striking red cliffs and clear water. The tour allows for about 30 minutes at each stop, enough to take in the scenery and jump in if you feel like it. The White Beach, after more swimming and snorkeling, features a delicious barbecue lunch that many reviews rave about, with some calling it “outstanding” and “fresh.”

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Ammoudi or Athinios Port — The tour begins with a quick pickup from your hotel, usually around 9:30 am, offering a convenient start without the hassle of finding your way to the port. The driver navigates narrow, steep roads with skill, which is appreciated by travelers who’ve experienced anxious moments on Greece’s winding roads.

Sailing past the volcano — The first major stop along the way. Here, you’ll marvel at the volcanic island of Palea Kameni, a reminder of Santorini’s fiery origins. The boat stays a safe distance from the hot springs, about 50 meters away, ensuring your safety while still allowing you to enjoy the warm waters.

Hot Springs — About 30 minutes are spent swimming in the warm, thermal waters. As one reviewer noted, “The temperature of the hot springs is up to 4 degrees warmer than the clear waters,” making it a soothing experience, especially on cooler days. The boat provides flotation devices and safety instructions in multiple languages, so even first-time swimmers can feel secure.

Sea Lighthouses and Scenic Views — You’ll have the chance to see the ancient lighthouse from the sea, adding a sense of history and rugged beauty to the trip.

Red Beach — This stop features striking red cliffs contrasting with the blue water, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The landscape here is dramatic, and the shallow waters are suitable for all levels. Reviewers mention “seeing the landscape of Red Beach while swimming and snorkeling,” which they found both beautiful and memorable.

White Beach — The final major stop, where you’ll enjoy a lengthy 1 hour and 30 minutes. After more swimming, guests dig into a barbecue meal served right on board, with many describing it as “amazing” and “on point.” The setting, combined with good food and lively crew, make it a relaxing way to end the day.

Return to port and hotel drop-off — The tour wraps up with a return ride, usually around 2:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore the island afterward.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included are roundtrip hotel transfer, the barbecue lunch, unlimited Santorinian white wine, soft drinks, water, and snorkeling equipment. These inclusions add significant value, especially considering the convenience and quality of the offerings. The crew supplies blankets, music, and a restroom onboard, ensuring comfort throughout.

Not included are towels and beers, which you might want to bring or buy separately. The tour’s reviews suggest that the wine selection is well-received, though some mention that beers aren’t provided, so plan accordingly if you prefer that.

The Experience: Authentic, Fun, and Scenic

Multiple reviewers describe the crew as “friendly,” “attentive,” and “professional,” with one saying, “The crew took care of us well.” Such positive comments hint at a trip where you’ll feel well looked after without feeling overwhelmed. The music adds a lively atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with friends or family.

Many travelers highlight the stunning views of the caldera, volcano, and beaches, often remarking on how “the scenery is as beautiful as you can imagine.” The stops at hot springs and beaches are timed well, giving enough opportunity to swim, snorkel, and absorb the natural beauty without feeling rushed.

The lunch, a flavorful barbecue, receives glowing reviews. Given the price point, this is a good value—home-cooked style, fresh ingredients, and plenty of it. Several guests comment that it’s “better than expected,” and some even call it “the best meal of the trip.”

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention minor frustrations. For instance, some say the crew could have provided more information about the landmarks or engaged guests more actively. Also, in cooler months, the water can be chilly, but the hot springs help mitigate that.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to see Santorini from the water, enjoy a lively, friendly atmosphere, and indulge in fantastic food and drinks. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace with enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

If you’re traveling with family, the boat’s casual vibe and included snorkeling equipment make it accessible for all ages. For honeymooners or couples, the scenic stops and warm hospitality provide a romantic backdrop.

However, if you’re seeking a highly narrated tour with detailed history or prefer mooring directly on the beach, this might not be your best pick. The focus here is on fun, scenery, and good food rather than in-depth educational commentary.

The Sum Up

This Sailing Catamaran Cruise in Santorini offers a well-rounded experience that balances stunning scenery, enjoyable activities, and hearty food at a reasonable price. Its highlights include beautiful stops, such as hot springs and volcanic beaches, combined with the perk of unlimited local wine and a delicious BBQ lunch. The friendly crew consistently earns praise, helping create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that feels authentic rather than commercial.

This tour is especially perfect for those who want a fun, scenic day on the water without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s suitable for families, couples, or friends looking to cool off and soak up some of Santorini’s natural beauty. Keep in mind that the water can be chilly early in the season, so packing a warm layer is wise.

In short: if good scenery, lively atmosphere, and a tasty meal sound appealing, this cruise should be on your list. It delivers a value-packed, memorable day that makes the most of Santorini’s volcanic landscapes and inviting waters.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The tour runs approximately 5 hours from pickup to drop-off, including stops for swimming, snorkeling, and lunch.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, roundtrip hotel transfers are part of the package, making it easy to start and end your day without extra hassle.

What’s the food like onboard?
Guests rave about the barbecue lunch, calling it “amazing” and “delicious,” with plenty of food served on board.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you can enjoy unlimited Santorinian white wine, soft drinks, and water throughout the trip. Beer and towels are not included, so plan to bring your own if desired.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can join this tour. The included snorkeling equipment and relaxed pace make it suitable for families, though some reviews mention choppy waters in early season.

Is there any historical narration?
This particular tour focuses more on scenery and activities; reviews mention that the crew could improve on providing more information about landmarks.

This friendly, lively cruise offers a great way to enjoy Santorini’s waters and scenery without the fuss. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day with good company, memorable views, or a tasty meal, this tour strikes a solid balance of fun and value.