Sailing Cruise in Santorini With Fairwind

Santorini’s coastlines and volcanic islands come alive on this 5-hour sailing cruise with Fairwind. For around $82, you’ll hop aboard a modern catamaran, with pickup included, and visit spots like Vlychada Beach, Red Beach, White Beach, and Mesa Pigadia, where you can snorkel and swim in tranquil waters. Later, you’ll indulge in Mediterranean delicacies on Thirassia island, topped with spectacular views of Santorini’s famous caldera and sunset.

What we love most about this tour is how the boat’s modern design and professional crew work together to create a smooth, comfortable experience. The second is how the itinerary balances natural beauty with fun activities, from snorkeling to tasting local grilled seafood.

One thing to consider is that, with a maximum of 20 travelers, it’s more intimate but also might fill up quickly during peak season. This experience is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic day with excellent food and a bit of adventure. If you’re after a memorable way to see Santorini’s coastlines and volcanic sites without the hassle of planning, this cruise is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Stunning volcanic landscapes and beaches are central to the experience.
• All-inclusive with snacks, lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear.
• Professional crew and brand-new vessels ensure comfort and safety.
• Flexible options with pickup and drop-off, plus a maximum of 20 guests for a more personal feel.
• Authentic local food and drinks make this more than just a sightseeing trip.
• Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation, scenic beauty, and delicious food in a small group setting.

The Experience in Detail

What’s Included and How It Works

At around $82, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of exploration around Santorini’s volcanic edges and azure waters. The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics, which is a big plus. The fleet boasts brand new vessels, ensuring you’ll be on a clean, comfortable boat with the latest safety and comfort features. WiFi on board keeps you connected, and snorkeling gear is available, so you can explore beneath the surface.

The entire trip lasts about five hours, giving ample time to enjoy multiple stops and activities without feeling rushed. The small group size, capped at 20 travelers, means more personalized service and fewer crowds — perfect if you prefer an intimate experience over a large tour bus.

Itinerary Breakdown – What You’ll See and Do

Vlychada Beach kicks off your journey with its spectacular lunar landscape, where towering volcanic ash cliffs sculpted by wind give a moonlike appearance. We loved the way this surreal backdrop sets the tone for the day, and you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities here.

Next, you slide past Red Beach, famed for its deep red volcanic cliffs that create a striking contrast against the sea. It’s one of Santorini’s most iconic sights, and travelers frequently comment on how photogenic this spot is — especially when the sunlight hits the cliffs just right.

Then comes White Beach, accessible only by boat, with its white limestone cliffs and clear waters. It’s a secluded slice of paradise, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The fact that it’s boat-only accessible makes it feel exclusive, a highlight noted by many reviews.

A swim and snorkel stop at Mesa Pigadia Beach offers about 25 minutes of free time. Surrounded by impressive cliffs, this tranquil spot lets you cool off and enjoy serene waters, with admission included. We appreciated the chance to relax and take in the natural beauty away from busy crowds.

As we sail past the lighthouse, the views of the coast are truly breathtaking, perfect for capturing photos of Santorini’s rugged shoreline. Nearby, Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni—the volcanic islands—stand as awe-inspiring reminders of the island’s fiery origins. The hot springs and active craters on Nea Kameni are especially popular, and many travelers find the volcanic landscape fascinating.

The highlight for many is the stop at Thirassia, a less-visited island with crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll enjoy a 40-minute stop with a Mediterranean-style feast. The menu includes grilled chicken, seafood (mussels, prawns), pasta, fresh fruit, and salads, complemented by soft drinks, beer, and local wine. Reviewers raved about the quality of the food, describing it as “unreal” and “delicious”.

From the viewpoint on Thirassia, you get stunning vistas of the caldera, with the iconic blue-domed churches and neighboring island in the background. It’s a scene you’ll want to photograph and remember.

The final part of the cruise is a leisurely return, passing Vlychada again, as the sunset colors the sky and the sea. Many reviews mention how serene and peaceful this passage feels, wrapping up the day on a high note.

Food, Drinks, and Amenities

The tour’s included lunch features Mediterranean favorites, adding a culinary dimension often missing from simple boat trips. Reviews highlight how the onboard food is made fresh, with many describing it as “unreal” and “top notch.” Soft drinks, beer, and wine are included, allowing you to toast the beautiful scenery or relax after swimming.

Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can explore underwater life in the calm waters during stops. WiFi on board helps share photos or check messages, which is convenient for travelers wanting to stay connected.

Comfort, Crew, and Group Size

The new vessels and professional crew, including captain and staff, receive high praise. Tour reviews mention how friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable the staff are, making the experience both relaxing and educational.

With a maximum of 20 guests, the trip feels more personal than large group excursions. You’ll get more attention, and the small group size enhances opportunities for conversation and photos. Some reviews note that the boat’s dining area might feel somewhat tight if you’re a larger group, but overall, most find the space sufficient, especially considering the exclusivity of the tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing cruise is ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families who want a mix of relaxation, adventure, and sightseeing. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate good food, stunning scenery, and a quiet, intimate atmosphere. If you love photo opportunities, swimming in clear waters, or exploring volcanic islands, this tour hits those marks.

However, if you’re on a very tight schedule or prefer a more active, fast-paced excursion, you might find the 5-hour duration more relaxing than some travelers prefer. Also, during peak season, booking early is advisable since this small-group experience fills up quickly.

Final Thoughts

This sailing cruise in Santorini offers a blend of scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and comfort. The stops at volcanic beaches, secluded swimming spots, and the volcanic islands give you a real sense of the island’s natural forces and landscape. The included Mediterranean-style lunch and drinks significantly add to the value, as you get a full, satisfying meal made onboard.

What really distinguishes this tour is the quality of the vessels and crew, along with the small group size, which makes for a more relaxing and personalized experience. Many travelers leave glowing reviews about how memorable and enjoyable the day was, often mentioning the stunning views, delicious food, and friendly staff.

This cruise is perfect for those who want a more intimate, scenic, and culinary-focused adventure around Santorini, especially if you’re eager to explore volcanic sites, swim in pristine waters, and enjoy a relaxed day on the water. If your goal is a well-organized, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with leisure, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes luxury transfer service from your hotel, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 5 hours, including stops and activities, providing a comfortable pace without feeling rushed.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, offering a more personal and relaxed atmosphere compared to larger excursions.

What food and drinks are included?
A Mediterranean-style lunch with seafood, chicken, pasta, and fresh fruit is served on board, along with soft drinks, beer, and white wine.

Can I snorkel?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and you’re encouraged to explore the calm waters during swimming stops like Mesa Pigadia Beach.

Are there any restrictions for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, reviews mention that the crew is great with children, making it suitable for family trips.

What about weather considerations?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there time to take photos?
Absolutely. Stops like the lighthouse and Thirassia viewpoints are perfect for capturing those iconic Santorini shots.

How does the cost compare to other options?
At $82, this tour offers exceptional value considering the amenities, food, small-group setting, and all-inclusive nature. Many reviews highlight how well-priced it is for the experience you get.

In sum, if you’re looking for a day of scenic beauty, delicious food, and relaxing sailing with a friendly crew in an intimate setting, this Santorini cruise is a dependable choice. It suits travelers eager to see volcanic landscapes, enjoy good company, and unwind while soaking in spectacular views.