Santorini: Catamaran Caldera Cruise with Meal and Drinks

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want a memorable way to see the island’s famed volcanic scenery, a catamaran cruise might be just what you’re looking for. For around $107 per person and lasting about five hours, this experience offers a delightful blend of sightseeing, swimming, dining, and relaxing aboard a luxury catamaran. Whether you opt for the Day Cruise or the Sunset Cruise, you’ll have plenty of chances to enjoy the spectacular caldera views and breathtaking sunsets.

Two things we love about this tour? First, the variety of stops, with opportunities to swim at Red and White Beaches and soak in hot springs—it’s not just a boat ride, but a true island adventure. Second, the meals and drinks onboard are highly praised, especially the Greek BBQ meal and local wines — no skimping here. The only consideration? Weather conditions can influence the experience, especially the sailing route or timing. Still, this cruise suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of swimming and good food, perfect for those eager to see Santorini from its most iconic vantage point.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Sail around Santorini’s caldera, with plenty of photo opportunities of volcanic cliffs and the sunset.
• Multiple Stops: Swim at famous beaches like Red and White Beaches, and enjoy the healing hot springs.
• Culinary Experience: Sit back with a Greek meal, including traditional appetizers, BBQ, and local wine.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkeling gear, towels, Wi-Fi, and an open bar make this a hassle-free outing.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a day cruise or sunset cruise, each with unique highlights.
• Highly Rated: With a 4.8/5 from nearly 950 reviews, most travelers find it well worth the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Special?

Imagine gliding through the calm, deep blue waters of the Aegean, surrounded by volcanic cliffs that glow in the sunlight. This cruise offers just that, giving you a luxurious perspective of Santorini’s most famous sights without the crowds on land. The five-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to cover multiple stops and enjoy the scenery, but not so long that you feel exhausted.

The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciate the professional crew, who are attentive without being intrusive. Several mention how the guides point out landmarks and share interesting stories, adding depth to the experience. And, of course, the views of the sunset from the boat are often described as magical, making this a favorite for romantic travelers and photographers alike.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at Ammoudi Bay

The cruise kicks off from the charming Ammoudi Bay. Here, you’ll meet your guide about 15 minutes before departure—an ideal time to snap some early photos of the colorful harbor and take in the fresh sea air. From this point, the boat heads south towards Thirassia Island, a lesser-known gem that’s a perfect spot for a quiet swim or a leisurely walk in a fishing village setting. One reviewer loved that they got to see parts of the island on the minibus transfer, making the experience even more immersive.

Visiting Volcanic Beaches

Next comes the highlight—visiting the Red and White Beaches. These beaches are named after their striking color contrasts, formed by volcanic activity. The Red Beach is famous for its crimson cliffs and pebbles, while the White Beach boasts white volcanic formations. When anchored, you’ll have time to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on deck. Many reviewers mention how clear and inviting the water is, with some noting the equipment provided makes snorkeling easy and fun.

More Great Tours Nearby

Hot Springs and Volcanic Energy

Sailing toward the hot springs is a major draw. Though the springs are known for their mineral-rich waters, several reviews point out that the springs aren’t particularly hot—but it doesn’t seem to detract from the fun. The experience of floating in these natural spots, feeling the energy of the volcano beneath you, is often cited as a memorable part of the trip.

Lunch and Onboard Dining

One of the tour’s biggest pluses is the meal onboard. The BBQ options—pork, chicken, kebabs, or vegetarian—are described as delicious and plentiful. Accompanied by Greek appetizers like tzatziki, Greek salad, and seafood pasta, the meal feels both authentic and satisfying. Several reviews, including one from a seasoned traveler, mention that the food was surprisingly good, with some describing it as the best meal they had during their trip.

The open bar adds a relaxed vibe, with local wine, beers, ouzo, and soft drinks flowing freely. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the scenery, especially during the sunset.

The Scenic Return and Sunset

For those on the Sunset Cruise, the journey ends with one of Santorini’s most iconic sights—the sun setting over the caldera from the boat. Many reviews rave about how beautiful and peaceful the sunset viewing is from the water, often better than the crowded land spots. The cruise concludes back at Vlychada marina, with a drop-off near Oia if you choose, allowing you to avoid land-based crowds and enjoy the view in relative peace.

What to Expect on the Day or Sunset Cruise

Pickup and Arrival

Most travelers appreciate the hotel pickup service, which makes the experience seamless. The pickup time varies but typically begins about 20 minutes to 1.5 hours before departure, so plan your schedule accordingly. The meeting point is clearly marked, and the guides communicate well about logistics.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Most reviews indicate a small to medium-sized group, typically 15-20 people, which feels intimate without being crowded. This creates a relaxed environment, ideal for conversations or simply soaking in the scenery.

Weather and Flexibility

Since the cruise is subject to weather conditions, the itinerary might shift slightly based on wind or sea state. A few reviews mention that the hot springs aren’t very hot, but most find it a minor detail compared to the overall experience.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Travelers should bring sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and sunglasses. Towels are provided, but you may want to bring your own if you plan to swim often. Luggage or large bags are not allowed onboard, so pack light.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

Many travelers highlight the value for money, especially considering the all-inclusive food and drinks, snorkeling gear, and the scenic stops. Several reviewers mention that the crew is friendly and attentive, often going above and beyond to ensure everyone is comfortable and informed. For example, one traveler said, “The crew were very friendly and stopped to point out landmarks and tell us about them.”

The meals and drinks are consistently praised, with some saying the food was better than expected and the wine was flowing generously. Such attention to detail enhances the overall experience, making it feel more like a special outing than just a sightseeing tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for a relaxed, scenic day on the water. It suits those who appreciate good food, friendly service, and stunning views. It’s especially recommended if you want to avoid crowded land-based viewpoints and prefer a more intimate, water-level experience of Santorini’s caldera.

This Santorini catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded experience—combining gorgeous scenery, delicious Greek cuisine, and refreshing swims at volcanic beaches. The professional crew, flexible options, and authentic touches like local wine and appetizers make it a standout choice for many travelers.

While weather can influence the route or experience slightly, most find that the combination of sightseeing, dining, and swimming provides excellent value for the price. It’s a superb way to see the island from a unique perspective, especially for those eager to capture that famous sunset from the water.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and food-filled day aboard a comfortable boat, this tour is a strong contender. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, a sense of adventure, and a camera—this trip is sure to deliver plenty of memorable moments.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about five hours, giving plenty of time for stops, swimming, and enjoying the onboard meal.

Is the price of $107 per person good value?
Considering the meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the scenic stops, most travelers find it offers excellent value for money.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and sunglasses. Towels are provided, but you might prefer your own. Large luggage isn’t permitted.

Can I choose between day and sunset cruises?
Yes, both options are available. The Day Cruise allows more time for swimming and exploring, while the Sunset Cruise offers the iconic sunset experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the open bar includes local wine, beers, ouzo, soft drinks, and water—perfect for relaxing during the trip.

Is this suitable for children or families?
Most reviews suggest a family-friendly environment, especially since snorkeling gear and towels are provided, and the atmosphere is relaxed.

What’s the dress code?
Casual beachwear is fine—think shorts, T-shirts, and swimwear for swimming stops. Bring a light jacket or sweater for the evening, especially on sunset cruises.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled or rescheduled, most providers offer a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This cruise blends scenic beauty, culinary delights, and relaxation into one memorable Santorini experience. Whether you’re after beautiful photos, a tasty meal, or simply a day on the water with stunning views, it’s a solid choice—especially for those who want to see the island from a different perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: