Santorini: Luxury Catamaran Day Trip with Meal and Open Bar

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waves of the Santorini caldera aboard a sleek, luxury catamaran. The 5-6 hour trip takes you to some of the most iconic spots around the island—hot springs, beaches, and volcanic islands—with plenty of time to relax, snorkel, and soak in the views. For just $124 per person, this experience offers a blend of stunning scenery, delicious food, and unlimited drinks, all wrapped into a well-organized, intimate cruise.

What we love about this trip is how it combines authentic Greek cuisine with the thrill of swimming in volcanic hot springs and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The knowledgeable crew makes sure everyone feels safe and comfortable, turning a simple boat ride into a true highlight of any trip to Santorini. Plus, the sunset cruise under Oia’s skies promises an unforgettable view that’s hard to match.

One thing to consider is the group size, which is limited to fewer than 20 guests. While this makes for a more personalized experience, it also means you’ll want to book in advance during peak seasons. It’s also worth noting that the cruise cannot moor directly on beaches, so if you’re dreaming of a beach day, this cruise is more about the scenery and stops nearby.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, good food, and a relaxed vibe. If you enjoy smaller groups, authentic local cuisine, and a mix of sightseeing and leisure, this is a fantastic way to see Santorini from the water.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size ensures personal service and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Beautiful Stops: Hot springs, White Beach, Red Beach, and volcanic islands offer diverse scenery.
• Authentic Food & Drinks: Greek delicacies with unlimited local wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Stunning Views: Caldera, sunset, and volcanic landscapes create unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose morning or sunset cruises to suit your plans.
• Safety & Comfort: Well-maintained boats, flotation devices, snorkel gear, towels, wind jackets included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Santorini Catamaran Experience

If you’re dreaming of floating over the deep blue of Santorini’s caldera, this cruise offers more than just a boat ride; it delivers a carefully curated slice of island life. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time on the water, with stops at some of the most alluring spots in the area.

Itinerary Breakdown

After a convenient hotel pickup—which many reviews praise for being smooth and on time—you’ll head to the port, where a local host greets you to help you settle aboard. The vessel is described as clean and well-maintained, which is a relief when you’re spending several hours onboard.

Your first stop is typically near Red Beach, famous for its striking red cliffs and volcanic sand. This is your chance to snap photos and get a sense of Santorini’s volcanic origins. Then, the boat moves to White Beach’s sea caves, where snorkeling equipment and flotation devices are provided. This part of the trip is especially appreciated by those who love water activities—reviewers repeatedly mention the quality of the snorkel gear and the enjoyable swim in the sea caves.

Next, the boat heads to the volcanic hot springs for a 30-minute soak. While the springs are only about 4°C warmer than the sea, many find this a fun and unique experience. The boat maintains a safe distance from the springs, which is good for safety but means you won’t be able to dip directly on the springs’ edges. Some reviews note that rough seas on certain days might make hot spring swimming less comfortable, but the crew’s quick adaptation is often praised.

Food & Drink

One of the tour’s highlights is the Greek cuisine served onboard. The meal, whether at lunch or dinner depending on your cruise time, includes barbecue skewers, dolmadakia (vine leaves stuffed with rice), Greek salad, and other traditional dishes. Several reviews echo that the food is delicious and plentiful, with some calling it “absolutely amazing.” Vegetarian options include roasted vegetables and pasta, catering to different dietary preferences.

The open bar is another crowd favorite, offering local white wine, Greek beer, soft drinks, and even a cocktail. As one reviewer put it, “you can help yourself to unlimited drinks,” which adds a relaxed, festive vibe to the cruise. Many passengers enjoy sunbathing with relaxing music and drinks in hand, making it a true vacation highlight.

Scenic Highlights & Sunset Views

The cruise takes you past Palia Kameni and Nea Kameni, the uninhabited volcanic islands, which are quite striking from the water. You also get stunning views of Aspronisi Island and the Akrotiri lighthouse.

When you cruise at sunset, the sky transforms into a canvas of pinks and golds, especially as you stop below the village of Oia. The vibrant pastel colors of the sunset are a common praise point, with one reviewer mentioning it was “simply breathtaking.” During the sunset cruise, you’ll have ample time to capture photos and enjoy this natural spectacle.

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Comfort & Practicalities

The boat’s size—holding fewer than 20 guests—means plenty of space for sunbathing, chatting, or just relaxing. The tour provides towels, wind jackets, and shower facilities on board, adding to the comfort. The safety briefing is thorough and delivered in multiple languages, which reassures even nervous swimmers.

While the itinerary may change due to weather, the crew’s professionalism and flexibility ensure a smooth experience. The cruise is ideal for those who value personalized attention but should be avoided if you’re pregnant or have mobility issues, as these conditions aren’t explicitly accommodated.

Value for Money

For $124, this experience offers excellent value, considering the included meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and hotel pickup. When you compare it to the cost of a day spent trying to organize your own boat trips, this package simplifies logistics while delivering a full day of fun and scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for small groups seeking a more intimate experience, food lovers wanting authentic Greek cuisine, and water enthusiasts eager for snorkeling and swimming. It’s equally suitable for sunset lovers who want to see Oia’s skies change colors, or travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides with plenty of space to relax.

Reviewers consistently mention how friendly and professional the crew is, making the whole journey feel special without feeling rushed. The delicious food and unlimited drinks add a touch of luxury, even if you’re on a budget.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts between 5 and 6 hours, with departure times varying between morning and sunset options.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a freshly prepared Greek meal with vegetarian and meat options, unlimited drinks from an open bar, snorkeling gear, flotation devices, towels, wind jackets, and safety instructions.

Can I swim in the hot springs?
Yes, you’ll stop at the volcanic hot springs for about 30 minutes, where you can enjoy the warm water. The boat maintains a 50-meter distance for safety.

Is there a guide?
There’s no dedicated tour guide onboard, but crew members are knowledgeable and helpful. The experience relies more on the crew’s local knowledge and safety instructions.

Can I do this if I have mobility issues?
This tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments, as getting on and off the boat or swimming could be challenging.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change if weather conditions are unfavorable. The crew will do their best to adapt, but safety always comes first.

Is the sunset cruise different from the daytime cruise?
Yes, the sunset cruise stops below Oia for the famed sunset view, while the morning cruise offers a different perspective with breezes and fewer crowds.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat accommodates fewer than 20 guests, providing a more personal and less crowded experience.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini catamaran trip offers a thoughtfully curated day of scenic beauty, delicious food, and relaxed luxury. The small-group setting, combined with expert crew, makes it stand out as a top choice for travelers who want genuine moments of enjoyment rather than a crowded touristy vibe. From snorkeling in volcanic waters to sipping local wine during sunset, you’ll leave with memories of a truly authentic Greek day at sea.

If you value quiet, intimate experiences with excellent service, stunning views, and a taste of local cuisine, this cruise is an investment worth making. It’s best suited for those who love water activities, scenic sunsets, and good company—all set against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful islands in Greece.

Enjoy your journey, and don’t forget your camera. Santorini’s waters and sunsets are not just sights—they’re stories waiting to be told.

You can check availability for your dates here: