Santorini: Private Motor Yacht Cruise with Meal & Open Bar

Santorini: Private Motor Yacht Cruise with Meal & Open Bar

Imagine cruising along the iconic Caldera of Santorini on a modern, sleek 2025 Targa motor yacht with your own captain and crew. For around $1,807 per group (up to 6 people), you get to enjoy a personalized 5-10 hour journey through some of the island’s most captivating sights, including volcanic hot springs, dramatic rock formations, and picturesque beaches. This tour promises a seamless blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Greek hospitality.

What we love about this experience is how it combines luxury and intimacy. First, the flexibility of stops allows you to swim at the famous Red Beach, White Beach, and Hot Springs—perfect for cooling off or snorkeling in volcanic waters. Second, the private setting means you can set your own pace and enjoy the scenery without the crowds that often flock to public tours.

A potential consideration is the price point—at over $1,800 for a small private group, it’s an investment. But for many, the exclusivity and personalized service make it worthwhile. This cruise is best suited for those who want a luxury, flexible day on the water, particularly couples, small families, or friends seeking a memorable, private experience in Santorini.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Your own captain and crew tailor the experience to your wants.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: Including Red Beach, White Beach, and volcanic hot springs.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: Sail below the 1892 Akrotiri Lighthouse and pass by iconic volcanic formations.
• Excellent Food & Drinks: Enjoy Greek cuisine and open bar, with soft beverages, beers, and wine included.
• Flexible Duration: From about 5 to 10 hours to suit your schedule.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Towels, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment provided.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Private Yacht Experience

Starting with Ease—Seamless Hotel Pickup and Departure

The experience begins with hotel pickup in Thera, ensuring a smooth start without the hassle of navigating to a port. The 30-minute transfer to Vlychada Port sets the tone, giving you a chance to relax before setting sail. This door-to-door service is a valuable perk, especially in a place where parking and traffic can be tricky.

The Yacht: A Modern, High-Performance Vessel

Sailing on a brand-new 46-foot Targa yacht built in 2025, you’ll appreciate the combination of luxury, speed, and comfort. The vessel’s size strikes a good balance—large enough for stability and comfort, yet small enough to feel intimate. The boat’s sleek design and ample deck space give plenty of room to lounge, take photos, or simply soak in the views.

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The Itinerary: A Carefully Curated Journey

The cruise’s route is thoughtfully planned to maximize your experience of Santorini’s natural beauty and highlights:

• Red Beach and White Beach: These are among the most photographed spots in Santorini. The Red Beach is renowned for its striking volcanic cliffs, while the White Beach offers a quieter, more secluded vibe. We loved that you get photo stops, allowing plenty of opportunity to capture the scenery.

• Swimming at Mesa Pigadia: This smaller beach with black rocks and caves is perfect for snorkeling and diving into volcanic waters. The review mentions “time for swimming near the boat,” which is ideal for cooling off and exploring underwater life.

• Passing the Akrotiri Lighthouse: Built in 1892, this lighthouse marks the island’s southern tip and adds a historic touch to the voyage. Sailing below it is a visual highlight.

• The Volcano and Hot Springs: Approaching the Palea Kameni Hot Springs, you’ll have a 30-minute swim in sulfurous waters. While some reviews point out that the sulfur smell is strong and the water may stain your swimsuit, many find it a unique and memorable experience.

• Thirassia Island: Docking here for 20 minutes, you can enjoy photos and possibly a quick swim. The island offers a peaceful escape from the busier spots.

• Oia & Fira Views: As the tour winds down, you’ll get to see Oia and Fira from the water, with scenic views that are perfect for photos, especially if you opt for the sunset cruise.

The Food & Drink: A Taste of Greece on the Water

A highlight is the meal—either lunch or dinner—featuring authentic Greek cuisine. We love that the menu is hearty and includes fresh fruit, with an open bar serving soft drinks, beers, and white wine. The reviews mention the generous drinks service, making it a true all-inclusive experience.

Comfort & Convenience: Everything You Need

The tour supplies towels, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment, so you can focus on relaxing and exploring. The flexibility in timing allows you to choose a start that fits your plans, whether you want a lazy late-morning cruise or a sunset sail.

Practical Considerations & Tips

• What to bring: Sunglasses, hats, swimwear, sunscreen. It gets sunny and hot, so protection is essential.
• Limitations: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with large luggage. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Passport requirement: You’ll need to send a copy of your passport or ID in advance, mainly for security and port checks.
• Not allowed: Pets and unaccompanied minors are not permitted on the yacht.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer appreciated the personalized service and the flexibility to swim in the volcanic waters, describing it as “a unique experience that beats crowded tours.” Another noted that the captain was attentive, ensuring they had plenty of time at each stop. Some found the sulfur smell at the hot springs strong but recognized it as part of the volcanic experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking luxury and privacy. It’s perfect if you value customized experiences over group tours and want a relaxed pace with plenty of time for swimming, photos, and enjoying Greek cuisine. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples celebrating a special occasion.

The Sum Up

This Santorini private yacht cruise offers a rare combination of luxury, flexibility, and authentic experiences. From the stunning volcanic landscapes to the delicious meal and open bar, it promises a memorable day on the water. Because the tour is private, you get to decide how much time to spend at each stop and can tailor the experience to your interests.

While the price point might be steep for some, the personalized service and exclusivity make it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a high-end adventure. Travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, leisurely pace, and quality comfort will find this tour well worth the expense.

If you’re looking for a special way to see Santorini from the water—without the crowds and with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the scenery—this private yacht cruise is a top contender. It’s an experience that combines luxury, scenery, and authentic Greek hospitality into one unforgettable day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private cruise on a luxury yacht, swimming stops, hot springs visit, a guided tour, towels, snorkeling and safety equipment, as well as soft beverages, beers, white wine, and fresh fruit.

How long does the cruise last?
The duration varies from 5 to 10 hours, depending on your preferences and availability. Check the schedule when booking to pick a start time that suits you.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The cruise departs from Vlychada Port, with pickup from your hotel or the nearest accessible point in Thera.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is not suitable for unaccompanied minors, and alcohol service is for guests 18 and older.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, and sunscreen. It’s a good idea to have a camera, and a towel is provided.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and large luggage is not allowed onboard. Also, pets are not permitted.

What about the hot springs?
The Palea Kameni Hot Springs offer a 30-minute swim in sulfurous waters. Be aware that the smell can be strong, and the water may stain swimsuits.

Do I need to send my passport details?
Yes, travelers are asked to send copies of their passports before the cruise, mainly for security and port checks as per Greek law.

This detailed review hopes to help you decide whether a private yacht cruise in Santorini fits your travel style. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking luxury, or simply want to see the island from a different perspective, this experience offers a blend of comfort, adventure, and genuine Greek charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: