Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip(BBQ,drinks, transfer)

Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip (BBQ, Drinks, Transfer)

Imagine cruising around Santorini’s famous caldera, with the wind in your hair, stunning volcanic scenery all around, and a delicious Greek BBQ on board. For about five hours, this small-group catamaran experience offers an intimate and relaxing way to see the island from a different perspective. Priced at around $150 per person, the tour is designed to give you a taste of what makes Santorini so special, with the added comforts of hotel pickup and drop-off.

What we particularly love about this trip is its focus on personalized service—with a maximum of 14 guests, it’s far from the crowded boat scene. Plus, the stops at iconic beaches and hot springs make this a well-rounded day out. However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a sailing-heavy experience; the boat mainly motors along, which might disappoint those craving actual sailing. Still, if you’re after scenic beauty, swimming, and good food, this tour hits many marks.

This trip suits travelers who want comfort, convenience, and a chance to explore the highlights of Santorini’s coastline without the hassle of planning. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a laid-back day on the water, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small-group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Diverse Stops: Swim, snorkel, and relax at Red Beach, White Beach, and volcanic hot springs.
• All-Inclusive Value: BBQ lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and hotel transfers included.
• Stunning Views: Pass by the famous lighthouse, Palea Kameni volcano, and scenic caldera.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off make logistics easy.
• Authentic Experience: Smaller groups often mean more opportunities to engage with guides and fellow travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Catamaran Experience

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Offers

Once we booked, the promise was clear: a half-day escape exploring Santorini’s most beautiful spots from a cozy catamaran. The tour lasts approximately five hours, including pickups, snorkeling, swimming, and a hearty Greek BBQ. The price, at around $150.61 per person, covers most essentials—food, drinks, equipment, and transportation—all bundled for an easy day.

The experience begins with a hotel pickup, which sets the tone for a stress-free outing. We appreciated this touch, especially after a morning of sightseeing or relaxing at our hotel. The transfer to the marina is quick, and from there, the fun begins aboard a well-maintained, comfortable catamaran with a maximum capacity of just 14 guests. This ensures a more intimate setting where everyone feels part of a small crew rather than just another passenger.

Why We Love This Tour

First, the diverse itinerary is a major highlight. You get to swim and snorkel at Red Beach and White Beach, both famous for their vibrant volcanic colors and warm waters. It’s not just about lounging; these stops offer some of the clearest and most inviting waters in Santorini. The opportunity to dive into volcanic hot springs adds a unique dimension. While the water is not boiling hot—more of a warm mineral soak—you’ll feel the difference in temperature and mineral richness. Many reviews mention how people loved the hot springs, despite slight coolness, describing it as a memorable part of the trip.

Second, the onboard Greek BBQ is surprisingly good. The fresh grilled meats, salads, and the local wine made for a satisfying lunch. The fact that everything is prepared on the boat means you get a true taste of Greek cuisine in a beautiful setting. Several travelers raved about the quality of the food and the variety of drinks ranging from soft drinks to Santorini wine and beer—perfect for unwinding in the sun.

A Slight Limitation: It’s Mainly a Motorized Cruise

One common point among reviews is that, despite the “catamaran sailing” experience, the boat generally does not raise its sails. Instead, it mainly uses the motor to navigate from spot to spot. For sailing enthusiasts hoping to hoist the sails and feel the wind, this might be disappointing. However, most guests seem to prioritize the scenic stops and the comfort of the boat over traditional sailing.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, guided day with plenty of swimming and lounging opportunities. It’s perfect if you value small-group intimacy, good food, and stunning views. It’s also suitable for travelers who want convenience—the included hotel transfers make logistics simple, especially for those unfamiliar with Santorini.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Red Beach

After departure, the first stop is at Red Beach, renowned for its cliffs with striking red volcanic soil. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim and snorkel in the warm waters. Several guests mention how the landscape of Red Beach is breathtaking, with reviews noting that the scenery alone makes this stop worth the trip. The water temperature is inviting, and the snorkeling gear helps you get a closer look at the underwater world.

Stop 2: White Beach & Lunch

Next, the boat heads to White Beach, famous for its white volcanic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. You’ll stay here for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and relax. Many reviews highlight the generous portion of a Greek BBQ served on board, with freshly grilled meats, salads, and local wines making this a real highlight. Passengers often mention how the food quality exceeded expectations.

Stop: Lighthouse & Palea Kameni

Sailing along the coast, you’ll see the Ancient Lighthouse from the sea, which offers great photo opportunities. The boat then cruises past Palea Kameni, the volcanic island, providing impressive views of the volcanic landscape.

Stop 3: Hot Springs

The tour’s final major stop is at the volcanic Hot Springs. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim in the mineral-rich, slightly sulfuric waters. Reviews describe this as a unique experience, with some noting that the springs are not extremely hot but warm enough to enjoy. The boat maintains a safe distance of about 50 meters, so you’ll be close enough to experience the waters without worry.

Return to Shore

After the hot springs, the boat heads back to the marina. Many guests comment on how breathtaking the views are from the water, especially during sunset if you opt for the evening tour. A driver then takes you back to your hotel, making the whole day carefree.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour ticks most boxes: hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling equipment, towels and blankets (to be returned after use), drinks including soft drinks, wine, and beer, a map with info, and onboard music. The restroom aboard is a thoughtful touch, especially during longer stops.

For comfort, bring swimwear, dry clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat. Remember, the minimum drinking age is 18, and service animals are permitted. The boat’s capacity is capped at 14 guests, ensuring a personal experience, but it also means booking well in advance, around 44 days on average.

The Experience from the Reviews

The majority of reviews praise the knowledgeable, friendly crew—notably Katerina, George, and Yiannis—who go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome. Many mention the delicious food and great variety of drinks. Several reviewers emphasize the stunning scenery, describing it as breathtaking or spectacular.

A handful of reviewers comment that, despite the “sailing” label, the boat mostly motors along. For example, one review states, “it’s more motoring on a catamaran than actual sailing,” but still concludes that “it didn’t feel crowded at all,” and the personal atmosphere made up for it.

Guests also love the chance to swim at different beaches and experience the volcanic hot springs—a truly unique feature of this tour. Several mention that the small group size made the experience feel intimate, allowing for better interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

The Value Proposition

Given what’s included—hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, a generous BBQ lunch, drinks, and an experienced crew—the $150.61 price tag offers good value. The consistency in reviews about the quality of the food and the friendliness of the staff underscores that this isn’t just a sightseeing trip but a memorable, well-rounded experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy relaxing on the water, swimming in volcanic waters, and want to avoid the crowds typical of larger tours, this experience is a perfect fit. It suits those who value small-group intimacy and excellent service. However, if your idea of sailing involves hoisting the sails and feeling the wind, you might find this more of a motor cruise.

This trip also appeals to food lovers, given the Greek BBQ lunch and plentiful drinks, and to anyone looking for a convenient, all-in-one day exploring Santorini’s coast.

The Sum Up

This small-group catamaran tour combines stunning scenery, excellent food, and personalized service into a memorable half-day experience. Travelers who prioritize comfortable, hassle-free outings with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax will find this a rewarding choice. It’s an especially good pick for those who want a more intimate, authentic way to see Santorini’s coast without sacrificing comfort or quality.

While it isn’t a sailing adventure in the traditional sense, the beautiful stops and friendly crew more than compensate. The included hotel transfers and all-day catering make it a value-packed option and a highlight for many visitors.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and well-organized day on the water, this tour deserves serious consideration on your Santorini itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to start and end your day without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, from pickup to return.

Can I swim at the beaches and hot springs?
Absolutely. You’ll have time to swim and snorkel at Red Beach, White Beach, and the volcanic hot springs.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, a Greek BBQ lunch, along with soft drinks, wine, and beer, are all included on the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, dry clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat for comfort during stops.

How many people are on this tour?
A maximum of 14 guests makes for a more personalized experience.

Is this a traditional sailing trip?
Not exactly. The boat mainly motors along, so it’s more of a scenic cruise than a sailing adventure.

Will I see scenic landmarks?
Yes, you’ll pass by the lighthouse, Palea Kameni volcano, and see the coast from the water, which offers unique perspectives.

Can I do this if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves swimming and some walking on the boat, so check with the provider if you have specific needs.