Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, dramatic cliffs, and iconic whitewashed villages. But it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a drink with spectacular views—whether that’s sipping local wine on a sleek yacht or hopping between picture-perfect beaches on a lively boat tour. We’re especially fond of the Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise with Snorkel, BBQ & Open Bar because it combines a lively atmosphere with a classic sightseeing experience, all while enjoying unlimited white wine and a mouthwatering BBQ. Plus, snorkeling in the caldera’s crystal waters makes this a full-sensory adventure. If you prefer a more private, upscale experience, the Private Caldera Cruise offers a luxurious day on your own yacht, complete with a rich BBQ meal, private transfers, and personalized service. With options for sunset, full-day, or private charters, Santorini’s boat tours serve all kinds of travelers.
For those looking for a more casual or budget-friendly option, the Beer and the History Semi-private Experience is a fun, short visit to Santorini’s only craft brewery. It’s perfect for beer lovers wanting a taste of local brews without the boat ride. Whatever your style, this list of the 15 best drinking tours in Santorini covers a range of experiences, from relaxed private cruises to lively group adventures, ensuring you’ll find the perfect toast to this island’s beauty.
Quick Overview of the Best Drinking Tours in Santorini
Our list features a mix of luxury private yacht cruises, semi-private boat excursions, and small-group catamaran adventures. Many tours include BBQ meals, open bars, snorkeling, and hot springs visits, making them ideal for both relaxing and active days at sea. For example, the Santorini Private Catamaran Cruise offers total privacy with customizable routes, while the Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise delivers a lively atmosphere with an open bar and snorkeling. Budget options like the Beer and the History Tour combine craft beer tasting with a short brewery visit. Below, explore each tour’s highlights, reviews, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise with Snorkel, BBQ & Open Bar
At number 1, this 5-hour cruise is a standout for its balance of adventure, comfort, and value. For $136 per person, you’ll explore Santorini’s colorful beaches, including stops at the Red and White beaches for swimming and snorkeling. The boat features a large open bar with unlimited white wine, and a delicious BBQ meal prepared onboard. Guests love the friendly crew and the chance to see the Venetian lighthouse and volcanic rock formations up close, with reviews praising the top-notch service and breathtaking scenery. The tour’s mix of swimming, sightseeing, and socializing makes it a top choice for couples and groups wanting a lively day on the water. The main downside? It’s a popular tour, so booking early is wise.
Bottom Line: A great all-rounder for those who want a fun, full-day experience with excellent food and drinks, perfect for social travelers.
2. Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise with Meal, BBQ and Open Bar
Ranking second, this 5-hour tour costs about $116 and is highly rated for its intimate atmosphere and exclusive stops. The small-group setting means fewer people, more space, and better views. It features stops at the Red and White beaches, the volcanic hot springs, and Thirassia Island, with swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on deck. The onboard BBQ with wine and beer, plus Greek appetizers, delights guests. Reviewers praise the outstanding crew and delicious food, often highlighting the peaceful experience and personalized service. Its limited size makes it ideal for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, upscale vibe.
Bottom Line: If you prefer exclusivity and a quieter experience with excellent food, this cruise delivers premium value.
3. Santorini Private Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Open Bar & Transfers
At number 3, for around $521, you get a completely private day on your own vessel. The cruise includes hotel transfers, so you start and end in comfort. Highlights include swimming at secluded beaches like White Beach, exploring volcanic caves, and dipping in hot springs. Guests love the personalized service, with reviews noting the crew’s attentiveness and the delicious BBQ. It’s perfect for special occasions, honeymooners, or anyone who wants full control over the route and pace. The main limitation is the cost, but for private luxury, it’s a real treat.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking privacy and exclusivity, with total flexibility and top-tier service.
4. Santorini Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal and Open Bar
Number 4 on our list, this 5-hour cruise costs about $148 and offers a lively, social experience. It features stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and the volcanic hot springs, with snorkeling gear and towels provided. Guests rave about the excellent food, friendly crew, and the relaxed party atmosphere, making it perfect for those wanting a fun day with plenty of drinks and socializing. The boat’s smaller size ensures an intimate feel, and reviews emphasize the delicious onboard meal and unlimited drinks. It’s well-suited for groups, families, or friends looking for a festive vibe.
Bottom Line: A lively, social cruise ideal for celebrating or just enjoying a day with friends in Santorini.
5. Private Motor Yacht Cruise with BBQ, Open Bar & Transfers
For around $930, this private motor yacht offers a luxurious, fully customizable day. It includes hotel transfers, a gourmet BBQ, and access to secluded beaches like Palea Kameni and Thirassia. Guests highlight the personalized experience, with reviews mentioning the knowledgeable crew and delicious meal. It’s best for special occasions or travelers who want the highest level of comfort and privacy. The ability to tailor the route and stops makes it stand out, but it’s not for budget travelers.
Bottom Line: For those seeking an indulgent, private experience with tailored routes, this cruise is hard to beat.
6. Luxury Santorini Sunset Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
Number 6, priced at about $154, offers a luxurious sunset experience. Starting from Vlychada, it visits highlights like Mesa Pigadia and volcanic hot springs, with a special focus on sunset views. Guests praise the delicious BBQ dinner, complimentary drinks, and the peaceful atmosphere at dusk. Guests note the excellent crew and the stunning scenery, making this ideal for romantics and those who want to combine sightseeing with a memorable sunset. The main drawback is that it’s a longer evening commitment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples seeking a romantic sunset with good food and a relaxed vibe.
7. Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise: Lunch, BBQ, Open Bar
Number 7 caters to daytime explorers, costing about $128. It offers a full-day cruise with stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and volcanic hot springs. Guests praise the delicious onboard lunch, friendly crew, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The small group size keeps it intimate, and reviews highlight the quality of food and the variety of stops. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of time to swim and explore.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a comprehensive day with plenty of swimming and a good meal, this cruise fits the bill.
8. Santorini Sunset Sailing Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
Number 8, at about $139, offers a romantic evening out. It starts from Vlychada, with stops at Red Beach, volcanic springs, and Thirassia. Guests love the spectacular sunset views, delicious BBQ dinner, and the relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The reviews mention the friendly crew and the beautiful scenery. This trip suits couples and anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a special sunset experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for romantic getaways and sunset lovers wanting a comfortable, well-rounded outing.
9. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal & Open Bar
Number 9 offers a 5-hour cruise with a focus on comprehensive sightseeing and snorkeling. Guests report a friendly crew, delicious food, and breathtaking views of the caldera. It’s a popular choice for couples and families seeking a relaxed cruise with plenty of drinks. The reviews note the large volcanic caldera and the variety of stops, making it a solid all-around experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a full-day, well-rounded cruise with good food and scenic stops.
10. Luxury Santorini Sailing Cruise: Lunch, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
Ranked tenth, this cruise costs about $138 and provides a luxury experience with a private yacht feel. It features stops at the Red Beach, White Beach, volcano hot springs, and Thirassia, with a delicious BBQ meal and complimentary drinks. Guests appreciate the comfortable boat, personalized service, and spectacular scenery. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a more elegant, less crowded outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a refined, private experience with great food and stunning views.
How to Choose Your Ideal Drinking Tour in Santorini
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, group size, and what you want out of the day. If you’re after a lively atmosphere with lots of socializing and snorkeling, the Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise or the Fresh Meal and Open Bar Cruise are excellent choices. For a more exclusive, relaxed experience, the Private Catamaran or the Luxury Private Cruise offer privacy and customization.
Budget travelers should consider the Beer and the History Tour, which combines a craft beer tasting with a quick brewery visit. Think about your preferred time of day, too—sunset cruises are perfect for romantic evenings, while daytime trips are ideal for active explorers who want more snorkeling and sightseeing.
Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment. Also, consider how much time you want to spend on the water and whether you prefer a private, small-group, or larger shared experience.
Final Thoughts
Santorini offers a wide array of drinking and sailing experiences that cater to different tastes and budgets. For a lively, social vibe, options like the Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise are ideal. If you’re after privacy and luxury, the Private Caldera Cruise and Luxury Sunset Cruise promise a personalized, high-end experience. Meanwhile, those on a budget or with limited time will find plenty of fun in the shorter, craft beer-focused Beer and the History Tour.
No matter which you choose, book early—these tours fill up fast, especially during the peak summer months. Cheers to a memorable sip of Santorini’s beauty from the water!