Shared Morning Cruise around Santorini’s best beaches

Experience the Beauty of Santorini on a Shared Morning Cruise

Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves and setting sail from the Vlychada marina, a charming and less crowded spot on Santorini. This 5-hour shared boat tour offers a chance to see some of the island’s most memorable sights, all while relaxing on a comfortable vessel with fellow travelers. For about the price of a nice meal, you’ll visit Red and White Beaches, admire the Caldera from the Old port of Fira, and swim in the Hot Springs of Nea Kameni.

What we particularly liked about this experience is the chance to photograph the spectacular coastline and lunar landscapes, as well as the inclusion of lunch and drinks, which adds to the value. The use of snorkeling equipment means you can explore beneath the surface, and the WiFi onboard helps share your photos instantly.

One thing to keep in mind is that departure times may shift depending on weather conditions, and the boat may differ from the images based on availability — so flexibility is key. This tour suits travelers who are eager to see Santorini from the sea without the hassle of organizing multiple stops or private charters. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable sharing the boat with others and want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible schedule: Departure times may shift based on weather, ensuring safety and comfort.
• All-inclusive: Snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, WiFi, and transportation are included—great value.
• Authentic experience: Visit iconic beaches and caldera viewpoints away from crowded spots.
• Group size: Shared tour, so expect company but also a lively, social atmosphere.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, though some reviews note it’s not suitable for all mobility levels.
• Weather-dependent: The itinerary can be adjusted, so patience and flexibility help maximize the experience.

Exploring Santorini by Boat: A Thorough Overview

Starting Point: Vlychada Marina

Our journey begins at the picturesque Vlychada marina. This less-touristy port offers a calmer, more authentic vibe compared to the busy Fira or Oia ports. From here, the boat gently glides out, and you get your first glimpse of the Red and White Beaches. These beaches are named for their striking volcanic-colored sands and steep cliffs, making them a favorite for photos. We loved how close you can get to these unique formations; they’re truly a marvel of nature.

Red and White Beaches: Photogenic Highlights

The boat stops along the coast give you ample time for photos and a chance to marvel at the dramatic volcanic terrain. The Red Beach, with its crimson cliffs, is a standout—it’s one of those sightlines that makes you pause and think about the island’s volcanic origins. The White Beach, accessible only by boat or on foot, offers a quieter spot for a quick swim if you wish.

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The Caldera and Old Port of Fira

Next, we cruise along the spectacular caldera, one of the most iconic sights of Santorini. From the water, you’ll see the cliffside villages of Fira and Oia, perched high above the sea. The boat docks at the Old port of Fira, a lively spot with narrow streets and cafes. It’s a great photo opportunity, and you can admire the volcanic landscape beneath the charming architecture—something that makes Santorini unforgettable.

Hot Springs of Nea Kameni

The highlight for many is a visit to the Hot Springs of Nea Kameni, located near the volcano itself. Here, you can take a dip in warm waters that are believed to have therapeutic qualities. The volcanic mud and mineral-rich waters create a lunar landscape that’s both surreal and relaxing. The snorkeling gear provided allows you to explore beneath the surface, adding an extra layer of adventure. In our experience, the volcanic vibes are palpable; the landscape feels almost otherworldly.

Swimming and Lunch at Black Mountain

As the cruise winds down, the last stop is Black Mountain—a volcanic black sand beach. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing. The tour includes lunch, often featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients, served on deck or at the beach if time permits. The combination of seafood and sun makes for a satisfying end to your morning. We appreciated the opportunity to unwind and enjoy the lunar landscape while sipping a cold drink.

What’s Included & Why It Matters

The tour’s inclusions make it a well-rounded experience. The snorkeling equipment allows you to explore beneath the waves at each stop, enhancing the adventure. The lunch and drinks, including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, add convenience and value, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own supplies.

The private transportation ensures easy pickup from your accommodation or designated location, which simplifies logistics. Plus, WiFi onboard helps you share photos or check in with friends and family—especially appreciated if you want to brag about your volcanic swim.

Considerations and Caveats

The main consideration is that this is a shared tour, so you’ll be with other travelers, which can be lively but may not suit those seeking complete privacy. Plus, weather plays a role; the departure time and itinerary can be adjusted for safety, which might affect your plans. A review notes that the activity is not suitable for wheelchairs, so if mobility is a concern, you might need to explore other options.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, relaxed way to see Santorini’s best beaches and volcanic sites without the stress of planning. It’s ideal if you enjoy socializing with fellow travelers, want an authentic island perspective, and appreciate value-packed inclusions like food, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those wanting a balanced, scenic, and well-organized way to explore Santorini’s coast, this shared morning cruise hits the spot. It offers a taste of everything—beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and caldera views—without the hefty price tag of private charters. The inclusive lunch and drinks add to the convenience, making it a great option for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience.

While it’s not a private boat, the small group feel fosters camaraderie and makes it suitable for solo travelers or couples wanting a social atmosphere. The flexibility in scheduling and the chance to see less crowded spots at Vlychada make it a worthwhile outing.

This tour is best for adventurous spirits eager to see the island from the water and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. If you value authenticity, comfort, and good value, you’ll likely find this trip a highlight of your Santorini stay.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, some reviews indicate it might not be suitable for all mobility levels. It’s best to check specific needs in advance.

What should I bring onboard?
You’ll want to bring sun protection like sunscreen and a hat, swimwear for snorkeling and swimming, and a camera for photos. The tour provides snorkeling gear and drinks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch, typically featuring local ingredients, along with soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, depending on weather conditions, departure times and specific stops may be adjusted to ensure safety and comfort.

What kind of boat do we sail on?
The boat may differ from the pictures based on availability, but it will be a comfortable vessel suitable for a shared group.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary depending on weather and timing, but typically you can expect enough time to swim, take photos, and enjoy each location.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, there is WiFi onboard, so you can share your experiences instantly.

What kind of group will I be with?
It’s a shared tour, so expect a group of fellow travelers. This often results in a lively, social atmosphere.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island explorer, this Santorini cruise offers a practical, scenic way to experience the island’s stunning coastline and volcanic wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: