Vlichada is one of those spots in Santorini that captures the imagination with its quiet, rocky coastline and unspoiled charm. But what really makes it stand out for travelers are the fantastic tour options. Whether you’re eager to captain your own boat, explore on two wheels at sunset, or relax on a luxury catamaran, Vlichada offers experiences that bring you closer to the Aegean’s beauty and authentic charm. We’re particularly fond of the license-free motor boat rental because it mixes independence with the stunning scenery, and the private yacht cruises for those seeking exclusivity and comfort. If you love history, the unexplored culture day trip offers local insights plus a farm visit. Whatever your style, Vlichada has a tour that can match your expectations.
Quick Overview
Vlichada is a great base for a variety of tours that include self-guided boat rentals, e-bike adventures, luxury cruises, and cultural excursions. You can rent a boat to explore hidden coves (see full details here), or glide along on a sunset e-bike tour (learn more). For those wanting to relax at sea, a private catamaran cruise (check availability here) is perfect. Looking for local flavor? The culture day trip with farm visit (details here) blends food, pottery, and history. Now, let’s dig into each one.
1. Santorini: License-Free Motor Boat Rental -Full or Half Day
At number 1, this license-free motor boat rental offers the freedom to become your own captain. For around $261, a group of up to five can explore Santorini’s coast for 5 to 10 hours. The boats are brand new, supporting a safe, private experience supported by an experienced team. You’ll get to visit iconic spots like Red Beach, White Beach, and even Santorini Volcano. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to swim, snorkel, and enjoy scenic views at your own pace. The highlight? Unforgettable sunsets from the water, perfect for romantic or memorable family moments. Reviews are glowing, praising the ease of navigation and the friendly support from the team.
Bottom line: If you want independence and the ability to craft your own adventure, this rental offers both. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with boats and looking for a personalized experience.
2. Santorini: License-Free Boat Rental with Snorkeling Gear
Coming in at number 2, this self-guided boat rental with snorkeling gear (about $260 for 5 hours) offers a perfect way to enjoy Santorini’s waters on your schedule. Guests love the inclusion of snorkeling gear, towels, and water toys, making it easy to jump in and explore the crystal-clear sea and potentially visit the famous Hot Springs. The reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the staff is — “Sasa made everything smooth and enjoyable,” says one reviewer. The flexible hours let you decide your day, whether you want to cruise quietly or venture into lively spots. The onboard audio system adds a fun touch, making this a great choice for groups who want relaxation with a dash of adventure.
Bottom line: This option balances independence with comfort, ideal if you want to explore at your own pace and enjoy snorkeling in Santorini’s beautiful waters.
3. Santorini: E-Bike Sunset Tour Experience
At number 3, this e-bike sunset tour (roughly $136 per person) combines active exploration with stunning views. The ride takes you past traditional villages, the Venetian castle in Emporio, and scenic vineyards, culminating in an unforgettable sunset over the caldera. Guided by an experienced host, you’ll learn about Cycladic architecture, local history, and the island’s geology. The e-bike makes the ride accessible, even for those who aren’t seasoned cyclists. Top reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the relaxed, scenic routes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, exercise, and sunset magic.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers eager to combine culture with breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a memorable late-afternoon adventure.
4. Santorini: E-bike tour experience
Number 4 on our list, this e-bike tour takes you through Santorini’s southern highlights. For about $136, you’ll explore black sand beaches, visit castles, and learn about Cycladic architecture. The guided experience emphasizes the landscape’s geological uniqueness and the historic Tomato Industrial Museum. Reviewers note the guide Giannis’s deep knowledge and friendly approach, saying, “This was my best highlight in Greece.” The e-bike makes hilly areas accessible, and the route is designed for comfort and discovery.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those who love a blend of scenic cycling and cultural insight, especially if they want a flexible, guided experience.
5. Santorini:Catamaran: private cruise with food & drinks
Number 5 features a luxury private cruise for up to 2 people, priced at $1,004 for 5 hours. Led by family-run operators, this private catamaran offers the chance to explore the caldera’s hidden spots, swim, snorkel, and enjoy a Greek buffet onboard. The boat approaches “hard-to-reach” places, creating an intimate, exclusive experience. The onboard meal, prepared fresh, elevates the trip, and the flexible itinerary means your preferences are prioritized. The reviews highlight the personal touch and the stunning scenery.
Bottom line: This is perfect for couples or small groups seeking a high-end, personalized sea adventure, with plenty of privacy and comfort.
6. Santorini: Unexplored Culture Day Trip with Farm Visit
Number 6 offers a cultural day trip ($243 per person) that dives into lesser-known local traditions. The tour includes a visit to the Tomato Industrial Museum, ceramic workshops, and a folklore museum. It also visits a farm for tasting local ingredients and a Megalochori arts market. The itinerary covers 5 hours, with 15 pickup points, making it flexible. Visitors rave about the authentic experiences, noting the guide’s passion and the opportunity to learn about Santorini’s local produce and crafts.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers interested in local culture, food, and crafts — this tour offers a comprehensive, less touristy look at the island.
7. 2-Hour Morning Horse Ride with Professional Photos
Number 7 is a morning horseback ride (about $449 for up to 4 persons), including a professional photo shoot. Riding along scenic beaches and vineyards, you experience Santorini from a unique vantage point. Instructors prioritize safety, making it suitable even for beginners. The photos capture your journey, creating lasting memories. Although reviews are not provided, the combination of scenery and photography makes it appealing for those wanting a special photo experience.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a romantic, picturesque activity with high-quality photos, and comfortable riding conditions.
$449 per group up to 1
8. 3-Day Crewed Charter “The Relaxing” Beneteau Oceanis 46.1
Number 8 delivers a luxury sailing getaway over three days, at $5,724 for up to 6 guests. This crewed yacht explores islands like Ios and Folegandros, with the captain and crew handling all logistics. The itinerary includes marina stops, island visits, and time at sea, offering a balance of relaxation and adventure. Guests appreciate the comfort on board and the chance to see less crowded islands.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a multi-day, high-end sailing experience, with all logistics taken care of and plenty of time to relax at sea.
$5,724 per group up to 6
9. 3-Day Crewed Charter “The Relaxing” Lagoon 42 catamaran
Similar to the previous, this luxury catamaran offers a three-day cruise at $6,439 for six guests, visiting Ios and Folegandros. The ** Lagoon 42** provides stability, space, and comfort at sea. Reviews note the professional crew and well-planned itinerary. The experience is tailored, allowing guests to snorkel, swim, and enjoy scenic islands.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a spacious, stable vessel with private crew, perfect for a relaxed, scenic escape.
$6,439 per group up to 6
10. 5-Day Crewed Charter “The Discovery” Beneteau Oceanis 46.1
Number 10 offers a five-day sailing adventure with a crew, costing $9,540 for up to 6 guests. The itinerary explores key Cyclades islands like Paros and Antiparos, with overnight stays onboard. Guests love the flexibility and the chance to see multiple islands in a relaxed pace, with crew managing all aspects.
Bottom line: Ideal for seasoned sailors or those wanting an extended, luxury, island-hopping experience with hassle-free logistics.
$9,540 per group up to 6
11. 5-Hour Santorini Private Boat Tour for Cruise Passengers
Number 11 is a private boat tour tailored for cruise passengers, costing $620 per person for 5 hours. The tour includes stops at Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, and the Santorini caldera, with options to swim, snorkel, and relax. The experience is exclusive, with an English-speaking crew and seamless transfers from the port.
Guests comment on how the tour helps avoid crowds and enjoy iconic sights like the Venetian Lighthouse in peace. This tour is excellent if you want a personalized, quick but comprehensive experience tailored to cruise schedules.
Bottom line: Perfect for cruise visitors who want to maximize their time with a private, scenic, and hassle-free sea outing.
$620 per person
12. 7-Day Crewed Charter “The Cosmopolitan” Lagoon 42 catamaran
The number 12 classic seven-day cruise explores the Cyclades, including Mykonos. For $15,025, it’s a full-week luxury experience with a professional crew and plenty of time to relax, swim, and explore islands at a leisurely pace.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a week-long, all-inclusive sail with plenty of downtime and island discovery.
$15,025 per group up to 6
13. 7-Day Crewed Charter “The Cosmopolitan” Beneteau Oceanis 46.1
This seven-day yacht offers a slightly different experience, at $13,356, focusing on the same popular islands with a crew handling all logistics. It’s a more intimate, luxurious way to see the Cyclades, suitable for families or groups wanting comfort and flexibility.
Bottom line: Excellent for those seeking a longer, relaxed sailing holiday with all the amenities.
$13,356 per group up to 6
14. Boat Rental (Crewed) Olympic 7.2
At around $903 for 5-10 hours, this crewed boat rental allows you to explore Santorini’s waters with a skipper, swimming, snorkeling, and visiting hidden spots. It’s a customizable experience, giving you the flexibility to design your perfect day at sea.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a private boat with crew help but prefer a shorter, tailor-made experience.
$903 per group up to 6
15. Santorini: Private Morning Deep Sea Fishing Boat Trip
Number 15 is a deep-sea fishing adventure for about $847 per person over 8 hours. It starts from Vlychada port, targeting species like skipjack tuna. The trip includes trying different fishing methods and grilling your catch onboard, making it perfect for anglers or those wanting a unique experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for fishing enthusiasts or those seeking a different kind of maritime adventure.
$847 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Vlichada
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If independence and flexibility appeal, the motor boat rental (full details) offers autonomy. For a more relaxed, luxurious experience, the private cruise (see options) is ideal. If you’re into active exploration, the e-bike sunset tour (details here) combines sightseeing with exercise.
For those interested in local culture, the culture day trip (more info) offers hands-on experiences. Planning ahead is essential — especially for multi-day cruises or private charters — as these fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Vlichada is a treasure trove of tour options that cater to different preferences and budgets. For a quick, private escape, the license-free boat rental is unbeatable. For a luxurious, multi-day adventure, the seven-day yacht or catamaran cruises promise unforgettable experiences. If you prefer active, scenic outings, the e-bike sunset tour or horse ride provide a more personal connection to the island. Whatever your style, booking early ensures you secure your top choice.
Now’s the perfect time to plan your Vlichada adventure — these tours fill up fast, especially in peak season. Choose what excites you most, and prepare for a memorable Santorini experience.