Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, dramatic caldera views, and of course, its wine and spirits. While wandering through Oia or Fira is a must-do, joining a drinking tour turns a sightseeing day into a true taste adventure. Whether you’re after a luxurious day on a catamaran, want to explore local wineries, or prefer a private yacht experience, Santorini offers options that suit all tastes. We’re especially big fans of the Luxury Catamaran Day Trip for its combination of comfort, scenic sailing, and a Greek meal, and the Private Motor Yacht Cruise for an exclusive experience that’s perfect for special occasions. These tours aren’t just about drinking—they’re about soaking in the views, relaxing, and tasting authentic Greek flavors in style.
Santorini’s drinking tours stand out because they combine spectacular scenery with the chance to sample local beverages, from wines made from unique grape varieties to regional beers. Plus, many include excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, making them full-day adventures that blend fun, relaxation, and a bit of indulgence. If you’re wondering which tour might be right for you, read on for a detailed breakdown of the top options.
Quick Overview
Our list features luxury catamaran cruises, semi-private day trips, winery and brewery tours, and even a private yacht experience. They vary in price, length, and focus but all promise unforgettable views and authentic tastes. You’ll find options perfect for honeymooners, groups of friends, or those seeking a more exclusive experience. For more info on a luxurious day at sea, check out the Santorini: Luxury Catamaran Day Trip. If winery visits are more your style, the Three Wineries and One Brewery Tour offers a great mix of regional flavors. Now, let’s dive into each one.
1. Santorini: Luxury Catamaran Day Trip with Meal and Open Bar
For around $124 per person, this luxury catamaran offers five to six hours of cruising around the caldera, with options for morning or sunset departures. What sets this tour apart is its blend of comfort, stunning scenery, and gourmet Greek cuisine. You’ll help yourself at an open bar as the boat glides past iconic spots like the Red and White Beaches and the volcanic hot springs.
The boat’s spacious design and relaxing music create a laid-back vibe, perfect for sunbathing or snapping photos of Oia’s skyline. The highlight is swimming in hot springs and snorkeling in the caldera’s crystal waters. The freshly prepared Greek meal makes this a true feast, topped off with unlimited drinks to keep you refreshed. With a 4.7/5 rating from nearly 3,000 reviews, travelers consistently praise the professionalism of the crew and the quality of the food and drinks. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a luxurious, all-inclusive day on the water.
Bottom Line: A top pick for couples or groups who want comfort, great scenery, and a tasty meal, all aboard a beautiful vessel with a lively open bar.
2. Santorini: Platinum Catamaran Cruise w/ BBQ Meal & Open Bar
At number 2, the Platinum Catamaran Cruise hits the mark for its luxurious experience and comprehensive itinerary. Priced at about $124, this five-hour tour delivers Greek food, special wines, and plenty of swimming opportunities. It’s especially popular because it offers both snorkeling gear and the chance to swim around Thirasia, a quieter island with fewer crowds.
This tour’s unique feature is its focus on local wines and a freshly cooked BBQ meal on board. Passengers praise the friendly crew, with one reviewer calling the food “one of the best meals” they’ve had on a tour ship. The itinerary includes stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and Hot Springs, with scenic views and photo stops along the way. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine relaxing sailing with the chance to try authentic Greek flavors and explore lesser-visited parts of Santorini.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a well-rounded, all-inclusive day with excellent food, wine, and swimming, plus fewer crowds on Thirasia.
3. Santorini: Day Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
For about $117, the Day Cruise with Meal & Open Bar offers a classic caldera sailing experience. It’s a five-hour trip that hits most key sights: volcanic islands, hot springs, and the iconic red and white beaches. Guests love the rich lunch served on board, complemented by free drinks and dessert.
This tour stands out for its friendly crew and spotless boat, with reviewers mentioning the “wonderful day” and “fantastic lunch.” It’s especially suited for those seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with good food. The stops are well-paced, giving ample time to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The itinerary also includes scenic viewpoints and informative commentary, making it both a fun and educational experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent all-around choice for travelers wanting a budget-friendly, enjoyable caldera cruise with plenty of opportunity to swim and sample Greek cuisine.
4. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
Moving into a more intimate experience, the Catamaran Cruise at about $124 offers a small group setting—up to 20 people—around the caldera. This tour’s highlight is the cruising experience aboard one of the newest vessels, with feasts of fresh onboard food and unlimited drinks.
What makes it special is the focus on personalized service and the opportunity to swim and snorkel at Red Beach and Thirasia. The boat’s modern design and the crew’s attentiveness create a relaxed but lively atmosphere. Guests report that the meal is delicious, and the scenery from the water is unforgettable. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who value comfort and quality.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for travelers wanting a more personalized, luxurious experience with all the fun of a full-day cruise.
5. Santorini: Three Wineries and One Brewery Tour with Tastings
At about $181 for 4.5 hours, this wine and brewery tour is a hit with those eager to learn about local drinks. It covers three wineries and one brewery, with tastings of 12 wines and three beers. The tour emphasizes Santorini’s unique grape varieties and offers pairings with local cheeses.
What makes this tour stand out is its expert-led tastings, and the stops at Estate Argyros and Art Space Winery provide a good variety of tasting environments. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful vineyard scenery. It’s best suited for wine lovers ready to explore the island’s regional wine culture without spending a full day at sea. It’s a more relaxed experience with a focus on educational tasting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of Santorini’s wine while enjoying picturesque vineyard views.
6. Santorini: Luxurious Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
For about $147, this luxury catamaran offers a small group experience with fewer than 20 guests. The modern vessel cruises the caldera, with stops for swimming in hot springs and snorkeling at the Red and White Beaches. It features a barbecue meal with vegetarian options and unlimited drinks.
Passengers rave about the relaxed atmosphere, the delicious food, and the beautiful scenery. The tour’s upscale vibe and attentive crew make it a great choice for couples or friends celebrating a special occasion. The emphasis on personal service and exclusive access to hidden spots makes this a memorable option.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who prioritize luxury, small groups, and a high level of comfort.
7. Santorini: Luxury Sunset Cruise with Dinner & Open Bar
At $192, this sunset cruise is one of the most romantic options. It offers a 5-hour journey to see Santorini’s famous sunset from the water, with stops at hot springs and various beaches. The dinner onboard, paired with unlimited drinks, creates a perfect setting for couples celebrating special occasions.
Reviewers mention that although the sunset can be elusive due to weather, the crew’s effort and the delicious food make up for it. The boat’s comfortable design and friendly atmosphere ensure a memorable experience. It also includes snorkeling and a visit to Black and Red Beaches.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for romance and special celebrations, especially if you want to witness the sunset from a luxurious and comfortable vessel.
8. Santorini: Private Motor Yacht Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
Lastly, for about $1,807 per group (up to six people), the Private Motor Yacht offers the ultimate personalized experience. You’ll enjoy a 46-foot Targa motor yacht with a dedicated skipper, visiting Red Beach, White Beach, Hot Springs, and the Akrotiri Lighthouse.
This tour is all about luxury and flexibility—you control the itinerary, swim and snorkel as you wish, and enjoy a tailored meal with open bar service. Perfect for special occasions or private groups, the reviews emphasize the attention to detail and the exceptional comfort onboard.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking total privacy, exclusivity, and custom itineraries, this is the top-tier option.
$1,807 per group up to 6
How to Choose Your Santorini Drinking Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a luxury experience or a more educational wine tour. For a full-day adventure with scenic sailing and gourmet meals, the Luxury Catamaran Day Trip is tough to beat. If a private yacht sounds appealing, the Private Motor Yacht offers unmatched exclusivity.
For those interested in local flavors without the water, the Three Wineries and One Brewery Tour delivers a focused tasting experience. Budget travelers or those short on time might prefer the Day Cruise with Meal & Open Bar, which provides a good balance of scenery and tasting.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, when these tours fill up quickly. Always check the availability and pickup options to match your itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Santorini’s drinking tours range from luxurious sea cruises to educational wine tastings, making it easy to find an experience that matches your style. If you’re celebrating a special moment, a private yacht or a sunset cruise might be perfect. For a more laid-back, educational day, a winery tour hits just the right note.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise a chance to relax, indulge, and enjoy some of Greece’s best local beverages with spectacular views. Be sure to book early, so you don’t miss out on a memorable sip of Santorini.