Santorini’s dramatic cliffs and shimmering waters make it one of the most scenic islands in Greece for boat tours and cruises. Whether you want to sip local wine while watching a breathtaking sunset, snorkel around the volcanic islands, or explore hot springs, Santorini offers something special for every sea-loving traveler. We particularly enjoy the Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner for its combination of delicious food, lively music, and swimming in front of Red and White Beach. For a more adventurous day, the Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs delivers stunning volcanic landscapes and a natural spa experience, making it ideal for active explorers. And if luxury is your priority, the Luxury Catamaran Day Trip with Open Bar provides a refined way to see the caldera with top-notch service. Whatever your style, Santorini’s boat tours promise unforgettable views and memorable moments.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a wide variety of boat experiences in Santorini, from luxury cruises with gourmet meals and open bars to adventurous volcano hikes with hot springs baths. You’ll find options that suit budget travelers ($28 cruises) as well as those seeking private, upscale experiences (up to $1,286 for groups). Highlights include snorkeling, sunset views, hot springs, and visits to Thirassia and Nea Kameni. Explore each unique offering below.
1. Santorini: Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner, Drinks, and Music
At number 1, this 5-hour catamaran cruise combines a fun party atmosphere with stunning scenery. You’ll sail along the island’s coast, enjoy a freshly cooked barbecue dinner with unlimited white wine and soft drinks, and swim near Red Beach and White Beach. It’s perfect if you want a lively experience with music, a cheerful crew, and a chance to snorkel in clear waters. Guests consistently praise the guides for making the trip memorable, with reviews calling it “so beautiful” and “the best of Santorini.” The sunset views are superb, especially when paired with a tasty meal and relaxing breezes.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a lively, all-inclusive experience with good food, a fun vibe, and plenty of swimming. It’s one of the most highly-rated cruises on the island.
2. Santorini: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit
For around $28, this multi-stop cruise takes you around the caldera, visiting volcanic islands and enjoying hot springs. It’s a longer, more flexible trip — some last up to 10 hours — that includes a hike on Nea Kameni volcano, swimming in Palea Kameni’s sulfur waters, and relaxing in Thirassia. The itinerary also offers a spectacular sunset in Oia and chances to snorkel and swim at various stops. Travelers appreciate the professional guides, stunning scenery, and the value — one review calls it “very effective and fun,” noting the crew’s friendliness.
Bottom line: This tour suits those who want an active day exploring volcanic landscapes and hot springs, with a budget-friendly price and multiple swimming options.
3. Santorini: Luxury Catamaran Day Trip with Meal and Open Bar
A step up in comfort, this luxury cruise offers a 5-6 hour voyage around the caldera, complete with an open bar, a Greek meal, and stops at hot springs. The reviews rave about the high-quality service, with many calling it a “beautiful,” “delicious,” and “luxurious” experience. You’ll snorkel at White and Red Beaches, soak in volcanic springs, and enjoy the sunset or the calm morning breezes. The crew’s professionalism shines through, and the food options are praised as “fresh and tasty.”
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious afternoon or sunset escape with great food, drinks, and scenic views.
4. Santorini: Catamaran Tour with BBQ Meal and Unlimited Drinks
This 5-hour cruise combines a luxury boat experience with multiple swimming stops at two beaches in the caldera. It features a barbecue meal with meat and veggie options, plus unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks. The friendly crew gets glowing reviews, with guests noting the “fantastic” food, “perfect itinerary,” and “fantastic sunset.” It’s a good choice for those wanting a relaxed day, plenty of swimming, and a lively atmosphere.
Bottom line: Excellent value for a premium experience that balances good food, drinks, and scenic stops.
5. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Meals and Drinks
Offering a 5-hour small group cruise, this trip focuses on snorkeling in marine-rich waters, cruising beneath Indian Rocks, and relaxing in hot springs. With a BBQ buffet meal and drinks included, it’s a well-rounded day on the water. Reviewers mention the “fun crew,” “delicious food,” and “relaxing atmosphere.” It’s suitable for those who want a quieter, more intimate vibe while still enjoying the key sights and water activities.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prefer a smaller group with a focus on snorkeling and relaxed cruising.
6. Santorini: Caldera Cruise with Meal and Drinks
This 5-hour luxury cruise takes you to Red and White Beaches with stops for snorkeling and swimming, plus a meal with Santorinian wine onboard. Guests love the phenomenal views, “delicious food,” and the friendly crew. The sunset from the caldera adds to the magic. Many reviewers say it’s “worth every penny” and enjoy the calm atmosphere and scenic routes.
Bottom line: A top pick for those wanting a luxurious, well-paced cruise with great photo opportunities and exceptional service.
7. Santorini: Platinum Catamaran Cruise with BBQ Meal & Open Bar
This 5-hour tour offers a premium experience with snorkeling gear, a BBQ lunch, and drinks from the open bar. It features a special sunset view over the sea, and the itinerary includes secret Thirasia island. The reviews highlight the professional guides, “delicious” food, and flexible timing. It’s designed for travelers who want a more exclusive, upscale experience avoiding crowded spots.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a luxury, private-style cruise with a focus on quality food and atmosphere.
8. Santorini: Day Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
A classic 5-hour day trip, this cruise features the famous caldera, hot springs, and red and white beaches. The buffet lunch and snorkeling options are highly praised, with reviewers mentioning “beautiful sites” and “delicious food.” The friendly crew makes it a reliable choice for a relaxing day on the water, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing, swimming, and dining in Santorini.
9. Santorini: Volcano and Hot Springs Sunset Dinner Cruise
This 8-hour evening cruise is perfect if you love sunset views combined with volcano hikes and hot springs. You’ll ascend Nea Kameni, bathe in Palia Kameni, and enjoy dinner while watching the sun melt into the Aegean. Guests describe it as “truly unforgettable” and praise the cooking, guided hikes, and spectacular sunset.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers interested in a longer, scenic sunset experience with a mix of activity and relaxation.
10. Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with BBQ Meal and Drinks
For those wanting privacy and personalized service, this private cruise offers a luxurious 5-hour experience with customized stops, swim and snorkel opportunities, and a delicious BBQ onboard. Guests rave about the professional crew, personalized attention, and free Wi-Fi for posting photos. It’s ideal for special occasions or those who prefer a tailored day on the water.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking exclusive, customized experiences.
11. Santorini: Traditional Wooden Boat Tour with Meal and Wine
This 5-hour classic wooden boat tour offers a traditional Greek sailing experience. Stops include Red Beach, White Beach, and Thirassia, with opportunities to snorkel and swim in hot springs. The Greek lunch and local white wine add an authentic touch. Reviewers mention the beautiful scenery and well-organized itinerary.
Bottom line: Best for travelers looking for a traditional sailing vibe paired with authentic Greek cuisine.
12. Santorini: Private Catamaran Cruise with Food & Drinks
This upscale private cruise for groups up to four is about luxury, privacy, and personalized service. It includes snorkeling, hot springs, and a delicious onboard meal. Guests praise the professional crew and free Wi-Fi. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions or travelers wanting an exclusive experience.
Bottom line: Designed for those who value privacy and tailored service with top-tier amenities.
13. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Open Bar
This 5-hour cruise blends scenic caldera sailing, snorkeling, and a delicious onboard meal with drinks from the open bar. Reviewers mention friendly staff, “great food,” and amazing views. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, well-rounded day on the water.
Bottom line: Excellent value for an all-inclusive experience with food, drinks, and scenic cruising.
14. Santorini: Thirassia Islands and Volcano Guided Cruise
Ideal for active explorers, this 8-hour guided cruise visits Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, and Thirassia. You’ll see active volcanoes, swim in hot springs, and explore traditional villages. The reviews highlight well-organized trips and amazing volcano views.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in geology, hiking, and culture combined with water activities.
15. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Food and Drinks
Offering around 5 hours of snorkeling, caldera cruising, and a Greek buffet, this moderate-priced option receives praise for its scenic routes and friendly crew. Guests love the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and onboard dining.
16. 1-Day Boat Trip: Santorini Volcano, Thirassia & Oia Sunset
This full-day adventure explores Nea Kameni volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia, ending with a famous Oia sunset. The long duration allows for multiple swimming stops, with reviews noting excellent guides and spectacular scenery.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a comprehensive, full-day tour with the chance to experience multiple islands and sunset magic.
How to Choose
When selecting your perfect boat tour in Santorini, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. If you want a luxurious, all-inclusive experience, the Luxury Catamaran Day Trip or Platinum Catamaran Cruise are excellent options. For adventurous types, the Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs offers active volcano hikes and geothermal baths. Budget travelers might prefer the affordable 3-hour cruise or the full-day volcano tour. Families or small groups seeking privacy should look at the Private Catamaran options for personalized service.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular sunset cruises and private charters, which tend to fill up quickly during peak season. Consider the time of year—summer offers longer days and warmer waters, but even in shoulder seasons, many tours operate with fewer crowds.
Santorini offers a remarkable variety of boat excursions tailored to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset, a family adventure, or a luxury day on the water, you’ll find a cruise to match. For an active day, the volcano and hot springs tours are unbeatable; for a relaxed, scenic experience, a luxury catamaran with gourmet food and drinks may be just right. Whatever you choose, booking in advance guarantees you a seat on the best boat in town.
Enjoy your trip — and don’t forget your swimsuit!