Santorini: Private Catamaran Tour with BBQ Meal and Drinks

Discover the ultimate way to explore Santorini with the Private Catamaran Tour offered by SPIRIDAKOS PLEASURE YACHTS P.Y.M.C. Priced at $1,016 per group for up to 4 people, this luxurious 5-hour cruise departs from Vlychada Marina, located on the island’s southern side. The tour combines scenic sailing, active snorkeling, and relaxing stops at iconic locations such as Red Beach, White Beach, and Palea Kameni. Throughout the journey, guests indulge in a Greek BBQ meal, featuring chicken, shrimp, beef sausage, Greek salad, tzatziki, and fresh fruit, all paired with an open bar serving beer, white wine, and soft drinks.

This experience is ideal for those seeking privacy, comfort, and personalized service, with reviews highlighting the attentive crew, spectacular scenery, and delicious food. Keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and requires participants to send passport copies ahead of time for safety reasons. All in all, this cruise offers a refined, intimate way to enjoy Santorini’s highlights in just five hours.

Key Points

• Luxury private catamaran with spacious interiors and elegant design
• Departures from Vlychada Marina, with hotel pickup included
• Stops at Red Beach, White Beach, Palea Kameni, and volcanic hot springs
• Includes a Greek BBQ meal and open bar with wine, beer, and soft drinks
• Snorkeling equipment and towels provided for water activities
• Five hours of guided sailing with personalized route options

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Starting Point at Vlychada Marina and Hotel Pickup

The tour begins at Vlychada Marina, on Santorini’s southern coast, where the luxurious catamaran awaits. The vessel features a large upper sundeck for panoramic views and a main deck designed for sunbathing and relaxing. Guests are picked up from their hotel or the nearest accessible location by minibus, with arrangements confirmed via email at least one day in advance.

This setup ensures a seamless start to your day, with no need to worry about transport logistics. It’s worth noting that cruise ship passengers arriving at the Old Port of Fira will need to take the cable car to reach the meeting point, as there’s no road access directly to the port.

Navigating Santorini’s Iconic Coastline

Once aboard, the boat departs from Vlychada, sailing toward the famous Red Beach and White Beach. The guides lead a 15-minute photo stop at Red Beach, where you’ll admire the striking red volcanic cliffs. The journey continues to Mesa Pigadia Beach, a black sand beach with caves and menir, where a 30-minute swim and snorkeling session are included.

You’ll pass by Akrotíri, the ancient Minoan site, giving a quick view of this significant archaeological area. The boat then heads toward Palea Kameni, where another 30-minute snorkeling stop offers the chance to swim in the sulfurous hot springs. This spot is known for its therapeutic waters, making it a popular part of the cruise.

Exploring the Santorini Volcano and Small Islands

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, volcanic islands known for their active geothermal activity. Here, guests can swim and snorkel near the volcanic crater, taking in the unique landscape of black lava formations. The hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic qualities, and the crew prepares a hot meal during this stop, giving everyone time to relax and enjoy.

The boat then ventures toward the Santorini Volcano, where guests can take in the panoramic caldera views while enjoying their meal. The lunch lasts approximately one hour, with the BBQ chicken, shrimp, beef sausage, and traditional Greek sides served fresh. This meal is a major highlight, praised for its flavor and generous portions.

Snorkeling and Water Activities at Multiple Stops

Throughout the cruise, water-based activities continue at various stops. Guests snorkel in the sulfur springs near Palea Kameni and near the volcano itself. Equipment is provided, and the crew ensures safety and guidance during these excursions.

The swim stops are carefully timed to maximize comfort and enjoyment, lasting from 30 to 45 minutes at each location. These water activities provide a chance to see underwater scenery and enjoy the warm volcanic waters.

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The Quality of the Onboard Experience

The catamaran itself is described as the best looking in the caldera, with high-end finishes and plush textures that set a tone of luxury. Inside, the refined lounge offers a comfortable space with natural light, modern WC, and cabins. The large upper sundeck provides a perfect vantage point for sightseeing.

The crew is praised for being attentive and professional, balancing guiding with allowing guests to relax. They assist with snorkeling, serve drinks, and handle the meal preparations, making sure everyone feels well cared for throughout the cruise.

The Food and Beverage Offerings

The Greek BBQ meal is a standout feature, with chicken fillet, shrimp, and beef sausage grilled to perfection. Guests also enjoy Greek salad, tzatziki dips, vine-leaf rolls with rice, bread, and fresh fruit. The dessert selection complements the meal, while the open bar keeps drinks flowing with beer, white wine, and soft drinks.

According to reviews, the food quality consistently impresses, with many noting it as one of the best parts of the trip. The plenty of wine and other drinks make the meal feel indulgent, perfect for celebrating or simply relaxing.

Timing, Pacing, and Flexibility of the Tour

The five-hour cruise is structured with precise timing for each stop, allowing enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and photos. The route is flexible; guides can tailor the stops based on guest preferences, ensuring a personalized experience.

Guests are advised to bring passport or ID, sun protection, swimwear, and windbreaker. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and requires guests to send passport copies ahead of time for safety purposes.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise Most?

This private cruise suits travelers looking for an exclusive, relaxing day in Santorini. It’s ideal for small groups or families wanting a personalized experience with luxury amenities and custom route options. The inclusive food and drinks, along with the attention to detail from the crew, make it perfect for those celebrating special occasions or simply seeking a high-end day at sea.

The limited group size ensures a quiet, intimate atmosphere away from crowded tours. However, since it’s not wheelchair accessible, travelers with mobility needs should consider other options.

Santorini: Private Catamaran Tour with BBQ Meal and Drinks – Final Thoughts

This tour offers a luxurious, carefully curated way to explore Santorini’s coastline and volcanic islands. With spectacular scenery, active water stops, and a delicious BBQ meal, it captures the essence of a high-end Mediterranean sailing experience. The attentive crew, beautiful vessel, and personalized itinerary make it stand out among other tours.

While the price point is higher than standard cruises, the exclusive nature, comfort, and quality justify the cost. It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples seeking a private, memorable day at sea. The only real consideration is the lack of accessibility for wheelchair users and the need to coordinate pickup logistics for cruise ship arrivals.

This five-star-rated cruise from SPIRIDAKOS PLEASURE YACHTS provides a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and gourmet dining—perfect for those wanting a truly special experience in Santorini.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the cruise includes hotel pickup and drop-off via minibus, arranged at least one day in advance.

Can I customize the route or stops?
The cruise offers flexibility in route planning, and guides can tailor stops based on guest preferences.

What food options are provided?
A Greek BBQ with chicken, shrimp, beef sausage, Greek salad, tzatziki, and fruit is included, with vegetarian options available.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the open bar features beer, white wine, and soft drinks for the full duration of the cruise.

How long are the swim stops?
Each swim or snorkeling session lasts approximately 30 minutes, with some stops extending to 45 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 years old must be accompanied. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring passport or ID, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, and swimwear.

How do I prepare for the pickup?
Arrangements are confirmed via email; guests should send passport copies at least two days before the tour.

What if I arrive by cruise ship?
Cruise ship guests arriving at the Old Port of Fira must take the cable car and plan to arrive at least one hour prior to the cruise start time, as there’s no road access to the port.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour worth the cost?
Given the luxury vessels, personalized service, and gourmet meal, this tour offers excellent value for a private, high-end experience in Santorini.

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