Santorini Caldera Gold Day Cruise with BBQ on board and Open Bar

Sail through the breathtaking scenery of Santorini on the Caldera Gold Day Cruise with BBQ on board and an open bar. Priced at $186.06 per person, this 5-hour adventure departs from Vlychada port and offers a well-balanced mix of sailing, swimming, and sightseeing. With hotel, airport, or port pickup included, this tour makes for a convenient, all-inclusive way to explore the island’s most iconic sites.

The cruise is especially suitable for groups, couples, and friends looking for a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious food, unlimited drinks, and stunning views. While the tour does not cover volcano hiking, it excels in showcasing the caldera’s natural beauty, hot springs, and impressive beaches. The reviews highlight the crew’s knowledgeable guidance and excellent service, making this a popular choice booked about 48 days in advance.

Key Points

• Five-hour cruise around Santorini’s caldera with sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling
• Stops include Red Beach, White Beach, Thirassia, and the hot springs of Nea Kameni
• All-inclusive onboard lunch featuring seafood, chicken, salads, and fruits
• Unlimited drinks from the open bar, including white wine, beer, and soft drinks
• Hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off are included
• The tour maintains a small group size with a maximum of 16 travelers

Starting Point: Vlychada Port and Morning Departure

This cruise begins at the Vlychada port at 10:30 am, offering a smooth start to a day filled with sightseeing. The pickup service makes logistics easier, removing any stress about transportation. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, with up to 16 travelers onboard.

The meeting location is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for many participants. Travelers are encouraged to bring passport or ID, especially if disembarking on or off the boat during the day.

Explore Santorini’s Iconic Beaches and Landmarks

The cruise’s itinerary is packed with stunning stops:

• Red Beach, famous for its vivid colors caused by minerals and iron soil, where you’ll have 30 minutes to swim or take photos.
• White Beach, known for its white rocks and crystal-clear waters, is only accessible by boat, giving it an exclusive feel.
• The vessel sails past the 19th-century Venetian Lighthouse at Akrotiri, an impressive historic landmark perched on high cliffs, offering excellent photo opportunities.
• The Black Mountain and Indian Rock are visible as the boat passes by on the way to the Black Mountain area.

Hot Springs and Volcanic Sights

A major highlight is swimming and snorkeling at the hot springs of Nea Kameni, known for their therapeutic sulphurous waters. The 30-minute stop allows for warm bath-like dips in the mineral-rich waters, making it a favorite among guests.

The sailing around the Volcano and Palea Kameni provides close-up views of the active volcanic landscape. Although the tour does not include volcano hiking, the scenic sailing offers plenty of opportunities to learn about Santorini’s volcanic history and geology.

Visiting Thirassia and Its Charm

The fishermen’s island of Thirassia is included as a 40-minute stop, where visitors can swim or snorkel in its peaceful waters. This island offers a quieter alternative to the busier Santorini beaches and provides a delicious onboard lunch prepared during the cruise, featuring seafood, chicken fillet, salads, and fruits.

Lunch and Drinks Onboard

The tasty onboard lunch is a highlight, with seafood and chicken main courses accompanied by salads and fresh fruits. The open bar includes white wine, beer, and soft drinks, allowing guests to sip and relax while enjoying the spectacular scenery.

Guests appreciate the quality of the food and the variety of drinks, which contribute to a very relaxed atmosphere throughout the cruise.

Stops at Iconic Beaches: Red and White Beaches

The Red Beach and White Beach are among the most scenic stops. The red-colored minerals at Red Beach create a dramatic backdrop while offering 30 minutes to swim and take photographs. White Beach, being private and only accessible by boat, impresses with its white rocks and blue waters. These stops are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling using the supplied equipment.

The Scenic Passage Past the Lighthouse

As the cruise continues, it passes one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Greece, the Venetian Lighthouse at Akrotiri. Its 19th-century origin and high cliff location make for a striking visual, and the guide provides informative commentary during this part of the trip.

The Therapeutic Hot Springs Experience

The 30-minute stop at Nea Kameni offers guests the chance to swim in warm, sulphurous waters. Known for their therapeutic benefits, these springs are a highlight for those interested in the island’s volcanic activity. The snorkeling equipment available helps guests explore the nearby waters comfortably.

Thirassia: A Quiet Retreat with a Delicious Lunch

The 40-minute visit to Thirassia is a peaceful break from busy tourist spots. Guests can swim and snorkel around this fishermen’s island, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, and indulge in a delicious onboard lunch. The fresh seafood and local produce leave a strong positive impression.

Ending in the Picturesque Ammoudi Bay

The cruise concludes at Ammoudi Bay in Oia, a picture-perfect location with colorful buildings and fishing boats. This area is famous for its charm and provides a stunning final view of the day’s adventures.

The 20-minute stop here allows for photos, a quick walk, or just soaking in the views before the drop-off is provided.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

The cruise includes a printed safety guide in seven languages, and most travelers find it suitable, with children needing to be accompanied by adults. Travelers are advised to advise dietary requirements when booking and bring passport or ID for disembarkation.

The cancellation policy is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, making this experience a low-risk choice. The small group size ensures personalized attention from the crew, who are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge.

Santorini Caldera Gold Day Cruise: An Authentic and Enjoyable Experience

This cruise offers a rich mix of scenery, relaxation, and cultural insight, making it perfect for those seeking a comprehensive day on the water. The stunning views of the caldera, hot springs, and iconic beaches, combined with delicious food and unlimited drinks, create a memorable outing.

While it doesn’t include volcano hiking, the close-up views of the volcanic landscape and swimming opportunities compensate well. The small group size and friendly crew contribute to a personalized experience appreciated by many guests.

This tour balances scenic beauty with relaxation and informative commentary, making it a fantastic choice for visitors eager to explore Santorini comfortably and in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Red Beach, White Beach, Thirassia, and the hot springs at Nea Kameni. The cruise also passes the Venetian Lighthouse and sails around the volcano.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, the cruise provides an onboard lunch with seafood, chicken, salads, and fruits and unlimited drinks such as white wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Vlychada port, with pickup and drop-off included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

Are snorkeling equipment and towels provided?
Yes, the use of snorkeling gear, swimming aids, and towels is included in the tour.

Is there any physical activity required?
No hiking is included, but swimming and snorkeling are part of the experience, so guests should be comfortable in the water.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 16 travelers for a more intimate experience.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book about 48 days in advance due to high demand.

What do reviews say about the crew?
Guests praise the crew’s knowledge, helpfulness, and attentiveness, describing them as amazing and friendly.