Santorini Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Drinks and Transfer

The Santorini Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise offers an elegant way to explore some of the island’s most iconic sights in just about five hours. Priced at $127.44 per person, this tour combines luxury, scenic stops, and delicious food, making it a popular choice that’s often booked 19 days in advance. With a 4.5/5 rating based on 400 reviews and 92% recommended, it clearly appeals to those seeking a relaxed, high-quality experience on the water.

The tour departs from Amoudi port with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ideal for travelers who prefer to skip the hassle of transportation planning. The round-trip transfer and mobile ticket make booking straightforward. While the maximum group size is 20, ensuring an intimate atmosphere, a key feature is the all-inclusive nature: fresh Greek cuisine, open bar, snorkeling gear, and towels are provided.

Key Points

• Luxury catamaran tour with a focus on comfort, scenic views, and good food
• Five-hour half-day experience leaving from Amoudi port
• Includes hotel transfers, making logistics simple and stress-free
• Stops at hot springs, White Beach, and Red Beach for swimming and snorkeling
• Gourmet Greek barbecue with drinks served on board
• Limited to 20 guests for a more personal experience
• Rated 4.7/5 with many reviewers praising the crew, food, and views

Starting at Amoudi Port for a Scenic Departure

The tour begins with hotel pickup and transportation to Amoudi port, where the luxury catamaran awaits. This setup ensures a smooth start, especially for those staying nearby. Once onboard, the comfortable deck areas invite you to settle in and enjoy the sail as the boat departs from the island’s coast.

From this vantage point, the coastline of Santorini quickly reveals itself, with views of Indian Rock, the volcanic terrain of Akrotiri, and the Aspronissi Lighthouse, one of Greece’s oldest. The vessel’s design emphasizes both luxury and practicality, with restrooms, music, floating devices, and ample seating. The crew is known for being friendly and professional, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Navigating Santorini’s Iconic Coastline

As the catamaran glides past the cliffs and volcanic formations, views of Palea Kameni come into focus. This volcanic island, known for its hot springs, is the first major stop. The hot springs are just 50 meters from the boat, allowing guests to swim in waters up to 4°C warmer than the surrounding sea, providing a safe and refreshing experience.

Sailing past the volcano and Palea Kameni offers an impressive perspective on Santorini’s volcanic origins. The crew explains the significance of each landmark, enriching the visual feast with informative commentary. The hot springs stay about 50 meters away from the boat, ensuring a close but safe swimming experience.

Swimming and Snorkeling at White Beach

Next, the boat approaches the White Beach, a striking location with white cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Here, passengers have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach. Snorkeling equipment and towels are provided, making it easy to explore the underwater scenery or unwind on the sand.

The White Beach setting is dramatic, with white cliffs framing the water, providing picture-perfect moments. The crew prepares the Greek barbecue meal on board, which guests can enjoy while soaking in the scenery. The food includes Greek salad, shrimp saganaki, grilled chicken and pork skewers, roasted vegetables, pasta with red sauce, and stuffed vine leaves, catering to various tastes, including vegetarian options.

Red Beach – Swimming and Snorkeling in a Volcanic Setting

The tour then heads to the Red Beach, famous for its reddish cliffs and volcanic landscape. Guests spend about 30 minutes here to swim, snorkel, or explore the unique terrain. The red coloration of the cliffs provides an extraordinary backdrop for underwater photography or relaxing in the shallow waters.

While swimming near the beach, travelers appreciate the clear waters and the opportunity to snorkel close to the boat. The crew maintains a friendly, attentive atmosphere, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. It’s worth noting that swimming is only permitted near the boat, not far from shore, due to safety guidelines.

Enjoying Greek Cuisine and Open Bar on Deck

Throughout the cruise, a Greek barbecue is served onboard, with drinks including soft drinks, Santorinian wine, beer, bottled water, and juice. The quality and authenticity of the food earn frequent praise, with many reviews highlighting the delicious grilled meats and generous portions.

The open bar allows guests to sip wine or beer while enjoying the breathtaking views. The crew keeps beverages flowing, and guests can relax with music and conversation. Towels and blankets are available, helping guests stay comfortable even if the weather turns slightly cooler.

Approaching Vlychada Port to End the Day

After approximately half a day on the water, the catamaran heads back to the Vlychada Port, where the tour concludes. The return transfer to your hotel makes it easy to unwind after the cruise. Many reviewers note that the entire process is smooth, with timely pickups and drop-offs.

The final stop offers an opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights, from volcanic hot springs to the stunning beaches. The crew ensures everyone leaves satisfied, with many citing this as a highlight of their Santorini trip.

The Onboard Experience: Comfort and Entertainment

The catamaran is described as well-maintained, clean, and comfortable, with restrooms on board. The music adds a friendly, lively vibe, and floating devices provide extra fun during swimming. The crew is praised for their attentiveness, offering safety instructions in multiple languages and ensuring everyone’s comfort.

The group size is limited to 20 guests, creating a cozy, less crowded experience compared to larger tours. This setting allows for personalized service, and the crew is known for their friendly, professional attitude.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Santorini Cruises

This luxury catamaran stands out for its all-inclusive approach, combining delicious, authentic Greek cuisine with refreshing drinks. The scenic stops at hot springs, White Beach, and Red Beach are carefully chosen for their visual impact and swimming opportunities.

Most reviews highlight the stunning views, excellent food, and friendly staff. While swimming is restricted to near the boat, the close proximity to the volcanic hot springs and beaches compensates with spectacular scenery and safe, enjoyable swimming. The hotel transfer service adds significant convenience, making this a stress-free experience.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour cannot moor directly on the beaches because of Greek regulations, but the crew selects the best points for swimming and snorkeling close to shore. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but no additional equipment is available if guests wish to explore more underwater.

Guests should remove shoes before embarkation, and the tour is limited to 20 participants for a more intimate experience. The hot springs are about 50 meters from the boat, with waters slightly warmer, but swimming is only permitted near the vessel. Weather conditions can affect the experience; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Santorini Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, covering scenic stops, swimming, and dining.

What is included in the price?
The price includes hotel transfers, a Greek barbecue meal, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and music onboard.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. There are no specific age restrictions noted.

Can I swim in the hot springs?
Yes, the hot springs are 50 meters from the boat, and guests can swim in waters up to 4°C warmer than the sea. Safety guidelines specify staying close to the boat.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and brief swimming, so those with mobility concerns should consider this before booking.

What kind of food is served on board?
A Greek barbecue with a variety of meat, vegetarian options, and side dishes is served, with plenty of flavor and authentic ingredients.

Are drinks included?
Yes, an open bar offers soft drinks, wine, beer, water, and juice throughout the trip.

What are the stops during the cruise?
The main stops are the hot springs, White Beach, and Red Beach. The crew explains the significance of each site during the sail.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 guests, ensuring a personalized, comfortable experience.

What if the weather turns bad?
If poor weather causes cancellation, full refunds are available, or you can reschedule to a different date.

How do I book the tour?
Booking can be done online in advance, with most reservations made about 19 days ahead on average. The tour operates with confirmation upon booking.

This Santorini Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, delicious food, and relaxing swimming. Its all-inclusive nature and personalized size make it an appealing choice for those wanting a comfortable and memorable day on the water, with stunning views and excellent service at the core.