Luxury Santorini Sailing Cruise: Lunch, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers

A luxury sailing cruise in Santorini offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery, delicious food, and relaxing activities. Priced at $137.57 per person, this 5-hour tour is operated by Santorini Yachting Cruises and includes convenient pickup service and mobile ticketing. With a high rating of 5.0 from 66 reviews, this tour is highly recommended and books about 41 days in advance on average, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking an upscale day on the water.

This cruise departs from the Vlychada Port, in the southern part of the island, offering a well-balanced itinerary that combines sightseeing, swimming, and a hearty onboard meal. The journey appeals to those looking for a luxurious experience with ample opportunities for swimming and scenic photography. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 18, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Key Points

• 5-hour luxury cruise exploring Santorini’s iconic beaches and caldera
• Includes lunch, BBQ, open bar, and transfers for convenience
• Stops at Mesa Pigadia Beach, volcano hot springs, and Thirasia island
• Scenic views of the caldera are highlights of the return journey
• Recommended booking 41 days in advance due to popularity
• Most travelers find the experience highly satisfying, with a perfect 5-star rating

Starting at Vlychada Port in Santorini’s South

The cruise begins at Vlychada Port, a beautiful and accessible location in the south of the island. This meeting point is close to public transportation, making it easy to reach. The departure time of 10:00 am sets a comfortable pace for the day ahead, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Once on board, you immediately notice the sleek and well-maintained vessel, ready to whisk you across the sparkling waters of Santorini. The group size of up to 18 travelers ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of space to relax and socialize.

Exploring the Red Beach, White Beach, and Indian Rocks

As the sail begins, the guide leads you through a scenic route along the caldera, passing by Red Beach, White Beach, and Indian Rocks. These locations are famous for their unique colors and dramatic cliffs, offering excellent photo opportunities. The sailing highlights include a close-up view of the Venetian Akrotiri Lighthouse, adding a touch of history to the journey.

This part of the cruise combines sightseeing with the anticipation of the many activities ahead. The calm waters and gentle breeze make this segment a perfect introduction to the luxurious ambiance of the tour.

swimming and Snorkelling at Mesa Pigadia Beach

The first stop, at Mesa Pigadia Beach, takes about an hour. Known for its clear waters, this quiet beach provides a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling. The calm, transparent sea makes it easy to see the underwater scenery, which can include colorful fish and rocky formations.

This stop is a favorite for those wanting a quick dip in nature’s pool, with the added bonus of being on the island’s southern extremities—less crowded and more relaxed, perfect for unwinding after the initial sail.

Rejuvenating Swim at Santorini’s Volcano Hot Springs

Next, the boat heads into the caldera for a visit to the volcano hot springs. This hot springs excursion lasts about an hour and offers a chance to soak in sulfur-rich waters that are reputed for their therapeutic qualities. The waters’ warmth feels especially inviting after a fresh swim, providing a soothing experience amid volcanic surroundings.

Guests should prepare for a brief stop in the caldera, with the opportunity to admire the surrounding volcanic landscape and capture some memorable photos. It’s a true highlight of the tour for those interested in natural wellness and striking scenery.

Swimming and Relaxing on Thirasia Island

The third stop on this sailing adventure is Thirasia, an island adjacent to Santorini. Here, travelers enjoy roughly an hour to swim in the tranquil waters of the island’s coast. After swimming, a hearty onboard lunch awaits, served with spectacular views of the surrounding seascape.

The meal, described as elaborate, includes a BBQ, allowing guests to indulge in grilled specialties while soaking in the panoramic vistas. Thirasia offers a peaceful escape from Santorini’s busier spots, giving a more authentic and laid-back island experience.

Savoring the Onboard Lunch with Scenic Views

The lunch experience is a standout feature, with a large, delicious Greek meal served on deck. The views of the caldera and the open sea make mealtime special, offering a feast for the senses. The BBQ complements the meal perfectly, with plenty of options to satisfy different tastes.

The open bar enhances the relaxing atmosphere, providing a choice of drinks throughout the cruise. The combination of good food, drinks, and stunning scenery creates a memorable dining experience at sea.

Capturing the Caldera on the Return Journey

As the cruise comes to an end, the boat heads back to Vlychada Port, giving everyone time to admire and photograph the breathtaking views of the caldera. The setting sun often paints the sky with warm hues, making for perfect photos.

The final moments on the water reaffirm the tour’s focus on scenic beauty and comfort, leaving guests with a sense of tranquility and awe. This peaceful return caps off a day filled with natural wonders, excellent food, and luxurious relaxation.

Practical Details and Group Experience

The tour begins promptly at 10:00 am and includes transfers, making logistics straightforward. The mobile ticket system simplifies entry, and the tour is designed to suit most travelers, with a maximum of 18 guests ensuring personalized service.

The tour’s free cancellation policy provides flexibility—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—making it a low-risk choice for planning in advance. Good weather is essential, and if conditions change, options for a different date or a full refund are available.

Comparing this Cruise to Similar Experiences

This luxury sailing cruise stands out for its comprehensive itinerary and inclusion of lunch, BBQ, open bar, and transfers—all at a competitive price of $137.57 per person. It is often booked 41 days in advance, indicating strong popularity among travelers seeking a quality day out at sea.

While many similar tours focus on just sightseeing or snorkeling, this cruise balances scenic exploration, culinary delights, and relaxation perfectly. The reviews consistently praise the delicious food, friendly staff, and stunning views, reinforcing its status as a top choice.

Why Choose This Santorini Sailing Cruise?

The combination of scenic stops, gourmet onboard lunch, and scenic caldera views makes this cruise ideal for those who want to enjoy Santorini from the water in a luxurious yet relaxed setting. It’s especially well-suited for travelers craving a well-paced, small-group experience with great food and picturesque moments.

The hot springs and Thirasia visit offer more than just a typical boat tour, giving guests a variety of activities wrapped into one day. The positive reviews highlight the quality of food, service, and atmosphere, making it a dependable choice for a memorable Santorini adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $137.57 per person price covers the sailing cruise, lunch, BBQ, open bar, and transfers.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to Vlychada Port.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves swimming and walking at stops, but the activity level is generally suitable for most travelers. No specific accessibility information is provided.

What should I bring?
Guests should consider bringing swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and camera. Since the tour includes swimming stops, appropriate gear is advisable.

Is there a dress code?
There is no formal dress code, but casual attire suitable for a day at sea is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time, with a full refund.

This luxury Santorini sailing cruise offers a well-rounded day of scenic sightseeing, relaxing swimming, and delicious food, all in an intimate setting. It’s a great choice for those who want an upscale experience with incredible views and a flexible, comfortable approach.