Santorini Full Day Catamaran Private Cruise incl. Meal, Drinks & Free Transport

Exploring Santorini by sea on a private full-day catamaran cruise offers a unique way to see the island’s famous sights with personalized comfort. Priced at $794.51 per person, this 7-hour journey includes meals, drinks, and round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour features unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks, along with a delicious Greek dinner and snorkeling equipment. The small group size guarantees an intimate experience, making it ideal for couples, families, or friends seeking a luxurious day on the water.

This tailor-made cruise starts from Vlihada Port, located on the island’s south side, accessible via car or taxi from Fira in about 15 minutes. The vessel is a luxurious catamaran with a private crew, designed to provide a relaxed, personalized atmosphere. While this experience is highly praised for its guides’ expertise and breathtaking stops, it requires participants to carry their passports due to local regulations, and it’s best suited for those comfortable with being on the water for several hours.

Key Points

• Private full-day cruise on a luxury catamaran around Santorini
• Includes meals, unlimited drinks, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers
• Starts at Vlihada Port, only accessible by car or taxi from Fira
• Stops at key landmarks like Red Beach, White Beach, and the Lighthouse
• Visit nearby volcanic islands Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni with hot springs
• Perfect for those seeking a personalized, intimate experience with stunning caldera views

Santorini’s South Coast: Starting at Vlihada Port

The cruise begins at Vlihada Port, a lively marina on the island’s south edge filled with yachts and fishing boats. This port is only reachable by car or taxi, making it a convenient starting point after a short 15-minute transfer from Fira. The port offers a scenic approach with views of dark grey volcanic sand and the large chimneys nearby, which are the remains of old factory structures now turned into interesting visual elements.

This location also features a long, dark sand beach with sun loungers, making it a picturesque spot to observe before heading out on the water. The vibrant marina setting sets the tone for a day of exploration and scenic beauty.

Exploring the Red Beach’s Unique Volcanic Landscape

One of the main stops on this cruise is Red Beach, renowned for its ferrous rock formations that have eroded into a striking red sand beach about 125 meters high. Located close to the ancient site of Akrotiri, it’s a favorite for its dramatic volcanic scenery and colorful rocks.

While the beach itself can be crowded, many visitors prefer viewing the landscape from the headland. Snorkeling here is highly recommended due to the interesting rocks and unique geological formations. The boat will position itself at the best vantage point for photography, allowing ample time to admire this iconic Santorini landscape.

The White Beach: A Quiet Contrasting Cove

Next, the White Beach offers a more tranquil alternative to the Red Beach. It’s a small, less crowded cove characterized by its white surrounding cliffs and crystalline waters. Accessible by boat or by a small water taxi, the White Beach features black pebbles at the shoreline and moderate facilities such as umbrellas and sunbeds.

Its relative seclusion makes it an excellent spot for relaxing in quieter surroundings. Visitors can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in calm waters, with the surrounding rocks providing natural shade.

The Iconic Santorini Lighthouse with Panoramic Views

A short cruise stop takes you to the Lighthouse (Faros), standing 10 meters high and built in 1892 by the French company of Lighthouses. The lighthouse’s white square tower and surrounding keeper’s house have a historic charm and offer spectacular panoramic views of the caldera.

While there, visitors are encouraged to try spotting the Indian head rock on the south shore. The lighthouse is the most southwestern point of Santorini, providing a panoramic vista that captures the essence of the island’s volcanic landscape.

The Uninhabited Aspronisi: The White Island

Close to the main island lies Aspronisi, meaning “white island,” which is uninhabited and rocky. Covering just 0.14 km², it features dark lava layers at its base and pumice deposits from past eruptions. The island rises 70 meters above sea level and features two pebble beaches and a small harbor.

Privately owned by the same family for seven generations, Aspronisi offers a glimpse into the island’s volcanic origin. This stop is ideal for those interested in geology and volcanic scenery.

Thirassia: A Traditional Village Experience

The nearby Thirassia island is a small satelite island with around 270 residents. It features five villages, with the largest sharing the island’s name. Formed following the volcanic eruption of 1628 BCE, Thirassia retains a traditional character and local Greek charm.

The 30-minute stop allows visitors to explore the village streets and local scenery, although English is rarely spoken. It’s a great opportunity to experience authentic Greek island life away from more touristy spots.

Oia’s Famous Sunset and Architectural Charm

The village of Oia, perched 150 meters above sea level, is one of the most photographed spots in Greece. Known for its white houses, colorful domes, and narrow winding streets, Oia’s architecture exudes classic Cycladic style.

During the hour-long visit, visitors can walk through art-filled streets, visit small churches, and enjoy breathtaking sunset views. The village’s inspiration for artists and poets makes it a highlight of the cruise.

Imerovigli and Firostefani: Villages with Caldera Views

Two proximity villages, Imerovigli and Firostefani, offer spectacular caldera views from their high vantage points. Imerovigli, just 2 km from Fira, is known as the “balcony” of Santorini. Its traditional architecture and pictorial scenery make it a favorite for photography.

Firostefani, an old village now merged with Fira, gets its name from “Crown of Fira” due to its elevated position. Both villages provide stunning vistas and are ideal for short walks and taking memorable photos.

The Volcano and Hot Springs: Geothermal Wonders

An essential part of this cruise is the visit to Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni, volcanic islands within the caldera. The last eruption on Nea Kameni occurred in 1950, and the islands are now dormant.

Hot springs at Palia Kameni are noteworthy for their therapeutic sulfuric waters, which are about 5°C warmer than the surrounding sea. The fumarolic activity offers a visual display of geothermal activity, and the hot springs are believed to benefit skin conditions like eczema and acne.

Mesa Pigadia Beach: Secluded Alternative

Located southwest of Santorini, Mesa Pigadia resembles Vlyhada Beach but with fewer visitors. Surrounded by white cliffs, it features a mix of sand, pebbles, and larger stones. The cave-houses and fishing boat shelters add a picturesque touch.

Its secluded location makes it a quiet spot for relaxation, ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path beach experience. The beach is accessible via boat and offers a peaceful retreat from busier spots.

Practical Details and Tour Extras

This private cruise includes hotel pickup and drop-off, WiFi onboard, and access to snorkeling equipment. Meals consist of a Greek dinner, light refreshments, snacks, and unlimited alcohol—including beer, wine, and soft drinks. The tour also features a local guide and movies for children, making it suitable for families.

Notably, travelers must bring their passports due to Greek port regulations. The tour operates only in good weather, with full refunds available if canceled due to weather conditions. The duration is approximately 7 hours, starting at 1:30 pm.

Who Will Appreciate This Catamaran Cruise?

This full-day, private catamaran experience is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, luxurious exploration of Santorini’s highlights. Its personalized boat and all-inclusive dining and drinks create a special occasion feeling, ideal for romantic getaways or family celebrations. The stops at volcano islands, villages, and beaches combine natural beauty with cultural charm.

While the cost may seem high, the intimate setting, comprehensive itinerary, and luxury amenities justify the price for many visitors. Keep in mind that the tour involves several stops and some walking at villages like Oia and Imerovigli, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.

The Sail Away tour stands out for its well-curated itinerary and personalized approach. The 5-star reviews, highlighting knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious wine, reflect consistent satisfaction from past guests. The flexible stops and luxury touches make this cruise a standout choice for anyone looking to experience Santorini from the water in style and comfort.

While the price may be a consideration, the full-day duration, free transport, and all-inclusive offerings make this a valuable investment into a memorable Santorini adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour includes movies for children onboard, making it suitable for families, provided children can handle a 7-hour cruise.

What should I bring on the cruise?
You should bring your passport, as required by Greek port authorities. Since Covid-19, towels are not provided, so bringing your own is recommended.

Can I customize the meal options?
A vegetarian option is available, but it’s best to advise at the time of booking if you have specific dietary requirements.

How flexible is the schedule?
The departure time is 1:30 pm, and the duration is approximately 7 hours. The schedule can vary slightly depending on seasonal sunset times.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Poor weather may result in a reschedule or full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The description does not specify accessibility accommodations, so travelers should be prepared for some walking and standing during stops.

This Santorini private catamaran tour offers a luxurious, flexible way to explore some of the most iconic sites around the island, with the comfort of personalized service and all-inclusive amenities ensuring a memorable day at sea.