Santorini: Irakleia Schoinousa Ano Koufonisi Full-Day Cruise

Discover the Cyclades on a Full-Day Private Speedboat Cruise from Santorini

This 10-hour cruise offers a personalized way to explore some of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades. Starting from Santorini, the tour takes you to Irakleia, Schoinousa, and Ano Koufonisi, with stops at stunning beaches and scenic spots. The trip includes transportation from your hotel and snacks, water, and snorkeling gear, making it a convenient and comfortable way to experience these hidden island treasures. The private group setting ensures an intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable crew members who share insights in English and Greek.

This cruise is perfect for travelers who enjoy beach swimming, snorkeling, and scenic landscapes. The trip’s highlight is the 4 hours on Ano Koufonisi, giving ample time to explore the tiny island’s crystal waters and beautiful beaches. While the tour does not include on-shore meals, the premium snacks and refreshments onboard keep everyone energized. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day in the Cyclades with the flexibility of a private tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private 10-hour cruise from Santorini, exploring Irakleia, Schoinousa, and Ano Koufonisi
• Stops include swimming in Alimnia, sightseeing at Schinousa, and 4 hours free time on Ano Koufonisi
• Transport included from Santorini hotel, with snacks, water, towels, and snorkeling gear provided
• Focused on relaxation, swimming, scenic views, and experiencing local island atmospheres
• No on-shore meals included, so plan to bring additional food if desired
• The tour operates with live guides in English and Greek and is fully customizable with cancellation up to 24 hours

Starting from Thera: Convenient Pickup and Return

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Thera, making it easy to start your day without worries about transportation. The air-conditioned van transports guests to the departure point, creating a smooth transition from your accommodations to the boat. After the day’s adventure, the van returns you to Thera, completing a hassle-free experience. The pickup timing varies depending on availability, so checking current schedules is recommended.

This logistical setup helps maximize your time on the water and minimizes travel stress. The full-day duration allows for a leisurely exploration of the islands without feeling rushed. It’s suited for travelers who prefer an organized yet relaxed day with all logistics handled.

The First Stop: Irakleia’s Peaceful Shores and WWII Aircraft

The first island stop is Irakleia, known for its unspoiled and tranquil atmosphere. Here, guests enjoy swimming and snorkeling in Alimnia, where the remains of a WWII aircraft can sometimes be seen beneath the water, adding a touch of history to the experience. Irakleia’s peaceful setting provides a perfect escape from busier tourist spots, with clear waters inviting relaxation.

Since Irakleia is considered a remote paradise, this stop offers a quiet break to unwind and connect with nature. The focus is on swimming in calm waters and enjoying the serenity of an island largely untouched by large crowds. The stop’s duration allows enough time for a refreshing dip before continuing on your island-hopping journey.

Scenic Transit to Schoinousa and Its Golden Beaches

Next, the cruise takes you to Schoinousa, a charming island characterized by golden sandy beaches and scenic views. A half-hour stop at Livadi, on the southern part of the island, gives guests the chance to explore the shallow waters beneath the shaded tree area. This spot is protected by two capes, offering calm waters ideal for swimming or relaxing on the sand.

Schoinousa’s laid-back vibe stands out, with its picturesque coastline and peaceful ambiance. The scenic transit between Irakleia and Schoinousa also provides beautiful views of the Cyclades, making the journey itself memorable. The stop at Livadi is perfect for those wanting to enjoy a quiet beach break away from crowded tourist spots.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Ano Koufonisi’s Tiny Island and Crystal Waters

The highlight of the cruise is Ano Koufonisi, where you spend 4 hours exploring the small island’s treasures. Known for its mesmerizing beaches and transparent waters, Ano Koufonisi is part of the Small Cyclades group. The island’s immaculate scenery makes it a perfect place for beach hopping, sightseeing, and relaxing.

Since Ano Koufonisi is small and walkable, exploring on foot is easy and convenient. The focus here is on scenic views and experiencing local island life in a relaxed setting. The clear turquoise waters are ideal for snorkeling and taking in the stunning natural beauty. With four hours to explore, visitors can choose to relax on beaches or walk around the charming shoreline.

The Unique Experience of Swimming and Snorkeling

During the stops at Irakleia and Schoinousa, swimming and snorkeling are key activities. The calm waters and clear visibility make for great underwater exploration. Snorkeling equipment is provided, so no need to bring your own gear unless preferred.

The water at Alimnia near Irakleia sometimes reveals the remains of a WWII aircraft, adding an interesting historical element to the underwater scenery. The shallow, protected waters at Livadi in Schoinousa are also perfect for relaxing swims. These activities complement the scenic island visits and add an enjoyable aquatic dimension to the day.

Scenic Views and Nature on the Transit Between Islands

Throughout the cruise, the scenic transit between the islands offers plenty of opportunities for photography and admiring the Cyclades landscapes. The boat glides past rugged coastlines, lush greenery, and striking rock formations. The crew provides scenic views on the way at various points, enriching the visual experience.

This tour emphasizes not only the stops on land but also the beautiful maritime scenery. The peacefulness of the Cyclades waters and the panoramic views are highlights that make the entire journey memorable, even during the short transit times.

Enjoying the Santorini Sunset from the Caldera

The tour concludes with a spectacular sunset viewing over the Santorini Caldera. After a full day of island exploration, the boat returns towards Santorini, and guests can witness the magical sunset in the most iconic setting. This moment offers a perfect end to the trip, with orange and pink hues illuminating the caldera’s cliffs.

The sunset is a natural highlight that many appreciate, offering stunning photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere. The boat’s vantage point makes it easy to enjoy the changing colors of the sky while reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Bring

This tour includes transportation from and to your hotel in Santorini via an air-conditioned van, making logistics simple. The snack box features premium snacks, fresh fruit, water, and refreshments, ensuring you stay energized throughout the day. Towels and snorkeling equipment are also provided, adding to the convenience.

Guests should bring swimwear, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and a passport or ID. Since no on-shore meals are included, packing some extra snacks or planning to purchase food on the islands is advisable. The tour is not suitable for intoxication, emphasizing a focus on safety and comfort.

Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility

The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. You can reserve now and pay later, which keeps your plans flexible. The live guides operate in English and Greek, ensuring clear communication during the trip.

Since the tour is private, it caters to smaller groups, creating an exclusive and personalized atmosphere. This flexibility makes it a good choice for those wanting a tailored day at sea with all logistics taken care of.

Who Will Enjoy This Full-Day Cyclades Cruise?

This cruise appeals most to relaxation seekers, beach lovers, and those interested in scenic island exploring. Its focus on swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views makes it ideal for people who prefer a leisurely pace without long ferry rides or large groups.

The duration of 10 hours suits travelers who want a comprehensive day out, while the private group setting ensures intimacy and customization. Active travelers will appreciate the opportunities to swim and walk around the tiny islands, while those seeking scenic beauty will find plenty to enjoy during the transit and sunset.

Final Thoughts on the Santorini Irakleia Schoinousa Ano Koufonisi Cruise

The full-day private speedboat cruise from Santorini offers a well-rounded experience of some of the most scenic islands in the Cyclades. It combines relaxing stops at pristine beaches, opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, and spectacular views along the way.

While it does not include on-shore meals, the onboard snacks and the flexible booking options make it a practical choice for travelers wanting a personalized, scenic adventure. The 4 hours at Ano Koufonisi allow plenty of time for exploration and relaxation, making this tour a great way to enjoy the natural beauty and calm pace of these lesser-visited islands.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a balance of scenic cruising, island discovery, and downtime in a private setting. If you are looking for a comfortable, flexible, and scenic day in the Cyclades, this cruise provides a memorable way to see some of Greece’s most beautiful islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation from your hotel, snacks, water, towels, snorkeling equipment, and guided sightseeing at the stops.

How long is the cruise?
The full-day cruise lasts approximately 10 hours, with specific starting times based on availability.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Are meals included?
No, on-shore meals are not included; guests can purchase food on the islands or bring their own snacks.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and an ID or passport.

Is this tour private?
Yes, the cruise is organized as a private group for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What language do guides speak?
Guides operate in English and Greek.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by CALDERA YACHTING.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby