Santorini Sailing Dream Catcher with BBQ Lunch and Drinks

For those seeking a relaxed yet scenic day out in Santorini, the Santorini Sailing Dream Catcher tour offers a compelling option. Priced at $139.03 per person, this 5-hour cruise departs from Vlichada Marina or Ammoudi Bay and includes hotel pickup and a delicious BBQ lunch on board. With a 4.5-star rating from 396 reviews and 93% recommending it, this tour combines beautiful landscapes, engaging stops, and a friendly crew. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting to see the island from the water, enjoy local food, and relax under the sun, though it’s best suited for those comfortable with being on a boat for a few hours.

While the tour offers a well-rounded experience, it does have some limitations. The 5-hour duration is packed with sightseeing and swimming, and the group size is limited to 34 people, which helps keep things personal. The tour is also very popular, often booked 20 days in advance, so early planning is recommended. Overall, it’s a balance of scenic exploration, engaging activities, and good value for anyone eager to explore Santorini from its famous waters.

Key Points

• Price of $139.03 per person includes lunch, drinks, and hotel pickup
• Duration of about 5 hours offers a comprehensive half-day experience
• Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and hot springs visits
• Landmarks like Indian Head Mountain and Old Venetian Lighthouse are highlights
• BBQ buffet lunch includes Greek specialties and unlimited drinks
• Suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join

Start with Scenic Views of Santorini’s Volcanoes and Landmarks

The Santorini Sailing Dream Catcher sets sail from either Vlichada Marina or Ammoudi Bay, depending on the chosen departure time—either 10am or 3pm. The comfortable catamaran accommodates up to 30 passengers, giving a feeling of intimacy amid the scenic surroundings. As the boat departs, you’ll quickly see the island’s famous volcanic landscape including the Indian Head Mountain and the Old Venetian Lighthouse.

This tour takes you around Santorini’s underwater caldera, showcasing the dramatic cliffs and volcanic islands that define the landscape. Watching these iconic sights from the water provides a different perspective that many find more impressive than land-based views. The experience of cruising near the volcanic formations adds an element of awe, especially as the boat navigates close to the volcanic islands of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni.

Exploring Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni Hot Springs

The Palea Kameni stop is an anchor point in a quiet bay where travelers can swim and snorkel in mineral-rich waters. This 40-minute stop allows for a relaxing break in calm, warm waters that are perfect for swimming, making it a favorite part of the trip. The volcanic nature of the island means the waters are heated naturally, creating an almost spa-like experience.

Next, the boat heads to Nea Kameni, where visitors can enjoy a 30-minute visit to the hot springs. These springs are known for their warm waters and are a less crowded alternative to other hot spring spots. The opportunity to soak in these mineral-rich waters makes this stop special, with the added bonus of being able to explore the volcanic terrain around the springs.

Visiting the Red and White Beaches by Boat

The tour includes stops at Red Beach and White Beach, both accessible only by boat. The Red Beach is famous for its striking red volcanic cliffs contrasting with the dark sand, creating a picture-perfect scene. The boat pauses for around 20 minutes here, giving guests time to swim or simply admire the scenery.

The White Beach is similarly accessible only by boat and features white volcanic cliffs and black sand. Depending on weather conditions, the tour stops at either the Red or White Beach for another 20-30 minute swim, ensuring guests get a chance to enjoy the waters at both locations. These beaches stand out due to their unique volcanic formations and are often highlighted in reviews for their beauty and exclusivity.

Sailing Past Iconic Landmarks: Venetian Lighthouse and Indian Head Mountain

One of the tour’s highlights is the passage by the Old Venetian Lighthouse and the Indian Head Mountain. The lighthouse, with its historic charm, marks the entrance to the caldera, while the Indian Head Mountain provides a striking backdrop for photos. The smooth sailing past these landmarks offers plenty of opportunities for photo captures and appreciating Santorini’s distinctive landscape.

Savoring a Greek BBQ Lunch on Board

A key feature of this cruise is the onboard BBQ buffet lunch, which features Greek specialties such as rigatoni saganaki, tzatziki, grilled chicken or lamb, and Greek salad. The lunch is served after the swimming stops, allowing travelers to refuel while enjoying panoramic sea views. The unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks add a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

Many reviews praise the quality and flavor of the food, highlighting it as a surprisingly excellent meal for a boat tour. The friendly crew ensures everyone is served and comfortable, and the special dietary requests, such as vegetarian options, are accommodated if advised in advance.

Watching the Sunset and Nighttime Views

The sunset cruise version of this tour offers an especially memorable experience. Travelers at the end of the day witness a glorious sunset over the caldera, with the full moon often visible as the boat returns to port. Reviewers describe the sunset views as breathtaking, and the crew’s attentive service enhances the experience.

However, some note that swim stops during sunset might be less comfortable once it gets colder, so planning to swim earlier in the tour can maximize comfort. The relaxed pace and beautiful scenery make this a very popular choice for couples and romantics.

Logistics and Group Size Benefits

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics in Santorini. The group size is typically up to 34 travelers, creating a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded. The mobile ticket format streamlines the check-in process, and the most travelers find this trip suitable, including children, with some restrictions.

The most booked days tend to be about 20 days in advance, so early booking is advisable to secure a spot, especially during peak times. The tour operates most days, with full refunds available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance due to weather or other factors.

Crew Expertise and Overall Atmosphere

The crew members are frequently praised for their friendly, attentive attitude and their ability to share interesting stories about the landmarks. Many reviews mention crew members like Mike, Panos, and Dimitris for their professionalism and good humor.

The music played onboard adds to the relaxing atmosphere, and the lunch experience often feels like a casual gathering with fellow travelers. The balance of sightseeing, swimming, and lounging appeals to visitors looking for a laid-back yet engaging day at sea.

Comparing this Tour to Similar Experiences

This Dream Catcher cruise is often compared to other catamaran or yacht tours in Santorini, with many reviews emphasizing the value for money and the excellent crew service. The all-inclusive nature—covering taxes, fees, drinks, and lunch—makes it a convenient choice.

Other tours in the area may focus more on specific activities like volcano visits or wine tastings, but the combination of scenic sailing, swimming, and a hearty Greek meal makes this one stand out. For travelers wanting a comprehensive half-day experience with great views, this tour is a solid pick.

Santorini Sailing Dream Catcher: An Inviting Water Adventure

The Santorini Sailing Dream Catcher tour offers a balanced mix of scenic sailing, swimming, and good food. Its 5-hour duration is enough to enjoy the island’s most famous landmarks and natural hot springs without feeling rushed. The onboard BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks provide a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere that many reviews describe as above expectations.

The tour’s highlights—including stops at Red and White Beaches, visits to hot springs, and sailing past iconic landmarks—are complemented by the friendly crew who are known for their attentiveness and local knowledge. The sunset views add a romantic touch to this already memorable experience.

While the group size and booking lead times require some planning, those who prefer a smaller, well-organized tour with many photo opportunities will find this experience particularly rewarding. Overall, it offers great value and a beautiful way to explore Santorini from the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $139.03 per person, including lunch, drinks, and hotel pickup.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, covering multiple swimming stops and sightseeing.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Vlichada Marina or Ammoudi Bay, depending on the chosen departure time.

What landmarks are visible during the cruise?
You will see Indian Head Mountain, the Old Venetian Lighthouse, and sail past volcanic islands like Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are included during the tour.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a BBQ buffet lunch with Greek specialties is served onboard.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Specific dietary needs like vegetarian options are available if requested.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are offered if canceled more than 24 hours in advance or if the tour is canceled due to poor weather.

How many people are typically on the tour?
Group sizes are limited to 34 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring swimwear, sun protection, and a towel. The tour provides all necessary safety equipment.

Is there a sunset option?
Yes, there is a sunset cruise option, offering spectacular sunset views and a memorable end to the day.

Is advance booking necessary?
Yes, this tour is frequently booked 20 days in advance, especially during peak season, so early reservation is recommended.