Santorini: Traditional Wooden Boat Tour with Meal and Wine

If you’re looking to explore Santorini from a different perspective, the Santorini: Traditional Wooden Boat Tour with Meal and Wine offers an authentic and scenic experience. Priced at $113 per person, this 5-hour cruise combines picturesque views, relaxing stops, and delicious Greek food in a small-group setting. The tour departs from Vlychada port and includes hotel pickup, making it convenient for visitors staying anywhere on the island. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate voyage with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the volcanic scenery.

This tour stands out for its authentic wooden boat experience, guided stops at key sites, and the inclusion of a Greek meal paired with local white wine. While it doesn’t feature a volcano hike or beach stops, it makes up for that with spectacular caldera views, geothermal hot springs, and a charming visit to Thirassia island. The tour has earned a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 366 reviews, reflecting consistent quality and satisfied guests.

Key Points

• Authentic wooden boat experience around Santorini’s caldera
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for hassle-free transportation
• Swim and snorkel at key locations: Black Mountain, Thirassia, and volcanic hot springs
• Delicious Greek meal with local white wine, soft drinks, and water included
• Small group size limited to 10 participants ensures personalized service
• Optional sunset cruise offers a chance to enjoy Santorini’s famous evening views

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting from Vlychada Port in Santorini

The tour begins with hotel pickup—guests can be collected from their accommodation or a nearby accessible location. The transfer to Vlychada port is in an air-conditioned van, ensuring comfort after a smooth journey. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed aboard a traditional wooden boat, which offers a charming contrast to modern vessels and enhances the authentic feel of the experience.

The welcome drink sets the tone, and the boat departs with scenic views of the Red Beach and White Beach. The small group size of up to 10 people creates a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable to explore different parts of the boat.

Exploring Santorini’s Iconic Beaches from the Water

The cruise passes close to Red Beach and White Beach, stopping for photo opportunities, sightseeing, and swimming. These stops allow guests to enjoy the iconic volcanic landscapes that make Santorini unique. The Red Beach is famous for its striking red cliffs, while White Beach offers a more tranquil setting, both perfect for relaxing swims.

Although the stops are brief, they provide a good chance to cool off and take memorable photos. The boat’s proximity to these beaches means visitors get an up-close view of Santorini’s volcanic features, a different perspective than from land.

Visiting the Akrotiri Lighthouse and Volcano Area

Next, the boat approaches the Akrotiri Lighthouse, offering vantage points for spectacular views and sightseeing. The guide shares insights about the lighthouse and the volcanic activity that shaped the island. Guests can swim and snorkel near the volcanic caldera, with clear waters ideal for exploring marine life.

The cruise then takes visitors to the hot springs, where swimming in geothermal waters invigorates and relaxes. The sulfur-rich waters are a highlight, offering a chance to soak in volcanic energy, a unique experience on Santorini.

Thirassia Island and Its Charm

A highlight of this tour is the stop on Thirassia, a small fishing island known for its peaceful atmosphere. Here, guests can swim and snorkel in calmer waters, away from the busier tourist spots. Thirassia provides a glimpse into traditional island life, with fewer crowds and authentic surroundings.

This stop is particularly appreciated for its relaxed vibe and the opportunity for more seaside exploration, making it a favorite among those who enjoy tranquil scenery and marine activities.

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Tasting Greek Cuisine on Deck

A key feature of this tour is the Greek lunch or dinner served onboard. The menu includes chicken fillet, traditional Greek dips, beans, stuffed vine leaves, Greek salad, and fresh fruits. The meal is described as plentiful, fresh, and flavorful, catering to a variety of dietary needs.

Guests also enjoy local white wine, soft drinks, and bottled water, enhancing the authentic experience. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food and the generous portions, noting it as a significant part of the trip’s appeal.

Sunset Option and Scenic Views

For those opting for the sunset cruise, the route reverses, starting in Ammoudi Bay and ending at Vlychada. During this voyage, guests can enjoy their meal in the quiet coves of Black Mountain before witnessing Santorini’s spectacular sunset. The sunset views are often described as magical, with the sky turning vibrant hues over the caldera and volcanic islands.

This option offers a more romantic and visually stunning conclusion to the day, ideal for sunset lovers and those celebrating special occasions.

The Stops and Itinerary Details

The tour features a well-organized itinerary with clear stops at Red Beach, White Beach, Akrotiri Lighthouse, Hot Springs, Santorini Volcano, and Thirassia. Each location provides opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing. The volcano area is especially noteworthy for its crater views and geothermal waters.

The Ammoudi Harbor in the sunset route offers a picturesque setting, often with some free time for a quick visit to nearby spots like Agios Nikolaus before returning. The return to port is smooth, with drop-offs at Thera or nearby locations.

Logistics and Comfort

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, in a comfortable air-conditioned van or minivan. The small group size ensures attentive service and a more personal experience. The duration of 5 hours is generally well-paced, allowing ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the meal.

Travelers are advised to bring passport or ID, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a jacket. The activity rules specify that intoxication is not allowed, maintaining safety onboard.

Overall Value and Uniqueness

Priced at $113 per person, this tour delivers excellent value with multiple swimming stops, a local dining experience, and a small-group atmosphere. The authentic wooden boat enhances the experience, setting it apart from larger, more commercial cruises.

Guests consistently praise the friendly crew, delicious food, and breathtaking views. Several reviews mention that the guides share interesting insights, making the journey both visually stunning and informative.

Final Thoughts on the Santorini Wooden Boat Tour

The Santorini: Traditional Wooden Boat Tour with Meal and Wine offers a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, with highlights including hot springs, volcanic scenery, and charming Thirassia. The small group setting, delicious Greek cuisine, and spectacular sunset options make it suitable for those seeking an intimate and scenic maritime experience.

While it doesn’t include a volcano hike or extensive beach stops, it compensates with stunning views, cultural charm, and marine activities. This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate local flavor, comfortable pacing, and authentic sailing experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off included in the price.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, with starting times available based on availability.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included for use at stops like the volcanic area and Thirassia.

Can I choose the sunset option?
Yes, there is an optional sunset cruise that begins in Ammoudi Bay and ends at Vlychada, allowing you to enjoy the sunset.

What meals are served on board?
A Greek meal featuring chicken fillet, dips, beans, vine leaves, salad, and fruits is included, along with local white wine, soft drinks, and bottled water.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants for a small-group experience.

Are there any beach stops included?
No, the tour does not include stops specifically at beaches, but it does stop near iconic beaches like Red and White Beach for sightseeing and swimming.

What should I bring?
Guests are advised to bring passport or ID, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a jacket.

Are there any physical requirements or restrictions?
Intoxication is not allowed, and participants should be comfortable swimming and enjoying outdoor activities.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity provider reserves the right to modify the route or cancel the cruise in case of bad weather, and may operate on a vessel of the same category if needed.

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