Santorini: Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, BBQ & Drinks

A Closer Look at the Santorini Luxury Catamaran Cruise

This review takes you through a well-reviewed, five-hour journey on a luxury catamaran exploring Santorini and nearby islands. With a 4.9 out of 5 based on 20 reviews, this experience combines stunning vistas, fun swim stops, and a delicious Greek buffet—all with the added comfort of an open bar and hotel transfers.

What I appreciate most about this cruise is how it balances spectacular scenery with authentic touches like a traditional Greek meal. The boat itself seems well-equipped, with snorkeling gear, towels, and restrooms, ensuring you’re comfortable and ready to enjoy the day. Two things I particularly like: the chance to swim in volcanic hot springs and the opportunity to relax on a smaller, intimate vessel rather than a crowded party boat.

One thing to consider: the itinerary is quite packed, meaning you might spend some time in transit or waiting at each stop. If you’re looking for a slow, leisurely day, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the pickup points are spread out, so plan your hotel location accordingly.

This cruise offers fantastic value—especially given that lunch, drinks, transfers, and snorkeling gear are included—making it an appealing option for anyone wanting a taste of Santorini’s natural beauty with minimal fuss.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning views of the Caldera from the deck make for breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Swim stops at Mesa Pigadia Beach and the volcanic hot springs offer both adventure and relaxation.
• The Greek lunch buffet and BBQ serve up authentic flavors, with white wine, beer, and soft drinks included.
• The small-group vibe means more personalized attention and less crowding.
• Handily, hotel transfers are included, which simplifies logistics in busy Santorini.
• The friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, often receiving praise for their accommodating attitude and local insights.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting from Vlychada Port, this cruise sets off with a relaxed yet well-organized schedule designed to showcase Santorini’s most iconic sights while giving you ample opportunities to cool off and enjoy good food.

The first stops are at the Red Beach and White Beach, where you’ll get a chance to photograph the striking cliffs and dip into the crystalline waters. The Indian Rocks and Akrotiri Lighthouse provide excellent photo ops, especially if you’re keen on capturing the rugged coastline. The lighthouse, a historic feature, adds a touch of maritime charm to the scenery.

The highlight for many is the trip to Mesa Pigadia, a less touristy beach where you can swim in clear waters and snorkel among colorful fish. Reviewers like Andreas noted how swimming here was a highlight, “seeing the fish and enjoying the volcano hot springs afterward.” It’s a good reminder that Santorini’s volcanic origins create unique, sulfur-rich hot springs with reputed therapeutic qualities—something you’ll want to experience firsthand.

The volcanic hot springs are a major draw; the waters are warm and invigorating, although some travelers might want to bring darker bathing suits, as iron and sulfur can stain light-colored clothing. For those who love a bit of adventure, this is a memorable way to connect with Santorini’s fiery geology.

Next, the trip continues to Thirasia, an island often overlooked but worth visiting. You’ll have time to swim, relax, and enjoy spectacular scenic views of Santorini from across the water. Afterward, a Greek buffet lunch with BBQ is served on board, giving you time to unwind and chat with fellow travelers. Many reviews, such as Susan’s, mention how the crew was “amazing and so accommodating,” which adds to the overall positive vibe of the trip.

As you sail back towards Vlychada, the scenery is just as captivating, giving you a final chance to snap photos of the Caldera’s dramatic cliffs. The cruise wraps up with comfortable transfers back to your hotel, making it a hassle-free day.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a combination of scenic sailing, active swimming, and good food without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small groups and personalized service, as it keeps the atmosphere intimate rather than overly commercial.

If you’re looking for a relaxed but adventure-filled day, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to soak in natural thermal waters, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially great for families, couples, or small groups of friends. The included hotel transfers and all-day drinks make it easy to enjoy a stress-free escape.

However, if you prefer a very slow pace or have mobility issues, be aware that the day’s itinerary involves some walking and swimming at multiple stops. Also, if you’re a passionate diver or snorkeler, you’ll love the fact that snorkel gear is provided, and the waters are clear enough to see plenty of marine life.

Breaking Down the Itinerary: Why It Matters

Vlychada Port is a scenic starting point, away from the busiest tourist areas, giving you a peaceful launch pad. The boat cruise takes in iconic sights like Red Beach, White Beach, Indian Rocks, and the Akrotiri Lighthouse, which are all visually striking and photo-worthy. You’ll also get sea-level views of Santorini’s cliffs, which really showcase the island’s rugged beauty.

Mesa Pigadia offers a refreshing swim in less crowded surroundings, and the chance to snorkel among colorful fish—essentially, a mini underwater adventure. Andreas’s review highlights how much he enjoyed “swimming in the clear waters and seeing the fish,” which speaks to the quality of the snorkeling experience.

The volcanic hot springs are a must-see natural feature, with many travelers remarking on how rejuvenating the waters are. The sulfur smell and the mineral-rich waters create a unique swimming experience that combines fun with a touch of wellness.

Thirasia provides a peaceful island escape, with opportunities for swimming and relaxing while enjoying traditional Greek hospitality. The lunch served here, including local wine and beer, offers a taste of authentic Greek cuisine in a stunning setting. Jim’s review emphasizes how relaxing and enjoyable the day was, making this a highlight for those seeking a laid-back yet engaging experience.

Returning to Vlychada, the views of the Caldera at sunset or late afternoon are often described as “breathtaking,” giving the day an unforgettable finale.

Price, Value, and Logistics

Given that lunch, BBQ, open bar, hotel transfers, and snorkeling gear** are included, the pricing for this cruise represents solid value. Instead of paying separately for meals or transportation, you’re paying for a well-organized, all-in-one experience that takes care of most logistics.

The five-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to see the sights and enjoy swimming, but not so long that it becomes exhausting. The small group setting ensures more personal attention and a more intimate experience, which many reviewers find adds to the enjoyment.

The pickup and drop-off at multiple locations make it accessible for travelers staying across Santorini, though it’s important to be ready 10 minutes early for your pickup. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This cruise offers a fantastic way to see Santorini from the water, combining natural beauty, fun swimming stops, and a delicious Greek meal. The positive reviews about the crew and the quality of the experience suggest that this is a trusted, well-organized option for travelers wanting to enjoy the island’s scenic coastlines without fuss.

If you enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and good food in a relaxed setting, this cruise will likely satisfy your expectations. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic experiences with knowledgeable guides and a small-group atmosphere.

While it’s not a party boat, the open bar keeps things lively, and the stunning views make every minute worthwhile. For a memorable day in Santorini, this cruise stands out as a practical, enjoyable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts around 5 hours, with departures generally starting at 10:00 am.

Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, transfers are included from various pickup points; just be ready 10 minutes early for pickup.

What is the lunch like?
A Greek buffet and BBQ are served on board, featuring authentic flavors. Drinks like white wine, beer, and soft drinks are included.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkelling gear is provided, and the waters are clear enough to see fish, making it a fun part of the day.

Are there hot springs?
Yes, you’ll visit the volcanic hot springs for a rejuvenating swim, which many consider a highlight of the cruise.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Dark-colored swimsuits are advised if you plan to swim in the sulfur springs.

Is the experience suitable for families?
Yes, especially for those comfortable with swimming and a bit of boat time. The small-group environment makes it more suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

How many stops are there?
There are multiple stops: Red Beach, White Beach, Indian Rocks, Akrotiri Lighthouse, hot springs, and Thirasia, plus the return to Vlychada.

Who is this experience best suited for?
Travelers who want a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and good food in a small-group setting. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting an authentic, well-organized day on the water.

In sum, this Santorini catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded splash of adventure, relaxation, and Greek flavor. With stunning scenery, engaging stops, and expert guides, it’s a day that’s hard to beat for those eager to experience Santorini from a different perspective.