Santorini looks best from the water. This catamaran cruise gives you a break from the crush, with 360-degree deck views, an open bar, and three swim stops that include the volcano hot springs and the Red and White Beach areas. Two things I especially like here are the onboard Greek BBQ lunch (with vegetarian options) and the fact that you get round-trip hotel transport, so you can spend the day focusing on the sea views instead of logistics.

The one drawback to plan for is water temps. The hot springs stop is closer to the warm sulfur water, but you should still bring warm dry layers, because the other swims can feel chilly, especially in breezy weather. Also, this is weather dependent, and the crew may adjust the itinerary if sailing outside the caldera is not appropriate.

Key Points Before You Go

• Hotel pickup and return transfer from Santorini for a low-stress start and finish
• Open-style catamaran with canopy and plenty of sunbathing space plus 360-degree views
• Three swim-and-snorkel stops: volcano hot springs, Red Beach area, and White Beach area
• Snorkeling gear included (mask and snorkel, plus a jacket to return)
• BBQ lunch on board with pork or chicken skewers, or grilled vegetables, plus classic Greek sides
• Maximum 55 travelers, which usually helps the day feel relaxed and not crowded

Why This Catamaran Cruise Feels Different From the Usual Santorini Day

If you’ve done Santorini the common way, you know it can turn into a constant search for viewpoints, lines, and crowded stairs. This cruise is built around water time instead, so the day feels like a reset. You trade a lot of uphill walking for a catamaran deck, salty air, and views that keep changing as you move around the caldera.

I love how this style of boat gives you options. You can hang out under the canopy, grab open deck sunbathing space, or position yourself for the best light at each stop. And because it is an open-style catamaran, the experience feels more like being on the sea than being trapped inside a tour bus.

There is also a real sense of rhythm. Your morning transport starts from your hotel or a nearby meeting point, then you get onboard and settle quickly. From there, it is stop, swim, snack, and photos, instead of stop, walk, and fight for a good spot.

Price and What $132.45 Gets You (And Why It’s Not Just a Boat Ride)

At $132.45 per person for an approximately 5-hour outing, the value comes from what is bundled together. You are not only paying for the boat, you are also paying for round-trip transfers and a full lunch at sea.

Here is what you get that can easily cost extra if you do it on your own:

• Round trip transportation from your hotel or Airbnb in Santorini
• Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks on board, including white Santorini wine, plus water
• Snorkeling equipment (mask and snorkel) and a jacket to return
• A full BBQ-style meal with multiple sides, not a snack
• On-the-spot help from an English speaking crew and safety guidance in multiple languages

One more value point, the group size caps at 55 travelers. That matters on Santorini, because boat days can turn into a stampede at swim stops. A smaller max does not guarantee quiet, but it helps the experience stay manageable.

Also, pay attention to what is not included. Beers are not included, and towels are not included, so you’ll want to pack those.

The Boat Setup: 360 Views, Canopy Seating, and Shoes Off

The boat is an open-style catamaran, so plan for sun, wind, and lots of horizon. You’ll have a sitting area under the canopy for shade, plus spacious open deck space for sunbathing. Because it offers 360-degree views, even when you are not at a stop yet, the scenery is still the show.

A small but important detail: you have to remove your shoes before embarking. It is typical for this kind of boat setup, and it helps keep the deck clean. Wear footwear that is easy to slip on and off later.

Practical tip: bring sunglasses and sunscreen even if the sky looks partly cloudy. On open water, reflection off the sea can sneak up on you.

Pickup, Ports, and How You’ll End the Day at Ammoudi or Athinios

Your day starts with a driver pickup from your hotel or a nearby accessible meeting point. The exact pickup time and location depend on where you’re staying, and you should expect to be informed after booking. Since pickup isn’t guaranteed if you book within 24 hours of departure, plan ahead if you want the smoothest start.

You’ll be taken to either Ammoudi or Athinios port, where the crew welcomes you onboard. At the end, you disembark at one of those same ports, and then another driver takes you back to the original meeting point.

Why this matters: getting dropped into the right port reduces stress. Santorini is full of steep roads and narrow access points, so having your transportation handled for you can be the difference between a relaxed day and a rushed scramble.

Stop 1: Santorini Volcano Hot Springs Swim, Black Rocks, and Warm Water

This is the first real “wow” moment, even before you get in the water. You arrive at the area of the Hot Springs near the volcano, where you can see the strange lava formations and the dark, black color of the rocks. It looks like the island has been rewritten by fire and time.

Then comes the swim. The cruise keeps a distance of 50 meters from the warm sulfuric water of the Hot Springs bay, which is about safety and control, not about you missing the experience. The temperature in this area can be up to 4°C warmer than the open water, so it can feel noticeably better than a regular sea dip.

Important planning note: the info recommends dark color swimwear. I take that as a signal to avoid light fabrics that might show discoloration from sulfur conditions. Also, wear a jacket if you feel cold easily, because even if the water is warmer near the springs, you can still get chilled.

Time-wise, this stop is set for about 30 minutes for swimming. You’ll want to treat it like a short mission: get in, enjoy the unusual setting, snorkel if conditions allow, then back out before you get too cold.

Stop 2: Red Beach Area for Photos, Snorkeling, and Unreachable Corners

Your second stop focuses on the drama of the coastline. You head into the Red Beach area, which is famous for striking color and rock textures. Even if you are not stepping onto the beach itself, the boat-based swim plan lets you reach spots that may be hard or impossible to access by car.

This stop is also about photos plus water time. Expect around 30 minutes here for swimming and snorkeling. Since you are moving from stop to stop, you won’t feel stuck waiting around for the perfect moment.

One consideration: Red Beach is visually intense, so you’ll want to protect your gear and eyes. Use sunscreen and keep your phone secured. On boats, sea spray happens, and you want your camera-ready shots without the panic.

Also, if you are a first-time snorkeler, this stop is a good place to practice. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, and the short time window keeps the pressure low.

Stop 3: White Beach Swimming and the BBQ Meal That Keeps You Going

The last swim stop is the White Beach area, known for its limestone look. It’s a totally different visual mood than the Red Beach area, and the contrast is part of the fun. This is where you’ll get more time in the water, plus the meal.

You’re scheduled for about 1 hour 30 minutes total at this stop, which is long enough to do a proper swim and then settle in for lunch. The snorkeling equipment is available here too, so you can use this as your main snorkel session if you want to spend more time on the water.

Then lunch happens onboard, which is a big part of why this cruise works. The meal includes BBQ items prepared on board, and you’ll also find Greek appetizers and sides like:

• stuffed vine leaves with rice
• tzatziki
• Greek salad
• potato salad
• pita bread

For mains, you’ll choose pork skewers or chicken skewers, or there are grilled vegetable options for vegetarians. This is the kind of meal that feels like more than a token offering. It is filling, and it keeps the day enjoyable even if you are chilly from the water.

Timing tip: eat before you feel exhausted. After swimming, your appetite usually kicks in fast, and eating while you still have energy makes the rest of the ride feel better.

Open Bar Drinks, Real Food Portions, and the Vegetarian-Friendly Setup

The onboard drink menu includes soft drinks, white Santorini wine, and water. Alcohol beyond that, like beer, is not included, so if beer is your thing, plan for an extra purchase.

What I like is that the open bar vibe is meant to keep the day moving, not to turn it into a party bus. You can take a drink, then still focus on the views and the swims.

Food is where this cruise wins points. The BBQ lunch is served with substantial sides, and the meal feels like it was designed for hungry sea time, not for a quick snack break. In particular, the Greek sides like tzatziki and vine leaves make it feel locally themed, while the salads and potato salad give you variety.

Vegetarian travelers get grilled vegetables, and they are not treated like a second-class option. If you want a day that works for different diets without stress, this is one of the stronger points of the experience.

Snorkeling Gear, Floating Devices, and Staying Comfortable in Chilly Water

Snorkeling gear is included, specifically mask and snorkel, plus a jacket that you return to the crew. Floating devices are also provided. The idea is simple: you should be able to get in the water and feel supported without needing to bring your own equipment.

The crew being English speaking also matters, because safety and comfort are easier when instructions are clear. You’ll get safety info onboard in multiple languages through a leaflet, and you can ask questions during the day.

Now, about comfort. The water can be cold, and you should dress like you’re doing a swim, not like you’re going to a beach club. Bring warm dry clothes for after, and use what you can to protect yourself from wind on open deck while you change back out.

Also, use the onboard facilities. There is a WC and washing facilities where you can wash seawater off, which helps you avoid that sticky salt feeling for the ride back.

Best Tips to Make This Day Feel Easy (Not Rushed)

Here’s how to get the most from the day without turning it into a checklist:

• Bring towels. Towels are not included, and you’ll feel glad to have them at the end.
• Pack warm dry clothes. Even if you handle cold water, you still want comfort for the ride back.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat. Salt air plus sun plus wind is a fast combo for overexposure.
• Don’t forget sunglasses. You’ll be facing bright light across the water and when the deck opens up.
• Bring a photo of your passport or ID card, since it is required.
• If you are using snorkeling, plan your time at each stop so you don’t rush your best moment.

If you get cold easily, consider doing the hot springs swim first, then saving energy for the meal. The schedule gives you breaks, but you still want a calm approach.

Is This Tour Worth It for You? Who Should Book

This cruise is best for people who want Santorini without the constant crowds. If you like sea days, short focused swim stops, and a meal that feels like part of the experience, you’ll likely feel right at home.

It also works for mixed skill levels. Most people can participate, and the floating devices plus crew support make snorkeling more approachable. If you’re not a confident swimmer, this can still be a good option because you have equipment and guidance.

If you hate cold water or you want lots of long on-land time, this might not be your ideal fit. The day is built around water and boat time, not long walking tours. And because the itinerary can shift with sailing conditions, you should expect some flexibility.

The Bottom Line: Should You Book This Catamaran Cruise?

I think this is a strong choice if you want a classic Santorini experience that feels less like a race. For the price, you get the big stuff covered: hotel transfers, an open bar, snorkeling gear, and a full BBQ lunch with Greek sides. That combination usually beats piecing together separate tickets and transport on your own.

I would book it if you:

• want multiple swim stops in one day
• care about getting a break from crowds
• want a meal included that actually tastes like food, not a token bite
• are comfortable dressing for chilly water

I would hesitate if you:

• hate cold water and do not have warm dry layers
• expect guaranteed fixed stops in all weather conditions
• want guaranteed in-beach access, since boats do not moor directly on the beach and swimming happens from selected points

FAQ

How long is the Santorini catamaran cruise?

The cruise duration is approximately 5 hours.

What is included in the price besides the boat?

The price includes round trip transfers from and to your hotel or Airbnb in Santorini, open bar drinks (soft drinks, water, and white Santorini wine), snorkeling equipment (mask and snorkel, plus a jacket), and lunch with Greek sides. The tour also includes an English speaking crew and safety information onboard.

Is hotel pickup offered?

Yes. Hotel pickup is offered, and the pickup location varies by hotel. You will be informed of the exact time and location after booking. Pickup cannot be guaranteed if you book within 24 hours of departure.

Where does the cruise depart and where do you return?

The boat departs from either Ammoudi or Athinios port. You disembark at Ammoudi or Athinios port, and a driver then takes you back to the original meeting point.

What drinks are included in the open bar?

Soft drinks, white Santorini wine, and water are included. Beers are not included.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. You get mask and snorkel, and a jacket to return to the crew. Floating devices may also be provided.

What is included in the lunch, and is there a vegetarian option?

Lunch includes pork skewers or chicken skewers, or grilled vegetables for vegetarians. It also includes stuffed vine leaves with rice, tzatziki, Greek salad, potato salad, and pita bread.

Do I need to bring a towel?

Yes. Towels are not included, so you should bring one.

Will the itinerary change due to weather or sea conditions?

Yes. The itinerary and stops may be altered if conditions are not appropriate to sail outside the caldera. The tour requires good weather, and if it is canceled due to poor weather you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

What ID do I need for the tour?

You must bring a photo of your passport or ID card.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.