Semi Private Santorini Catamaran Tour

This semi-private Santorini catamaran tour offers a luxurious way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights, all while enjoying the serenity of the Aegean Sea. With a maximum of 15 guests aboard a spacious Lagoon sailing catamaran, it promises an intimate, comfortable experience that feels exclusive without the high price tag of private charters. The tour features stops at unique beaches, a volcanic island for swimming, and ends with a sunset spectacle that’s truly unforgettable.

One standout aspect we love is the combination of stunning scenery and quality service. The crew, particularly noted for their knowledge and attentiveness, ensures you’re well taken care of from start to finish. Plus, the inclusion of Greek cuisine paired with wine elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to a true taste of Greece.

A possible consideration is that, despite the description of a “semi-private” experience, some reviewers mention that the boat can feel crowded, especially if you’re used to more secluded or smaller group outings. Also, smokers are permitted in the main area, which might be a downside for non-smokers seeking a fully smoke-free environment.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxed luxury, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor—perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a memorable day out on the water. It also appeals to those who appreciate good food, wine, and engaging guides.

• Comfort and intimacy: With only 15 guests allowed on board, you’ll enjoy a spacious, less crowded environment compared to larger boat trips.
• Stunning scenic stops: White Beach, Red Beach, and volcanic islands offer incredible photo opportunities and unique geological formations.
• Inclusive food and drinks: A delicious Greek barbecue plus wine, water, and soda are included, making this a full-sensory experience.
• Snorkeling fun: Equipment is provided, so you can explore the underwater world at your leisure.
• Excellent crew and service: The staff, including guides like Felipe, are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind in case your plans change.

Setting the Scene: An Elegant and Intimate Boat

Imagine sailing on a 44-foot Lagoon catamaran, with room to stretch out and enjoy the sea breeze. The boat is described as luxurious, with a generous width of over 7 meters, allowing for comfortable lounging and socializing. The limited group size—up to 15 guests—ensures that everyone gets ample space, which is a significant upgrade from the more crowded, larger tours.

Many reviews highlight the friendly, professional crew, such as Felipe, whose extensive knowledge made every stop both informative and fun. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, the experience feels personalized and smooth, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

The Itinerary: A Well-Paced Day of Discovery

The tour covers four main stops, each offering something distinct:

White Beach: Starting with this scenic spot, you’ll marvel at the unique rock formations and white cliffs. The one-hour stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the geological wonder. Reviewers mention the area’s striking scenery, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Red Beach: Sailing past Santorini’s famous red cliffs, this stop is equally photogenic. The boat crew explains the significance of the volcanic rock formations, adding context that enhances the visual experience. Expect a one-hour visit, with plenty of opportunities for snapping pictures and marveling at how nature creates such dramatic color contrasts.

Nea Kameni: Here, you’ll spend two hours swimming and snorkeling in the volcanic hot springs. The clear waters and geothermal activity make this a unique aquatic experience. Many guests enjoy the chance to cool off and explore underwater, with snorkeling gear provided. Some reviews note that the water quality and visibility are excellent, making this a fun, leisurely activity.

Palea Kameni: This volcanic island offers a quick history lesson and a chance to grab a snack or drink. The review mentions that the crew provides insights into the island’s volcanic activity and geological importance. Afterward, you can enjoy a light meal and drinks while watching the sunset.

Food and Beverage: More Than Just a Cruise

The tour includes a Greek barbecue with options for chicken, shrimp, and vegetarian dishes, served with traditional flavors that showcase Greece’s culinary heritage. Reviewers rave about the food—calling it “more than enough” and “delicious”—and appreciate that the crew took care to explain each dish.

Alcoholic beverages are included, although only for guests over 18. This means you can toast the sunset with local wine, which reviewers mention as a high point of the experience. Water, soda, and even towels are provided, ensuring comfort throughout the trip.

Snorkeling and Extras: Making the Most of the Sea

Snorkeling equipment is available for guests eager to explore beneath the surface. With clear waters and a variety of marine life, this feature offers added value for adventure seekers. The tour also provides pool noodles and WiFi onboard, so you can relax or share your trip in real-time.

Sunset Magic: The Pinnacle of the Experience

Watching the sunset from the water is truly something special, and many reviewers describe it as a breathtaking moment. The tour timing coincides with the golden hour, casting warm hues over the caldera and making for stunning photos. Several guests note that the crew ensures everyone has a good view, whether from the deck or the shaded areas.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest highlighted how Felipe’s explanations about each stop added a layer of depth to the trip, making it both scenic and educational. Another reviewer said the crew served the “best chicken in the Aegean”, emphasizing the quality and freshness of the food.

However, some reviews mention that, although described as semi-private, the boat can feel crowded with 16 or more passengers, and smokers are allowed in the main seating area. If these factors are deal-breakers, it’s worth considering whether a more exclusive or smoke-free experience might be better suited.

At $185.03 per person, this tour might seem pricier than some mass-market options. However, the inclusive nature of food, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and WiFi adds significant value. The limited group size creates a more intimate atmosphere, which many find justifies the cost, especially considering the high-quality service and scenic stops.

Compared to larger boat trips that can feel crowded and rushed, this tour offers a good balance of laid-back luxury and meaningful experiences. The inclusion of engaging guides and delicious Greek cuisine further strengthens its appeal.

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic, and culturally rich experience on the water. It suits couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion who would appreciate a more personalized touch. It’s perfect for those who value good food, wine, and a relaxed environment with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the sunset.

If you’re looking for a more secluded or less crowded experience, or are sensitive to smoke in shared spaces, you might want to explore alternative options. Nonetheless, for most, this tour offers a memorable way to see Santorini’s natural beauty from the water.

The Semi Private Santorini Catamaran Tour is a well-rounded experience that combines scenic stops, quality food, and a touch of luxury. Its small group size ensures you’ll get a more personal experience, while the beautiful volcanic landscapes and sunset views make every moment special. The inclusion of snorkeling, wine, and Greek cuisine means you’re not just sailing—you’re tasting and exploring as well.

This tour would suit anyone wanting a relaxed but memorable day on the water, especially those who love good food, stunning scenery, and a bit of cultural insight. While it’s not completely private, the intimate setting and attentive crew create a feeling of exclusivity that elevates the experience beyond typical boat trips.

For travelers wanting to combine scenic beauty with comfort, excellent service, and authentic flavors, this cruise offers tremendous value and a chance to see Santorini from a truly special perspective.

What is the maximum number of guests on this tour?
Up to 15 guests are allowed on the boat, providing a spacious and less crowded environment compared to larger tours.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a Greek barbecue featuring chicken, shrimp, and vegetarian options is included, along with wine, water, and soda.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment is provided, allowing you to explore the waters around Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni.

What about the sunset?
The cruise is timed to coincide with sunset, offering spectacular views as the sun dips below the caldera. Several reviews mention that this is a highlight of the experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Alcoholic drinks are only available for guests over 18. Other than that, most travelers can participate.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, along with swimwear for snorkeling and swimming stops, is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, giving flexibility if your plans shift.

This detailed review highlights what makes this Santorini catamaran tour a worthwhile choice for many travelers, balancing scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and personal comfort. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a relaxing day on the water, this cruise offers a memorable Greek adventure.