Platinum Santorini Cruise Catamaran with BBQ & Open Bar

Exploring the Platinum Santorini Cruise Catamaran with BBQ & Open Bar

Taking to the waters of Santorini on a luxurious catamaran is a highlight for many visitors, and this particular tour seems to hit all the right notes. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day soaking up the sun and stunning views or eager to snorkel in mineral-rich hot springs, this cruise promises a well-rounded and enjoyable experience. With a duration of around five hours, this all-inclusive outing combines sightseeing, swimming, and delicious food in one seamless package.

What we really appreciate about this cruise is its focus on comfort and convenience—from the included transfers to Wi-Fi onboard, it’s designed to make sure you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the scenery. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s price point of about $211 per person offers good value, especially considering the included food, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

A possible consideration? The group size is capped at 14, which means it might fill quickly, especially during peak season. If you enjoy a more intimate setting, though, this is a definite plus. This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing, all-inclusive day out with friends, family, or even solo travelers eager to meet others while exploring Santorini’s coastline.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Enjoy Greek barbecue, wine, soft drinks, and water without worrying about extra costs.
• Convenient Transfers: Includes round-trip pickup and drop-off from your hotel or Airbnb in Santorini.
• Multiple Stops: Sails below the Caldera, visits hot springs, and beaches like Red and White Beach for swimming and snorkeling.
• Breathtaking Views: Offers inside caldera photo opportunities and spectacular scenery throughout the trip.
• Wi-Fi on Board: Stay connected and share your adventure without relying on your mobile data.
• Small Group Size: Max of 14 travelers ensures a personalized experience with friendly crew service.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour kicks off from either Ammoudi Bay or Athinios port, both easily accessible locations in Santorini. The inclusion of round-trip transfers from your accommodation simplifies logistics, particularly for those unfamiliar with the island or with limited time. The pickup service ensures a smooth start to your day, removing the hassle of figuring out transportation on your own. Meet time is at 2:30 pm, aligning with the afternoon sun and providing ample time to enjoy sunset views if you opt for the later departure.

The Catamaran and Its Comforts

The cruise is aboard a spacious 74-foot or 80-foot catamaran, designed for comfort and stability. The large decks provide plenty of space for sunbathing, relaxing, or taking photos of the caldera. The Wi-Fi onboard is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to upload snaps or stay connected during your voyage. While the vessel is sizable, the small group limit ensures a cozy atmosphere, avoiding the crowded feeling some larger tours can have.

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The stops are carefully curated to showcase Santorini’s most iconic sights and hidden gems.

• Ammoudi Bay or Athinios Port: Your journey begins with a glance at the port areas and the caldera backdrop. From here, you set sail below the cliffs, getting your first panoramic views of the island’s volcanic landscape.

• Volcano and Hot Springs: The tour visits the Santorini Hot Springs for a relaxing dip in mineral-rich waters—about 30 minutes. As one reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the mineral waters felt against our skin, and swimming here was such a novel experience.” You’ll cruise past landmarks like Aspronisi, Ancient Lighthouse, Akrotiri, and Indian Rock, offering fantastic photo opportunities from inside the caldera.

• Red Beach and White Beach: The stops at Red Beach (around 30 minutes) and White Beach & Mesa Pigadia (around 1.5 hours) are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The red volcanic sand of Red Beach provides a striking backdrop for photos, while the White Beach’s seclusion makes it ideal for a more peaceful swim.

• Barbecue and Sunset Views: The highlight for many is the onboard Greek barbecue, which includes grilled chicken or pork skewers, roasted vegetables, and fresh salads. The soft drinks, wine, and water are all included, making for a relaxed, delicious meal on deck. Once inside the caldera again, you’ll have time for photo shoots with the stunning scenery—a moment many travelers cherish, according to a review that called the views “amazing.”

Food and Drink

The Greek barbecue is prepared fresh on board, utilizing local ingredients for authentic flavors. The included wine is a nice touch, elevating the meal and enhancing the vacation vibe. Soft drinks and water are available throughout, ensuring hydration after swimming or in the warm sun.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Snorkeling gear is provided—masks and snorkels—and the calm waters near the beaches are perfect for exploring marine life or simply floating with a drink in hand. Several guests appreciated the ease of access to snorkeling equipment and the chance to see beneath the surface without extra hassle.

The Views and Photography

One of the biggest draws of this cruise is the inside caldera sailing and panoramic photo opportunities. The cruise inside the caldera offers incredible vantage points, perfect for capturing the dramatic cliffs, volcanic formations, and the vibrant colors of the beaches. Multiple reviews highlighted that the “photography opportunities inside the caldera are unbeatable,” and that the crew was helpful in pointing out the best spots for photos.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

A review from Bob_C captures the essence well: “Beautiful scenic cruise with amazing views, delicious food, and an even better crew—professional, welcoming, and top-notch service.” This hints at the quality of the crew, who are attentive and make the experience seamless. The 5-star rating speaks to consistent satisfaction, particularly regarding the scenery and food.

Another insight comes from the timing—most travelers book 20 days in advance, which suggests high demand—probably due to the excellent balance of value, comfort, and experience. The max group size of 14 makes it feel more intimate, ideal for those who prefer a less crowded environment.

Analyzing the Value

At around $211 per person, this cruise is a competitive choice given the inclusions. The price covers transfers, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi, meals, drinks, and a guided itinerary, which collectively would add up if booked separately. The all-inclusive nature means fewer surprises and a more relaxed day.

The small group size also enhances the experience—no crowded decks or lost in the crowd moments. The presence of onboard Wi-Fi is a thoughtful feature, allowing you to keep your social media alive or simply share the stunning views with friends.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic, and all-inclusive day on the water. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy meeting others in a cozy setting. The family-friendly nature and vegetarian meal options make it accessible for a variety of dietary needs.

If you’re after an adventure-packed, high-energy experience, this might not be the best fit, but for those seeking beautiful vistas, delicious food, and a laid-back day, this cruise ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

This Platinum Santorini Cruise Catamaran with BBQ and open bar offers a well-rounded, authentic way to enjoy the island’s coastal beauty. From the comfortable vessel and friendly crew to the variety of stops for swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities, it’s designed to create memorable moments without feeling rushed. The inclusion of meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and transfers ensures convenience and great value for the price.

While it may not satisfy thrill-seekers or those craving a high-adrenaline adventure, it’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to relax and absorb the stunning surroundings of Santorini from the best possible vantage point: the water.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transfers, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi, a Greek barbecue with grilled chicken or pork skewers, roasted vegetables, salads, soft drinks, water, and white Santorini wine.

What stops does the cruise make?
It visits Ammoudi Bay or Athinios port, the sulfur hot springs at the Volcano, Red Beach, White Beach, and Mesa Pigadia Beach for swimming and snorkeling, plus inside the caldera for photography.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 2:30 pm, perfect for catching sunset views if you choose the evening departure.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and vegetarian meal options are available. The small group size makes it comfortable for families and children.

Do I need to bring towels?
Towels are not included, so you might want to bring your own for swimming and sunbathing.

What equipment is provided for water activities?
Snorkeling gear, including masks and snorkels, is provided and to be returned after use.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum is 14 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with attentive crew service.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for swimming, sunbathing, and walking around the boat. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat!

This cruise is a fantastic way to see Santorini from a different perspective, enjoy great food and drinks, and relax in style. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day on the water, this tour offers a balanced combination of comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek hospitality.