The Fastest All Inclusive Private Motor Yacht in Santorini

If you’re dreaming of exploring Santorini’s iconic coastline with a dash of luxury, this private yacht tour promises a memorable day on the water. Based in Greece, this 2023-built motor yacht offers an intimate, personalized experience that hits all the highlights—volcano hot springs, colorful beaches, charming villages—without the crowds. With a price tag of around $536 per person, it might seem steep, but when you factor in the exclusive access, premium amenities, and tailored itinerary, it’s quite a well-rounded value for a special occasion.

What we really love about this cruise is its flexibility—your crew, led by knowledgeable guides like Captain Angelis and Milo, tailor the stops to your preferences. The yacht’s modern design and plush deck make it a floating oasis, and the inclusion of open bar options with local wine, beer, and soft drinks elevate the entire experience. On the downside, the tour’s duration can be between 3 to 5 hours, so it’s worth checking the availability and starting times to match your schedule. This experience suits travelers who appreciate privacy, comfort, and a touch of luxury while discovering Santorini’s best-kept secrets.

Key Points

• Luxury and Privacy: A private, all-inclusive experience on a brand-new 2023 motor yacht.
• Customizable Itinerary: Stops at Red Beach, White Beach, volcanic hot springs, Oia, and Thirasia—plus flexibility for additional swims and sightseeing.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, attentive hosts like Captain Angelis and Milo bring local insights and personalized service.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Food, drinks, towels, snorkeling gear, and a sunset Moscato D’Asti make this a fuss-free day.
• Unbeatable Views: Stunning vistas of volcanic formations, caves, and cliffside villages create Instagram-worthy moments.
• Value for Money: While pricier than some group tours, the exclusivity, comfort, and tailored stops offer great value.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Private Yacht Experience

Exploring Santorini by boat is a bucket-list activity for many visitors, but choosing the right tour can make all the difference. This private yacht experience is designed to give you the feeling of exclusivity and flexibility, with the added bonus of a modern, speedy vessel that gets you around the coast efficiently.

The Departure and Initial Comforts

The journey begins with a hotel pickup, which is a thoughtful touch—your driver will meet you at your accommodation, so you avoid the hassle of navigating busy marinas. Once you arrive at the marina, you’re greeted aboard the sleek Axopar 37 Sun Top motor yacht. The yacht itself is a standout feature: new (from 2023), fast, and equipped with a comfortable, sun-drenched deck perfect for lounging and soaking up the views.

Your crew, including guides like Captain Angelis and Milo, are praised for their attentiveness and deep local knowledge. They help craft a bespoke itinerary based on your preferences, making the experience feel truly personalized. The crew also serve a selection of cold cuts, local wines, beer, and soft drinks, ensuring everyone stays refreshed as the boat glides along the coast.

The Highlights of the Cruise

Red Beach and White Beach

One of the main reasons travelers choose this tour is to see Red Beach, famous for its striking reddish cliffs and unique landscape. The steep cliffs and wild formations make for incredible photo opportunities, and you’ll get plenty of time to snap shots and admire the scenery. Nearby, the White Beach impresses with its bright limestone cliffs and calmer waters, ideal for a relaxing swim.

Volcano and Hot Springs

Sailing past the impressive volcanic formations, the boat stops at the island’s sulfur-rich hot springs. The mineral waters are said to have detoxifying benefits, and many guests enjoy taking a dip in the warm, bubbling waters. It’s a chance to unwind and soak up the natural heat, with plenty of time to snorkel or simply float in this unique environment.

Oia and Thirasia

The cruise then brings you close enough to Oia Village to swim beneath the famous cliffside town—imagine floating in the water with the picturesque white buildings and blue domes above. This stop is particularly popular for its postcard-perfect scenery and sunset views. You also get to visit Thirasia Island, a quieter, less touristy spot with fewer than 200 residents. Here, you’re invited to enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, choosing from meat, fish, or vegetarian options, all amidst authentic surroundings.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour typically starts with hotel pickup, followed by a brief transfer to the marina. Once aboard, the boat heads south along Santorini’s coast, with the crew sharing stories about volcanic activity, local legends, and the island’s geology. The first major stop is Red Beach, where guests usually spend around 30 to 45 minutes exploring and taking photos. From there, the yacht cruises along the coast to White Beach and the nearby caves, then to Mesa Pigadia, known as Black Beach.

Cruising past the Venetian Lighthouse of Akrotiri offers a picturesque view of the historic lighthouse and rugged cliffs. Entering the caldera, the view of clustered villages on the cliffs is breathtaking—think sweeping vistas and vibrant contrasts. The highlight for many is the visit to the volcanic hot springs, where you can relax in the sulfur-rich waters and enjoy the natural surroundings.

If you opt for the Oia stop, you’ll spend time swimming beneath the iconic village and snapping photos of the landscape, complemented by a refreshing drink of bubbly Moscato D’Asti at sunset. The visit to Thirasia adds a cultural touch, with the chance to dine at a traditional restaurant and experience local hospitality.

Practicalities and What to Expect

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy. It lasts between 3 to 5 hours, so it’s flexible enough to fit into most schedules. The boat’s amenities—snorkeling equipment, towels, and an onboard guide—ensure comfort and safety. The open bar, featuring local wine, beer, and soft drinks, keeps spirits high without additional costs.

Weather considerations are important: bring a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and perhaps a light jacket for the breeze. The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, so be aware if mobility is an issue.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Travelers have praised the guides for their friendliness, flexibility, and local expertise. One reviewer highlights how Captain Angelis and Milo were “great, flexible, friendly, attentive to detail and accommodating.” They tailored stops to suit guest preferences, making for a personalized day. The small group size ensures an intimate setting, perfect for couples or small groups wanting privacy.

The inclusion of a traditional lunch on Thirasia adds an authentic touch that elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing. Guests often mention how the combination of stunning scenery, local wine, and a relaxed pace creates a special atmosphere.

Price and Value

At $536 per person, this cruise is an investment, but it’s well justified by the quality of the experience. The private setting, curated stops, and premium amenities like an open bar and gourmet lunch mean you’re paying for comfort, exclusivity, and insider access. Compared to larger group tours, this experience offers greater flexibility and a more relaxed vibe, which many find worth the extra cost.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private yacht cruise is ideal for travelers seeking an elevated, personalized way to see Santorini’s highlights. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or families who want a laid-back, luxurious day on the water. If you value flexibility, excellent service, and scenic beauty, you’ll find this experience well worth it.

If you prefer budget-friendly options or larger group tours, there are other options available, but none offer quite the same level of intimacy and customization as this private cruise.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive private yacht experience in Santorini offers a blend of luxury, authentic sights, and personalized service that’s hard to match. You’ll enjoy the convenience of hotel transfers, the comfort of a modern vessel, and the chance to explore the island’s most iconic spots at your own pace. The guides’ local insights and the quality of amenities—like wine, food, and snorkeling gear—add real value, making it a memorable way to experience Santorini beyond the usual crowds.

While the price might seem high, what you’re paying for is exclusivity and a tailored experience that can transform a day of sightseeing into a truly special occasion. This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, and who aren’t afraid to splurge a little for a high-quality, private excursion.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts between 3 to 5 hours, depending on the chosen itinerary and stops.

• What is included in the price?
  Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, finger food, open bar (wine, beer, soft drinks), snorkeling equipment, towels, and an onboard guide.

• Is this tour private?
  Yes, it’s designed for private groups, offering a tailored experience with your own crew.

• Can I choose where to stop?
  The crew helps tailor the stops, and you can decide where to spend more time, especially for swimming and sightseeing.

• Is this experience suitable for everyone?
  It’s not suitable for wheelchair users and requires some physical mobility for swimming and getting on and off the boat.

• What should I bring?
  Sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a light jacket for the breeze.

• What are the highlights of this tour?
  Visiting Red Beach, White Beach, hot springs, swimming beneath Oia, and exploring Thirasia with a traditional lunch.

• Can I book this tour last-minute?
  Yes, with flexible reservation options that allow you to reserve now and pay later, subject to availability.

• Are there any age restrictions?
  The data does not specify age restrictions, but the tour involves swimming and some physical activity, so consider this before booking.

• Is there a dress code?
  Casual, beach-ready attire is perfect—think swimsuits, cover-ups, and comfortable clothing for the trip.

This private yacht cruise in Santorini offers a luxurious, personalized way to see the island’s most stunning spots, with expert guides and all the comforts you'd want for a memorable day on the water. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique experience, it’s a choice that balances scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic Greek hospitality.