Santorini Private Cruise Sightseeing Tour with BBQ & Drinks

This Santorini private cruise offers a fantastic way to enjoy the island’s stunning scenery while avoiding the crowds. For around $960 per group of up to three, you get five hours on a comfortable boat, complete with local cuisine, drinks, and plenty of chances to relax and explore. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an authentic way to see Santorini away from busy tours, this experience ticks many boxes.

One of the things we love about this tour is the opportunity to see secluded beaches and untouched spots that most visitors miss. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable captain—who doubles as a local fisherman—is a real bonus. You’ll learn about the island from someone who’s lived there for years, making the experience more personal. However, a potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so planning your transportation to Ormos Ammoudiou is essential. This cruise suits travelers seeking an intimate, relaxed day at sea with authentic touches and a focus on comfort.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience designed for small groups (up to 3 people) for a more personalized adventure.
• Expert local captain provides insights into Santorini’s hidden gems and underwater world.
• Flexible itinerary includes visits to secluded beaches and snorkeling spots.
• Delicious local seafood lunch with drinks on tap, offering genuine Greek flavors.
• Sunset views from a fishing boat create a magical setting, perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
• No hotel transfer included, so plan your arrival at Ormos Ammoudiou accordingly.

The Setting and Starting Point

The adventure begins at Ormos Ammoudiou, where you’ll spot the boat marked with “Fishing Tour” signage. This small, well-equipped vessel sets the tone for an exclusive day on the water. The tour’s five-hour duration means you’ve got plenty of time to relax, snorkel, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Check availability ahead of time, as start times vary, ensuring you can plan your day around the best weather conditions.

Since hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, it’s worth arranging your own transportation to the meeting point. Most travelers find this straightforward, especially if staying in Fira, Oia, or nearby villages, but it’s an important step to consider.

The Captain and Guide: Local Knowledge Matters

What truly elevates this experience is the presence of a professional skipper who’s also a local fisherman. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way our guide shared stories and insights about Santorini’s lesser-known spots,” making the trip feel authentic and personalized. This dual role means you’ll get a perspective rooted in local tradition, adding depth to your sightseeing and snorkeling stops. Plus, the captain’s familiarity with the waters ensures safety and access to the best spots.

The Itinerary: Secluded Beaches and Underwater Discoveries

Once underway, you’ll head toward hidden beaches that are usually out of reach for larger tour boats. These spots offer privacy and pristine waters—perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, so you can explore underwater life, which is a highlight for many guests. Expect crystal-clear waters and rocky formations that make for great photo opportunities.

The guided visits often include time for swimming in the Aegean’s calm, transparent waters, allowing you to cool off while taking in the scenic coastlines. The boat’s smaller size allows for more flexible and intimate stops, away from the crowds typical of larger cruise ships.

Lunch and Drinks: Authentic Greek Flavors on Board

The local seafood lunch served on the boat is a real treat. Guests rave about the quality and freshness of the dishes, which are complemented by drinks on tap—both alcoholic and soft drinks. It’s a casual, laid-back meal that captures the essence of Greek cuisine, making the most of the seafood resources nearby. The inclusion of beach towels and safety equipment adds to the comfort and peace of mind, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the day.

Sunset Magic and Unique Views

One of the standout moments is watching the sunset from the boat, a truly breathtaking experience. The vessel’s fishing boat setting offers a different perspective—an up-close view of the sunset, without the crowds or noise of land-based vantage points. Many guests, like Kerri-ann, describe it as “fabulous from start to finish,” emphasizing how peaceful and awe-inspiring it is to see the sun dip behind the caldera from the water.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This private cruise isn’t just about seeing sights; it’s about living the moment. The small group size means you can customize your experience, ask your guide questions, and truly relax. The combination of snorkeling, secluded beaches, a delicious meal, and sunset views provides a well-rounded, immersive experience that feels both indulgent and authentic.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $960, this experience is priced on the higher end, but considering it’s a private tour for up to three people, it offers good value for an intimate, personalized day. Large group tours often can’t match this level of exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility. Plus, the inclusion of food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment makes it a hassle-free package.

However, travelers should note that hotel transfers are not included, so planning your transport to Ormos Ammoudiou is essential. The tour’s flexibility and the opportunity to explore hidden corners of Santorini make it worth the effort, especially if you value privacy and a tailored experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for couples, small groups, or those celebrating special moments like anniversaries. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate authentic local encounters and want a relaxed, scenic day on the water. It’s less suitable for large families or solo travelers unless they can be part of a private group, given the size limitation.

This private Santorini cruise offers a fantastic combination of authentic Greek hospitality, personalized attention, and stunning scenery. The chance to visit secluded beaches, snorkel in crystal waters, and enjoy a delicious local meal makes it a memorable way to experience the island from the sea.

The knowledgeable local captain truly adds value, sharing insights about Santorini’s lesser-known spots and ensuring a safe, enjoyable trip. Watching the sunset from a fishing boat, away from the crowds, is a highlight that many guests remember long after their trip. The tour’s flexibility, intimacy, and focus on comfort make it stand out among Santorini’s many boat experiences.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a private, high-quality experience that combines relaxation, discovery, and authentic local flavor. If you’re after a special day that balances scenic beauty with personalized service, this cruise is well worth considering.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, the cruise does not include hotel transfers. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Ormos Ammoudiou, where the boat departs.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, with start times varying based on availability. Check ahead to plan your day accordingly.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, the tour includes a local seafood lunch with drinks on tap, including both alcoholic and soft drinks, making for a relaxed dining experience on board.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore underwater life in the clear Aegean waters.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. The boat provides beach towels and safety equipment, but sun protection and personal necessities are your responsibility.

Can I customize the experience?
As a private tour, the itinerary is flexible to some extent. Discuss your preferences with the captain to maximize your enjoyment.

In essence, this Santorini private cruise with BBQ and drinks offers a refined yet relaxed way to see the island’s best-kept secrets. It’s perfect for couples or small groups looking for an authentic, memorable day on the water—complete with great food, stunning sunset views, and insider knowledge from a local captain.