Santorini All-inclusive Catamaran Cruise with Thirassia Stop

Taking to the water around Santorini on a luxurious catamaran promises more than just sightseeing — it’s about feeling the sea breeze, enjoying delicious food, and witnessing some of the most iconic vistas Greece has to offer. This all-inclusive cruise with Caldera Yachting is tailored for those looking for a relaxed, intimate experience, capped at just 16 guests. It combines comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic moments, making it a compelling choice for travelers wanting to see Santorini from a different perspective.

What we really love about this cruise is its small-group setting, which ensures personalized attention from the crew and a more immersive experience. Plus, the delicious onboard meals and unlimited drinks, especially the local wine, genuinely elevate the journey. The only potential consideration? The cruise doesn’t include hiking the volcano, so if that’s on your bucket list, you’ll need to plan separately. This cruise suits couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates a laid-back but luxurious way to explore Santorini’s caldera and surrounding islands.

Key Points

• Intimate experience with a maximum of 16 travelers for personalized service
• Beautiful stops at Thirassia, hot springs, Red Beach, and more
• Included food and drinks make for great value and convenience
• Optional sunset viewing adds a romantic touch to the cruise
• Professional crew with extensive knowledge about the region
• Good cancellation policy for peace of mind

This cruise is designed to combine sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing in style. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, the journey begins with comfortable air-conditioned transport heading toward Amoudi port, where your majestic catamaran awaits. The capacity for just 16 guests makes this a notably cozy experience, avoiding the crowds often found on larger tours, and creating a more relaxing atmosphere.

What It Feels Like to Sail Santorini’s Caldera

Once onboard, you’ll get an introduction from the skipper and crew, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. We loved the way the crew, especially the captain, shared insights into the region’s geology and history, bringing the scenery to life. As your boat glides smoothly through the water, you begin to appreciate the stunning views of Santorini’s cliffs and whitewashed towns from a unique vantage point.

The open deck allows for unobstructed photo opportunities, and the sea breeze keeps everyone comfortable. The unlimited Santorini wine, beers, and soft drinks flow freely, making it easy to toast the incredible scenery. As one reviewer put it: “The staff was very friendly and made this such a great experience,” and their attentiveness is evident throughout.

The Stops That Make This Cruise Unique

The itinerary is packed with carefully chosen stops, each offering something special:

• Amoudi Bay: The cruise kicks off in this picturesque fishing port in Oia, famed for its charming waterfront and cliffside views. It’s perfect for snapping photos before setting sail. As one reviewer shared, “The sunset cruise starts in one of the most beautiful spots in Santorini.”

• Thirassia Island: This small fishermen’s island is a highlight for swimming and snorkeling. We appreciate the fact that the tour includes time for a dip, with snorkeling gear provided. “Although the water was too cold for us to jump in, the sail around some of the islands was beautiful and relaxing,” said a guest.

• Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni: These volcanic islands are a must-see. The boat sails past Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, with the latter offering sulfurous hot springs that are said to have therapeutic properties. Many reviewers loved bathing in these warm springs, with one noting, “The hot springs are known for their healing benefits.” Just a tip: avoid white or pastel swimsuits due to mineral staining.

• Black Mountain and Indian Rock: Sailing past these striking geological formations adds to the dramatic scenery. The Black Mountain’s dark lava formations contrast sharply with the white cliffs, creating excellent photo opportunities.

• Red Beach and White Beach: The tour makes stops at these iconic beaches. Red Beach’s mineral-rich sands make for impressive photos, and White Beach’s seclusion offers a peaceful retreat accessible only by boat. Reviewers are captivated by the scenery and colors of these beaches.

• Lighthouse at Akrotiri: Standing on a high cliff, this 19th-century Venetian lighthouse is one of Greece’s oldest and offers sweeping views of the Aegean. It’s a favorite among guests for its historical vibe and scenic outlook.

• Vlychada for Sunset: If you’ve opted for the sunset cruise, this is where the magic happens. Guests describe the sunset as “spectacular” and “truly breathtaking,” perfect for ending an already memorable day. Watching the sun dip behind the caldera from the water adds a romantic touch that many consider a highlight.

Onboard Dining and Drinks

The onboard meal is a definite standout. Expect seafood, grilled sausages, chicken fillet, salads, and a delicious dessert — much more than just snacks, these are hearty, freshly prepared dishes that many reviews praise as “way above what you expect.” The all-you-can-drink open bar with local wine, beer, and sodas ensures everyone stays refreshed, and the quality of the food is often highlighted as surprisingly good for a boat tour.

Guests frequently mention the “wonderful staff” who prepared the meal, with one reviewer noting, “The food was very good. The staff very helpful and knowledgeable.” The fact that the crew is attentive to dietary needs and friendly makes a big difference in the overall experience.

The Experience’s Special Touches

Several reviewers highlighted the small-group setting as a true advantage. With only 16 spots, you’re less likely to feel rushed or crowded, which enhances the relaxing vibe. Plus, the crew’s extensive knowledge about the island’s geology, history, and local sights adds an educational component that many appreciated. “Ilias and his crew were phenomenal,” described a traveler, emphasizing their friendliness and expertise.

This cruise is perfect for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, intimate atmosphere combined with spectacular scenery and good value. The inclusion of food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and stops at key sights makes it a comprehensive option that feels like a full day out without the hassle of organizing separate activities.

It’s especially suited for couples seeking a romantic experience, small groups wanting a more personal touch, or anyone who prefers a luxurious, stress-free day on the water. If you’re after a lively party cruise, this may not be the right fit — but if you want to enjoy the calm beauty of Santorini’s caldera in style, this is an excellent choice.

Timing and Booking Considerations

The cruise lasts around 5 hours, with options for a morning or sunset departure. Booking about 27 days in advance is common, reflecting its popularity. The pickup service adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the port area. Keep in mind, the tour does not include hiking the volcano, so plan that activity separately if interested.

The Overall Value

At roughly $185.37 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience — stunning views, tasty meals, unlimited drinks, and a peaceful atmosphere. Compared to large boat tours, the small-group size and personalized approach make it feel like a true luxury. Many reviewed it as “worth the money,” especially given the quality of food and service.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, intimate cruise experience with a focus on scenic beauty, delicious food, and relaxing stops, this Santorini catamaran tour hits the mark. The combination of small group size, unlimited drinks, and diverse stops from volcanic hot springs to iconic beaches offers value and authenticity. You’ll get a chance to see Santorini from the water, enjoy some of its most famous sights, and unwind in style.

It’s ideal for couples seeking romance, small groups wanting a memorable day without the crowds, or travelers eager to combine sightseeing with good food and open bar. While it doesn’t include volcano hiking, the overall experience remains compelling and well-loved by past guests.

Is transportation to the port included?
Yes, the cruise offers complimentary pickup and drop-off via air-conditioned minibus or van, making logistics simple.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 5 hours, with the itinerary carefully planned for a relaxed pace, including multiple stops and activities.

Can I snorkel and swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment, towels, and swimming aids are provided. Several stops, like Thirassia and the volcanic springs, are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Does the cruise include food and drinks?
Yes, the onboard meal includes seafood, chicken, salads, and dessert. An open bar with local wine, beer, and sodas is included throughout the cruise.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 27 days in advance, especially for the sunset cruise option, to secure their preferred date and time.

Are children allowed on the cruise?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Please advise any specific dietary requirements when booking.

In essence, this Santorini catamaran cruise delivers a blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic Greek hospitality. It’s an excellent option for anyone wanting to explore Santorini’s caldera in style, with the added bonus of good food and a relaxed atmosphere.