Santorini Oia: Caldera Private Day Cruise with BBQ & Drinks

Taking a trip to Santorini? You’ll find plenty of land-based sights, but nothing beats exploring the island’s stunning coastline by boat. The Santorini Oia: Caldera Private Day Cruise with BBQ & Drinks offers a perfect blend of scenic views, delicious food, and relaxed swimming stops, all from the comfort of a private catamaran. This tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5-star score from 35 reviews, and is recommended by 100% of travelers.

What we love most about this experience is the sense of exclusivity—you’re not packed into a crowded boat but instead enjoy a private, intimate outing with your group. The chance to indulge in a freshly prepared barbecue and unlimited drinks while floating in some of Greece’s clearest waters is a real highlight. One potential consideration? The cost is on the higher side, but considering the personalized service and all-inclusive nature, many find it well worth it.

This tour suits those looking for a relaxing, visually stunning day away from the bustling land, perfect for couples, honeymooners, or small groups eager to explore Santorini’s caldera without the crowds. If you want the best sea views, authentic local food, and a touch of luxury on the water, this cruise might just be your ideal escape.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Small, exclusive group that makes the trip more personal and relaxed.
• Unbeatable Views: Get close-up views of Santorini’s coastline and its neighboring islands from the sea.
• Variety of Stops: Multiple swimming spots at Thirassia, Palea Kameni, and Nea Kameni offer different experiences.
• Locally Inspired Cuisine: Onboard BBQ with fresh fish, chicken, vegetarian options, and appetizers.
• Unlimited Drinks: Sip local white wine, beers, soft drinks, and water throughout the cruise.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup offered, mobile tickets, and a set itinerary that maximizes your time in the caldera.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Point & First Stop: Thirassia

Your adventure begins at Ammoudi Bay, where the boat departs for the nearby Isle of Thirassia. This tiny, almost untouched island feels like going back in time—its slow pace and scenic charm make it a favorite among travelers seeking a peaceful escape. The highlight here is the calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers have shared how much they appreciated this stop, with one noting the bay’s tranquility and the opportunity to dive into clear waters.

Expect around 20 minutes here, giving you just enough time to cool off and snap some photos of the colorful houses and cliffs overlooking the bay. The experience is very relaxed—no rushing, just a chance to enjoy the water and the scenery.

Exploring the Volcanic Landscape: Palea Kameni

Next, the cruise takes you to Palea Kameni, the volcanic island that formed Santorini’s famous caldera. This spot has a dramatic landscape with black, crystal-like volcanic rocks, offering a stark contrast to the bright blue sea. Visiting here is a chance to witness the power of nature—this volcano erupted in 1600 BC and created the island’s iconic caldera.

The sulfur springs further add to the allure, with many travelers mentioning the therapeutic waters as a bonus. You’ll get about 10 minutes here, enough to take a quick dip or capture some photos of the volcanic terrain.

Main Stop: Nea Kameni & Lunch

The largest highlight is the longer stop at Nea Kameni, the volcanic island in the heart of the caldera. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and, most notably, enjoying a gourmet BBQ lunch on board. Reviewers rave about the quality of the meal—think fresh fish, tender chicken, and a variety of salads and appetizers. The meal is served with unlimited drinks, including local dry white wine, beers, and soft drinks.

The hour-long stop here means you can relax, take more dips, and explore the island’s volcanic features. Some guests mentioned how the onboard chef prepared a delicious meal that was among the best they had on their trip, with fresh ingredients adding to the authenticity.

Unique Photo Opportunities & Historic Ports

Throughout the cruise, you’ll also have moments to admire and photograph the old ports of Santorini, often sitting at the center of the island or along the caldera’s edge. These landmarks add an extra layer of history and charm to your sea journey, giving you a perspective most land visitors miss.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This cruise isn’t just about the sights; it’s about the experience. The reviews highlight impeccable service, with crew members Zoe, Tassos, and others going above and beyond—offering towels, snorkel gear, and making sure everyone’s needs are met. One guest mentioned how the crew adapted plans at the last minute due to their cruise ship schedule, which shows their flexibility and dedication.

The all-inclusive nature means you don’t have to worry about extra costs—your BBQ lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and transfers are taken care of. The price of around $594 per person might seem high, but for many, the personalized service, delicious food, and stunning scenery justify the investment.

Travelers consistently praise the value for money, noting that the experience exceeds expectations by combining luxury, adventure, and authentic Greek hospitality. The smaller group size and private setting create an intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for those wanting a more exclusive day on the water.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour lasts about 4 hours, so plan your day accordingly to include some flexibility for arrival and departure.
• Pickup is offered, which is a plus for ease, especially if you’re staying in Oia or Fira.
• Timing is often in the late morning or early afternoon, aligning well with the sunny Greek weather.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers—most can participate, and the activities are generally low-impact.
• Be sure to bring sun protection, swimwear, and possibly a waterproof camera or phone for photos.
• The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Why This Tour Works for Different Travelers

If you’re craving a blend of relaxation and adventure, this cruise hits the mark. It’s perfect for couples wanting a romantic day, honeymooners, or small groups seeking a private, high-quality experience. The combination of scenic views, great food, and the chance to swim in volcanic waters offers a memorable way to see Santorini from a different perspective.

For those who value authenticity, the authentic Greek meal and knowledgeable crew make this more than just a boat ride. Meanwhile, anyone with a sense of curiosity about volcanic landscapes and island history will appreciate the stops at Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as the activities involve swimming and relaxing on the boat. It’s suitable for families, couples, and groups looking for a leisurely day.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without additional planning.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, snorkeling gear, BBQ lunch with salads and appetizers, unlimited drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks, water), and the boat’s use.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals are included in the BBQ menu, so vegetarians won’t be left out.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the stops and meal without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a towel, and possibly waterproof camera gear for photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility.

What makes this cruise stand out compared to others?
The private, intimate setting, exceptional crew service, and high-quality, fresh food are the key differentiators.

Final Thoughts

This private day cruise in Santorini offers an enchanting way to enjoy the island’s landscapes without the land-based crowds. The combination of incredible sea views, volcanic stops, and a delicious BBQ lunch with unlimited drinks makes it a worthwhile splurge for travelers looking to indulge in authentic Greek hospitality from the comfort of a private vessel.

While the price may be a consideration, many guests believe the personalized experience and breathtaking scenery make it well worth the expense. It’s particularly well-suited for those celebrating special occasions, honeymooners, or anyone who values quality and exclusivity.

If you want a memorable, scenic day in Santorini with excellent food and friendly service, this cruise could be just what you need for a truly special holiday.