Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise with Meal, BBQ and Open Bar

This detailed review dives into the experience of the Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise, a well-reviewed excursion that promises a blend of scenic beauty, tasty food, and lively atmosphere. Operating around the island’s caldera, this 5-hour cruise offers travelers a chance to see iconic beaches, swim in volcanic springs, and enjoy a spectacular sunset—all from the comfort of a stylish catamaran. With an impressive 5-star rating from hundreds of reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this cruise to be a highlight of their Santorini trip.

What makes this experience stand out? We particularly love the focal points on authentic relaxation and local flavor—from the BBQ lunch with unlimited drinks to the intimate visits to beaches and volcanic springs. The small-group setup ensures a more personal, less crowded experience, which can make all the difference in creating memorable moments on the water. However, a potential consideration is the group size and seating arrangement, as some reviews noted that during peak times, the boat can feel a touch cramped, especially at the front.

This cruise suits travelers who want a comprehensive, immersive day out, combining sightseeing, swimming, and dining with a friendly, relaxed vibe. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to soak up Santorini’s natural beauty, this tour offers solid value—especially considering the included meals, drinks, and stops. For those seeking a lively, well-organized sailing adventure, this one could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and iconic beaches like Red and White Beach, with fascinating geological features.
• All-inclusive experience with a BBQ meal, unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks, plus Greek appetizers.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops in crystal-clear waters, with gear supplied.
• Visit to volcanic hot springs and Thirassia island, blending relaxation with exploration.
• Small group sizes ensure a more intimate and less crowded experience.
• Perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, food, and fun onboard.

What to Expect on the Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise kicks off with an expertly curated route around Santorini’s most stunning locations. The first stop is Red Beach, famous for its striking crimson cliffs and dramatic landscape. It’s a 15-minute walk from the boat, giving you just enough time to snap some photos and learn a bit about the area’s volcanic origins. Reviewers like Tingfan_J mention that the sightseeing here is complemented by fascinating facts from the crew, making it more than just a photo opp.

Next up is Mesa Pigadia Beach, a haven of crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The crew provides snorkeling gear and pool noodles, so you can float among colorful fish and underwater cliffs. Tanya_C notes that relaxing on the sundeck with a drink while watching the scenery is a highlight of this stop. You’ll also pass by the 125-year-old Venetian lighthouse of Akrotiri, perfect for some memorable shots.

The third stop is Santorini’s volcanic hot springs, famed for their healing properties. Here, you’ll have roughly 30 minutes to dip into volcanic waters, explore caves, and marvel at volcanic beaches—an experience praised by Treasa_C, who calls it “astonishing.” The natural minerals and warm waters make this stop both unique and rejuvenating.

The final major stop is Thirassia, the island often referred to as Santorini’s best-kept secret. This smaller island offers the chance to swim and enjoy a hearty Greek meal. The menu includes finger foods, seafood pasta, Greek salad, vegetarian options, and Greek yogurt with cherries. The food quality gets special praise, with reviews like Marcie_W considering the BBQ and appetizers “delicious.” The bar remains open here, with unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and even sparkling wine for sunset tours.

The Atmosphere and Crew

Many reviewers, including Vivian and Alex, emphasize the friendly and attentive crew, who go above and beyond to create a relaxed, fun environment—some even mention that they made the experience unforgettable. The crew’s knowledge about the island’s sites adds an educational touch, with fascinating tidbits shared during stops.

A small group setting, capped at around 18 travelers, reduces the feeling of overcrowding. Yet, some reviews, such as Debra_M’s, note that during busy times, the boat can feel a little tight, especially at the front. Early booking (average 37 days in advance) is recommended if you want to secure a spot and potentially avoid the crowds.

Food and Drinks

The onboard BBQ is a major draw, with reviews highlighting the quality of the grilled meats, seafood, and Greek salads. You’ll also enjoy unlimited drinks, including white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water, plus sparkling wine on sunset cruises. Many guests rave about the freshness of the food and the generous bar service. Judy_S calls the food “AMAZING,” and Marcie_W mentions the champagne toast as a memorable highlight.

Moderate drink options are included, but some reviews note that only wine and beer are served—no spirits—so if you’re after a more potent cocktail experience, you might want to bring your own or plan accordingly.

The Sunset Experience

The sunset cruise is especially popular, as the boat offers front-row views of the horizon as the sky turns shades of orange and pink. Reviewers like Kurt_T describe the sunset as “breathtaking,” with vibrant colors painting the sky while the crew keeps the atmosphere lively with music and drinks. The cruise’s duration ensures you have enough time to relax, take photos, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying Your Cruise

• Book well in advance—on average, 37 days before—especially if you want a spot during peak season.
• Arrive early on the day to secure a good spot and settle in comfortably.
• Consider your group size—if traveling with friends or family, ask about the maximum capacity to avoid overcrowding.
• Bring sun protection — hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for daytime stops.
• Prepare for some walking at beach stops, but the crew can assist with snorkeling gear and briefings.
• Dress comfortably for a day on the water, but bring a light jacket or cover-up for cooler evenings or the breeze.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and dining with a relaxed, friendly vibe. It suits those who enjoy authentic Greek flavors and want to experience Santorini’s natural beauty from the water. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or families.

If you’re after a lively atmosphere with plenty of drinks, good food, and stunning views, this cruise fits the bill. It’s also a good pick if you want a less crowded, more personal experience compared to larger boat tours. However, if you prioritize a completely unrushed, luxurious experience or are concerned about tight spaces during peak times, you might want to consider booking early or exploring other options.

The Sum Up

The Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise delivers an engaging and authentic way to explore the island’s caldera, beaches, and volcanic sights. The well-organized stops, delicious BBQ, unlimited drinks, and friendly crew combine to create a truly enjoyable day on the water. The stunning sunset views add a magical touch, making this a popular choice for travelers looking to capture unforgettable moments with loved ones.

While some reviews mention potential overcrowding or rushed stops during busy periods, overall, the cruise offers excellent value, especially for those who appreciate a relaxed, social atmosphere paired with spectacular scenery. It’s especially well-suited for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with great food and drinks in one memorable boat trip.

If you’re planning your Santorini itinerary, this cruise should definitely be on your shortlist—just be sure to book early, arrive prepared, and enjoy every moment of this lively, scenic adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel transfers are included, making it easy to start your day without worrying about logistics.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, providing enough time to explore and relax without feeling rushed.

What’s on the menu?
Expect a variety of finger foods, including chicken and pork, seafood pasta, Greek salad with feta, vegetarian Greek ratatouille, and Greek yogurt with cherries.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s an open bar with white wine, beers, soft drinks, and water. Sparkling wine is available for sunset cruises.

How many people are on the boat?
The tour caps at 18 travelers, ensuring a smaller, more intimate experience. However, during busy seasons, some reviews mention that the boat can feel crowded.

What is the snorkeling gear like?
Snorkeling gear and pool noodles are provided for the swimming stops, and reviewers have enjoyed floating around in the crystal-clear waters.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and even families with babies or young children find the experience accommodating.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Red Beach, Mesa Pigadia Beach, volcanic hot springs, Thirassia island, and the breathtaking sunset.

Is the experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
While walking is minimal, some stops require a bit of walking or getting in and out of the boat. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific accessibility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, towel, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening. Consider bringing a camera or phone for photos—there are plenty of beautiful spots!

In all, this cruise combines the essential elements of a memorable Santorini day—spectacular scenery, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere—making it a solid choice for those looking to soak up the island’s beauty from the water.