Santorini: Private Sailing Tour with Drinks & Meal Included

Exploring Santorini from land can be stunning, but seeing it from the water offers a whole new perspective. This private sailing experience promises relaxed vibes, personalized routes, and a chance to enjoy the island’s iconic coastline in style. With options for both morning and sunset trips, it appeals to travelers seeking a deeper connection with nature, excellent food, and breathtaking views—all topped with local wines and a friendly crew.

What we love most about this tour is its small-group approach combined with customizable routes. It’s clear they prioritize a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, away from the crowds, which truly enhances the experience. However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or babies under one year old, which could be a consideration for some families or pregnant travelers. This tour is best suited for small groups, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Santorini from a different angle and enjoy a laid-back day on the water.

Key Points

• Personalized & Private: Small group sizes mean a more relaxed, intimate vibe.
• Authentic & Off-the-Beaten-Path: Routes explore secret beaches and volcanic cliffs away from crowds.
• Flexible Schedules: Options for morning or sunset trips suit various preferences.
• All-Inclusive: Drinks, meals, snorkeling gear, and snacks are included.
• Authentic Hospitality: Crew welcomes guests like friends, with multilingual guides.
• Optimal for: Couples, small groups, solo travelers, and anyone craving a relaxed, authentic experience.

Discover Santorini from the Water: An Authentic Perspective

Seeing Santorini from the land can be beautiful, but there’s something truly special about viewing its rugged coastline and iconic volcanic cliffs from the sea. The private sailing tour with 12 Gods Sailing offers an experience that balances relaxation, adventure, and authenticity. Whether you’re after a peaceful morning cruise or a sunset spectacle, this journey promises to enrich your understanding of the island’s natural beauty while offering a taste of local hospitality.

The boats are well-equipped, with Bluetooth music, snorkeling gear, and plenty of snacks and drinks, making the trip both fun and comfortable. The crew, speaking English, Greek, Spanish, and Italian, are described as welcoming friends rather than mere guides, adding warmth to the experience. Plus, since it’s a private group, you get the freedom to tailor the route and pace to your mood, making it ideal for those who prefer a personalized adventure.

What to Expect on Your Santorini Sailing Trip

This experience is designed as a relaxed, flexible journey along Santorini’s most scenic coastline. It can be booked as either a half-day or full-day trip, with timing options to suit your itinerary—whether you want to catch the sunrise, enjoy the vibrant midday sun, or witness the sunset glow.

Itinerary Breakdown

Start & Departure: The trip begins with a convenient pickup or direct boarding, depending on your arrangements. You’ll step aboard a comfortable sailing boat, ready for a day or afternoon of discovery.

Hidden Beaches & Volcanic Cliffs: The highlight is exploring secluded beaches and volcanic formations that most land-based visitors miss. These spots are among Santorini’s best-kept secrets, often away from the crowds. You’ll get the chance to relax on quiet beaches or admire dramatic cliffs that have shaped the island’s unique landscape.

Swimming & Snorkeling Stops: Swimmers and snorkelers will appreciate the chance to dip into crystal-clear waters, with snorkeling gear provided. Past reviews mention how enjoyable it is to float above the vibrant marine life protected in the island’s waters.

Local Wine & Snacks: During the trip, you’ll be offered a selection of local wines, beers, and soft drinks, perfectly complemented by seasonal fruit, snacks, or a tasty meal, depending on the trip length. Reviewers particularly appreciated the quality of the local wines, noting that they added a special touch to the day.

Music & Atmosphere: On board, Bluetooth music sets a relaxed tone, and the crew’s friendly, informal approach makes you feel like you’re floating with friends rather than on a tour.

Sunset & Final Views: For the sunset trip, expect to witness the sky changing colors while the boat gently rocks in the calm waters, providing some of the most unforgettable views of Santorini’s silhouette.

The Experience’s Strengths

Past guests highlight the stunning scenery, top-notch food, and peaceful environment. One reviewer noted that the boat’s route was carefully chosen to avoid tourist traps, giving a more authentic feel. The small group size (private bookings) also means you’ll receive personalized attention, and the crew is praised for their multilingual skills and friendliness.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers mentioned that the trip length can vary from 5 to 9 hours, which might feel long for those with tight schedules. Plus, since the tours are private and customizable, the experience depends heavily on the crew’s itinerary choices, so it’s worth communicating your preferences in advance.

Details That Matter: The Logistics

Duration & Timing: The trip lasts between 5 to 9 hours, with available starting times to fit your plans. Whether you prefer a morning cruise or an evening sail, the flexibility allows you to choose what suits your rhythm.

Group Size & Private Tours: Being a private experience, it’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking intimacy. This also means the boat isn’t crowded, which enhances the sense of serenity and privacy.

Inclusions & Value: The tour includes local wines, beers, soft drinks, meals, snacks, snorkeling gear, and fuel and insurance. This all-inclusive approach offers great value, especially considering the personalized service and the quality of the food and drinks.

Accessibility & Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women or babies under 1 year, which is important for families or expectant travelers to consider.

Cancellation & Payment: With a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option, travelers have flexible booking terms, easing concerns about changing plans.

Authentic, Relaxed, and Customizable: Who Is This Tour For?

This sailing experience is best suited for travelers who value authentic moments over tourist crowds. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic day, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful escape. The customizable route and relaxed pace make it appealing to those who prefer a flexible itinerary over rigid schedules. If you’re after stunning views, delicious local food and drink, and a friendly crew that treats you like a guest in their home, this tour has a lot to offer.

However, keep in mind that it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers, given the nature of boat travel and restrictions.

The Sum Up

This private sailing tour in Santorini offers an excellent way to see the island from a different perspective. It’s more than just a boat ride; it’s an authentic, personalized experience that combines stunning scenery, great food, and a relaxed atmosphere. The small-group setting and flexible itineraries mean you can truly tailor your day to your preferences, making it an ideal choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape on the water.

While it might not be suitable for everyone—particularly families with very young children or pregnant women—the overall value, friendly hospitality, and scenic beauty make this tour a memorable addition to any Santorini visit. If you’re craving a calm, intimate, and scenic adventure away from the crowds, this sailing trip might be exactly what you’re looking for.

FAQs

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private group tour, meaning the boat is reserved exclusively for your party, offering a more personalized experience.

What languages do the crew speak?
The crew speaks English, Greek, Spanish, and Italian, ensuring clear communication and a friendly atmosphere.

What’s included in the tour?
The experience includes local wines, beers, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, meals or snacks (depending on the trip), plus fuel and insurance.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies between 5 and 9 hours, allowing you to pick a half-day or full-day experience based on your schedule.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, availability shows different starting times for morning or sunset trips, so you can select what fits best.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or babies under 1 year, but older children may enjoy the experience with parental discretion.

What is the best part of the trip?
Many mention the stunning views, peaceful swimming stops, and delicious local wine as highlights.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your swimsuit, sun protection, and camera. The boat supplies snorkeling gear and snacks, but personal items are up to you.

Can I customize the route?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the crew to tailor the route and activities.

What’s the weather like?
Trips run in good weather, but check the forecast as sailing may be affected by strong winds or storms. Flexible cancellation policies help in case of weather issues.

This sailing experience in Santorini offers a delightful blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic connection with the island’s natural beauty. If you’re after a tranquil escape with excellent views, tasty bites, and a friendly crew, it might just become one of your favorite memories of Greece.