Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip(BBQ,drinks, transfer)

Sailing around Santorini on a small catamaran offers a refreshing way to see the island’s stunning coastline, vibrant beaches, and volcanic hot springs. This particular tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from nearly 200 travelers, thanks to its intimate setting, knowledgeable crew, and delicious food offerings. Whether you’re craving a relaxing day on the water or an authentic glimpse into Santorini’s natural beauty, this experience might just tick all the boxes.

One of the most appealing features is the small-group format, capped at just 14 guests, ensuring a more personal and less crowded atmosphere. Plus, with included hotel pickup, drinks, a BBQ lunch, and snorkeling gear, it offers a lot of value for the price. That said, some reviewers noted that this isn’t a traditional sailing experience with sails up—it’s mainly motorized. So, if you’re expecting a full-on sailing adventure, you might want to manage your expectations.

This tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and enjoy good company. It’s ideal for those who appreciate comfort, good food, and stunning vistas without the hassle of organizing multiple activities on their own. If you’re after a peaceful, well-rounded day at sea with key highlights of Santorini, this trip could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size guarantees a personal, relaxed atmosphere.
• Diverse Stops: Swim and snorkel at Red Beach, White Beach, and hot springs.
• All-Inclusive Value: BBQ lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and hotel transfers included.
• Breathtaking Views: See Santorini’s caldera, lighthouse, volcano, and beaches from the water.
• Expert Crew: Guides and staff are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.
• Flexible Options: Morning or afternoon departures suit different schedules.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Catamaran Tour

Ease of Booking and Value for Money

This tour is well-loved for its straightforward booking process, with most travelers booking approximately 44 days in advance. The price of around $150.61 per person offers solid value when you consider what’s included—hotel pickup and drop-off, a hearty BBQ lunch, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and the chance to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a convenient, all-in-one package that takes the hassle out of planning a day on the water.

The Journey Starts with Pickup

The experience kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a real bonus for travelers unfamiliar with local transportation. Once at the marina, you’ll board a comfortable catamaran, ready for a day of sightseeing and swimming. The group is capped at 14 guests, which many reviews highlight as perfect for a more personalized experience. The crew, including guides like Yannis, are noted for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging—adding to the overall enjoyment.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Red Beach

Your first stop is the iconic Red Beach, famous for its vividly colored cliffs. Here, you’ll have roughly 30 minutes to swim and snorkel in the calm waters. Reviewers mention enjoying the opportunity to explore the coastline from the water, with one noting, “Swimming was great, and the landscape of the Red Beach is spectacular to watch.” The admission is free, so the focus is on enjoying the water and scenery.

Stop 2: White Beach and the BBQ

Next up is the White Beach, where you’ll spend about 1.5 hours. This is one of the most popular stops, with reviewers describing it as a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a chance to see the unique geology of Santorini and relax with a delicious BBQ lunch served on the boat. The food is praised for being freshly prepared and authentically Greek, with options like grilled meats, salads, and local wines.

One reviewer shared, “The food was great, and the staff was knowledgeable and full of personality,” indicating that the onboard cuisine is one of the tour’s standout features.

Volcano and Hot Springs

The tour next sails past Palea Kameni, the volcanic island, offering a chance to admire the volcanic landscape from the sea. The hot springs are a highlight—though it’s worth noting that the waters are sulfuric and only warm, not hot. Multiple reviews mention swimming in the mineral-rich waters, with one saying, “The sulfur springs are up to 4ºC warmer than the clear waters, and swimming close to the volcano feels quite special.” The boat stays about 50 meters away from the springs for safety, and the experience is described as both relaxing and fun.

Entertainment and Comfort Onboard

While the tour doesn’t feature traditional sailing with sails, it’s praised for the smooth motoring and the crew’s attentiveness. Many guests comment on the music playlist, which adds to the laid-back vibe. Towels, blankets, floating devices, and restroom facilities are all available, making the trip comfortable and convenient.

The All-Important Food and Drinks

The BBQ lunch is consistently praised. You’ll enjoy Greek specialties and Santorini wine**, with some reviews mentioning that the meal exceeded expectations. Drinks are available throughout the trip: soft drinks, beer, and white Santorinian wine. Guests often remark on how much they appreciated the generous offering of food and beverages, ensuring they stayed fueled and hydrated.

Timing and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with departures in the morning or afternoon depending on your preference. This flexible timing allows you to choose a slot that best fits your itinerary. The group size, capped at 14, helps foster a more intimate experience, avoiding the feeling of being on a large, crowded boat.

Practical Considerations and Recommendations

• Bring swimwear, dry clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat—the sun in Santorini can be strong.
• The minimum drinking age is 18, so keep that in mind if traveling with younger guests.
• Remember, due to Greek regulations, boats cannot moor directly on beaches, but they position themselves close enough for safe swimming and snorkeling.
• A day prior to the trip, you’ll receive confirmation of your pickup time and location, so ensure your contact details are accurate.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

From reviews, it’s clear that most guests value the knowledgeable guides and the personal touch of the crew. Many mention that the stops provide a unique perspective on Santorini, one that’s difficult to experience from land. The delicious food, scenic views, and friendly crew make this tour stand out.

Who is this tour best suited for?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day with a small, friendly group, this cruise hits the mark. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and good food without the pressure of a full sailing experience. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a value-packed day that includes transportation, meals, and entertainment in a single package.

However, if you’re expecting a full-on sailing adventure with sails up, or are after a more physically active experience, this might not meet those specific desires. The focus here is on comfort, scenery, and authentic local cuisine.

The Sum Up

This small-group catamaran sailing trip around Santorini offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that balances comfort, natural beauty, and good company. The inclusion of hotel transfers, a hearty BBQ, drinks, and snorkeling gear makes it an excellent value. The calm, intimate setting with knowledgeable guides ensures you’ll see the island from a different perspective and make meaningful memories.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a relaxed day at sea, enjoying spectacular views, swimming in volcanic waters, and sampling local flavors. The tours’ consistently high reviews reflect how well it delivers on these promises, making it a fantastic choice for a memorable Santorini adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient and saving you the hassle of arranging transport.

What is the maximum group size?
The experience is limited to 14 guests, which helps create a more intimate and personal atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, dry clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat. Towels and blankets are provided but need to be returned after use.

Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks, beer, and Santorini wine are included, available throughout the trip.

Is this a sailing-only experience?
No, the boat mainly operates using motors, and the sails are not typically raised. It’s more of a cruise than traditional sailing.

Can I swim at the hot springs?
Yes, you can swim in the sulfuric hot springs, which are about 4ºC warmer than the surrounding waters. The boat stays about 50 meters away for safety.

What’s the duration of the tour?
Approximately 5 hours, with flexible departure times in the morning or afternoon.

Is there snorkeling equipment onboard?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, allowing you to explore the waters around the beaches and volcanic sites.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund if canceled in time.

This thorough review of the Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip should help you decide if this experience is right for your trip. Whether you’re after stunning views, authentic food, or just a peaceful day on the water, it offers a great way to enjoy Santorini from a unique perspective.