Santorini:Catamaran: private cruise with food & drinks

Setting out on a private catamaran cruise around Santorini offers a chance to see this iconic island from a truly unique perspective. This tour, offered by SantoCruises, promises a 5-hour voyage filled with stunning vistas, delicious food, and personalized service. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a day of relaxing luxury, this experience aims to deliver it all.

What immediately catches the eye about this cruise is the personal touch—the boats are run by a family business, and the captain and crew are hands-on, ensuring every detail aligns with your preferences. Add in the fact that they take you to some of the most inaccessible beaches and spots in the Caldera, and it’s clear this isn’t your typical group tour.

One point to consider is the price point—at around $1,004 for up to two people, it’s a premium experience, but when you think about the exclusive stops, tailored service, and included food and drinks, the value begins to make sense. This tour is best suited for couples or small groups who want a private, intimate day with flexible options.

Key Points

• Personalized service from a family-run business enhances the experience.
• Hidden beaches and caldera spots are accessible only by boat, offering a more private view.
• Onboard cooking means fresh Greek cuisine prepared just for you, with vegetarian options available.
• Flexible itinerary tailored to guests’ needs, including swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
• All-inclusive drinks and a homemade Greek buffet elevate the relaxed vibe.
• Ideal for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity and personalized attention.

When considering a day on the water in Santorini, the main question often revolves around what makes this tour stand out against others. This private cruise, operated by SantoCruises, seems to excel in delivering a more intimate, tailored experience—something that many travelers value highly.

The Itinerary: A Mix of Iconic and Hidden Spots

The journey begins at the Vlychada Marina, a less touristy harbor that sets the tone for this private adventure. From here, you cruise along the coast, with your captain carefully selecting stops based on the weather and your preferences.

The first highlight is the Red Beach, famous for its vibrant cliffside backdrop. Swimmers can enjoy a refreshing dip among the rocks, with the added bonus that this spot is less crowded than other beaches. Next, the White Beach offers a more exclusive experience since it’s only accessible by boat, giving you a sense of discovery and privacy. Here, snorkel gear is provided, and you can explore the clear waters teeming with marine life, which reviewers mention as a real treat.

Moving along, you’ll pass impressive geological formations like the Indian Rock and sail past the Black Mountain, providing a visual feast of volcanic landscapes. The lighthouse is another notable point, often photographed for its classic charm, before entering the Caldera itself.

The Hot Springs and the Culinary Experience

A major highlight of this tour is the stop at the Old Volcano and the Hot Springs. Unlike crowded group excursions, this private cruise allows you to enjoy the thermal waters at your leisure. The crew cook a Greek buffet on board, featuring beef, pasta, salads, and appetizers—freshly prepared in the boat’s galley. A reviewer specifically appreciated the “Ellie’s amazing orzo and Greek salad,” emphasizing how the homemade meal added a special touch to the day.

With drinks included—local wine, beer, and soft drinks—you can relax with a glass as you soak in the scenery or lounge on the deck. Vegetarian options are available on request, which is a thoughtful addition for those with dietary preferences.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Photos

The beauty of this tour lies in its flexibility: you can choose where to swim and snorkel based on the day’s conditions. Reviewers note that the captain adjusts stops to optimize your experience, ensuring you hit the best spots for swimming and picture-taking. The clarity of the waters means you’ll likely see plenty of fish, making it a memorable experience for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

Sunset Option and Return

While the core experience lasts about five hours, the sunset cruise option offers a chance to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. As the sky turns shades of orange and pink, you’ll appreciate the panoramic views of the caldera, the volcano, and the Aegean Sea. Afterward, you’ll be returned to your hotel, with a sense of having experienced Santorini from a truly special vantage point.

This cruise’s family-run nature shines through in the personal attention and authentic experience it provides. Unlike larger commercial tours, SantoCruises approach hidden nooks of the coast that many other boats simply can’t access. The fact that the meal is cooked on board and tailored to your diet adds to the feeling of exclusivity.

Authentic Greek food and local wine elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The homemade buffet, paired with the scenic views, makes for a genuinely memorable meal. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, beach towels, and safety equipment ensures you’re well prepared for a day of fun.

Reviewers, such as Maeve from the US, have said this was “the best day of [their] life,” highlighting the friendly guidance of their guide Vaso, who took photos at every stop and made sure everyone had what they needed. The small group size or private nature means you won’t feel rushed or crowded, allowing for a more relaxed rhythm.

Cost and Value

At just over $1,000 for two, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s important to factor in what’s included: private transportation, a personalized cruise, a freshly cooked Greek meal, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and even an island map. When you consider the exclusivity, flexibility, and quality, many travelers find the price justified—especially for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime day.

This private catamaran cruise is perfect for couples seeking intimacy and personalized service. It’s also ideal for small groups of friends or families who want a flexible, bespoke day on the water. If you’re after a more exclusive, less crowded way to see Santorini’s beaches, caldera, and volcanic hotspots, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s worth noting that the experience’s focus on comfort, high-quality food, and stunning views makes it less suitable for budget travelers or those looking for a quick, no-frills ride. However, if a luxurious, tailored day with excellent service appeals to you, this is an experience worth considering.

• Book ahead: The private nature means slots fill up quickly during peak season.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, sun hat, change of clothes, towel, and a charged phone for photos.
• Dietary requests: Vegetarian meals are available upon request, so specify your preferences when booking.
• Timing: Check availability for either a day or sunset cruise, as both offer unique perspectives.
• Transportation: Included in the package, so just be ready for pickup at your hotel.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive a Greek buffet with beef, pasta, salad, and appetizers, desserts, local wine, beer, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, beach towels, and transportation from your hotel to Vlychada port.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours. You can check specific starting times when booking.

Can I request vegetarian or other special meals?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and you can request special meals in advance.

What beaches will I see?
You’ll visit Red Beach, White Beach (only accessible by boat), and enjoy views of Black Mountain with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, allowing a customizable and intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, charged smartphone, and passport or ID are recommended.

This private catamaran cruise around Santorini offers a blend of stunning scenery, personalized service, and authentic Greek cuisine. The experience is thoughtfully designed for travelers who value exclusivity, flexibility, and quality. Whether you’re celebrating or simply want a memorable day on the water, this tour ensures you see some of Santorini’s most beautiful spots in comfort and style.

While the price is on the higher end, the inclusion of a homemade meal, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a dedicated guide makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium, intimate experience. It’s particularly suited for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, relaxing, and beautifully scenic adventure.

If you’re craving a day away from crowds and want to explore the island’s hidden gems with a touch of luxury, this private cruise might just be your perfect Santorini escape.