Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise with Snorkel, BBQ & Open Bar
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Food
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Group-Friendly
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Reservations
History
Santorini’s dramatic caldera formed 3,600 years ago in one of history’s largest volcanic eruptions, burying Minoan Akrotiri and shaping the island’s crescent silhouette. The Venetian lighthouse, built in 1892, guided ships through treacherous currents, while Red and White Beaches owe their hues to iron-rich lava and pumice cliffs.
This catamaran cruise follows ancient maritime routes, blending geological wonder with the seafaring legacy of the Cyclades.
Highlights
- Swim and snorkel at iconic Red Beach beneath towering crimson cliffs
- Explore hidden White Beach and Mesa Pigadia’s black-pebble coves
- Soak in therapeutic warm waters at the volcano’s hot springs
- Sail past the historic Venetian lighthouse and dramatic caldera walls
- Savor freshly prepared BBQ with Greek meze and unlimited local wine
- Capture cliff-top villages from sea level at golden hour
- Relax on a luxury catamaran with shaded lounge and open sun deck
Full Description
Embark from Vlychada Marina on a sleek gold catamaran for a 5-hour voyage around Santorini’s volcanic coastline. Begin with a welcome drink and safety briefing before gliding toward Red Beach, where iron-stained cliffs plunge into azure waters—perfect for snorkeling among fish and lava formations.
Continue to White Beach and the Venetian lighthouse, learning eruption history from your onboard guide. Pause at the volcano’s hot springs for a rejuvenating swim in rust-tinted thermal waters. The finale unfolds at Mesa Pigadia, where the crew grills souvlaki, Greek salad, and seafood while you swim or sunbathe.
Sail beneath Oia’s whitewashed cliffs as the sun dips, toasting with unlimited Santorini wine. Return to marina with hotel drop-off, carrying memories of sea, fire, and flavor.
Why Choose This Experience?
This premium small-group cruise (max 20 guests) balances adventure and relaxation with three swim stops, expert narration, and gourmet BBQ—all on a stable, spacious catamaran.
Vegetarian/vegan meals, towels, and snorkel gear included ensure comfort, while pickup from any Santorini lodging removes logistics.
What’s Included
- Round-trip hotel transfer by air-conditioned minivan
- Experienced English-speaking guide and professional crew
- Welcome drink (wine or soft)
- Greek meze snacks throughout
- Full BBQ meal (lunch or dinner): souvlaki, seafood, salads, dessert
- Unlimited Santorini white wine, soft drinks, bottled water
- Snorkeling masks, fins, pool noodles, life jackets
- Beach towels and warm blankets
- Onboard restrooms and changing area
- Waterproof phone pouches
- Digital route map and volcanic history guide
- Liability insurance and port fees
Itinerary
- Hotel pickup (time varies by location)
- Arrival at Vlychada Marina, welcome drink, safety briefing
- Sail to Red Beach – swim, snorkel, meze (45 minutes)
- Cruise past White Beach and Venetian Lighthouse – photo stops, commentary
- Volcano Hot Springs – therapeutic swim (30 minutes)
- Caldera cliffs scenic sail with village views
- Mesa Pigadia Beach – swim, snorkel, full BBQ lunch/dinner (1 hour)
- Return sail with sunset views
- Disembark at Vlychada Marina
- Hotel drop-off
Pricing
From $95 per person
Meeting Point
Pickup directly from your hotel entrance (driver waits outside). For inaccessible streets or Airbnbs, meet at nearest landmark (details confirmed post-booking).
How to Get There
- Provide exact hotel name or nearby landmark at booking
- Driver arrives at scheduled time outside entrance
- Look for minivan with tour company logo
- Present digital booking confirmation
- Wear swimwear under clothes for quick boarding
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Swimwear (worn under clothes)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Light cover-up or jacket (windy on deck)
- Waterproof camera or phone case
- Passport or ID (for age verification at bar)
Know Before You Go
- Vegetarian/vegan BBQ meals available (select at checkout)
- Hot springs water is warm (~30–35°C) and sulfur-scented
- Snorkeling suitable for all levels; crew assists beginners
- Catamaran is stable—no seasickness issues for most
- Not wheelchair accessible (ladders to water)
- Bring motion sickness medication if prone
- Sunset timing varies by season and departure
Reviews
- Even on a cooler day, the crew kept spirits high with great food, music, and stories—already planning our summer return.
- The perfect Oia sunset experience from the water: attentive staff, delicious BBQ, and crystal seas made it unforgettable.
- Impeccable catamaran, warm crew, stunning views, and a feast at sea—every detail was flawless from pickup to drop-off.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
Is hotel pickup available from Oia or Fira?
Yes—pickup is offered island-wide, including Oia, Fira, Imerovigli, Kamari, and Perissa. Due to narrow streets, the minivan meets at the nearest accessible point (e.g., bus stop, gas station, or supermarket). Exact location and time are emailed 24 hours prior with GPS pin. For cliff-side hotels, a short walk (2–5 minutes) may be required. The driver waits outside—no lobby entry. Return drop-off follows the same system. This ensures timely marina arrival.
Are vegetarian and vegan meals really included?
Yes—full vegetarian and vegan BBQ options are prepared fresh onboard. Select your preference at checkout. Vegetarian includes grilled halloumi, vegetable souvlaki, Greek salad, and pasta. Vegan features plant-based skewers, hummus, stuffed peppers, and dairy-free tzatziki. Portions match meat versions. Gluten-free available on request. The chef confirms choices during the welcome briefing. All meals use local Santorini produce.
How deep is the water at the swim stops?
Red Beach and Mesa Pigadia offer shallow entry (waist-deep) with gradual drop-offs to 3–5 meters—ideal for snorkeling. The hot springs are 1–2 meters deep with a sandy/muddy bottom. Pool noodles and life jackets are provided for non-swimmers. The crew lowers a ladder with handrails for easy access. Children must wear life jackets (all sizes available). Water shoes are recommended for rocky entries.
Can I bring my own snorkel gear or alcohol?
You may bring personal snorkel masks and fins, but high-quality sanitized sets are provided free. Outside alcohol is not permitted due to the open bar policy. The unlimited white wine is Santorini’s crisp Assyrtiko; beer and spirits are not included but soft drinks are free-flowing. Sealed water bottles are allowed. The crew manages all service to maintain safety and hygiene.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The catamaran operates in most conditions thanks to its stability and covered areas. Light rain or wind does not cancel—blankets and indoor seating are available. Only if the port authority deems sea unsafe (rare, high winds >30 knots) will the trip be canceled. You’ll be notified by 7:00 AM with full refund or reschedule option. No partial refunds for clouds or cooler temperatures—the BBQ and swim stops proceed as planned.
