Santorini Catamaran Tour: Your Complete, No-Stress Guide (Day, Sunset & Private)
If you’re searching for the most memorable way to experience Santorini, a catamaran tour is it. From cruising along the caldera walls to swimming near volcanic beaches and soaking up a front-row sunset at sea, this is the island at its best, without crowds or traffic.
Is a Santorini catamaran tour worth it?
Absolutely. A catamaran brings you up close to the caldera, volcanic shores, and hot springs, places you simply can’t enjoy from land or a large cruise ship. With Santorini Sailing, tours include small groups or private boats, freshly prepared Greek BBQ, an open bar, and swim/snorkel stops, so it’s not just transport; it’s a curated sea-day with comfort built in.
Day vs. Sunset: which cruise should I book?
Duration: Both day and sunset options run about 4.5–5 hours.
Typical Day Tour (10:00–15:00):
- Embark at Vlychada Marina
- Swim/snorkel at Red Beach and White Beach
- Stop at the Hot Springs
- BBQ on board at Dina’s Bay
- Sightseeing along the Fira cliff-side
- Disembark at Vlychada
- Santorini Sailing
Typical Sunset Tour (≈15:00 to after sunset):
- Similar swim/snorkel stops
- BBQ at Dina’s Bay
- Finish with the sun dropping behind the Venetian Lighthouse—your golden-hour moment from the water.
- Santorini Sailing
- Pro tip: Traveling in peak months? Book early. June–September sells out fast.
- Santorini Sailing
- What’s included (and what makes it easy)?
Across Santorini Sailing’s semi-private tours you can expect:
- Round-trip hotel transfers to/from the marina
- Open bar (beer, wine, soft drinks, water)
- Greek BBQ meal on board (vegetarian options available)
- Snorkeling gear (mask & snorkel)
- Safety equipment (life jackets, noodles)
- Wi-Fi on board (signal permitting)
- Santorini Sailing
Note: Towel service is included on some tour types (e.g., Exclusive), but not on others (e.g., Deluxe). Check the tour page when booking.
Private or semi-private—what’s right for me?
- Semi-private: Best value with a limited number of guests. Options range in capacity and menu level (e.g., Dreamcatcher, Deluxe, Exclusive, Triton Exclusive). All include transfers, BBQ, drinks, and snorkel gear.
- Private: The boat is yours alone, with a flexible itinerary—perfect for proposals, honeymoons, families, or groups that want maximum privacy and pace control.
How much does a Santorini catamaran tour cost?
- For semi-private cruises with Santorini Sailing, current sample prices are:
- Dreamcatcher: €125 per person
- Deluxe: €160 per person
- Exclusive or Triton Exclusive: €190 per person
(Prices vary by boat/service level & season.)
For private catamarans, expect roughly €1,340–€2,800+ for a full-day experience depending on vessel, season, and inclusions.
Where do tours depart from? How do I get there?
Most catamarans depart from Vlychada Marina (south coast). Hotel transfers are included, so you don’t have to navigate parking or taxis in peak season, just be ready at your pickup point.
Santorini Sailing
What will I see and where do we swim/snorkel?
A typical Santorini Sailing route covers Red Beach, White Beach, the Hot Springs near the volcano, and Dina’s Bay for swimming and the onboard BBQ. Sunset itineraries often close near the Venetian Lighthouse for panoramic views. Some itineraries (or seasons) may add Thirassia or extra coastline highlights, your captain will optimize on the day for wind and comfort.
When is the best month to sail?
- Peak (July–August): Warmest water, busiest boats, and highest demand (book well ahead).
- Shoulder (June & September): Often the sweet spot—great weather and a bit more breathing room.
- Spring/Autumn (April–May, October): Milder days, fewer crowds; bring a light layer for breezes.
What should I wear on a Santorini catamaran?
- Think sun + sea breeze:
- Swimsuit and a light cover-up/linen shirt
- Hat & sunglasses + reef-safe SPF
- Flip-flops or water shoes (easy on/off for swim stops)
- Light sweater for evening chills—especially on sunset cruises or in shoulder months
- Snorkel gear is provided; towel service depends on tour type (see inclusions when booking).
Can I swim in the sea? Is snorkeling included?
Yes and yes. Multiple swim/snorkel stops are built into the itinerary, often at Red/White Beach and the Hot Springs. Snorkeling gear is included, and the crew is on hand to brief you on each stop.
Will a catamaran feel stable? Is it family-friendly?
Catamarans are known for wide decks and stability, which many travelers—families included—find comfortable. Santorini Sailing welcomes families and provides life jackets and noodles. (Do keep a close eye on little ones during swim stops.)
How do I avoid crowds and still see the best of Santorini?
Choose semi-private (limited capacity) or private boats.
Consider June or September for fewer people and excellent weather.
Let the included transfers handle the logistics so you’re not stuck in peak-season traffic or parking hunts.
What about food and drinks?
You’ll enjoy a fresh Greek BBQ on board (vegetarian options available) plus an open bar with local wine, beer, soft drinks, and water. Menus vary slightly by tour level; check your chosen cruise page for specifics.
Sample ways to match a tour to your style
The Classic Crowd-Pleaser (Day or Sunset): Swim at Red/White beaches, soak in the Hot Springs, and share a BBQ with new friends—Deluxe Semi-Private is a solid all-rounder.
Elevated Small-Group: Go Exclusive or Triton Exclusive for tighter capacity and premium touches (including towel service).
Social & Budget-Smart: Dreamcatcher delivers the must-see route with a slightly larger group.
Just Us: Pick a Private tour to set the pace, curate your swim time, and choose your golden-hour spot.
Is a catamaran tour “all-inclusive”? With Santorini Sailing, your transfers, BBQ meal, open bar, and snorkel gear are included on semi-private tours. Private charters include similar core services, with customization options.
Where do most boats leave from? Vlychada Marina (south coast). Your pickup will take you there and back.
How far in advance should I book? For June–September, secure your spot at least two weeks ahead if possible.
Do tours run if it’s windy? When conditions allow, the crew raises the sails—one of the joys of being on a sailing catamaran. (Routes can adjust for safety/comfort.)
How to book (and who to contact)
Reserve directly via the Book Now button on the Santorini Sailing website, or get help choosing the best fit by contacting:
Phone: (+30) 22860 21380 • Email: reservations@santorinisailing.com
A Santorini catamaran tour blends everything people love about the island—volcanic landscapes, swimmable coves, and that legendary sunset—into one effortless half-day. With transfers handled, meals and drinks included, and experienced crew guiding the route, all you have to do is step aboard and enjoy.