Santorini Caldera Sailing Tour with BBQ Lunch & Drinks

Summary

Sail past red & white beaches then swim in volcanic springs with greek lunch

You’ll sail Santorini’s caldera with a small group, stopping for swims at Red Beach or White Beach and soaking in volcanic hot springs near Nea Kameni. Snorkeling gear is ready if you want it, plus there’s a fresh Greek BBQ lunch with local wine or beer served onboard before heading back. You might find yourself wishing for just one more hour at sea.

What’s the experience like?

There was this soft clinking of glasses and laughter before we even left the little port on Santorini — I remember the way the crew joked about who’d spot dolphins first (spoiler: not me). The caldera looked almost painted, cliffs stacked up like old books, and our guide Maria handed me a towel with a grin that said she’d done this a thousand times. She pointed out Red Beach as we drifted by, its cliffs looking almost too red to be real, and I tried to take a photo but honestly, it didn’t capture how the sun made everything glow. The wind had that salty sharpness you only get on islands.

We stopped near White Beach, which you can only reach by boat — I’d never seen water that clear. Some people jumped straight in; I hesitated (cold feet, literally), but Maria just laughed and tossed me a snorkel mask. Underwater, it was silent except for my own bubbles and the distant sound of someone shouting “opa!” from the deck. Afterward, we sailed past this old Venetian lighthouse and something called Indian Head Mountain (which looks nothing like an actual head if you ask me). There were warm volcanic springs near Nea Kameni where the water turned coppery orange around my ankles. It smelled faintly like eggs, but in a good way? Hard to explain.

Lunch was grilled right there on board — souvlaki skewers, salads heavy with oregano, bread still warm somehow. Local wine kept appearing in my glass (I lost count), and someone played Greek pop from their phone until the captain put on his own playlist instead. If you’re thinking about a day trip sailing Santorini’s caldera from Fira or Oia, this is one of those tours where everyone ends up talking like old friends by dessert. I still think about that view back toward the island as we sailed home — blue on blue on blue — and how I almost didn’t want it to end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini Caldera Sailing and Beach Stops

• Sail past Old Venetian Lighthouse
• View Indian Head Mountain
• Stop at Red or White Beach
• Visit Old Burnt Island
• Swim in New Burnt Island hot springs
• Snorkel in Caldera waters
• Enjoy Greek BBQ lunch and drinks

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Santorini sailing tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?

No, snorkels and masks are provided for all guests on board.

Can children join the Santorini Caldera sailing tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Are meals and drinks included during the tour?

Yes, you’ll have a Greek BBQ lunch or dinner with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Is there a vegetarian option available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

How long do we stop at Red Beach or White Beach?

The stop lasts approximately 20-30 minutes depending on weather conditions.

Are towels provided during the sailing tour?

Yes, towels are included for guest use during swimming stops.

Can cruise ship passengers book this tour?

Yes, but they must provide ship details when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere on Santorini, all snorkeling equipment and towels provided by the crew so you don’t have to pack extra. Unlimited beer, local wine or soft drinks flow throughout your time onboard while lunch (or dinner) is grilled fresh right there—just let them know if you’re vegetarian when booking. You’ll return after swimming stops feeling full in every sense of the word.