Santorini: Catamaran Cruise, BBQ Lunch & Open Bar Sunset

Summary

Sail past Santorini’s wild beaches, swim volcanic waters, share Greek food

You’ll sail Santorini’s coastline on a catamaran cruise, stopping to swim at Red Beach and White Beach, soak in volcano hot springs, and enjoy a fresh BBQ meal on board with open bar drinks. Local guides share stories and laughter along the way. Sunset over Thirasia wraps up your day with that “can’t believe this is real” feeling.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so calm the moment we left the port — maybe it was the way the Aegean light bounced off the water or just that first cool breeze after days of walking around Fira. The crew greeted us with this easy warmth (I think Nikos was already joking about my sunscreen skills before we even sat down). We passed Red Beach first — those cliffs really are as red as everyone says, but what stuck with me was the sound of pebbles underfoot when we stopped for a swim. I could smell grilled something from the back deck already.

White Beach looked almost unreal against the sea — all chalky and bright, with these weirdly shaped rocks that made me want to touch everything. Our guide pointed out some caves in the distance and told a story about pirates hiding there (not sure how true that is, but it made us laugh). The water felt colder than I expected when I jumped in; one of those “wake up” moments. Snorkeling wasn’t my best skill but nobody cared — someone handed me a beer while I dried off, and suddenly it felt like we’d all known each other longer than an hour.

The volcano hot springs were next. Not exactly hot-hot, more like bathwater with this faint sulfur smell that clung to my skin for a while after. We drifted near Thirasia island for lunch — grilled chicken and seafood pasta, big chunks of feta in the salad, and that sweet cherry yogurt at the end. There was wine too (maybe too much), and by sunset everyone was on deck watching the sky do its thing over Santorini’s cliffs. I still think about that view sometimes. You know how some days just feel softer around the edges? This was one of those.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini Catamaran Cruise and Swimming

• Visit Red Beach and learn history
• Sail past White Beach
• Swim and snorkel in clear waters
• Relax with appetizers and drinks
• Photo stop at Venetian Lighthouse
• Swim at Volcano Hot Springs
• Swim and enjoy lunch on Thirasia island

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Santorini catamaran cruise?

Yes, pickup is included in your booking for convenience.

What meals are served during the cruise?

A homemade BBQ meal is served onboard with options like chicken, pork, seafood pasta, Greek salad, vegetarian dishes, and dessert.

Are drinks included on this Santorini catamaran tour?

Yes, there’s an open bar with white wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and sparkling wine for sunset cruises.

Can you swim at Red Beach or White Beach during the cruise?

Yes, there are swimming stops at both beaches where snorkeling equipment is provided.

Is snorkeling gear provided on this day trip from Santorini?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for all guests during swim stops.

Are infants or small children allowed on board?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller and must sit on an adult’s lap; suitable for all fitness levels.

Does this tour visit Thirasia island?

Yes, there’s a stop at Thirasia island where you can swim and have lunch or dinner onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your accommodation in Santorini before boarding a modern catamaran. All snacks and a full BBQ meal are prepared fresh onboard—think seafood pasta and Greek salads—plus unlimited drinks from an open bar. Towels and snorkeling gear are handed out by the crew so you can just relax between swimming stops at Red Beach, White Beach, volcanic hot springs near Akrotiri lighthouse, and Thirasia island before heading back as sunset falls across the caldera.