Santorini Catamaran Cruise: Red & White Beach, Volcano Swim, BBQ

Summary

Sail past red cliffs, swim volcanic springs, taste local bbq on santorini’s caldera

You’ll sail Santorini’s caldera by catamaran, stopping to swim at Red Beach and White Beach, soak in Nea Kameni’s volcanic hot springs, and enjoy a barbecue lunch onboard with local wine. Expect laughter, salty hair, and moments where you just have to pause and look around—because this place feels unreal sometimes.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest—I was nervous about getting on a boat with strangers in Santorini. But the moment we left Vlychada port and the crew passed around cold drinks (white wine for me), something shifted. The sea was this deep blue that almost looked fake. Our guide, Giorgos, pointed out the Red Beach first—he said the color comes from iron in the rocks. I’d seen photos before but up close it’s wild, like someone painted the cliffs with rust. We stopped nearby for a swim and I remember how gritty the sand felt between my toes—kind of satisfying actually.

After that we drifted past White Beach—only reachable by boat apparently—which made it feel like some secret spot even though there were a few other catamarans nearby. The sun bounced off those white rocks so bright I had to squint. Someone tried snorkeling but mostly we just floated and laughed about how salty our hair was getting. Passing under Akrotiri lighthouse felt dramatic (maybe too dramatic? I loved it anyway). Giorgos told us stories about old sailors and pointed out Black Mountain and Indian Rock as we sailed into the caldera. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for the slap of water against the hull—I still think about that silence sometimes.

The hot springs at Nea Kameni were next. The water smelled faintly of sulfur—like eggs but not in a bad way—and it was warmer than I expected when I slid in. My skin felt tingly after swimming there; Giorgos said locals swear it’s good for you. Lunch was grilled chicken and salads right on deck, with more wine if you wanted (I did). We ate with our feet dangling over the side, watching steam curl from the volcano in the distance. I didn’t expect to care about what we ate but honestly? That barbecue tasted better than most meals I’ve had with fancier views.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini Caldera Catamaran Cruise

• Start cruise at Vlychada port
• Swim and photo at Red Beach
• Visit White Beach by boat
• Sail past Venetian Lighthouse in Akrotiri
• Swim and snorkel at Volcano hot springs
• Sail around Santorini Volcano
• Sail past Palea Kameni
• Sail past Black Mountain and Indian Rock
• Lunch and swim at Black Mountain coves
• Return to Vlychada port

Top questions

How long does the Santorini catamaran cruise last?

The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours from start to finish.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, transportation from and to your hotel is included.

Are meals or drinks provided during the cruise?

Lunch with BBQ (chicken fillet, salads, dessert) and an open bar with local white wine and soft drinks are included.

Can you snorkel during this Santorini day trip?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided for swimming stops at beaches and hot springs.

What are some highlights of this Santorini catamaran tour?

You’ll visit Red Beach, White Beach, pass Akrotiri lighthouse, swim at volcanic hot springs near Nea Kameni, and see Black Mountain.

Is this cruise suitable for children or infants?

Yes—it’s suitable for all fitness levels; infants can ride in prams or strollers and specialized infant seats are available.

Do you need to bring your passport or ID?

A copy or photo of your passport/ID is required for all passengers during embarkation.

Are dietary requirements accommodated on board?

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking so they can be accommodated.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup by air-conditioned minibus or van, all printed safety instructions (in seven languages), use of snorkeling gear, an open bar with local white wine and soft drinks throughout the cruise, plus a barbecue lunch served right on deck before returning to Vlychada port.