Santorini: Catamaran Cruise, Volcano Swim & BBQ with Pickup

Summary

Small group catamaran cruise with volcano swim Greek BBQ and sunset over Santorini’s colored beaches

You’ll sail past Santorini’s dramatic Red and White Beaches on a small-group catamaran cruise, swim near volcanic hot springs, and share fresh Greek BBQ with local wine as the sun drops behind the cliffs. With hotel pickup included and a relaxed crew guiding you, this is one of those evenings that lingers long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

There’s this moment when the catamaran pulls away from the dock in Santorini — you can smell the salt, and there’s a weird hush over everyone, like we’re all waiting for something to happen. Our guide, Yannis, tossed his sunglasses on his head and started pointing out the layers of red rock at Red Beach. I’d seen photos but standing there with that wild cliff right in front of me, it felt way more raw than I expected. The water’s cold at first but then you just get used to it — snorkel mask fogging up, toes brushing pebbles.

We drifted along to White Beach next. It’s quieter there, pale cliffs that almost glow against the blue water. Someone played music from their phone but mostly it was just wind and a few gulls overhead. Yannis told us about the Venetian Lighthouse (I didn’t catch every word — his accent is thick), and we all tried to take photos without dropping our phones overboard. After that came the volcano hot springs — not exactly hot but definitely warmer than the sea. The sulfur smell clings to your skin for a bit; I still caught a whiff on my towel later.

Lunch was way better than I thought it’d be: smoky BBQ chicken, pasta with tomato sauce, Greek salad with olives so sharp they made me wince (in a good way). There was white wine too — not fancy but cold enough to make you forget how much sun you’ve had. We ate at Mesa Pigadia Beach while some people swam again or just lay back on deck. By then everyone was loose and talking more; even Yannis sat down for a minute and told us about growing up here. Sunset crept up fast — gold light everywhere, cliffs turning pinkish behind us. I didn’t expect to feel so calm out there with strangers who suddenly felt less like strangers.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini catamaran cruise and swimming

• Pickup from hotel
• Sail past White Beach
• Photo stop at Venetian Lighthouse
• Swim at Red Beach
• Swim at Santorini Volcano hot springs
• Swim and lunch at Mesa Pigadia Beach
• Enjoy BBQ and drinks onboard
• Watch sunset over Aegean Sea

Top questions

How many people are on the Santorini catamaran cruise?

The tour is limited to 18 guests for a small group experience.

Is hotel pickup included in the Santorini catamaran cruise?

Yes, hotel pickup is included in your booking.

What food is served during the Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise?

The menu includes BBQ chicken, Napolitana pasta, Greek salad, vegetarian ratatouille, finger foods, fruit salad, and unlimited white wine.

Do you stop at Santorini Volcano hot springs?

Yes, there is a swimming stop at the volcano hot springs during the cruise.

Are towels and snorkeling equipment provided?

Towels and snorkeling equipment are provided for all guests.

Can infants join the catamaran cruise?

Yes, infants can join; prams/strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

What beaches do you visit on this Santorini day trip?

The cruise visits Red Beach, White Beach, Mesa Pigadia Beach, plus sightseeing by Akrotiri Lighthouse.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle before boarding a spacious catamaran with towels and snorkeling gear provided. All entry fees are covered. Lunch or dinner features freshly grilled BBQ chicken or vegetarian options alongside Greek salad and fruit salad—plus unlimited white wine or soft drinks—before returning after sunset.