Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Oia, BBQ & Hot Springs

Summary

Sail past oia and volcanic cliffs swim red beach taste bbq on deck

You’ll sail Santorini’s caldera by catamaran with a local crew—swimming at Red Beach and Thirasia island, soaking in volcano hot springs, and sharing fresh BBQ onboard as Oia’s cliffs drift past. Expect easy laughter with fellow travelers and moments of real quiet as sunset colors spill across the Aegean.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the color—the sea around Ammoudi Bay is this impossible blue that looks fake until you’re right there, feet dangling over the side of the catamaran. We set off from under Oia’s cliffs, and I kept glancing back at those white houses stacked like sugar cubes. Our skipper, Yannis, waved us to the front for photos (“the light’s better here!”), and I tried to balance my wine glass without spilling it. There was a salty smell mixed with something floral—maybe thyme from the hills?—and a bit of engine oil, not unpleasant. I didn’t expect to laugh so much with strangers but somehow we all did.

We stopped near Thirasia island for swimming. The water was cold at first but clear enough to see little silver fish darting around my toes. Someone handed me a snorkel mask and I gave it a go—awkwardly at first (pretty sure I looked ridiculous). Lunch was already grilling when we climbed back on board: smoky seafood, Greek salad, bread still warm from the sun. The crew kept offering more wine and even vegan options for one couple. I liked that nobody rushed us; we just drifted along, talking or not talking.

Later we sailed close to the volcanic cliffs—the rocks look burnt and ancient—and then stopped by the hot springs. The water turned rusty orange near the volcano, warmer than I expected. My skin felt odd after, kind of tingly. Passing White Beach and then Red Beach, everyone went quiet for a minute just watching how the colors changed as the sun started dropping lower. And then someone said something about never wanting to leave this boat—which honestly, yeah.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini Catamaran Cruise Highlights

• Start sailing from Ammoudi Bay
• Sail near Venetian lighthouse
• Swim and snorkel at Thirasia island
• Enjoy meal prepared on board
• Swim at Volcano hot springs
• Swim at Red Beach
• Cruise along White Beach
• Witness Santorini sunset with Prosecco

Top questions

Does this Santorini catamaran cruise include food?

Yes, it includes seafood BBQ, Greek salad, handmade tapas, fruit, and vegetarian or vegan meals if needed.

Are drinks provided during the cruise?

Yes—beer, white wine, soft drinks, water throughout and one glass of Prosecco per person.

Is snorkeling equipment available?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for use during swim stops.

Where does the cruise start in Santorini?

The cruise starts or ends at Ammoudi Bay beneath Oia depending on timing.

Do you stop at Santorini’s hot springs?

Yes—the tour includes a stop to swim in the volcano’s warm hot springs.

How long does this catamaran cruise last?

This is a half-day experience covering key spots around Santorini’s caldera.

Is hotel pickup included?

No explicit mention of hotel pickup; air-conditioned vehicle transport is included.

Are towels provided on board?

Yes—towels are available for guests during the cruise.

What’s included

Your day comes with air-conditioned transport to and from the boat (public options nearby too), all fees covered up front so you don’t have to think about it later, towels ready when you need them after swimming or snorkeling off Thirasia or Red Beach—and plenty of food: seafood BBQ cooked right on deck alongside Greek salads and handmade tapas (with vegan options), plus beer, white wine, soft drinks throughout and a glass of Prosecco as sunset hits Oia’s cliffs.