Santorini Catamaran Cruise: Lunch, Hot Springs, Snorkeling

Swim in the volcano's hot springs, then snorkel in clear water off three beaches.

A five-hour catamaran cruise from Vlychada port visits Red Beach, White Beach, the volcanic hot springs and Mesa Pigadia Beach with swimming, snorkeling and a traditional Greek lunch on board. The boat departs at 10:00am with an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup included, and returns to Vlychada by late afternoon. Snorkeling gear, towels, drinks and all fees are covered.

Step-by-step itinerary

Santorini Catamaran Cruise Highlights

• Depart from Vlychada port at 10:00am
• Swim and snorkel at Red Beach
• Sail past White Beach, Indian Rocks, Venetian Lighthouse
• Swim at Hot Springs of the volcano
• Swim and snorkel at Mesa Pigadia Beach
• Enjoy traditional Greek lunch and drinks on board
• Return to Vlychada port with Caldera views

The Experience

Vlychada port sits in the southern reaches of Santorini, and the catamaran leaves at 10:00am heading straight for Red Beach—a first swim stop where the water is clear enough to snorkel. From there the route passes the White Beach, Indian Rocks and the Venetian Lighthouse as you sail deeper into the Caldera. The real draw comes next: a stop at the hot springs where the volcanic sulfur-rich water lets you float and soak in the open sea.

Mesa Pigadia Beach is the final swim and snorkel site, and it's also where lunch happens. The crew serves a traditional Greek meal on the catamaran with wine, beer and soft drinks flowing throughout the day. Towels and snorkeling equipment are provided, so you arrive with nothing but a swimsuit. The return to Vlychada gives you a last look at the Caldera from the water before the boat docks in late afternoon.

Hotel pickup is included if you're staying on the island, and the guide speaks English. The boat carries a small group, which means less crowding at each stop than you'd find on a larger vessel. WiFi works on board if you need to stay connected between swims.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off.
• catamaran cruise with an English-speaking guide.
• snorkeling equipment and towels.
• swimming stops at Red Beach, the volcanic hot springs and Mesa Pigadia Beach.
• traditional Greek lunch with wine, beer and soft drinks.
• WiFi on board.
• all fees and taxes.

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearby

Operated by Santorini Yachting Cruises

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a guided afternoon sail with snorkeling stops rather than a land-based tour, and prefer departing from Vlychada port on a catamaran with a small group.

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Top questions

What's the water like at the hot springs in Santorini?

The hot springs sit in the Caldera where volcanic activity warms the water and releases sulfur into it. You swim and float in the open sea at this stop, and the warmth and mineral content are the draw—it's a natural soak rather than a pool.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling equipment is provided on the catamaran, so you don't need to pack or rent it separately. Towels are also on board.

How long does the cruise take from start to finish?

The full day is five hours on the water, departing Vlychada at 10:00am and returning in the late afternoon. That includes time at each of the three beaches, the hot springs stop and lunch on the boat.

Is the lunch included in the price, or do I pay extra?

Lunch is included—a traditional Greek meal served on the catamaran at Mesa Pigadia Beach, along with wine, beer and soft drinks throughout the day.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my cruise?

The catamaran operates in most sea conditions, though rough weather can occasionally force a cancellation or route change. Check with the operator closer to your departure date for conditions on that specific day.

Does the price include getting to the port from my hotel?

Hotel pickup is included if you're staying on Santorini. The boat departs from Vlychada port at 10:00am, and the driver will collect you and bring you back after the cruise ends.