Santorini Oia: Small Group Sunset Cruise, BBQ & Drinks

Summary

Sail past red and white beaches taste bbq fish watch oia’s sunset

You’ll sail from Oia along Santorini’s wild coastlines, swim in clear waters by Thirassia, taste fresh BBQ fish onboard (or onshore), and share stories over unlimited wine as sunset colors hit Red Beach. It’s relaxed, social, sometimes funny—leaving you with that warm afterglow only a real Santorini sunset cruise can give.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to smell so sharp near Nea Kameni — almost metallic, like wet stone and something faintly smoky. We’d just left Oia’s busy little port (Ammoudi Bay is even smaller than I thought), and our guide, Yannis, grinned as he handed out cold beers before we even set off. There were maybe a dozen of us, all squinting into the late sun, trying not to look too touristy with our phones out. The cliffs looked unreal from below — layers of red and white rock stacked like cake slices.

We stopped for swimming at Thirassia first. The water was glassy and weirdly calm, and I could hear someone laughing in Greek on another boat nearby. I tried snorkeling but mostly floated around, looking up at the sky. Lunch was grilled fish — honestly, I’m not sure what kind — but it tasted salty and fresh with just a squeeze of lemon. Yannis poured more wine than I expected (he said it was “local courage”), and there were veggie options too for the couple from Berlin who didn’t eat meat or fish.

The best part? Probably drifting past Red Beach as the sun started to drop — those scarlet cliffs really do glow in that light. We all got quiet for a minute; even the British guy who hadn’t stopped talking since boarding just stared out at the horizon. The air smelled like sea salt and charcoal from the grill. I took about fifty photos but none of them caught how it actually felt right then — you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini sailing cruise with snorkeling

• Depart from Ammoudi Bay, Oia
• Swim and snorkel at Thirassia Island
• Cruise past Santorini volcano and sulfur springs
• Visit and float in Nea Kameni volcanic waters
• Pass by Santorini Lighthouse
• Swim and snorkel at secluded black beach
• Pass from Red Beach to White Beach
• Snorkel and dine at Red Beach
• View and photograph Santorini's oldest port
• Watch Santorini sunset from the sea

Top questions

Does this Santorini sunset cruise include food?

Yes, it includes appetizers, salads, and BBQ meals with fresh fish or chicken souvlaki; vegetarian meals are available too.

Where does the cruise depart from in Oia?

The cruise departs from Ammoudi Bay in Oia.

Is snorkeling equipment provided during the tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Are drinks included on this small group sunset cruise?

Unlimited local dry white wine, beers, soft drinks, and water are included.

How many people are on each Santorini sunset cruise?

You can choose between cruises with a maximum of 16 or 20 guests.

Can vegetarians join this Santorini sailing tour?

Yes, vegetarian meal options are provided onboard or at the tavern stop.

Is hotel pickup included in this sunset cruise?

No explicit mention of hotel pickup; public transportation options are nearby Ammoudi Bay.

What beaches will we see during the cruise?

You’ll see Red Beach and White Beach—both accessible only by boat—and swim near Thirassia Island.

Are infants allowed on board?

Yes; infants must sit on an adult's lap and specialized infant seats are available.

What’s included

Your day includes unlimited local white wine or beer (or soft drinks), fresh BBQ meals with fish or chicken souvlaki plus vegetarian options served either onboard or at a private tavern on Thirassia Island depending on your group size choice; snorkeling gear is ready if you want to swim at those turquoise bays before heading back as the sun dips behind Santorini’s cliffs.