Santorini: Private Fishing Cruise, Snorkeling & BBQ Lunch

Summary

Private boat tour in Santorini with fishing, snorkeling and Greek BBQ

You’ll join Captain Makis on his private boat for a day trip from Santorini—fishing near volcanic reefs, swimming and snorkeling in clear Aegean waters, plus a Greek BBQ lunch with local wine onboard. Expect laughter over language mix-ups and quiet moments with nothing but seabirds overhead. It’s not polished or fancy—just honest island life at sea.

What’s the experience like?

I’d always seen those blue domes in Santorini photos, but I never imagined I’d end up on a boat with Captain Makis, chasing fish instead of sunsets. He greeted us at the little port—big hands, sunburned nose, and this quiet pride about his boat. The air smelled like salt and coffee (he handed me a cup before we even left), and honestly, I felt awkward holding a fishing rod at first. But Makis just grinned and said something in Greek that made everyone laugh—even if I only caught every third word.

We drifted past the volcano’s edge, where the water shifts from deep navy to this weird electric blue. Makis pointed out spots he called “secret,” though I’m pretty sure every fisherman says that. Still, it felt different—no other boats around, just us and the sound of the lines hitting water. My friend tried to say thank you in Greek after catching a tiny fish; Makis corrected her gently, then showed us how to bait the hook without looking like total beginners. There was this moment when we all went quiet except for the seabirds circling above—felt almost meditative.

Lunch was way better than I expected—grilled meatballs, tomatokeftedes (those tomato fritters are still stuck in my memory), crunchy salad with vegetables Makis swore only grow on Santorini. Local wine too; it tasted kind of smoky? Maybe that’s just what volcanic soil does. After eating, we jumped off the back of the boat for snorkeling—the water was freezing at first but so clear you could see straight down to rocks covered in waving seaweed. My mask kept fogging up and I probably looked ridiculous flailing around, but nobody cared.

On the way back to shore, sunburned and sleepy from swimming, I realized how rare it is to feel so far from crowds in Santorini. It wasn’t perfect—my hair still smells like grill smoke—but it’s one of those days that sticks with you longer than any postcard view.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini fishing and snorkeling cruise

• Meet Captain Makis on boat
• Explore secret fishing spots
• Enjoy fishing in Santorini
• Swim and snorkel in Aegean Sea
• Visit hidden local places
• Take photos at scenic spots
• Have BBQ on board

Top questions

Is fishing equipment provided on this Santorini cruise?

Yes, all fishing equipment is included for guests during the tour.

Does the private fishing cruise include lunch?

Yes, there’s a Greek BBQ lunch onboard featuring local dishes and wine.

Can children join this Santorini boat tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?

The menu includes Greek salad and tomatokeftedes made from Santorini tomatoes.

Is snorkeling gear available on this tour?

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

Where does the fishing take place during the cruise?

The captain takes guests to special spots near Santorini’s volcano area.

Are drinks included on board?

Bottled water, beer, soft drinks, coffee/tea and local wine are included.

Will there be other tourists on our boat?

No, this is a private cruise just for your group with Captain Makis.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water and refreshments from the start; all fishing and snorkeling equipment provided by Captain Makis; a homemade Greek BBQ lunch served onboard featuring local vegetables (like those famous Santorini tomatoes), meatballs, tomatokeftedes and tzatziki; plus plenty of local wine or beer as you drift along volcanic reefs before heading back to port in the afternoon.