Santorini Catamaran Cruise: Red Beach, Volcano & BBQ

★★★★★★★★★★ 4.74 (95 reviews) 91% rated it 5 stars

Free cancellationExcellent quality

1/22

Duration4h–6h

GroupUp to 21

LanguagesEN · EL

PickupAt your hotel

Red Beach cliffs, warm volcanic springs, fresh seafood on deck, and the Caldera at sunrise or sunset

A small-group catamaran cruise from Santorini visits Red Beach and White Beach for swimming and snorkeling, soaks in the island's volcanic hot springs, and anchors for a freshly grilled BBQ with local wine and beer. Hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling gear, and an expert crew are included; you choose a morning departure with daylight Caldera views or an evening departure timed for sunset. The boat holds a small group, so the stops stay uncrowded and the pace stays unhurried.

4h–6h

Step-by-step itinerary

Santorini Catamaran Cruise Experience

Hotel pickup and panoramic drive
Board catamaran at Vlychada Marina
Swim and snorkel at Red Beach
Sail past White Beach and Akrotiri Lighthouse
Sail along Akrotiri coastline
Swim at volcanic hot springs
Sail towards Santorini Caldera
Swim and snorkel at Mesa Pigadia Beach
Enjoy BBQ with drinks onboard
Sail back to Vlychada Port
Return and drop-off at hotel

The Experience

The day starts with pickup from your Santorini hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, then a short drive to Vlychada Marina on the island's southern coast. You board a modern catamaran and sail first to Red Beach, where you swim and snorkel in crystal-clear water ringed by dramatic red volcanic cliffs—a natural landmark unique to Santorini and one of the most photographed spots on the island. The crew provides snorkeling gear and stays on hand while you explore the water at your own pace.

From Red Beach, the boat sails past White Beach with its striking white cliffs and blue-and-white churches visible from the water, then cruises the Akrotiri coastline and passes the historic Akrotiri Lighthouse. The route then takes you to the volcanic hot springs, where you float in warm mineral-rich water created by volcanic activity—a smaller, quieter stop than the crowded hot spring tours, so you can soak and photograph without the press of large groups. The crew keeps the group intimate and the atmosphere peaceful.

Mid-afternoon or early evening (depending on your departure time), the catamaran anchors at a sheltered beach for the BBQ. You swim or snorkel again in some of Santorini's clearest waters, then climb back on board for a freshly grilled meal: chicken, fillet fish, seafood, rice, pasta with Santorini tomato sauce, salad, and traditional dips. Unlimited local wine, beer, and soft drinks flow throughout the cruise. On the return sail to Vlychada, morning departures catch the Caldera and coastline in bright daylight; sunset departures time the return for golden light and the chance to spot dolphins. You're back at your hotel within four to six hours of departure.

What’s included

Hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.
expert crew guidance in English and Greek.
snorkeling gear and safety equipment for both swimming stops.
BBQ buffet with grilled chicken, fish, seafood, salads, pasta, and traditional dips.
unlimited local wine, beer, and soft drinks.
fresh water, soft drinks (Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola), towels, and blankets on board.
Wi-Fi access to share your photos in real time.
onboard restroom and safety briefing before departure.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Ippokampos Sailing

Is this one for you?Book the morning departure if you want the Caldera and coastline in clear daylight for photos; choose the sunset option if golden light and a romantic return sail matter more. Either way, the small-group size keeps the swimming stops uncrowded and the volcanic hot springs peaceful—you're not competing with dozens of other boats for space in the water.