Greece › Santorini › Boat Tours
Updated: August 5, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
Questions? dave@santorinidave.com
The Small-Group Catamaran Cruise is the best Santorini boat tour for most visitors.
A boat tour is one of the best things to do in Santorini. The island’s cliffs, villages, beaches, volcano, and white rock formations look completely different from the water.
The Small-Group Catamaran Cruise is my top choice for most visitors. Book the Private Catamaran Cruise for a honeymoon, family, or special occasion. Choose the Day Cruise when swimming matters more than sunset. The Volcano and Hot Springs Tour is the cheapest option, but it is a larger sightseeing boat rather than a relaxing catamaran cruise.
Most catamaran tours last about five hours and include transportation, swimming, food, drinks, and views of the caldera. The precise route, swimming stops, departure port, group size, and inclusions vary by tour and sea conditions. Read the current listing before booking.
Skip To:
Quick Picks
Best Boat Tours
Morning or Sunset
Private or Small Group
Catamaran or Volcano Tour
What to Expect
More Boat Tours
Departure Ports
Cruise Passengers
Boat Tour Map
Photos
FAQSantorini Boat Tours: Quick Picks
- Best for most visitors: Small-Group Catamaran Cruise
- Best private cruise: Private Catamaran Cruise
- Best for swimming: Santorini Day Cruise
- Best for sunset: Santorini Sunset Cruise
- Best alternative experience: Santorini Fishing Tour
- Best budget boat tour: Volcano and Hot Springs Tour
- Best for cruise passengers: An Old Port volcano tour that fits safely within the ship’s port hours
- Best for families: Private Catamaran Cruise or Santorini Fishing Tour
Santorini Boat Tours: My Advice
- Do a boat tour if you can. The caldera cliffs are more impressive from the water, and a cruise combines scenery, swimming, food, and sunset more efficiently than almost any other Santorini activity.
- Choose morning for swimming and sunset for atmosphere. Morning departures give you an earlier finish and a better chance of lighter winds. Sunset cruises feel more romantic but can be cooler and rougher on the return.
- Do not expect to walk onto Red Beach or White Beach. Catamarans stop offshore for swimming and photos. These are swim stops, not beach visits.
- The hot springs are warm, not hot. Boats anchor outside the shallowest area, and guests swim through cooler seawater to reach the warmer mineral water. Wear a dark swimsuit because the orange-brown water can discolor pale fabric.
- Check the maximum guest count. “Small group” is not a fixed category. Some boats feel spacious with a dozen passengers, while a larger catamaran can remain comfortable with more. Look at the vessel and maximum capacity, not the label alone.
- Expect the boat to use its engine. Catamaran tours are commonly advertised as sailing cruises, but crews motor for much of the route to maintain the itinerary and manage Santorini’s wind.
- Take seasickness medication before boarding. Do not wait until you feel sick. Sit near the middle of the boat, look toward the horizon, and avoid spending the roughest sections at the bow.
- Hotel pickup is helpful but not necessarily fast. Shared transfers collect passengers from several areas and might use a meeting point near your hotel. Leave plenty of time before and after the cruise.
- Read the inclusions. Food, drinks, towels, snorkeling equipment, transfers, entrance fees, and dietary options vary. Do not assume that one cruise includes everything shown on another listing.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light layer. The sun is strong on the water. Sunset cruises cool quickly once the boat starts moving after dark.
- Book early from June through September. Private charters and the best small-group sunset cruises sell out first.
The 5 Best Santorini Boat Tours
1. Small-Group Catamaran Cruise – Best for Most Visitors
This is the boat tour I recommend to most first-time visitors. It combines the classic caldera route, several swimming opportunities, an onboard meal, drinks, and round-trip transportation without the cost of chartering an entire boat.Morning and sunset options are available. The route commonly passes the Red Beach and White Beach areas before entering the caldera for views of the volcano, hot springs, cliffs, Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia. Stops depend on wind and sea conditions, and boats do not necessarily anchor in the same order every day.
The onboard meal is a proper lunch or early dinner rather than a bag of snacks. Food and drink details change, so check the current menu when dietary restrictions matter.
Choose this tour if: You want the classic Santorini catamaran experience with swimming, food, drinks, scenery, and transportation at a reasonable price.
Skip it if: Sharing the boat or making several hotel pickups will bother you. Book a private cruise instead.
2. Private Catamaran Cruise – Best for Honeymoons and Families
A private cruise is meaningfully different from a shared catamaran. You have more room, no strangers, more direct transportation, and greater control over the pace. The captain can adjust the schedule within the limits of wind, safety, port rules, and the distance that must be covered.It is expensive for two people but becomes more reasonable for a family or group dividing the total cost. I especially recommend it for honeymoons, anniversaries, proposals, multigenerational families, and travelers who want the boat day to be one of the highlights of the trip.
Private does not mean unlimited. The captain will not take the boat somewhere unsafe or ignore port restrictions, and popular swimming areas can still have other boats nearby.
Choose this tour if: Privacy, space, flexible pacing, and avoiding group transfers matter more than price.
Skip it if: You are comfortable sharing a catamaran and would rather spend the savings on a hotel upgrade, wine tour, or special dinner.
3. Santorini Day Cruise – Best for Swimming
Choose the daytime cruise if swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the boat matter more than seeing sunset from the water. The earlier departure also leaves your evening free for dinner in Fira, Imerovigli, or Oia.Morning departures have a better chance of lighter winds, though calm water is never guaranteed. Day cruises follow a route similar to sunset catamarans and include swimming stops, food, drinks, and transportation according to the selected option.
The midday sun is intense and shade can be limited. Apply sunscreen before boarding, bring a hat, and reapply after swimming.
Choose this tour if: You want maximum daylight, an earlier finish, and more focus on swimming.
Skip it if: Watching sunset from the caldera is the main reason you are booking a boat.
4. Santorini Fishing Tour – Best Alternative Boat Trip
This is the best choice for travelers who want something more personal than the standard caldera catamaran route. The trip combines fishing demonstrations, swimming, coastal scenery, and a fresh seafood meal.The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, but it is still a working fishing experience rather than a luxury yacht cruise. The catch varies, and no responsible operator can guarantee a particular fish or quantity on every outing.
Choose this tour if: You enjoy seafood, local culture, hands-on activities, or are traveling with older children.
Skip it if: Your priority is the complete Red Beach, hot springs, volcano, and caldera sightseeing circuit.
5. Volcano and Hot Springs Tour – Best Budget Tour
The most affordable way to explore the volcanic islands. This is a sightseeing excursion on a larger traditional-style boat, not a semi-private catamaran with a cooked meal and open bar.Tours vary in length. Depending on the option selected, the itinerary can include Nea Kameni, the Palea Kameni hot springs, Thirassia, and sunset below Oia. The full version is an active day with a hot, exposed volcano hike and time ashore rather than a leisurely cruise with long swimming stops.
At Nea Kameni, you walk across rough black lava terrain toward the crater area. Santorini is an active volcanic system, but visitors should not expect flowing lava or a dramatic erupting crater. The appeal is the stark landscape and wide caldera view.
Food is not included on many volcano tours. Bring water and check whether the volcanic-site entrance fee is included. Wear supportive shoes rather than flip-flops.
Choose this tour if: You want the volcano hike, Thirassia, and the lowest-priced way to spend several hours in the caldera.
Skip it if: You want a small boat, comfortable lounging, an included meal, attentive drink service, or a relaxing honeymoon experience.
Typical Volcano Tour Experience
- Nea Kameni: A rocky, exposed hike through the volcanic landscape. There is little shade.
- Palea Kameni: A swim from the boat toward the warmer mineral water. Guests must be comfortable swimming in open water.
- Thirassia: Longer tours stop near the harbor for swimming, lunch, or independent exploration.
- Oia cliffs: Some itineraries sail below Oia, while sunset versions remain in the caldera into the evening.
- Food: Frequently purchased separately on Thirassia rather than served aboard.
Morning or Sunset Boat Tour?
Morning Boat Tours
Morning is my choice for travelers who want to swim, sunbathe, take photos of the cliffs in full daylight, and keep the evening free. The wind has a better chance of being lighter earlier in the day, though Santorini can be rough at any hour.
Morning tours are also easier for families with children, travelers concerned about seasickness, and anyone with an important dinner reservation.
Sunset Boat Tours
Sunset cruises are more romantic and provide beautiful views as the island’s cliffs begin to light up after dark. The boat does not need to be directly below Oia to provide a good sunset. The open western horizon is what matters.
The tradeoffs are cooler temperatures, a later return, more complicated dinner timing, and the possibility of a rougher trip back to port. Bring a light jacket even in summer.
My Recommendation
Choose morning when swimming and comfort matter most. Choose sunset when atmosphere and seeing the island from the water after dark matter most.
A boat sunset is less crowded and more relaxing than watching from Oia Castle, but you will not get the classic photograph of the sun dropping behind Oia’s windmills while standing in the village.
Private or Small-Group Boat Tour?
Private Boat Tour
A private cruise gives you the entire vessel and crew, faster boarding, a quieter atmosphere, and more flexibility over the duration of swimming stops. It is the best option for honeymoons, proposals, anniversaries, families with young children, and groups splitting the cost.
The route remains subject to sea conditions and the captain’s judgment. A private tour cannot guarantee access to every stop.
Small-Group Boat Tour
A small-group catamaran is the best value. You get the same caldera scenery, swimming stops, meal, drinks, and transportation for far less than a private charter.
Shared cruises can be social and fun, particularly for couples and solo travelers. The disadvantages are shared transfers, less control over the schedule, and competition for the most desirable lounging areas.
My Recommendation
Book small-group for your first Santorini boat tour unless privacy is a priority or your group is large enough to make a private charter reasonably priced.
Catamaran Cruise or Volcano Tour?
These are different experiences.
- Choose a catamaran cruise for swimming, relaxing, sunbathing, food, drinks, and a smaller group.
- Choose the volcano tour for hiking Nea Kameni, visiting Thirassia, learning about the caldera, and spending less.
- Choose a catamaran for a honeymoon. The volcano tour is busier, hotter, and less comfortable.
- Choose the volcano tour with older children when they enjoy hiking and geology.
- Choose a morning catamaran if seasickness or mobility is a concern, though no boat tour guarantees smooth water.
What to Expect on a Santorini Catamaran Cruise
Route
Most cruises leave from Vlychada or Ammoudi and travel along Santorini’s southern coastline or through the caldera. Common sights include Red Beach, White Beach, Akrotiri Lighthouse, Indian Rock, the volcanic islands, hot springs, and the cliffs below Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia.
The captain changes the route when wind, waves, traffic, or port instructions make a stop uncomfortable or unsafe.
Swimming Stops
Boats anchor offshore. Guests enter the sea from the boat and return by ladder. You do not normally step onto Red Beach or White Beach.
The water around Santorini gets deep quickly. Weak swimmers should use a flotation device and tell the crew before entering. Do not assume that every stop will have a lifeguard in the water.
Hot Springs
The hot springs are a patch of warmer, shallow mineral water near Palea Kameni. They are not a swimming pool or hot tub. Boats cannot enter the shallowest area, so guests swim through cooler water to reach it.
Skip this swim if you are not comfortable in open water. The mineral water can stain pale swimwear and jewelry.
Food and Drinks
Catamaran meals are better than many travelers expect. Most shared cruises serve Greek salad, grilled meat or seafood, pasta or rice, bread, dips, and vegetarian items. Menus differ, and premium-sounding labels do not guarantee a substantially better meal.
Open bar normally means a defined selection of wine, beer, soft drinks, and water rather than unlimited premium liquor. Check the listing when cocktails or specific alcohol brands matter.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling equipment is frequently supplied, but Santorini is more notable for volcanic scenery than colorful reefs. Visibility depends on wind, waves, boat traffic, and the stop chosen that day.
Sailing
Expect substantial motoring. Crews raise the sails when conditions and timing allow, but completing the advertised route normally requires the engine.
Transportation
Most catamaran cruises include shared pickup from your hotel or a nearby meeting point. Vehicles collect travelers across several villages, so the transfer can take longer than expected.
Private tours have more direct transportation, though guests staying in pedestrian-only areas must still walk to an accessible meeting point.
Bathrooms and Shade
Catamarans have onboard toilets, but their size and number vary by vessel. Shade also varies. Some boats have large covered seating areas, while others emphasize open nets and sun decks.
Ask about the vessel before booking when shade, bathroom access, or mobility is important.
Who Should Skip a Santorini Boat Tour?
A boat cruise is not right for everyone.
- Skip it when severe motion sickness is not controlled by medication.
- Skip the volcano hike when mobility, heat, or rough ground will be difficult.
- Choose a private tour or larger vessel when personal space is essential.
- Discuss pregnancy, recent surgery, back problems, and mobility limitations with the operator before booking.
- Do not book a tight boat-to-flight, boat-to-ferry, or boat-to-cruise-ship connection.
More Good Santorini Boat Tours
Private Sunset Catamaran Cruise
A good alternative when the top private cruise is unavailable or when sunset is the priority. Compare the selected departure point, vessel, food, transfer area, and maximum group size before booking.
Private Day Cruise with BBQ
Best for families and groups who want a private daytime cruise without paying a premium specifically for sunset.
Gold Catamaran Cruise
A larger premium shared cruise. Choose it for a spacious vessel and polished service rather than an especially small group.
Catamaran Cruise with Meal and Open Bar
A reliable alternative to the top shared cruise. Compare departure time, capacity, pickup, and the current menu rather than assuming all “premium” cruises are identical.
Santorini Sunset Cruise
The best alternative when the main catamaran is unavailable and you specifically want sunset. Do not make a fixed dinner reservation immediately after the stated return.
Morning or Sunset Small-Group Cruise
A convenient backup with both departure times. Check the maximum passenger count and transfer area for your selected date.
Santorini Boat Tour Departure Ports
Vlychada Marina
Most catamaran cruises depart from Vlychada on Santorini’s south coast. It is the island’s main marina and provides easy access to Red Beach, White Beach, Akrotiri, and the entrance to the caldera.
Vlychada is far from Oia. Included hotel transfers are valuable, but expect a longer ride when staying in Oia, Imerovigli, or Firostefani.
Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi sits below Oia. Some private and shared cruises begin or finish here, reducing road-transfer time for travelers staying in the north.
Hotels in Oia’s pedestrian center are not directly accessible by vehicle. You might need to walk to a pickup point or descend steps toward the harbor. Confirm the exact arrangement rather than assuming the boat is convenient simply because it says “Oia.”
Old Port Below Fira
The Old Port, also called Skala, sits at the base of the cliffs below Fira. Traditional volcano tours depart from here, and cruise passengers are tendered to the same general port area.
Independent travelers reach it by cable car or by walking the long stairway. Do not confuse the Old Port with Athinios, the island’s ferry port.
Athinios Ferry Port
Athinios is where most ferries arrive from Athens, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Crete. It is not the normal departure point for the main small-group catamaran cruises recommended on this page, though some volcano-tour options or transfers can use it.
Never assume that a boat tour leaving from “Santorini Port” means Athinios. Confirm the exact port name and map location.
The Old Port below Fira is used by cruise tenders and many traditional volcano-tour boats. It is different from the Athinios ferry port.
Santorini Boat Tours for Cruise Passengers
Cruise passengers can take an independent boat tour, but Santorini’s tender and cable-car logistics make timing more complicated than at a normal dock.
- Your ship’s arrival time is not your tour-ready time. Passengers must wait for a tender, reach the Old Port, and possibly use the cable car before meeting a tour elsewhere.
- Cruise-line excursions receive tender priority. Independent passengers might reach shore later than expected.
- An Old Port volcano tour can be the simplest independent option. It avoids the initial cable-car trip up to Fira, but only when the check-in time works with your tender arrival.
- Do not assume the tender and tour use the same dock position. Confirm the operator’s desk, boat name, meeting point, and latest check-in time.
- Catamaran tours require more time. Cruises from Vlychada or Ammoudi require getting up the cliff and transferring by road.
- Choose morning or early daytime departures. Sunset cruises are unsafe for most cruise schedules unless the ship remains in port very late.
- Confirm where the boat returns. A convenient departure is not useful if the tour finishes elsewhere.
- Allow a large return buffer. Tender queues, cable-car queues, traffic, and wind delays can all affect the return.
- The cruise line will not wait for an independent tour. Book the ship’s excursion when the port call is short or the schedule leaves little room for delays.
Best Boat Tour for Cruise Passengers
The Volcano and Hot Springs Tour is the simplest independent choice when it departs from the Old Port after you can realistically tender ashore and returns well before all aboard.
A catamaran is more comfortable, but it requires far more logistical time. For a short port call, I would book through the cruise line or skip the boat tour.
Santorini Boat Tours: Photos
A boat collecting passengers at Ammoudi Bay below Oia. Confirm whether your tour starts here, ends here, or only passes through.
Swimming below Oia. Tell the crew if you are not confident in deep water.
Barbecue served aboard a Santorini catamaran. Menus vary by operator.
Guests swim through cooler seawater to reach the warmer mineral water near Palea Kameni.
My son jumping from the boat. Families should confirm minimum ages and available flotation equipment before booking.
This catamaran had a clean onboard bathroom. The number, size, and accessibility of toilets vary by vessel.
The white volcanic cliffs on Santorini’s southern coast are best seen from the water.
A Private Catamaran Cruise with swimming and an onboard meal.
Santorini Boat Tour FAQ
Are Santorini boat tours worth it?
Yes. A boat tour provides the best complete view of the caldera and combines several activities in one half-day. I would rank it alongside the Fira-to-Oia hike and a winery visit as one of Santorini’s essential experiences.
What is the best Santorini boat tour?
The Small-Group Catamaran Cruise is the best choice for most visitors. It combines sightseeing, swimming, food, drinks, and transfers without private-charter pricing.
How much do Santorini boat tours cost?
Traditional volcano tours are the cheapest. Shared catamaran cruises cost substantially more but include a smaller group, transportation, food, and drinks. Private cruises are priced per boat and become better value when divided among a family or group. Check live prices for your exact date.
Should I take a morning or sunset cruise?
Choose morning for swimming, an earlier finish, and a better chance of lighter wind. Choose sunset for atmosphere and views of the caldera after dark.
Is a private catamaran worth it?
Yes for a honeymoon, proposal, anniversary, family, or group sharing the cost. The experience is quieter and more flexible than a shared cruise.
What is the difference between a catamaran and volcano tour?
A catamaran emphasizes swimming, relaxing, food, and drinks. A volcano tour uses a larger boat and focuses on hiking Nea Kameni, visiting the hot springs, and sometimes stopping at Thirassia.
Do boat tours stop at Red Beach?
They stop offshore for swimming and photographs. Passengers do not normally land on Red Beach.
Do boat tours stop at White Beach?
Catamarans pass or anchor in the White Beach area, depending on conditions. It is normally a swim stop rather than a beach landing.
Are the Santorini hot springs actually hot?
No. The water is warmer than the surrounding sea but not hot like a thermal pool. You must swim from the boat toward the shallow mineral water.
How far must you swim to the hot springs?
The anchoring position changes with the vessel and conditions. Expect an open-water swim through cooler sea before reaching the warmest area. Ask for flotation assistance when needed.
Can weak swimmers join a boat tour?
Yes, but they should remain aboard during difficult stops or use a flotation device under crew guidance. Tell the crew before entering the water.
Are life jackets available?
Licensed boats carry required safety equipment. Recreational flotation devices offered for swimming vary by vessel. Contact the operator when a non-swimmer needs specific support.
Are towels included?
Many catamaran cruises provide towels, but not all tours do. Confirm on the current listing.
Is snorkeling equipment included?
It is included on many catamaran cruises. Equipment type, sizes, and availability vary.
Is there good snorkeling in Santorini?
The volcanic underwater scenery is interesting, but Santorini is not a major tropical-style snorkeling destination. Visibility and marine life vary by location and sea conditions.
Is food included?
Most catamaran cruises include a meal. Traditional volcano tours frequently do not. Check the selected option.
What does open bar mean?
It normally includes a specified selection of local wine, beer, soft drinks, and water. It does not necessarily include spirits or cocktails.
Do catamarans have bathrooms?
Yes. Bathroom size, quantity, and accessibility depend on the vessel.
Is there shade on the boat?
Most catamarans have some covered seating, but shade varies. Ask about the vessel when sun exposure is a concern.
What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, dry clothing, a light jacket for sunset, and seasickness medication when needed. Bring supportive shoes and water for the volcano hike.
What should I wear to the hot springs?
Wear a dark swimsuit. The mineral water can stain pale fabric and discolor some jewelry.
Can babies and children join?
Many cruises accept children, but minimum ages and infant policies vary. A private cruise gives families the most control over shade, timing, food, and noise.
Are boat tours suitable during pregnancy?
That depends on the stage of pregnancy, medical advice, vessel, boarding method, and sea conditions. Contact the operator before booking and do not rely on a generic suitability label.
Which tour is best for older travelers?
A comfortable catamaran with hotel pickup, shade, a bathroom, and easy boarding is better than the volcano hike. A private cruise allows the most flexibility.
How rough is the water?
The caldera can become choppy, particularly when the wind rises. Morning can be calmer, but no departure guarantees smooth water.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The operator may change the route, delay departure, reschedule, or cancel. The captain decides whether conditions are safe.
Will I receive a refund if the operator cancels?
Legitimate operators provide a refund or rescheduling option when they cancel, but policies differ. Read the booking conditions before paying.
Is hotel pickup included?
It is included on many catamaran tours and not on every volcano tour. Pickup might be from a nearby road-accessible meeting point rather than the hotel entrance.
Where do Santorini boat tours depart?
Most catamarans use Vlychada Marina or Ammoudi Bay. Traditional volcano tours commonly use the Old Port below Fira. Some options use Athinios. Confirm the exact port for your booking.
Can cruise passengers take a boat tour?
Yes, but tender timing and return logistics are difficult. An Old Port volcano tour is the simplest independent option when the schedule fits. Book through the cruise line when the port call is short.
Do Santorini boat tours operate in April and October?
Yes, but there are fewer departures and the water is cooler than in summer. Wind and weather cancellations are more likely to affect plans.
Do boat tours operate in winter?
A limited number of private or sightseeing trips operate, but the main season runs from spring through autumn. Contact operators directly for winter dates.
How far ahead should I book?
Book four to six weeks ahead for June through September. Reserve private charters and sunset cruises earlier when your dates are fixed.
Can I book a boat tour on arrival?
Sometimes, but the best departures can sell out in peak season. Last-minute availability also leaves less choice of boat size, pickup area, and departure time.
Read More
Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to 
Hi – Your site is great! Regarding the options for catamaran/boat tours, we would prefer to take an afternoon-evening 1/2 day semi-private tour that departs from ammoudi bay or one of the ports near Fira, instead of Vlychada beach port, as we would prefer to see the town of Oia with the sunset on the return back to port.
I am having a very time figuring out which companies with good reviews departs from Ammoudi?
Do you have a recommendation(s) for a tour that departs from Ammoudi or Fira or other within the caldera?
Thanks
Austin, San Diego, CA
Many highly-rated companies specialize in these types of caldera cruises. When searching, focus on sunset catamaran tours specifically mentioning departure from “Ammoudi Port” or “Fira Old Port” – which is pretty easy to get to from Oia. Once you find a listing you may need to contact directly (phone) to enquire about actual departure location as it can flip around for no apparent reason (though they will always pick you up from where they say). Look for options described as “small group” or “semi-private” to ensure that more intimate setting. These trips typically last about five hours, starting mid-afternoon. The usual itinerary includes sailing past stunning coastal landmarks, stopping for swimming and snorkeling opportunities at the unique Red Beach and White Beach (or nearby Mesa Pigadia), and taking a dip in the warm waters near the volcano’s Hot Springs. A highlight is often the BBQ/Greek meal prepared onboard, usually served with local Santorinian wine, beers, and soft drinks. The crucial part, which aligns with your preference, is that these sunset tours typically position themselves perfectly in the caldera, often below Oia, to give you breathtaking, unobstructed views as the sun descends into the sea.
Hey Dave!
We met at Titignano in Umbria. Do you think the first week of April will be too cold to swim in the Aegean? It looks like average water temps are 60 – 64 F. Brrrrr. Thanks!
Carlos Mendoza
Hi Carlos! Swimming in April is almost always too cold for my tastes but doable for the bold. A warm sunny day will help, of course, and while they’re not the norm, they do happen. Hope that helps.
Hi Dave – great site with so much information!
My partner and I can’t decide which tour to go on in July – we want to do the volcano excursion, see the sunset at Oia onboard but also see the south coastline (mainly the red beach).
Is it best to do a cheaper volcano boat tour on one day and then a catamaran sunset cruise on another (we are visiting for 6 days). Or I saw you’ve posted about water taxis to see the different beaches, so I guess we can do the volcano boat tour and then take the bus (or drive) to Akrotiri and make our way to the beach?
We haven’t decided on whether to rent a car or use the buses. I’ve seen you posted about pros/cons of both types of transport. I think our main consideration is the wait for buses due to peak season vs the cost of renting a car. Or maybe we rent a car for part of our trip.
Thank you so much!
As much as I love and recommend boat tours, I generally would not recommend doing two different boat trips. I think that time is better spent exploring the island, and yes, taking the water taxi between southern beaches is a good option. I would rent a car for two or three days and use the bus the other days. The boat tours will have hotel pick up, so you need not worry about transportation that day.
Dave: When you go swimming on these boat trips (especially one going to hot springs), where can you keep your valuables, e.g. your camera? It would be terrible to lose your photos. I am a trustworthy person, but wonder what other people do to avoid any problems. You can’t swim with a camera.
Honestly, it’s never been anything I’ve considered. It’s usually a small group of people and there’s never an issue with leaving your stuff. I suppose you could leave it with one of the staff, but I expect they’d just laugh and say, this is Greece, your stuff is fine, go swim.
Hi Dave, thanks so much for all your recommendations. How choppy are these boat rides? I am concerned about sea sickness if you have any specific recommendations? Thanks so much!
I find the boat tours to be pretty calm. Most time is in the protected caldera waters and if the sea is really rough the tour will be canceled, in any case. The boat tours are definitely less rough than the worst ferry rides, so if you’re ok on the ferry you’ll be fine on a boat tour.
Just found this fantastic website – thanks Santorini Dave, have been finding it really useful! One question about the boat tours please, we’d like to do one, will they take 5 year olds? Thank you
Unless otherwise stated, boat tours allow all ages. My kids have loved the boat tours at all ages.
Hi, Dave
My friend and I are considering to book the Private Catamaran Cruise. Could you please give us some ideas about the range of the gratuities we should provide? Thanks!
Tipping in the 10% to 20% is appreciated. But I believe the more the better – tourism workers really rely on tips to make a living wage.
Hi Dave – are there any boat trips available from Santorini that are maybe just 2-3 hours instead of a half or full day? Would like to be able to swim and just see some beautiful scenery, but will have a 4-year-old and husband that might be debatable if he would get sea-sickness so 5 hours feels like a big commitment. We’re staying in Oia – what might you suggest? We’ll only be on Santorini for 2 nights/1.5 days before moving on to Naxos. Thanks for all of your excellent insights!
There are no shorter tours that I know of on Santorini. However if you booked a private boat tour (expensive, obviously) they would return you to port whenever you wanted. I will say the 5 hours goes very quickly. The only other option (as far as getting on a boat) is the ferry to Thirassia or the water taxis along the south coast beaches.
We are visiting Santorini the first week of November, will the water be too cold for these awesome excursions with swimming in hot springs and volcanoes? And if it is, is it still worth doing?
For me, November is too cold to swim (though not impossible for the bold). But I would still recommend a boat tour even if you don’t swim. Views and perspectives from the water are incredible any time of year.
Hi Santorini Dave
I’m looking to travel next year by myself possibly in May/September, which area of Santorini would you recommend I stay? I’m debating the time I’ll be staying but it will be between 5 or 7 nights.
Also, would you recommend any day trips to another island?
Many thanks, Alison.
I have several posts on this site about where to stay on Santorini and best towns and beaches. Take a look. In general, I do not recommend day trips to other islands. With the ferry schedules, it’s difficult to get more than a few hours on neighboring islands when you do a day trip. It’s much better to pack your bags and move to whatever island you want to see.
I’m going to Santorini and Mykonos for 8 days. Do you think it’s worth doing a boat tour on each island? I’ll only have 3 days in Mykonos.
I definitely recommend going on a boat tour in Santorini. For Mykonos it’s more of a toss-up. (If Greek cooking sounds interesting to you, I’d recommend the cooking course instead of a boat tour.)
Hi Dave,
Thanks for all the information on this site.
Is there a sailing trip that just goes for a trip around the caldera, with no swimming or snorkeling? Maybe with the option of seeing the volcano close up and also the sunset?
Thanks,
Tansen.
I’d say pretty much all tours have swimming but you don’t have to do it if you don’t want to. And while others are swimming you can relax on deck and gaze at the views. The tour carries on even when some are swimming so it’s not as if you just sit there on your own, bored – there’s still plenty of fun on board the boat.
Hi Dave,
Do you think boat tours are fine during winter season? Otherwise, do you have any recommendations for winter excursions?
Many thanks in advance.
If by winter, you mean December, January, and February then there will be few (if any) boat tours running and I don’t think I’d recommend them. If, instead, you might be visiting in March and get some good weather then they’ll be fine (though still not many running). A wine tour is a great year-round thing to do in Santorini. And walking the Fira-Oia path is my top pick, any time of year.
For the boat tours, do you need to swim to the beach or is walkable to the shore once they dock as close as they can? We’re not great swimmers and if that’s requirement we’ll have to book another boat tour.
For tours that visit the volcano, the boat will dock and you’ll be able to walk off without getting wet. For tours that visit the hot springs, the boat will anchor about 30 to 50 meters from the hot spring area and you’ll need to swim to the warm water. Otherwise, most tours stop near a beach for swimming and snorkeling but don’t really directly visit the beach. You’re fine staying on the boat and viewing the scenery (which is great) while others swim. On most tours I’ve been on, about half the people swim and half remain on the boat, so it’s unlikely you’re the only one left on the boat while everyone else is off playing.
Will the boat tour to the volcano and hot spring be suitable for those who get sea sick?
Generally, it’s usually pretty calm. Depending on where you depart from most of the tour will be inside the protected caldera. Catamarans are more stable than single-hull boats.
We are taking our kids to Santorini the last week of March. What private boat tour would you recommend to take for the volcano tour?
It’s not so much what is the best tour but more what is available. As the time grows closer (February or early March) search Getyourguide for Santorini Boat Tours and choose the most appropriate.
Dave, your advice on this site is awesome and very detailed. My fiancee and I are going to be in Santorini in August for our honeymoon and are definitely booking one of the boat tours, but we just can’t decide on whether to do a day or sunset voyage. Anything you can tell us that would help make our decision easier? Not sure if this has an effect on the analysis, but we are staying in Imerovigli which I understand has nice views of the sunset. Thanks!!
I don’t think there’s not a huge difference: the day tour has more swimming time, the sunset tour has more evening hours. Be sure to take a change of clothes for the sunset tour (it can get chilly at night). The sunset tour has a later starting date which allows you to do something in the morning.
I am about to book the semi-private boat tour and we are going the last week of June into July (which, from what I understand, is a very crowded time of year). Do you think that the day of the week that we book the day tour matters much (Friday vs. Saturday vs. Monday)? I assume everyone on board is likely vacationing so I’m not sure if this would be significant, but if it may make a different in terms of the number of people on board, I’d love to know. Thanks!
There’s no difference between days of the week and busyness. Do whatever works best.
I have 3 full days in Santorini in the beginning of July. I’m looking into a boat tour or sea kayaking. Is it worth it to do both? What would you suggest? Thanks for your amazing resources!!
If you can only do one do the boat tour but if time allows do both, as they each have a very different feel. It’s a more surreal feeling being in a kayak at water-level looking up at the huge cliffs (depending where your tour goes). But you do get to do more when on the boat tour – I think it’s a more complete introduction to the caldera.
I am looking to book the sunset catamaran trip this summer. In the check out it asks for passport information. I just wanted to check this was a normal request/it’s safe to provide my information to this company?
Yes, it’s safe and secure. The information is requested by the port authority but it’s never used. I usually put in my correct name and then just make up a letter/number combination for my passport number. They’ll never know and never look at it.
We are going to Santorini for one day in July via fast ferry from Crete. Are there any shorter cruises around Santorini that we can do in that window of time that we will be there?
Thanks,
Ed
No, sorry. There’s no boat tour (that I know of) that would get you back in time to get your return ferry to Crete.
We will be in Santorini for 3 days after ferries from Athens-Mykonos then Mykonos-Santorini. We were thinking of taking the ferry to Milos for a day trip. Is it reasonable to do in a day or will we be ferried out?
Thanks for your insight, love reading all of your suggestions.
Not worth it. If you want to visit Milos then I recommend staying at least 2 nights and 1 full day.
Hi Dave,
I’m planning a honeymoon in Greece this upcoming May and your site has been an amazing resource – thanks! Quick question: Is May too early for the boat tours that have swimming? Thanks.
Yes, they’ll be running in May (usually start in April) and you’ll be able to swim. But water can still be a bit chilly. And note, hot springs are not “hot” just warm.
Hi there, I love to read and follow all of your posts so thank you for always having the most up to date information! We will be in Santorini in July and I would like to do a catamaran tour of the island and go into caves and see some of the hidden gems of Santorini. Is there a tour or boat that would do that?
Also, is there a boat that will take you to Mykonos for a day and back to Santorini?
Thank you,
Alissa
I don’t know of any boat tours that take in caves. And don’t know of any Santorini to Mykonos tours either. There are much better islands to visit on a day tour from Santorini. Ios for beaches, Naxos for inland sightseeing. (That said, I typically don’t recommend doing a day trip from Santorini as time is much better spent on Santorini than on a boat. If you do want to see another island then stay a night or two to see it best.)
Hi Dave – Awesome site. Just became a patron!
Trying to select the right boat tour for my husband and I (going in a few weeks!). They all seem great so it’s hard to select. What are the key differences between these three tours:
Semi-Private Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise
5-Hour Small Group Catamaran Cruise
Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Caldera
In particular, trying to understand if it’s worth paying the premium for the semi-private luxury catamaran day cruise.
Many thanks!
Lily
The single biggest difference is whether the tour goes through the day or in the late afternoon (and gets the sunset). The 5-hour small group tour is cheaper than the other two but will have a few more people on the boat and the food served is not quite as robust as for the semi-private and sunset catamaran cruises. More appetizers than the full meal you get on the other two. Fewer drinks are served as well. All 3 are great and you’ll love whatever you choose. My advice is to first decide whether you want the sunset or more sun/swimming.
Hello,
We are visiting Santorini in the next few weeks. Is there a ferry that 2 people can take on their own and explore the volcano/hot springs, or is it only by tour? Please let me know! Much appreciated.
Gabriel M
There are no ferries to the volcano or hot springs. You have to do a tour or a chartered/private tour. There are small boats that do regular routes to the neighboring island of Thirassia (that forms the western side of the caldera) but this isn’t the volcano.
We are looking for the best sunset tour around Santorini. Our only concern is that we also want lots of swimming. If we do the sunset tour will we have enough time to swim?
Thanks
Miller
Not sure what you mean by “enough” but you’ll certainly get a good stretch of time to swim. It won’t be 10 minutes and let’s go. More like 2 to 3 hours.