Santorini is one of the most romantic and picturesque destinations in Greece. It is famous for its stunning blue domed churches, whitewashed buildings, breathtaking sunsets, and of course, its magnificent caldera. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Santorini is through a boat tour or cruise. Whether you are looking to explore hidden coves or simply relax in the Aegean Sea, there are many options to choose from. In this post, we will take a look at the best boat tours and cruises in Santorini, so you can make the most of your trip to this island paradise.

The 5 Best Boat Tours in Santorini

1. Standard Day Cruise
2. Santorini 5 Hours Private Day or Sunset Cruise With Bbq and Drinks
3. Morning Caldera Sailing Cruise
4. Private Day Cruise
5. Private Tour Santorini Caldera Cruise Including Buffet and Drinks

The 5 Best Boat Tours in Santorini

1. Standard Day Cruise

Sail along the scenic Santorini Caldera and Red Beach with a yacht tour that’ll leave you breathless. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling at Red Beach, followed by a sailing past stunning landmarks like White Beach, Black Mountain, and the Lighthouse en route to the Caldera. Spend ample time exploring Caldera’s island and its hot springs before being treated to a delectable lunch service complete with wine and dessert. The price of the tour includes hotel transfers in a well-conditioned vehicle, free alcoholic and soft drinks, and snorkeling equipment use. Confirmation of booking will be received at the time of booking. Note that the tour is unfortunately not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Infants are welcome on this cruise. The tour meets travelers at their accommodation location, and the cruise starts at 10:00 AM. Don’t forget to capture moments of pure splendor while you’re out there!

2. Santorini 5 Hours Private Day or Sunset Cruise With Bbq and Drinks

Charter a small boat and embark on a five-hour private day or sunset cruise adventure in Santorini. Enjoy the company of a local captain who will guide you and your party of up to four people to some of the most stunning spots on and around the island. Indulge in authentic Greek mezze dishes served with beer or wine while taking in the magnificent views. You can choose between an afternoon or a sunset experience, with wine and beer being provided for free. Plus, lunch or dinner is included in the tour price.
Traveler pickup is available from several points, and the pickup time might vary depending on location. During the cruise, you will catch a glimpse of Santorini as you pass by it. Please note that while the tour is not wheelchair accessible, strollers are allowed on board, and infants must sit on laps. Finally, you will receive confirmation once you make a booking. Join in on the exciting adventure for a memorable experience!

3. Morning Caldera Sailing Cruise

Start your day with a 5-hour morning Caldera sailing cruise, perfect for those who want to swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the Aegean Sea. Departing from Vlychada, you will sail past key landmarks such as The Indian, Akrotiri Lighthouse and Nea Kameni island while admiring the volcanic landscapes. Take a dip in the natural hot springs and enjoy a swim at Mesa Pigadia beach or Red beach. Tuck into a delightful BBQ lunch made up of fresh seafood while enjoying unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks. This small-group tour guarantees a personalized experience and includes hotel pickup and drop-off as well as gratuities.

4. Private Day Cruise

Venture into the Aegean Sea with a private day cruise that promises to be an adventure of a lifetime. The tour covers several exciting activities, starting with pickup from your hotel in Santorini. Snacks and snorkeling equipment are also included in the package, as well as a sumptuous lunch.

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the visit to the Santorini Volcano, where you will witness some of the most breathtaking volcanic views imaginable. This portion of the tour lasts about five hours and does not require an admission ticket.

Please note that confirmation of your booking will be sent upon receipt of your order. Additionally, for your convenience, the cruise is not wheelchair-accessible, but it is suitable for strollers and infant seats are available. Children and adults are welcome to participate, and it must be emphasized that this is a private activity always limited to your group.

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund. Still, bookings canceled less than 24 hours in advance are subject to the policy conditions and will not be refunded. As with any trip, please expect that the experience is weather-dependent and might not be rescheduled in adverse weather conditions.

5. Private Tour Santorini Caldera Cruise Including Buffet and Drinks

Spend an unforgettable 5-hour private luxury catamaran cruise around Santorini’s caldera. Take your pick between a daytime or sunset sail, and make the most of your time onboard, basking in the beautiful sun and sea views. Enjoy stops at Red Beach and White Beach to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe, and reconnect with nature while bathing in the natural hot springs of Nea Kameni. Indulge in a delicious traditional meal and sip on unlimited wine, beer, or soft drinks while cooling off on your private luxury catamaran. If you’ve chosen a sunset cruise, make sure to capture the iconic sunset of Santorini with your camera to share your memories for years to come. Book now for the ultimate luxurious private cruise experience around Santorini’s Caldera.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Santorini

Santorini is one of the most beautiful islands in the Aegean Sea and is known for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches. It’s no surprise that it’s a popular tourist destination, and visitors often have many questions about the island. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Santorini to help you plan your trip and enjoy your stay.

1. Where is Santorini located?

Santorini is located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 120 miles southeast of Greece’s mainland. It’s a part of the Cyclades island group and is situated between the islands of Ios and Anafi.

2. How do I get to Santorini?

The easiest way to get to Santorini is by air. The island has an international airport, and there are many direct flights from major European cities. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Athens or one of the other nearby islands. The ferry ride takes around 5-7 hours.

3. What’s the best time to visit Santorini?

The best time to visit Santorini is from late April to early November when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August are the busiest months with lots of tourists, so it’s best to visit in May, June, September or October if you want to avoid the crowds.

4. What are some must-visit attractions in Santorini?

Santorini is known for its stunning caldera views, so a visit to the towns of Fira and Oia is a must. Other popular attractions include the ancient site of Akrotiri, the Red Beach, and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. You might also want to take a boat tour of the island to see Santorini’s famous volcanic hot springs.

5. What’s the currency in Santorini?

The currency in Santorini is the Euro. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash with you for smaller purchases.

6. What’s the language spoken in Santorini?

The official language in Santorini is Greek, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

7. What’s the food like in Santorini?

Santorini has a rich culinary tradition, and the island is known for its fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and delicious wines. Some must-try dishes include fava (a yellow split pea puree), tomato fritters, and grilled octopus.

8. What’s the nightlife like in Santorini?

The nightlife in Santorini is vibrant, especially during the summer months. The island has many bars, clubs, and restaurants where you can enjoy live music and dancing. Some popular spots include Tango Bar in Fira and Koo Club in Kamari.

9. What’s the dress code in Santorini?

The dress code in Santorini is casual and relaxed, especially during the day. In the evening, people tend to dress up a bit more, especially if they’re going out to dinner or a nightclub.

10. Is Santorini expensive?

Santorini can be expensive, especially during the peak tourist season. However, there are budget-friendly options available, especially if you stay in a guesthouse or hostel instead of a luxury hotel. You can also save money by eating at local tavernas and shopping at markets instead of tourist shops.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Santorini

Santorini is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in Greece, and it’s the perfect destination for travelers looking for sun, sea, and picturesque views. The island has gained immense popularity in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. With its romantic sunsets, crystal-clear waters, and white buildings perched on the side of a cliff, Santorini is a must-visit destination for tourists. Here’s how to spend your time in Santorini:

1. Visit Oia for the Sunset

Oia is possibly the most picturesque town in Santorini, and it’s known for its stunning sunsets. Head to Oia in the evening, and stroll through the narrow streets lined with white buildings and blue roofs. There are plenty of restaurants and bars where you can have a drink and enjoy the sunset. Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot to watch the sunset, as Oia can get very crowded.

2. Spend a Day at the Beach

Santorini is home to some fantastic beaches, and they’re the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Perissa Beach is a popular choice, with its black sand and crystal-clear waters. Kamari Beach is also worth a visit, with its lively atmosphere and beachfront restaurants.

3. Explore the Town of Fira

Fira is the capital of Santorini, and it’s a bustling town with plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. Head to the Main Square, and stroll through the narrow streets lined with shops selling everything from souvenirs to high-end clothing. Be sure to visit the Fira Market, where you can find fresh produce and local products.

4. Visit the Ancient City of Akrotiri

The Ancient City of Akrotiri is a must-visit site for history buffs. The city was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1627 BC, and it’s been preserved under a layer of volcanic ash ever since. Visitors can see the remains of the city, including houses, streets, and public buildings. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the site can be quite rocky.

5. Take a Boat Tour

A boat tour is a great way to see Santorini from a different perspective. You can explore the island’s coastline, and see its towering cliffs and colorful beaches. Many boat tours also offer opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters, and snorkel around the island’s volcanic rocks.

6. Taste the Local Cuisine

Santorini is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants and tavernas where you can taste the local dishes. Be sure to try the island’s famous fava, a yellow split-pea dip that is served with bread, and tomato keftedes, small tomato fritters that are made with local tomatoes.

7. Visit the Red and White Beaches

Santorini is home to two unique beaches – the Red Beach and the White Beach. The Red Beach gets its name from the towering red cliffs that surround it, while the White Beach is famous for its stunning white cliffs. Both beaches are only accessible by boat, but they’re worth the trip.

8. Take a Wine Tour

Santorini is known for its excellent wines, and there are plenty of wineries where you can taste the local varieties. A wine tour is an excellent way to learn about the island’s wine culture, and see its beautiful vineyards. Be sure to try the island’s famous sweet wine, Vinsanto.

9. Visit the Monastery of Profitis Ilias

The Monastery of Profitis Ilias is located on the highest point in Santorini, and it offers stunning views of the island. Visitors can explore the monastery’s grounds, and see its beautiful church and bell tower. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing, as the monastery has a dress code.

10. Relax in a Hot Spring

Santorini is home to several hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. The most popular hot spring is located on the tiny island of Palea Kameni, and it’s accessible only by boat. Visitors can swim in the warm waters, and enjoy the beautiful views of the island.

Conclusion

Santorini is a beautiful island with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing in the sun, Santorini is the perfect destination for you. From its stunning sunsets to its excellent cuisine and beautiful beaches, Santorini is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.