Private Half-Day Sailing Cruise in Santorini: Red, White & Black Beaches with Local Lunch
Sail the Santorini caldera with a local captain, swim at the island’s Red, White and Black volcanic beaches, and enjoy homemade Greek food on a private half-day cruise. Small group, snorkeling gear, and an open wine bar included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your cruise for late afternoon
Departing later reduces midday heat and yields richer light for photographing caldera cliffs and sunset at the Black Beach.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll be stopping at volcanic beaches and snorkeling; reef-safe sunscreen protects marine life and your skin.
Wear non-marking deck shoes
The boat’s deck and volcanic shorelines can be slippery and sharp—grippy, soft-soled shoes improve safety and comfort.
Keep a light wind layer
Open-water winds can be cool even in summer; a thin windbreaker prevents chills during passage through the caldera.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Thirasia village tavernas on the sheltered east side for slow lunch away from Santorini crowds
- •Small coves west of Akrotiri reachable only by boat with dramatic basalt walls and private swim spots
Wildlife
- •Audouin’s gulls and Eleonora’s falcons along the cliffs
- •Mediterranean fish like wrasse and damselfish while snorkeling
Conservation Note
Visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid stepping on fragile beach vegetation; small-group cruises reduce impact compared with larger commercial boats.
Santorini’s modern shape is the result of the massive Minoan-era eruption; the caldera and colored beaches are direct products of volcanic layers deposited over millennia.
What to Bring
Swimwear & quick-dry towelEssential
For swims at the volcanic beaches and to dry off quickly between stops.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local marine ecosystems during snorkeling and beach stops.
Non-marking deck shoesEssential
Provide grip on wet decks and on rocky, volcanic shorelines.
Light windbreaker
Blocks the cool Aegean breeze during open-water passages and at sunset.
Common Questions
Where does the cruise depart from?
Departure typically runs from a Santorini harbor near Akrotiri or a central meeting point; your confirmation will list exact pickup or port details.
Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes — snorkels and masks are provided for stops at the beaches; bring your own fins if you prefer a custom fit.
Can children participate?
Yes — the tour is family-friendly for all ages; infant seats and life jackets are available on request.
What if weather cancels the cruise?
The operator cancels for unsafe conditions and offers a full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours in advance or reschedules when possible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Fira, South Aegean
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic mobility to board and move on deck and swim briefly is helpful.
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