Santorini Caldera Private Sailing Cruise — Swim Hot Springs, Red & White Beaches
Leave the cliffs of Santorini behind for a private five‑hour sailing cruise that visits Red Beach, the volcanic hot springs and the secluded White Beach. Expect snorkeling, a BBQ lunch, open bar and door‑to‑door pickup from island lodgings.
The Experience
Before You Go
Choose sunrise or sunset for color
Book the cruise at sunrise or sunset for softer light and calmer seas — colors on the caldera are at their richest then.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen and a hat
UV reflection off water intensifies exposure; use reef‑safe sunscreen to protect reefs and skin.
Prepare for motion
If you get seasick, take preventive medicine before boarding and stay on deck with fresh air.
Shoes and camera precautions
Wear non‑marking, non‑slip deck shoes and secure cameras — waves and bootstrapping can be slippery.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •White Beach (boat access only) — quiet coves and striking white rock faces
- •Thirassia’s seaside tavernas — fewer crowds and fresh octopus plates
Wildlife
- •Mediterranean shearwaters and gulls
- •Small fish like damselfish and wrasse around volcanic reefs
Conservation Note
Stick to established boarding points and use reef‑safe products; anchoring is regulated around sensitive marine and archaeological zones to protect seafloor habitats.
Santorini’s dramatic caldera formed in a massive Minoan‑era eruption; volcanic layers and abandoned shorelines around the island record repeated cycles of fire and sea.
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local marine life during prolonged sun exposure on deck and in the water.
Non‑slip deck shoesEssential
Improves footing on wet decks and makes short landings on pebbled shores easier.
Light windbreaker
A thin shell stops spray and chills during open‑water legs, especially in spring and fall.
Seasickness medication or wristbands
Useful for those prone to motion sickness — take as directed before boarding.
Common Questions
Is pickup from my hotel included?
Most private cruises include A/C van pickup and drop‑off from accommodations on Santorini; confirm your pickup point at booking.
Can I swim at the volcanic hot springs?
Yes — the tour typically stops near Palea Kameni for short swims; water is warm but sulfurous, so rinse off afterward.
Are children welcome on the boat?
Yes; the cruise is family‑friendly and providers often supply life vests and infant seats, but supervise children during boarding and swims.
Can we customize the route or visit nearby islands like Thirassia or Ios?
Private charters are flexible — short detours to Thirassia or extended day trips toward Ios or Anafi can often be arranged for an additional fee.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Vlychada, South Aegean
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires basic mobility to board from docks and climb in/out for swims
Ready to Explore Vlychada?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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