Santorini Gold Catamaran Cruise: Sunset BBQ, Snorkeling & Hotel Pickup
Sail a small-group catamaran around Santorini’s caldera, swim at volcanic beaches, and enjoy a BBQ and drinks as the Aegean slides into sunset. This five‑hour cruise combines snorkeling, hot springs, and coastal sightseeing with hotel pickup for an easy half-day escape.
The Experience
Before You Go
Protect from the sun
The deck is exposed—use reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat to avoid burn while you sail and swim.
Plan for seasickness
Even stable catamarans feel swell near the caldera; take motion-sickness medication before boarding if you’re susceptible.
Use provided snorkel gear
The tour includes snorkeling equipment—bring your own mask if you need a perfect fit, but the onboard set is adequate for casual snorkeling.
Arrive early for pickup
Allow extra time for hotel pickup and marina check-in; arriving 15 minutes early avoids rushed boarding.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mesa Pigadia Beach — a quiet bay used for the onboard lunch stop
- •Akrotiri Lighthouse viewpoints on return for low-key caldera photos
Wildlife
- •Mediterranean shearwaters
- •Small reef fish around volcanic rocks
Conservation Note
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid standing on underwater formations; operators typically follow local rules to limit anchoring in sensitive zones.
The island’s dramatic cliffs are the rim of a collapsed volcanic caldera formed by a massive Bronze Age eruption that reshaped local settlements and maritime routes.
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local marine life during long sun exposure on deck and in the water.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towelEssential
For swim stops and the hot-springs dip; a compact towel dries fast on deck.
Light windproof layerEssential
Evening breezes over the caldera can be cool after sunset or on cloudy days.
Portable dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, camera and documents dry during transfers and swimming stops.
Common Questions
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes—most bookings include hotel pickup; you’ll be given a pickup window and meeting point when you confirm your reservation.
Are meals and drinks included?
Yes—the cruise includes a BBQ lunch/dinner, snacks, bottled water and a selection of alcoholic beverages as outlined in the itinerary.
Can I snorkel at the stops?
Yes—there are designated swim/snorkel stops and snorkel gear is provided; strong swimmers should still be cautious of currents near volcanic rocks.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips may be canceled for safety reasons; the operator offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before departure or if weather conditions force cancellation.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Vlychada, South Aegean
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short swims and boarding at the marina
Topics
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