Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure By Sea is your travel magazine for ocean escapes and coastal journeys. Discover articles on boat charters, snorkeling trips, island beaches, and guided water adventures from around the world.

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Santorini Platinum Catamaran: Red Beach, Hot Springs & Sunset BBQ Cruise

Santorini Platinum Catamaran: Red Beach, Hot Springs & Sunset BBQ Cruise

Sail Santorini’s dramatic southern coast on a five-hour catamaran: snorkel clear waters, soak in volcanic hot springs, and enjoy a BBQ with an open bar as the sun slides toward the Aegean. Practical, scenic, and family-friendly.

Fira, South Aegean
5 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Arrive 20 minutes early

Marina pick-up and check-in are prompt — arrive early to secure shade and handle transfers from nearby hotels.

Bring reef-safe sunscreen

The boat provides shade but prolonged sun on deck and during swimming stops makes high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen essential.

Wear water shoes

Landing on volcanic beaches and boarding from ladders can be sharp; water shoes protect feet when walking on pumice or pebbles.

Mind the meltemi winds

Strong northerly winds can make sea conditions choppy and may prompt cancellations — check forecasts and the operator’s weather policy.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Thirasia island’s small harbors and tavernas — quieter swimming and local cuisine away from the caldera
  • Akrotiri lighthouse viewpoint for uninterrupted sea views and photography during the sail-by

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose and common dolphins often seen from the catamaran
  • Seasonal seabirds like shearwaters near cliffs

Conservation Note

Operators encourage reef-safe products and limit anchoring in sensitive seagrass beds; avoid touching marine life and dispose of waste ashore to protect local ecosystems.

The route skirts the Santorini caldera formed by a major Bronze Age volcanic eruption; nearby Akrotiri preserves a Minoan-era archaeological site that echoes the island’s deep maritime past.

What to Bring

Reef-safe sunscreenEssential

Protects skin and local marine ecosystems during long sun exposure on deck and while swimming

Swimwear and quick-dry towelEssential

You’ll spend extended time in the water; a towel is often provided but a personal quick-dry is handy

Water shoesEssential

Useful for rocky landings on volcanic beaches and for safe movement on deck ladders

Light wind jacket

A thin layer helps on the return trip when Aegean winds pick up, especially in spring and fall

Common Questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes — basic masks and snorkels are provided for swim stops; consider bringing your own if you prefer a custom fit.

Do they pick up from all Santorini hotels?

Most south-coast hotels and central meeting points like Vlychada marina have transfers; confirm pickup location and time at booking.

What happens if weather cancels the cruise?

Operators generally offer a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours for safety reasons or reschedule when possible; check the specific policy on booking.

Are vegetarian or allergen-friendly meals available?

The menu includes vegetarian options (Greek salad, ratatouille) and the crew can usually accommodate common allergies with prior notice.

Ready to Explore Fira?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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