Santorini Red Beach & White Beach Morning Cruise: Hot Springs, Snorkel & BBQ
Spend a brisk morning cruising Santorini’s caldera rim — hot springs, the rust-red cliffs of Red Beach, pale pumice at White Beach and a seaside BBQ. This five-hour shared cruise mixes geology, swimming and a taste of the island’s maritime life.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a towel and warm layer
Even after swimming, the breeze off the caldera can be cold — pack a quick-dry towel and a light fleece for the return leg.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
You’ll be in and out of the water; choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and avoid skin irritation.
Be ready to swim to shore
Boats anchor offshore — plan to enter/exit from a ladder or swim a short distance; weak swimmers should use the provided tender.
Bring motion‑sickness remedies if needed
Open seas in the caldera can be choppy in wind — ginger or medication helps if you’re prone to seasickness.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Amoudi Bay fish tavernas — fresh catches and close-up harbor life
- •The view back to the caldera at sunset from the boat’s stern — often less crowded than cliffsides
Wildlife
- •Mediterranean parrotfish
- •Small reef wrasse and damselfish around volcanic outcrops
Conservation Note
Stay on board or use designated landing points to avoid disturbing fragile cliff faces and marine habitats; use reef‑safe products and pack out any waste.
Santorini’s caldera and beaches are the result of a massive Bronze Age volcanic eruption that reshaped the island and influenced Aegean civilizations.
What to Bring
Quick-dry towelEssential
Dries fast after swims and provides warmth on the return journey.
Swimwear and water shoesEssential
Water shoes protect feet on rocky shore entries; swimwear for snorkeling and swimming stops.
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the local marine ecosystem during long sun exposure.
Light windproof jacket
Blocks the cool caldera breeze on the boat, especially early and late in the season.
Common Questions
Can the boat moor directly on Red Beach or White Beach?
No — Greek regulations and shallow seabeds mean the boat anchors offshore; guests swim or use a tender to reach the beach.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes — snorkel equipment is included, though you may prefer to bring a personal mask for fit and comfort.
Are there restroom facilities on board?
Most vessels used for this shared tour have a small marine restroom onboard; check with the operator for specifics.
What happens in bad weather?
Operators reschedule or cancel for safety; the tour listing notes potential time or route changes based on conditions and offers refunds according to the cancellation policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Akrotiri, South Aegean
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average fitness — ability to climb a ladder and swim short distances recommended
Ready to Explore Akrotiri?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now