catamaran in santorini greece

DISCOVER. RELAX. ENJOY.

Sail the myth, welcome aboard, sailing in santorini with luxury catamaran.

SailMyth Catamaran Cruises invites you to be part of the unique view of the island of Santorini. 
 Combine luxury and action and turn your vacation into an unforgettable experience. 
Swim in the crystal clear blue waters of the world famous Red and White beach.
 Explore the numerous natural caves which are all around the coastline. 
 Visit the breathtaking Black Mountain and enjoy sailing inside the historical volcanic caldera before you swim in the hotsprings.


Book now a private catamaran cruise and make your day a fairytale.

• Private Cruises

Sail with us and you will enjoy an exclusive private sailing trip   along the coast of Santorini.

• Semi Private Cruises

Visit impressive costal landscapes, sheltered coves and beautiful beaches.

• DESTINATIONS

Explore the most beautiful places, sheltered coves and beautiful beaches while sailing the crystal waters of the Aegean Sea.

• Special Cruises

Our fleet is available to host a special occasion. Our staff will arrange everything you require for your special event.

Wedding Receptions Anniversaries Marriage proposals Renewal of vows Bachelor(ette) Parties Birthday Parties

Live the SailMyth experience in Santorini!

Address & Contact

Quick Links

• ONLINE BOOKING

• All Cruises

Santorini Day Cruise

Santorini sunset cruise, luxury day cruise, luxury sunset cruise, private day cruise, private sunset cruise, santorini yachting cruises, santorini catamaran cruises, embark   on   a   unforgettable   experience sailing   and   boat   tours   for   extraordinary     v a c a t i o n s  , santorini yachting cruises ——.

Welcome aboard Santorini Yachting Cruises , your gateway to the mesmerizing beauty of Santorini, Greece! Our passion is to create unforgettable maritime experiences, specializing in private and semi-private Catamaran Cruises, Sunset Sailing in Santorini, and diverse Boat Tours that showcase the stunning allure of Santorini and the surrounding Greek Islands.

Our Exclusive Tours are the epitome of luxury and comfort, offering an unparalleled experience on our meticulously crafted sailboats. Glide through the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea and embrace the magic of our Sunset Sailing experiences of Santorini, creating memories that last a lifetime. Book your Catamaran Cruise, Sunset Sailing, or Boat Tour today and embark on a captivating voyage in this Greek paradise with Santorini Yachting Cruises.

CATAMARAN SAILING

Santorini cruises.

Our range of Sailing Tours arecarefully curated to highlight the unique charm and wonders of Santorini. Whether you're exploring secluded coves or marvelling at iconic landmarks, our experienced and friendly crew is dedicated to providing an authentic and joyful maritime journey.

Semi Private

Embark on an unforgettable journey & discover the hidden gems of Santorini with our exclusive day cruise.

Prepare for a majestic cruise of the island admiring the famous sunset with our exclusive late afteroon cruise.

Step aboard our exclusive catamaran and join us for an incredible sailing adventure of Santorini during the day.

Set sail on a journey of a lifetime with our Exclusive Sunset Sailing Tour, designed to unveil the hidden gems of Santorini.

Private Cruise

Set sail in ultimate luxury and comfort by chartering our exclusive catamaran, crafted to offer you an unparalleled maritime experience.

Experience the Santorini sunset like never before, surrounded by the sophistication and tranquility that only our exclusive charter can provide.

SANTORINI YACHTING CRUISES

Set sail on a journey of discovery.

With over a decade of expertise in the yachting industry, we’re excited to have you join us and let our seasoned crew steer you through an extraordinary maritime adventure. The unmatched beauty of the Aegean Sea awaits. Book your Catamaran Sailing, Sunset Sailing, or Boat Tour today and embark on a captivating voyage in this Greek paradise with Santorini Yachting Cruises.

Privacy Preference Center

Privacy preferences.

• Safety is our top priority
• Experienced and friendly crew
• BBQ Meal On-Board
• Multiple options to start/end your tour
• Vegetarian and gluten free meals also available.

Didn't Find It? Let us help you!

Feel free to contact us for your questions.

RENIERIS SANTORINI SAILING CENTER

Rerieris Santorini Sailing Center welcomes you on board to sail to the volcanic shores of Santorini, the nearby islands and to discover all the coastal hidden gems of the unique island of Santorini. 

Time to Sail

Catamaran, sailing, luxury sailing cruise or speedboat cruises, attention all special Santorini experiences seekers, your cruise with Renieris Santorini Sailing Center begins.

Catamaran Cruises

Multi-Day Cruises

Luxury Sailing  Cruises 

Sailing  Cruises

Speedboat  Cruises

Speedboat  Transfers

renieris santorini sailing center in numbers

Suggested cruises.

Cruise to 4 Greek Islands with "Last Minute"

Multi Day Luxury Sailing Cruise

Day Private Sailing Cruise

Sunset Private Sailing Cruise

Caldera Day Private Sailing Cruise

Caldera classic day semi-private catamaran cruise.

Caldera Sunset Private Sailing Cruise

Caldera classic sunset semi-private catamaran cruise.

Charter a Yacht & Explore the Greek Islands!

The best choice to celebrate your bachelor party in Santorini is a private sailing experience.

Secure your I Do on board a luxurious catamaran or yacht and a cruise made for you.

For your birthday or any occasion, uncork sea happiness with a private party on board.

Create a sailing cruise on your special needs to celebrate your love as you spent your honeymoon in Santorini.

Why Choose Renieris Santorini Sailing Center

Free transfer from your hotel to the starting points and return transfers are provided FREE by Renieris Santorini Sailing Center!

Real reviews from cruise travelers give us the excellence of sailing in Santorini Island. Let's live together this amazing experience!

Get ready to sail with the most experienced captains and crews that know everything about Santorini and the Aegean islands.

The Cruise Plus Quality Guarantee is our quality standard of service, that ensures you will have memorable cruise experiences in Santorini!

Let's Answer Your Questions

Free roundtrip transportation is included in your cruise price. We arrange the pick-up from your hotel (or, in case your hotel is not accessible by car, at the nearest convenient location) and drop you back after the cruise.

The capacity limit of the Semi Private Catamaran Cruises varies, depending on the Cruise you will book, from 16 to 20 guests onboard.

Embarkation and/or disembarkation at the Old Port of Fira is possible and can be accommodated on Private Cruises at an extra charge. Bear in mind that on occasion, this may only happen via tender boat, thus it is not recommended for guests with mobility issues.

During your cruise, you will have the chance to view up close the famous White, Red and Mesa Pigadia Beaches, and swim at the open sea of each stop. However, disembarkation at any of these stops is impossible as Greek legislation does not permit it. Walking at the Volcano would be possible, though we recommend booking a Private Cruise with a Speedboat, Sailing Yacht or Catamaran in order to do so.

Catamaran Cruise in Santorini

Explore the beauty of Santorini island on a day or sunset cruise. Sail past the stunning Red Beach and take a dip in the hot springs of the volcano. Experience the magic of this unique destination of the Aegean sea.

in all platforms

Three types of Catamaran experiences

Semi private cruise.

• Max 20 people
• Food & Drinks

See options

Private Cruise

• Customized menu

Special Events

• Closed group
• Custom menu

Our Semi Private Catamaran Cruises

Semi private gold cruise.

Sails to Caldera

• Sunset Cruise

Starting point: Port of Vlychada Marina

1st stop: red beach, white beach, indian rocks, venetian lighthouse, 2nd stop: hot springs, caldera view, 3rd stop-mesa pigadia beach, end point: vlychada marina.

• Variety of traditional greek finger food
• BBQ chicken
• Napolitana Pasta
• Greek salad
• Vegan Greek-style ratatouille
• Greek yogurt with sour cherry
• Open bar: White wine, soft drinks, water
• Transportation from/to your hotel with a minibus.
• Onboard greek cuisine
• Open Bar: Water, soft drinks, white wine, beer
• Towels / Blankets
• Snorkeling equipment
• Pool noodles
• Onboard guide

Semi Private Platinum Cruise

Sails to Caldera & Thirassia Island

Red beach, white beach, black mountain, venetian lighthouse, 1st stop: mesa pigadia, 3rd stop: thirassia island.

• Variety of finger food
• BBQ chicken and pork
• Seafood Pasta
• Greek salad and anchovy meze
• Open bar: White wine, beer , soft drinks, water

Why choose us?

Live the dream & sail with us

We make it happen together

Need help deciding?

Our travel experts will consider your needs and help you choose the best cruise trip for you.

Frequently asked questions

Our Platinum cruise stands out from the Gold cruise with an extra stop near Thirasia island and an expanded menu.

The Gold cruise menu has BBQ chicken, pasta, ratatouille, salad, and tzatziki. The Platinum cruise menu has all these plus BBQ pork , seafood pasta, and fish “ mezedes “.

Both cruises have free white wine, drinks, and water. The Platinum cruise also has free beer and sparkling Moscato D ‘ Asti wine at sunset.

Yes it’s possible you can enjoy a Santorini catamaran tour even if you can’t swim. Relax on deck, eat Greek food, and enjoy drinks while taking in the stunning caldera view.

A catamaran cruise can have 16 to 20 people, depending on the yacht type. Visit Santorini on a catamaran cruise with a small number of people and avoid crowd.

Prepare for your Santorini cruise by packing items for a day at the beach. Bring a hat, sunscreen, dark swimsuit (to avoid stains from volcano springs), and a light jacket for cooler nights.

On the cruise, you can see White, Red, and Black beaches and swim. In Greece, boats can’t dock on the red sands beach, so we’ll anchor close to shore for swimming and snorkeling.

The day trip is great for families with kids because you can swim for a long time. The Santorini catamaran sunset tour is ideal for couples seeking a romantic and peaceful experience. It’s also great for special events like proposals or honeymoons.

The day trip is ideal for families with children, as it allows for a longer swimming experience in daylight.

The Santorini catamaran sunset tour is great for couples seeking a romantic and relaxed atmosphere. Also It’s perfect for special occasions like wedding proposals or honeymoons.

No matter which option you choose, both excursions show Santorini’s beauty from a different angle.

If you worry about feeling sick on the boat, we have medicine to help. Our staff can give you tips to make your trip more pleasant.

Sit outside and eat Greek food made by our team. Have a drink from the bar and see the amazing views of Santorini. Watch the sunset while sailing.

The duration of the cruise is approximately 5 hours and changes based on the season. This affects mainly the sunset cruises, since the sunset time changes throughout the year. In summer, the tour lasts about 6 hours, and in autumn, it lasts around 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Our cruises are not safe for people with disabilities. However we can create a safer environment in a private cruise upon consultation with our crew. So please let us know how we could help.

Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours before your experience for a full refund. Cancellation fee: Cancellations less than 24 hours before your experience are non-refundable Rescheduling: Reschedule your experience for free up to 24 hours before. Weather policy: If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Follow us on @vistayachting

Visit our blog

To help you plan & choose the perfect boat trip

What to Wear on a Catamaran in Santorini and Essential Tips

Santorini: A Guide to the Enchanting Greek Island

The Ultimate Guide For The Best Santorini Beaches

+30 22860 24422 +30 697 4417447 [email protected]

25th Martiou, Fira Town Santorini, Greece

• Protected site

Catamaran Cruise Santorini

Private Yacht Cruise

Island Hopping

Yacht Charter

Curate your trip

on Semi-Private Catamaran Cruises

use our code: VISTA10

Chasing Stars

A sailing experience to soak up the beautiful scenery of Santorini island surrounded by the clear water of Aegean sea and visit the most popular spots of the island. Hop aboard a luxury catamaran to explore the Ammoudi Bay, which is nestled right under the irrepressible Oia.

Diamond Cruise

Sail … the dream on a luxurious catamaran and unlock your senses. Cruise around the Caldera of Santorini. Feel the healing waters and mystical surroundings of the Hot springs. Swim and snorkel at the crystal clear waters of Red beach and Thirasia island. Enjoy a delicious freshly prepared meal prepared on board and open bar. Choose either Diamond Day or Scarlet Sunset cruise.

Are you ready to sail?

Private Live your moments

Semi-Private Share the experience

Sailing with the best vessels.

Personalised Cruises Charter your own vessel for parties, bachelors or anything you have planned!

Contact & Book Don't hesitate to contact us for any information. Book now and enjoy the sail!

Events & parties plan your event on water, review us santorini star sailing.

Very nice crew: Nikitas the captain, Edi the story teller and Pedra the hostess. Nice ambiance and very beautiful sceneries

Absolutely amazing experience! The crew was so great and the food was top tier. Don’t go hungover and you’ll have an amazing time. See it all!

Great crew (shout out to Edi, Fedra, and the Captain). Excellent food, unlimited beers and wine, brand new boat. The weather wasn’t great that day but it was an awesome experience regardless.

Amazing! Little bit chilly for may but had an amazing boat ride with an amazing lunch! The crew was awesome and very professional!

This was amazing ( view, catamaran, the meal and the staffs/crew). Thank you for all And good luck for the compétition

The view was amazing and the crew was super friendly, special thanks to our captain and all crew members for making such an unforgettable experience!

Contact details

• Fira Santorini, Greece | p.c. 84700
• +302286021901
• +306979808500
• 电话 +306932347168
• [email protected]

Please solve the following quiz

three + one

I agree that my submitted data is being collected and stored !

• Destinations
• Åland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• Winter Travel

Greece , Things to Do

Santorini catamaran cruise: how to book the best tour (+ tips).

Are you looking to book a Santorini catamaran cruise on your trip to the gorgeous Greek island? If so, keep on reading!

If youʻre booking your trip to Santorini  last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

🇬🇷 Top Experiences and Tours in Santorini:

• Premium-class Catamaran Cruise with BBQ (I did this tour – top-seller!)
• Amazing Jet Ski Safari (I did this tour- LOVE IT!)
• Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit (highly recommended!)
• Guided Local Wine Tasting Tour  
• Highlights Tour with Wine Tasting & Sunset in Oia (another favorite!)

🛌 Top Hotels in Santorini:

• Rivari Santorini Hotel (in Kamari. I’ve stayed here and recommend!)
• Mythical Blue Luxury Suites (in Fira)
• Voreina Gallery Suites (in Pirgos)
• Phos The Boutique (in Akrotiri)
• Abyss (in Oia)

🚗 Visiting Santorini independently? Be sure to book your rental car ahead of time to ensure availability!

A catamaran cruise in Santorini is one of the best and most popular tours you can find on the island and it is a must to book one when you’re visiting!

I’ve always wanted to take this Santorini excursion and enjoy the scenery of the volcanic island from the sea. I also wanted to make sure I was able to do it at sunset!

While I had done a catamaran tour previously on other islands, including Mauritius , I hadn’t seen the sunset from a boat before, so it was definitely one of my main reasons for booking this specific tour!

In addition, Santorini is known for its dramatic rocky beaches and beautiful limestone white buildings dotted along the sea and one of the best things to do in Santorini is to see them via boat!

This guide will tell you how to take the best Santorini catamaran cruise and will break down my experience with this activity, which I will certainly never forget!

In this post...

How to Book a Santorini Catamaran Cruise

My experience on the santorini catamaran tour, best time to book a santorini catamaran trip, who should take this tour, what to pack for santorini catamaran tour, more santorini travel guides, pin this sunset cruise in santorini guide.

Duration: 5 hours  Pick-up: Your accommodation Meeting Point: Vlycháda Marina (they will take you there) Language: English, Greek ⛵ CLICK HERE TO BOOK !

I definitely recommend planning your trip to Santorini in advance because it’s an extremely popular destination, especially during the summer months!

Visiting Santorini and not taking this amazing catamaran tour was not an option for me, so I made sure I secured my slot ahead of time with Manawa .

First of all, I made sure that I booked a premium catamaran tour, where the number of people was limited to approximately 20 depending on the seasonality.

BOOK HERE: Santorini Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Also, I booked the tour that started at midday so I could see the sunset. There are other options for tours that you can choose from. 

The tour organizers make sure you will visit or observe the most popular sights in Santorini including the Red Beach, the White Beach, the Venetian Lighthouse, and the Indian Rocks up close.

You will have a great opportunity to swim and snorkel in the crystal clear Aegean Sea, including near the island of Nea Kameni while swimming in volcanic hot springs with sulfurous waters.

The boat passes by Imerovigli, Firostefani, Old Port, and Fira, and you can see the cliffside towns of Oia from afar.

During your trip, you will be served local wine, and for dinner, the staff will serve traditional and international dishes including BBQ.

The tour is organized in a way that you can enjoy it, relax, and catch the moment when the catamaran drifts into the sunset surrounded by amazing scenery.

I will provide more details below.

Pick-Up at the Hotel

All of the guests are picked up from their hotels in an organized fashion.

After getting picked up from my hotel by a minivan, they drove us and the other participants to Vlychada Marina, where the tour departed from.

Everything was easy and they were on time!

Arriving at Vlychada Marina

You will arrive at Vlychada Marina with the other tour participants. It is located in Vlycháda village, which is especially popular for its black beach, Vlychada Beach. 

The tour organizers will wait for you at the port. After meeting the staff members, you will be escorted to the catamaran.

After getting on board and before taking off, the staff will do a fast and informative brief on what to do and what not to do on the catamaran, as well as how to get the most out of your experience.

Santorini Sunset Catamaran Tour Highlights

Red beach and white beach .

Then, the ship will set sail, so get comfortable on this wonderful catamaran and get ready to see beautiful scenery and landscapes.

The first stops will be at Red Beach (before continuing on to White Beach). These are some of the most famous beaches in Santorini .

Red Beach is probably one of the most beautiful and mysterious-looking beaches on Santorini because of its bright red color and dramatic shapes caused by volcanic eruptions.

The beach is located near the historical village of Akrotiri village, which is also located at the famous historical site of the Akrotiri Excavations.   

The catamaran will stop right next to the beach where you can swim, enjoy served wine, and take photos on this amazing volcanic beach.

After Red Beach, you will approach a totally different beach- White Beach.

The water is exceptionally crystal clear on White Beach. Your catamaran will also pass by this beach and provide you with the opportunity to explore.

A fun fact about White Beach is it’s actually not that white! 

You will think it is white because of the volcanic sand, which is actually a shade of gray.

The black pebbles in this small cove are near white surroundings, and that contrast visually makes the black pebbles look whiter.

Akrotiri Lighthouse 

While you are sipping local delicious wine and enjoying the sea breeze, you will pass by the 19th-century Akrotiri Lighthouse situated on the top of the huge cliff that is visible from everywhere.

You will feel amazed as the catamaran passes around the big rocks, enabling you to see the lighthouse from different angles.

Island of Aspronisi

How cool is it to know that you will pass by an uninhabited area located in the Santorini caldera?

In the 2nd millennium BC after a huge Minoan eruption, the island of Aspronisi was formed. You will pass by it and have the opportunity to take many pictures of the island.

One of the most exciting spots that you will see during this tour is the Nea Kameni uninhabited volcanic island in the Santorini archipelago caldera. It was formed around 1570 after many volcanic eruptions.

There, you can see a gathering of many boats and catamarans because of the hot spring, which causes the water to be warmer.

This provides you with the opportunity to swim in a unique and warm environment.

I couldn’t resist, so I had to try it! With the help of the staff, who also gave me a float for swimming, I dove into the water and after several meters, I felt that the water was getting warmer. 

Make sure to not miss out on this unique experience and enjoy the volcanic bath during your tour. 

For your information, the staff also provides you with towels if you don’t have your own!

Enjoying Delicious Food on the Boat

After all of these “exhausting” activities, on the way back our catamaran stopped near White Beach and the staff prepped the buffet for us.

At the beginning of the tour, they will ask you what food preferences you have, such as if you are vegetarian or have specific food allergies.

Get comfortable, grab your wine, BBQ, and different sauces, and enjoy your supper while the catamaran drifts slowly near the beach.

It was incredible to eat delicious food while checking out the beautiful scenery.

Sunset on the Catamaran

Finally, it was the moment that I was waiting for from the get-go- the opportunity to see one of the most beautiful sunsets.

The boat stopped the engine and opened the sail as the wind took the catamaran forward.

The sunset exploded into colors of red and yellow across the horizon. As the sun set into the sea, I felt that I was becoming more connected with nature.

This was an unforgettable feeling, and that is why I recommend booking this tour and experiencing this amazing Santorini sunset.

Heading Back to Santorini

After you return to the port of Vlychada Marina, your guide will escort you to your driver, who will take you back to your hotel.

It was an exhausting, yet relaxing day at the same time (as contradicting as that may sound). I would love to do it all over again!

If you’re considering booking this trip, please do note that it is available all year round!

But, the weather may play a factor. It was pretty windy when I went in autumn. And at times, it was a bit chilly.

Visiting Santorini in winter ? Definitely bring a jacket if you take the tour!

I think this tour is perfect for nearly everyone! 

However, if you suffer from seasickness, it may be a bit of a struggle although the water wasn’t too rough (but it was windy)!

It is not a tour for those with mobility issues, however.

Make sure to bring your sunglasses, a high SPF sunscreen, a jacket or a blazer (if you are taking this tour in autumn as I did), and a towel.

However, if you don’t have one, the staff will kindly provide you with one.

We hope we answered all of your questions before you book your Santorini catamaran cruise! Let us know in the comments if you have any further questions.

• Best things to do in Santorini
• Santorini jet ski tour
• Romantic things to do in Santorini
• Santorini itinerary
• Santorini in winter
• Best beaches in Santorini

Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she now splits her time between Frankfurt, Germany and Arctic Finland after also living in Norway, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. She has a passion for winter travel, as well as the Nordic countries, but you can also find her eating her way through Italy, perusing perfume stores in Paris, or taking road trips through the USA. Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, the New York Times, and more. She co-authored Fodor’s Travel ‘Essential Norway’ and has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Caldera Blue

• Semi Private Cruises
• Santorini Private Cruises
• Private Cruises to Other Islands

The Day Cruise offers a unique chance to admire the beauty of the island, visiting all of Santorini’s “hotspots” within just 5 hours.

An Adventurous Caldera Cruise, beginning by sailing past the Red and White Beach . We continue our guided cruise passing right under the Venetian Light House, of Akrotiri at the southern tip of the island before entering the Caldera.

Our next stop is the famous Volcano Hot Springs where you can take your time swimming in the sulfuric waters. Heading back towards the port of Vlychada, you will have the chance to enjoy your lunch and have more time for a swim and snorkelling at the coves of the Black Mountain .

An adventurous Caldera Sunset Cruise begins by sailing past the Red and White Beach and our first stop for a swim is at the hidden coves of the Black Mountain . We continue our guided cruise passing right under the Venetian Lighthouse , of Akrotiri at the southern of Santorini prior to entering the Caldera.

Our next stop is the famous Santorini Hot Springs . Take your time and reflect upon the geothermal energy of the Volcano while swimming in the sulfuric sea coves.

Heading back towards the port of Vlychada, you will have the chance to enjoy a delicious dinner on board and have more time for a swim and snorkelling at coves of the Black Mountain. This unique experience finishes up with us admiring the spectacular colours of the famed Santorini sunset !

Our cruise packages include complimentary:

• Transportation from/to hotel with an A/C minibus/van
• Lunch or dinner on board with chicken fillet, traditional Greek dips, beans, stuffed vine leaves, Greek salad, fruits, white local wine & soft beverages (special dietary needs available upon request)
• Snorkelling gear
• Maps & info about the island

DISCLAIMER NOTE * The company reserves the right a) to modify the route of the tour or cancel it due to inclement weather b) to carry out the tour with any vessel of the same category depending on the availability **The duration and the time schedule of the tour is adjusted during the season depending on the time of sunset.

Santorini Boat Tours

Greece › Santorini › Best Boat Tours Updated: January 29, 2024 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Best Tours in Santorini
• Wine Tours in Santorini

A Private Catamaran Cruise to the hot springs and around the Santorini caldera is one of my favorite things to do in Greece.

Boat Tours of the Santorini Caldera & Volcano A boat tour of the caldera is among my very favorite things to do in Santorini . Unforgettable and a must-do! Don’t worry too much about which tour you book – they’re all good. Emphasis should be on getting something booked in advance before they sell out for your dates. Day tour or sunset tour? There is not a huge difference between the two types of tours beyond the time of day. A day tour/cruise usually runs from 9 or 10 am to 3 pm, serves lunch, and has lots of swimming. A sunset tour/cruise runs from about 3 pm to 8 or 9 pm, serves dinner, has a little less swimming than the day tour, and typically finishes by sailing beneath the Oia cliffs to watch the sunset. Private boat tour or small group tour? I’ll be honest, I definitely prefer the private. You get more input on where to go, how long to spend at different spots, what music to listen to, and (sometimes) where you get dropped off at the end. Yes, private tours are more expensive but I’d be shocked if anyone regretted the money they spent once they’re on the boat. The description says, “all you can eat and drink”, is that really true? Yes, but with some differences between tours. The private tours bring the drinks out before you’ve left the harbor. The less-expensive tours hold-off for a bit until the boat gets to the first destination and you’ve had a swim, which might be an hour to two, but after that, it’s an open bar. There are no ferries to the volcano. The only way to do a volcano tour is to do a boat tour. You can not access the volcano unless you’re part of an organized (private or group) tour. The Jet Ski Tour To The Volcano is amazing. All boat tours have great views of the caldera cliffs. Cruise options include: hike the volcano; swim in the hot springs (you can always stay on the boat if you wish); visit Thirassia and explore its villages; stop at Red Beach and White Beach to swim and snorkel; eat lunch or dinner on board, and watch the sunset below Oia. GetYourGuide.com is the best way to book tours in Santorini. If you ever need to cancel it’s usually much easier if you’ve booked through Get Your Guide.

The 8 Best Boat Tours in Santorini

All boat tours below provide meals onboard and have hotel pick-up and drop-off (which doesn’t sound like a big deal when you’re booking but makes the day so much easier and hassle-free when the time arrives). Also, all tours enter the caldera, sail to or near the volcano, and have plenty of swimming and snorkeling . Food on the tours ranges from surprisingly good to great. And the boats are very generous with their alcohol – after every tour, I ask myself how they make money when they’re so lavish with the food and drink. 1. Small Group Catamaran Cruise Sunset Cruise (2:45pm departure) or Day Cruise (9:45am departure). Awesome cruise around the volcano, staring up at the cliffs of the caldera. You stop at a few beaches for swimming and snorkeling, then swim in the hot springs near the volcano, eat a huge lunch or dinner, and finally see the sunset from the cliffs below Oia (for the sunset cruise). Lots of fun! If this tour is fully booked then try the Caldera Cruise or Santorini Sunset Cruise . 2. Private Catamaran Cruise

Wonderful private cruise of the caldera. Great food and plenty of flexibility on what to see and where to sail. Ideal for a luxury honeymoon cruise, small group, or family. The day tour departs at 10:30am, the sunset-tour departs at 3:30pm. Both tours last 5 hours. Be prepared to be insanely pampered. If the above tour is fully booked – which is common from June to September – then try the Private Sunset Cruise . 3. Santorini Day Cruise Wonderful day tour with great food and friendly staff (10:00am departure). You can’t go more than 5 minutes without someone asking if you want another beer or glass of wine. But it’s far from a drinking cruise – the emphasis is on swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the top of the catamaran. You’ll visit a few beaches and the hot springs and have plenty of time to explore the sights of the caldera. (I did this boat tour last summer and it was awesome.) 4. Private Cruise on a Motor Yacht This is an incredible way to see the Santorini cliffs and stare up at the villages perched on the caldera’s edge. The motor yachts allow for much more freedom in getting around the volcanic islands and seeing the caldera from every different angle. On a catamaran, you feel like you’re on vacation. On the motor yachts it feels a little more like you’re on an adventure (though there’s still plenty of swimming, snorkeling, eating, and drinking). 5. Volcano Boat Tour Much less expensive and with a larger boat and group of people but still very fun. This tour is almost the opposite of the Sunset Catamaran Cruise. You get the volcano, hot springs (with swimming), and a visit to Thirassia island – but no beaches or going outside the caldera, and no sunset. This is the cheapest boat tour of the caldera. 6. Santorini Fishing Tour This tour is very well done and lots of fun. Boat around the Santorini waters on a local fishing boat. Fresh seafood lunch or dinner served on board (eat what you catch and empty from the nets). The daytime tour is best for families and serious fishermen. The sunset tour is best for couples. 7. Santorini Jet Ski Tour Not a boat tour, obviously, but super fun. We’ve done a couple of these tours (it’s always a small group of 2 to 4) to the volcano and they rank as some of the most exhilarating activities we’ve ever done. (That’s my son in the photo, 14 years old at the time.) The perspective you get as you ride through the caldera is awe-inspiring. A boat travels with the tour and is there for any emergencies or if the water gets too rough for beginner riders. The South Coast Tour is fun, but to see the volcano and caldera (which I recommend) you need to do the Volcano Tour or Extreme Volcano Tour. I would be shocked if anyone did this tour and at its conclusion didn’t yell, that was awesome!!! 8. Sea Kayaking Excursion A fun and easy-going way to explore the Santorini coastline. The Morning Tour and Evening Tour stick to the south coast of the island. The Round The Lighthouse Tour goes into the caldera and offers incredible views of the caldera cliffs.

Map of Santorini Boat Tours

Santorini Boat Tours – Photos

View of Fira from a boat tour. View of Imerovigli from a boat tour. The caldera-side of Oia. The white rock towers of southern Santorini. The view of the volcano with Fira in the background. The view of Oia from the Amoudi Bay where many boat tours begin from. Jumping from the rocks below Oia. Barbecue on a Santorini boat tour. Food on the boat tours is surprisingly good – sometimes great. All tours listed here have a sitdown lunch or dinner. So much to see. Awesome! Swimming from the boat to the warm waters of the hot springs. My son jumping from the boat. Most boats and catamarans will have 2 or 3 bathrooms. They are always clean and well maintained. Jumping into the hot springs from the boat. The views of the cliffs and caldera from the boat are incredible.

The Private Catamaran Cruise of the caldera with swimming and lunch or dinner.

• Best Things to Do in Santorini
• Private Tours in Santorini
• Santorini Beaches
• Santorini Restaurants
• Santorini Museums and Cultural Sites
• Santorini Villas
• Santorini Hotels

About Santorini Dave

Dave: When you go swimming on these boat trips (especially one going to hot springs), where can you keep your valuables, e.g. your camera? It would be terrible to lose your photos. I am a trustworthy person, but wonder what other people do to avoid any problems. You can’t swim with a camera.

Honestly, it’s never been anything I’ve considered. It’s usually a small group of people and there’s never an issue with leaving your stuff. I suppose you could leave it with one of the staff, but I expect they’d just laugh and say, this is Greece, your stuff is fine, go swim.

Hi Dave, thanks so much for all your recommendations. How choppy are these boat rides? I am concerned about sea sickness if you have any specific recommendations? Thanks so much!

The boat tours are typically pretty calm. Most time is in the protected caldera waters and if the sea is really rough the tour will be cancelled, in any case. The boat tours are definitely less rough than the worst ferry rides, so if you’re ok on the ferry you’ll be fine on a boat tour.

Just found this fantastic website – thanks Santorini Dave, have been finding it really useful! One question about the boat tours please, we’d like to do one, will they take 5 year olds? Thank you

Unless otherwise stated, boat tours allow all ages.

Hi, Dave My friend and I are considering to book the Private Catamaran Cruise. Could you please give us some ideas about the range of the gratuities we should provide? Thanks!

Tipping in the 10% to 20% is appreciated. But the more the better – holiday workers really rely on tips to make a living wage.

Hi Dave – are there any boat trips available from Santorini that are maybe just 2-3 hours instead of a half or full day? Would like to be able to swim and just see some beautiful scenery, but will have a 4-year-old and husband that might be debatable if he would get sea-sickness so 5 hours feels like a big commitment. We’re staying in Oia – what might you suggest? We’ll only be on Santorini for 2 nights/1.5 days before moving on to Naxos. Thanks for all of your excellent insights!

There are no shorter tours on Santorini. Though if you booked a private boat tour (expensive, obviously) they would return you to port whenever you wanted. I will say the 5 hours goes very quickly. The only other option (as far as getting on a boat) is the ferry to Thirassia or the water taxis along the south coast beaches.

We are visiting Santorini the first week of November, will the water be too cold for these awesome excursions with swimming in hot springs and volcanoes? And if it is, is it still worth doing?

Yes, it likely will be too cold to swim for most (though not impossible for the bold). And also yes, it’s definitely still worth doing a boat tour even if you don’t swim. Views and perspective from the water are incredible any time of year.

Hi Santorini Dave

I’m looking to travel next year by myself possibly in May/September, which area of Santorini would you recommend I stay? I’m debating the time I’ll be staying but it will be between 5 or 7 nights.

Also, would you recommend any day trips to another island?

Many thanks, Alison.

I have several posts on this site about where to stay on Santorini and best towns and beaches. Take a look. In general, I do not recommend day trips to other islands. With the ferry schedules, it’s difficult to get more than a few hours on neighboring islands when you do a day trip. It’s much better to pack your bags and move to whatever island you want to see.

I’m going to Santorini and Mykonos for 8 days. Do you think it’s worth doing a boat tour on each island? I’ll only have 3 days in Mykonos.

Definitely do a boat tour in Santorini. For Mykonos it’s more of a toss-up. (If greek cooking sounds interesting to you, I’d probably do the cooking course instead of a boat tour.)

Hi Dave, Thanks for all the information on this site. Is there a sailing trip that just goes for a trip around the caldera, with no swimming or snorkeling? Maybe with the option of seeing the volcano close up and also the sunset? Thanks, Tansen.

Pretty much all tours have swimming but you don’t have to do it if you don’t want to. And while others are swimming you can just relax on deck and gaze at the views. The tour carries on even when some are swimming so it’s not as if you just sit there on your own, bored – there’s still plenty of fun on board the boat.

Do you think boat tours are fine during winter season? Otherwise, do you have any recommendations for winter excursions?

Many thanks in advance.

If by winter, you mean December, January, and February then there will be few (if any) boat tours running and I don’t think I’d recommend them. If, instead, you might be visiting in March and get some good weather then they’ll be fine (though still not many running). A wine tour is a great year-round thing to do in Santorini. And walking the Fira-Oia path.

For the boat tours, do you need to swim to the beach or is walkable to the shore once they dock as close as they can? We’re not great swimmers and if that’s requirement we’ll have to book another boat tour.

For tours that visit the volcano, the boat will dock and you’ll be able to walk off without getting wet. For tours that visit the hot springs, the boat will anchor about 30 to 50 meters from the hot spring area and you’ll need to swim to the warm water. Otherwise, most tours stop near a beach for swimming and snorkeling but don’t really directly visit the beach. You’re fine staying on the boat and viewing the scenery (which is great) while others swim. On most tours about half the people swim and half remain on the boat, so it’s unlikely you’re the only one left on the boat while everyone else is off playing.

Will the boat tour to the volcano and hot spring be suitable for those who get sea sick?

Generally, it’s usually pretty calm. Depending on where you depart from most of the tour will be inside the protected caldera. Catamarans are more stable than single-hull boats.

We are taking our kids to Santorini the last week of March. What private boat tour would you recommend to take for the volcano tour?

It’s not so much what is the best tour but more what is available. As the time grows closer (February or early March) search Getyourguide for Santorini Boat Tours and choose the most appropriate.

I tried to book the private boat tour and the sunset tour above but both were fully booked for our dates. Do you have another good boat tour that you could recommend? Preferably a private one. Thanks!

There’s another Spiridakos boat tour that is excellent and very similar to the private tour I’ve listed above. It has departures of 10:30 (day tour) and 3:30 (sunset tour).

Dave, your advice on this site is awesome and very detailed. My fiancee and I are going to be in Santorini in August for our honeymoon and are definitely booking one of the boat tours, but we just can’t decide on whether to do a day or sunset voyage. Anything you can tell us that would help make our decision easier? Not sure if this has an effect on the analysis, but we are staying in Imerovigli which I understand has nice views of the sunset. Thanks!!

There’s not a huge difference: the day tour has more swimming time, the sunset tour has more evening hours. Be sure to take a change of clothes for the sunset tour (it can get chilly at night). The sunset tour has a later starting date which allows you to do something in the morning.

Hello Dave.

I’ll be staying in santoniri for a day this November. Arrive Friday morning to either Katikies or Kirini hotel, and then leave late Saturday afternoon to Athens. (Though I have to check out from my hotel by 12pm). Would you recommend a boat tour? If yes, which would it be. My issue mainly time and not price.

Both the 5-Hour Caldera Cruise at Sunset (3pm departure) and the 5-Hour Small Group Catamaran Cruise (9:30am and 2:30pm departure) run into late November. Both are great tours.

I am about to book the semi-private boat tour and we are going the last week of June into July (which, from what I understand, is a very crowded time of year). Do you think that the day of the week that we book the day tour matters much (Friday vs. Saturday vs. Monday)? I assume everyone on board is likely vacationing so I’m not sure if this would be significant, but if it may make a different in terms of the number of people on board, I’d love to know. Thanks!

There’s no difference between days of the week and busyness. Do whatever works best.

I have 3 full days in Santorini in the beginning of July. I’m looking into a boat tour or sea kayaking. Is it worth it to do both? What would you suggest? Thanks for your amazing resources!!

If you can only do one do the boat tour but if time allows do both, as they each have a very different feel. It’s a more surreal feeling being in a kayak at water-level looking up at the huge cliffs (depending where your tour goes). But you do get to do more when on the boat tour – it’s a more complete introduction to the caldera.

I am looking to book the sunset catamaran trip this summer. In the check out it asks for passport information. I just wanted to check this was a normal request/it’s safe to provide my information to this company?

Yes, it’s safe and secure. The information is requested by the port authority but it’s never used. You could put in your correct name and then just make up a letter/number combination for the passport number. They’ll never know and never look at it.

We are going to Santorini for one day in July via fast ferry from Crete. Are there any shorter cruises around Santorini that we can do in that window of time that we will be there?

No, sorry. There’s no boat tour (that I know of) that would get you back in time to get your return ferry to Crete.

We will be in Santorini for 3 days after ferries from Athens-Mykonos then Mykonos-Santorini. We were thinking of taking the ferry to Milos for a day trip. Is it reasonable to do in a day or will we be ferried out? Thanks for your insight, love reading all of your suggestions.

Not worth it. If you want to visit Milos stay at least 2 nights and 1 full day.

Hi Dave, I’m planning a honeymoon in Greece this upcoming May and your site has been an amazing resource – thanks! Quick question: Is May too early for the boat tours that have swimming? Thanks.

Yes, they’ll be running in May (usually start in April) and you’ll be able to swim. But water can still be a bit chilly. And note, hot springs are not “hot” just warm.

Hi there, I love to read and follow all of your posts so thank you for always having the most up to date information! We will be in Santorini in July and I would like to do a catamaran tour of the island and go into caves and see some of the hidden gems of Santorini. Is there a tour or boat that would do that? Also, is there a boat that will take you to Mykonos for a day and back to Santorini? Thank you, Alissa

I don’t know of any boat tours that take in caves. And don’t know of any Santorini to Mykonos tours either. There are much better islands to visit on a day tour from Santorini. Ios for beaches, Naxos for inland sightseeing. (That said, I typically don’t recommend doing a day trip from Santorini as time is much better spent on Santorini than on a boat. If you do want to see another island then stay a night or two to see it best.)

I am looking for a beach hopping trip in Santorini to visit the Black Beach, Red Beach, White beach etc. tour starts at 4PM or 5PM. How much for 2 people?

For these beaches best to do it yourself with this boat from Akrotiri . It will be 10€ per person round trip. Can also take a different boat back to Kamari (if you were taking the bus, if you’ve got your own car then you’ll need to return to Akrotiri). Last boat is about 6:30pm (but double check) so you won’t have a lot of time.

Hi Dave – Awesome site. Just became a patron!

Trying to select the right boat tour for my husband and I (going in a few weeks!). They all seem great so it’s hard to select. What are the key differences between these three tours:

Semi-Private Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise 5-Hour Small Group Catamaran Cruise Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Caldera

In particular, trying to understand if it’s worth paying the premium for the semi-private luxury catamaran day cruise.

Many thanks! Lily

The single biggest difference is whether the tour goes through the day or in the late afternoon (and gets the sunset). The 5-hour small group tour is cheaper than the other two but will have a few more people on the boat and the food served is not quite as robust as for the semi-private and sunset catamaran cruises. More appetizers than the full meal you get on the other two. Fewer drinks are served as well. All 3 are great and you’ll love whatever you choose. My advice is to first decide whether you want the sunset or more sun/swimming.

Would like to do a private boat tour of caldera. It’s our honeymoon and want a super special day out on the water with food, wine, swimming, snorkeling, and the hot springs. Maybe take in the sunset too, but as you say, it’s a choice between more swimming/sunshine and sunset/evening so not sure what we’ll decide. What’s the best tour to book for our needs?

Thanks, Colin

The Private Half-Day Catamaran Cruise of Santorini is simply awesome. It is expensive but I’m sure you’re expecting that already. There’s a morning departure (for lots of swimming and sunshine) and an afternoon departure (for the sunset – but still plenty of time to swim too). Food is top notch. If it’s within your budget this is the one you want. (If you do the sunset tour bring a change of clothes so you can change out of your wet swimming stuff and enjoy the sunset without a chill.)

We are visiting Santorini in the next few weeks. Is there a ferry that 2 people can take on their own and explore the volcano/hot springs, or is it only by tour? Please let me know! Much appreciated. Gabriel M

There are no ferries to the volcano or hot springs. You have to do a tour or a chartered/private tour. There are small boats that do regular routes to the neighboring island of Thirassia (that forms the western side of the caldera) but this isn’t the volcano.

We are looking for the best sunset tour around Santorini. Our only concern is that we also want lots of swimming. If we do the sunset tour will we have enough time to swim?

Thanks Miller

Not sure what you mean by “enough” but you’ll certainly get a good stretch of time to swim. It won’t be 10 minutes and let’s go. More like 2 to 3 hours.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

SPECIAL OFFER FOR TOMORROW

Private Catamaran Daytime Cruise

€1,250 - €1,100

CRUISES IN SANTORINI

SEMI-PRIVATE CRUISES

Explore the mesmerizing Santorinian seas, sail towards the volcano and float on the blue seas of the island. Book now your semi private cruise and enjoy the ride with one of our fleet’s vessels.

PRIVATE CRUISES

Indulge yourself with the absolute sailing experience. Book one of our vessels and sail into the absolute bliss surrounded by the beauties of the island and your beloved ones.

SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Our team’s knowledge and dedication will attend your special moments. Spend your unique day on board, surrounded by the sea and the energy of Santorini.

STANDARD DAILY SANTORINI SAILING CATAMARAN CRUISES

SEMI-PRIVATE SMALL GROUP

HALF DAY 5 HOURS

from 95€ per person

PREMIUM DAILY SANTORINI SAILING CATAMARAN CRUISES

from 125€ per person

LUXURY DAILY SANTORINI SAILING CATAMARAN CRUISES

from 140€ per person

PRIVATE DAYTIME DAILY SANTORINI SAILING CATAMARAN CRUISES

PRIVATE GROUP

900€ up to 4 people

PRIVATE SUNSET DAILY SANTORINI SAILING CATAMARAN CRUISES

1000€ up to 4 people

PRIVATE MULTI-DAY SAILING CATAMARAN CRUISES AROUND GREEK ISLANDS

+1 DAY CHARTER

Quote Upon Request

PRIVATE DAYTIME-SUNSET DAILY SANTORINI AZIMUT YACHT CRUISES

1400€ up to 6 people

PRIVATE FULL-DAY DAILY SANTORINI AZIMUT YACHT CRUISES

2800€ up to 6 people

PRIVATE MULTI-DAY MOTOR YACHT CRUISES AROUND GREEK ISLANDS

PRIVATE DAYTIME-SUNSET DAILY SANTORINI TARGA YACHT CRUISES

1250€ up to 6 people

PRIVATE FULL-DAY DAILY SANTORINI TARGA YACHT CRUISES

2600€ up to 6 people

PRIVATE DAYTIME-SUNSET DAILY SANTORINI MOTOR BOAT CRUISE

550€ up to 4 people

Agios Nikolaos

Captain leo.

The Lagoon 46 reinforces the fundamentals that have made the brand a hedonist and generous sailing reference: freedom and audacity, gentle lifestyle and innovation. Discover More

This Azimut 43F motor yacht is an ideal choice to explore Santorini and all popular destinations in Greece. Discover More

This 44 feet Targa motor yacht is an ideal choice to explore Santorini and all popular destinations in Greece and a perfect option for groups up to 12 people. Discover More

This Lagoon 450F sailing catamaran is an ideal choice to discover the highlights of  Santorini and approach nearby islands. Discover More

This Lagoon 44 sailing catamaran is an ideal choice to discover the highlights of  Santorini and approach nearby islands. Discover More

This brand new sailing catamaran Lagoon 42 is an ideal choice to discover the highlights of  Santorini and approach nearby islands. Discover More

This Lagoon 42 sailing catamaran is an ideal choice to discover the highlights of  Santorini and approach nearby islands. Discover More

This Lagoon 38 sailing catamaran is an ideal choice to discover the highlights of  Santorini and approach nearby islands. Discover More

This motorboat is an ideal choice to discover Santorini and nearby destinations and a perfect option for groups up to 10 people. Discover More

WE VALUE YOUR FEEDBACK

spiridakossailingcruises

HAVE A SPECIAL REQUEST?

• Daytime Standard Catamaran Cruise
• Sunset Standard Catamaran Cruise
• Daytime Premium Catamaran Cruise
• Sunset Premium Catamaran Cruise
• Daytime Luxury Catamaran Cruise
• Sunset Luxury Catamaran Cruise
• Daytime Catamaran Cruise
• Sunset Catamaran Cruise
• Daytime Azimut Motor Yacht Cruise
• Sunset Azimut Motor Yacht Cruise
• Full-Day Azimut Motor Yacht Cruise
• Daytime Targa Motor Yacht Cruise
• Sunset Targa Motor Yacht Cruise
• Full-Day Targa Motor Yacht Cruise
• Daytime Motor Boat Cruise
• Sunset Motor Boat Cruise
• Design your own Trip
• For Honeymooners
• Wedding Proposals
• Private Parties
• VIP Island Hopping
• Spiridakos Sailing Cruises

10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These are the best Greece cruises for island hopping with ease.

With its stunning beaches, rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, a trip to Greece is always a great idea. However, since the nation is home to more than 6,000 islands — some of which are only accessible by boat — your best bet is to explore via cruise. Just take it from Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder, who tells T+L that “Greece and the Greek isles are just the perfect destinations to explore by ship” since “a cruise allows you to see more islands and gives you a unique vantage point.” Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighboring countries like Turkey and Italy, for example, which allow travelers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favorite Greece cruises for every type of traveler, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency. 

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specializing in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

Windstar Cruises

According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer “a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience.” Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as “upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top.” It’s also worth noting that “each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel gear, floating carpets, and other ‘toys’ that are deployed (weather and location permitting, of course) at least once on most Greek itineraries.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighboring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call specialty restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools, each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style. 

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos , a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, " Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, "When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation." The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is "a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship." 

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini, followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, " Infinity   travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Silversea offers a variety of Greece cruise itineraries, and it’s one of few truly luxe all-inclusive cruise lines. Per Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon offers all-suite accommodations and a classic small-ship feel — complete with excellent meals, beverages, and shore excursions all included in your cruise fare. Speaking of the latter, he says, “The inclusion of shore excursions also makes it easy to dive deeper into Greek culture and culinary experiences.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes ,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean, and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry , this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travelers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens. The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish. After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships. Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travelers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colorful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favorite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: "Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!" says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbor, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, "there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine."

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. "On board," says Guinnup, "There's a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles itinerary sails round-trip from Rome with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. Keep in mind that because the ship is so large, Santorini and Mykonos are both tender ports. With that in mind, Dillon recommends springing on The Key, an optional add-on that includes priority tender access so that you can spend as much time as possible on land basking in its beauty.

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlor, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travelers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L, “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it [also] has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey, which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean voyage visits Thessaloniki (which offers an eclectic combination of history, nightlife, and gastronomy), Kuşadası (a popular Turkish resort town), and Heraklion (the capital of Crete) before heading to iconic isles like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will remain overnight. Before returning to Athens for disembarkation, you’ll also stop in magnificent Milos.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .