Santorini Catamaran Sunset Cruise with BBQ Dinner

The Santorini Caldera

Santorini is the rim of a huge volcano that erupted around 1600 BC in one of the largest eruptions in human history, burying the Bronze Age town of Akrotiri and leaving a flooded crater, the caldera. Its cliffs rise up to 300 metres, with the white villages of Oia, Imerovigli and Fira along the top.

Sailing inside the caldera gives you views you cannot get from land: layered red, black and white volcanic rock, sea caves and the dark islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni at the centre. A Santorini catamaran cruise is widely considered the best way to see the island's geology up close.

Red Beach and White Beach

On the south coast near Akrotiri, Red Beach is famous for its towering red cliffs and dark sand, while White Beach, reachable only by boat, is framed by pale volcanic cliffs. Both have clear, deep water ideal for swimming.

Your catamaran anchors nearby so you can jump in, swim and snorkel among rocks and small fish; snorkelling equipment is usually available on board. Stops vary with wind and sea conditions, and the captain chooses the calmest bays on the day. Red Beach is prone to small rockfalls from the cliffs, so seeing it from the water is also the safest way to enjoy it.

BBQ Dinner on Board

While you swim and relax, the crew prepares a BBQ on the catamaran's grill, typically with grilled meat and chicken, Greek salad, pasta or rice, pitta and tzatziki. Soft drinks and water are served throughout the cruise.

Tell us about vegetarian, halal or other dietary needs when booking, and we will check what can be arranged. Eating together on deck as the sky starts to change colour is one of the highlights of the trip. Meals are served on deck at shared tables, and the crew is happy to help children with their plates.

Sunset from the Water

Santorini sunsets are world-famous, and watching one from the water means no crowds and a clear view of the sun dropping behind the sea while Oia glows on the cliffs. The sunset cruise times its route to be in position at the perfect moment.

The best time to take a Santorini sunset cruise is from May to October, when seas are warm and evenings long. Bring a light jacket, as it gets breezy after sunset on the way back to port. Keep your camera ready: the best colours often appear ten minutes after the sun has gone.