Cruising Santorini’s waters from Oia is one of Europe’s most memorable maritime experiences. The must-do boat excursions here focus on the dramatic caldera, with its volcanic islands and cliff-hugging villages. From personal experience, two standout tours deserve special mention: The 5-hour Kymatia Traditional Sailboat Tour, which perfectly balances sightseeing and swimming stops around the volcano, and the Private Catamaran Excursion – ideal for those seeking a more intimate experience with premium service and fewer fellow travelers. Both tours offer excellent opportunities to swim in thermal springs and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. For romantics, the Private Catamaran Tour for Two hits all the highlights while providing an unforgettable sunset viewing experience. Let’s look at our favorite boat tours from Oia’s harbor.
Key Points
- The Kymatia Traditional Sailboat Tour offers a 5-hour cruise exploring Caldera and volcanic islands, with scenic views and an included barbecue lunch/dinner.
- The Private Catamaran Excursion provides an exclusive 5-hour tour featuring volcanic beaches, snorkeling, and sailing between lava islands, with complimentary amenities.
- The Full Day Catamaran Excursion is a 10-hour private tour that visits Santorini’s top sights, including beaches, the volcano, and Palea Kameni, with onboard amenities.
- The Private Santorini Catamaran Tour for Two is a 1-hour luxury experience offering complimentary drinks and personalized attention from the knowledgeable crew.
- The Private Tour for Cruise Ship Travelers is a 5-hour private tour that covers Santorini’s top sights, including Oia and a winery visit, with pickup from the cruise port.
Santorini: Kymatia Traditional Sailboat Tour by Cycladica
One of the popular water activities in Oia is the Santorini: Kymatia Traditional Sailboat Tour by Cycladica. This 5-hour cruise aboard a traditional sailboat allows visitors to explore the picturesque Caldera and volcanic islands of Santorini.
The tour boasts a 4.7-star rating from 1,357 reviews, with customers praising the stunning scenery, attentive crew, and delicious onboard meals and drinks. Priced at $100.39 per person, the experience includes hotel pickup, a sail along the Caldera, a visit to the hot springs, and a stop at the volcanic island of Nea Kameni for swimming.
Travelers can also enjoy a barbecue lunch or dinner prepared onboard. This is an ideal activity for those seeking a leisurely and authentic way to experience Santorini’s natural beauty and rich maritime heritage.
With its combination of breathtaking views, culture, and premium amenities, the Kymatia Traditional Sailboat Tour is a top choice for visitors to Oia.
Read our full review: Santorini: Kymatia Traditional Sailboat Tour by Cycladica Review
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Santorini: Private Catamaran Excursion With Food and Drinks
For those seeking a more exclusive and personalized boating experience in Oia, the Santorini: Private Catamaran Excursion With Food and Drinks is a top-rated option. Priced at $1,162.45 for groups of up to 4 people, this 5-hour private tour offers a comprehensive Santorini adventure.
Guests can look forward to exploring the island’s volcanic beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and sailing between lava islands, all while enjoying freshly prepared Greek cuisine and thermal waters.
The package includes complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as a range of onboard amenities such as fresh meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and snorkeling gear. Safety is a priority, with the crew ensuring guests follow protocols.
While no medical facilities are available on board, the experience is highly rated, with reviewers praising the professionalism and helpfulness of the staff.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, this private catamaran excursion is an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized and unforgettable Santorini adventure.
Read our full review: Santorini: Private Catamaran Excursion With Food and Drinks Review
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Santorini: Full Day Catamaran Excursion With Food & Drinks
Travelers seeking an immersive Santorini experience can embark on the Santorini: Full Day Catamaran Excursion With Food & Drinks. Priced from €2,200 per group of up to 8 participants, this 10-hour private tour includes complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off, freshly prepared Greek meals, and unlimited drinks.
The excursion departs from Vlychada Port, with stops at the Red Beach, White Beach, Santorini Volcano, and a private beach at Palea Kameni. Guests can swim, snorkel, and marvel at the island’s stunning scenery, including the Santorini Lighthouse and thermal waters.
Onboard, they’ll enjoy shaded seating, Wi-Fi, and guided commentary in multiple languages. The tour also offers the opportunity to spot dolphins and seals, as well as relax and soak in Santorini’s rich history.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, this excursion is a hassle-free way to explore Santorini’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Santorini: Full Day Catamaran Excursion With Food & Drinks Review
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Oia: Private Santorini Catamaran Tour for Two With Drinks
Amid Santorini’s captivating landscapes, the Oia: Private Santorini Catamaran Tour for Two With Drinks offers couples an intimate glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.
This 1-hour private tour whisks passengers away on a luxury catamaran, where they can relax and enjoy complimentary drinks as they take in the stunning views of the caldera and the enchanting town of Oia.
The tour is priced at $317.03 per group of up to 6 people, making it an affordable yet exclusive experience. Couples can expect personalized attention from the knowledgeable crew, who’ll share insights about Santorini’s history and geology.
The tour’s 5-star rating and high customer satisfaction further attest to its quality and value.
Whether seeking a romantic sunset cruise or a leisurely daytime excursion, the Oia: Private Santorini Catamaran Tour for Two With Drinks is an ideal choice for couples looking to create unforgettable memories in the breathtaking setting of Santorini.
Read our full review: Oia: Private Santorini Catamaran Tour for Two With Drinks Review
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Santorini: Private Tour for Cruise Ship Travellers 5 Hours
What makes the Santorini: Private Tour for Cruise Ship Travellers 5 Hours a standout option? This 5-hour private tour is tailored specifically for cruise ship passengers, offering a convenient and personalized way to explore the highlights of Santorini.
With a pickup available from the cruise port, this tour ensures a seamless start to the experience. The tour covers Santorini’s top sights, including Oia, the iconic village known for its stunning sunsets.
Travelers will also visit a winery for a tasting, and have the opportunity to explore the island’s natural wonders, such as the volcanic landscape.
The tour is priced at $258.91 for the group, making it an affordable option for small groups. With a 4.6 customer rating from 30 reviews, it’s clear that this tour delivers a high-quality experience.
The private nature of the tour allows for a flexible itinerary and the ability to customize the experience to the group’s interests and preferences.
Read our full review: Santorini: Private Tour for Cruise Ship Travellers 5 Hours Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Book a Cruise or Boat Tour in Oia?
To book a cruise or boat tour, travelers can search online for local tour operators, contact their hotel concierge, or visit the docks in the area to inquire about available options and make reservations directly.
What Are the Best Times of Year to Visit Oia?
The best times to visit Oia are spring and fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters may be rainy and some attractions may be closed.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tours?
To get to the starting point of tours, visitors can take a taxi or local bus from their accommodations. Alternatively, they can walk down the famous Oia stairs, which offer stunning views along the way.
Are There Any Age or Physical Restrictions for the Tours?
Most tours don’t have age or physical restrictions, but some may require participants to be able to board and disembark vessels independently. It’s best to check with each tour operator for their specific requirements before booking.
Can I Customize the Itinerary of the Boat Tours?
Travelers can often customize the itinerary of boat tours to suit their interests and needs. Many tour operators offer flexibility in route, duration, and activities, allowing customers to personalize their experience. However, specific policies may vary across different tour providers.
Recap
Santorini offers a variety of boat tours and cruises, catering to different preferences and budgets. From traditional sailboat experiences to private catamaran excursions, travelers can enjoy the island’s stunning coastline, volcanic landscapes, and Aegean Sea. These tours provide an opportunity to savor local cuisine, swim in crystal-clear waters, and witness Oia’s famous sunsets from a unique vantage point. Visitors have ample options to customize their nautical adventures in Santorini.