Where do we meet for the cruise?

Meeting point is Vlychada marina, in front of the mini market; check-in is before departure time.

What times does the cruise run?

Departures are typically at 10:00 am (morning) and 1:00 pm (afternoon).

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes—snorkeling equipment and towels are included on board.

How large are the groups?

Group size is limited to six guests to keep the experience intimate.

Light snacks and refreshments are provided, but full meals are not included.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?

Yes—families travel on this cruise. Non-swimmers can enjoy the scenery from deck; life jackets are provided and crew supervise swim stops.

Private 3-Hour Catamaran Cruise Around Santorini Caldera | Catamaran | Sailing

On a clear Aegean morning, Santorini’s caldera reads like a map of fire and sea. The Private 3 hours Catamaran Sailing Cruise – Santorini Caldera offers a brisk, intimate passage around Θήρα’s volcanic heart, launching from Vlychada marina for a three-hour circuit that threads between cliff, beach, and islet. Guests slip aboard a stable catamaran for a short cruise that still feels cinematic: the route moves past White Beach and Red Beach, skirts Black Mountain and Indian Rock, and circles the volcanic islets of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni.

From the deck you see the caldera’s sheer cliffs, layers of pumice and lava that expose the island’s violent geological history. Nea Kameni’s dark, jagged lava fields and Palea Kameni’s thermal springs are reminders that Santorini is an active volcanic landscape. Along the shore, steep red and white embankments—Red Beach and White Beach—offer dramatic color contrasts against the deep blue sea and scrubby Mediterranean vegetation.

This cruise balances easy exploration and hands-on moments. There are two planned swim stops in crystalline waters where snorkeling gear is supplied and towels are ready. Light snacks—fresh fruit and crackers—and local wine or beer accompany the outing, so it never feels rushed. The English-speaking crew handle sails, safety briefings, and route choice, leaving you free to float above volcanic seabeds or relax on sun-hugging nets.

Why this trip stands out is its efficiency: in just three hours you touch Santorini’s most photogenic marine landmarks without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for travelers short on time, families who want a gentle introduction to the caldera, or photographers aiming for compact, high-yield scouting from sea level. The small-group size keeps the experience personal, and the catamaran’s shallow draft allows close approaches where larger vessels can’t go.

The cruise is capped at six guests, which keeps the atmosphere relaxed and gives everyone a chance at the bow for unobstructed photographs and quiet moments. Crews often point out geological layers and answer questions about the caldera’s past eruptions, so the trip doubles as a compact natural-history primer. Wear a hat for glare and sun protection.

Practical notes: meet at Vlychada marina in front of the mini market for either the 10:00 am or 1:00 pm departure. Bring a light jacket—the wind on the caldera can bite even on hot days—and a swimsuit for quick dips. The cruise does not include a full meal; tipping the crew is customary but not mandatory.

This short sea voyage reframes Santorini not as a postcard view from the cliff but as an active island shaped by fire and sea. For visitors who want a concentrated taste of the caldera, this catamaran run is an efficient, scenic, and distinctly Aegean way to spend an afternoon.

About Barca Sailing

Barca Sailing is a Santorini-based sailing company operating from Θήρα (Santorini), Greece. The company specializes in semi-private and private caldera cruises, catamaran sailing trips, and sunset excursions that showcase the volcanic coastline, Red Beach, White Beach, and the islands of Thirassia. Barca Sailing operates a spacious 49-foot yacht for private day and sunset cruises and runs semi-private departures from Vlihada Marina and Vlychada for day and Diamond catamaran trips. The team includes licensed skippers and crew experienced in local navigation, swimming stops, and hospitality.

Barca Sailing's offerings include semi-private Sunset Caldera Cruises, Semi-Private Day Caldera Cruises, Private Day Caldera Cruises, Private Sunset Caldera Cruises, and a Semi-private Catamaran Sailing Cruise visiting the Caldera and Thirassia. Trips feature swimming in volcanic bays, visits to iconic beaches, therapeutic sulfur springs, on-deck meals such as BBQ or fresh Greek dinner, and complimentary drinks on select departures. Private charters accommodate up to 12 guests on the 49-foot yacht.

The company emphasizes safety, local knowledge, and authentic Aegean experiences. Boat maintenance, experienced crew, and clear meeting points at Vlihada Marina or Vlychada reinforce reliability. Booking options include semi-private seats and fully private charters to suit couples, families, and small groups seeking tailored itineraries. Barca Sailing is positioned as a trustworthy provider for visitors seeking scenic caldera views, sunset photography, swimming stops, and relaxed on-deck dining during Santorini sailing excursions. Reservations are available for couples, families, and groups, with options for tailored itineraries, meal preferences, and select complimentary drinks included on some departures by advance booking.