
easy
4 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility for boat boarding and short rocky entries
Cut across Santorini’s caldera by speedboat: swim at Red and Black beaches, snorkel volcanic shallows, dip near hot springs and dine on Thirassia. This private, four-hour cruise pairs geology and local food with an open bar for a tightly packed island afternoon.
The speedboat noses out of Vlychada marina and the whitewashed rim of the caldera slips from a postcard into a live panorama. Sea spray lifts off the bow, the boat hums, and suddenly the cliffs of Santorini—carved by an ancient eruption—stand like an amphitheater around a glassy, blue interior. Guests clap when the skipper points to the first stop: the rusty, ochre scar of Red Beach. Half an hour later, faces pale and pleased, swimmers drift over volcanic rock and schools of small fish circle the snorkel masks.

The caldera’s marine life is sensitive—use reef‑safe sunscreen to protect corals and prevent stains on gear.
Rocky shore entries at Red and Black beaches are sharp and uneven; water shoes make swims and landings safer.
If you get motion sick, take medication before boarding; the Aegean can be choppy, especially later in the day.
Protect phones, cameras and passports from spray—small dry bags keep essentials safe while swimming.
Santorini’s caldera is the remnant of a catastrophic volcanic eruption around 1600 BCE that reshaped the island and influenced Bronze Age civilizations.
Visitors are asked to use reef‑safe products, avoid collecting volcanic rocks or shells and follow crew guidance to minimize impact on fragile marine sites.
You’ll stop for swims at volcanic beaches and hot springs, so plan to get wet.
summer specific
Protects feet on jagged volcanic rock and slippery ledges during entries and exits.
Reduces chemical impact on marine life and prevents equipment staining.
summer specific
The Aegean breeze can be cool on the ride back even on warm days.
spring specific