Regardless of the vantage point from which you observe it, Santorini is a spectacular island to behold. Whether watching the sun cast its golden glow on the houses in the center of the picturesque village of Oia or exploring the beautiful seascape on one of Sunset Oia’s chartered yachts, you will be dazzled by this island paradise.

Away from the throngs of tourists, a tailor-made cruise to picturesque ports and remote beaches offers travelers a chance to experience another side to this popular destination. Apart from unique sunrise and sunset options and the more run-of-the-mill excursions to the volcano, where visitors can swim between the hot and cold turquoise patches of the sulfuric springs of Palia Kameni, travelers can enjoy more sea adventures. Possibilities include snorkeling in the deep blue waters around the caldera, sunbathing while taking in the striking beauty of the landscape, tasting the delicious snacks and dishes offered on board, while being treated to the personal service offered by Sunset Oia. The prestigious yacht and catamaran charter company has been a frontrunner in providing activities on the seas around Santorini since it was launched in 2009.

The company offers exclusive, semi-private and customized excursions from its base in Oia on a wide variety of vessels, combining affordable packages with top-rate luxury and always with the safety of passengers a top priority. For this reason, Sunset Oia’s fleet is manned by expert sailors and professional captains with years of experience under their belt.

The top-of-the-line vessels ensure that passengers travel in the lap of luxury and comfort, with Sunset Oia boasting the youngest fleet of its type in Greece. In the latest wave of expansion, two brand-new catamarans were added this year.

The Amorgos, a Lagoon 520  catamaran, with an overall total length of 15.85 meters, can carry 18 passengers. Its day and sunset tours start from Ammoudi and take visitors on a sea route around the island that takes in traditional favorites, such as the volcano and springs, as well as the Red Beach, Aspronisi, Akrotiri and Vlychada.

The other new addition is the Anafi, a Lagoon 450 almost 14 meters in length, which can also transport visitors in grand style to the crystal-clear waters of the nearby island of Ios or other areas around the caldera. The superb Ios, a Fountaine Pajot Taiti 80, has an overall length of almost 24 meters. It is spacious and comfortable enough to accommodate wedding parties or other similar events.

Whether it’s a formal function or romantic couple’s cruise you’re interested in, Sunset Oia has a vessel to suit your needs. Imagine a cruise aboard the Alexandros, a Ferretti 680 motor yacht. You’ll feel like royalty as you lounge around the stylish sitting area with elegantly designed interiors. Soak up the sun on the upper-level deck and then retreat to the lower deck for privacy, relaxing around the four luxurious cabins that include a master bedroom and VIP bedroom fitted with king-size beds and en-suite facilities.

Another option for private tours is the Emily, a Cumberland 46 power catamaran with hulls that are specially designed to offer maximum stability. Ideal for beach and cave exploration, it has a shallow draft that allows it to approach hidden gems. It is available for private charter tours around the island or visits to nearby islands. The variety of destinations and quality of the 11-strong fleet has earned the company the top ranking in its category, according to TripAdvisor, making it a strong international competitor. “The boat was extremely nice, clean and state-of-the-art. We have been on other catamaran tours in Grand Cayman, the coast of California and Hawaii, and though we loved every one of those tours, this boat was by far the nicest one we had been on for a touring boat,” writes one happy customer, Loretta E. from Southern California. 

The company has received kudos and accolades for its cuisine, which includes local delicacies such as grilled shrimp and skewered chicken or pork, along with an array of vegetarian and gluten-free options using the finest local produce. Fine local wines and refreshments are generously offered to guests for the duration of the tour. Little wonder that a large number of TripAdvisor reviewers refer to the on-board cuisine as a pleasant surprise and the “best” during their stay.

“There was plenty of space to spread out, but we also enjoyed chatting with other people on the boat. We jumped in the frigid water to get to the hot springs – it’s worth it; don’t worry if you aren’t a strong swimmer, they provide pool noodles. They prepare delicious Greek dinner on board with all the local wine and beer you can drink,” writes Jessica H. from Texas, who describes the five-hour cruise as her husband’s favorite part of the vacation and a “wonderful experience.”

Reviewers also praise the crew’s experience and willingness to provide information about the island’s rich history and culture. “They took the time to extensively explain the coastline and answer random questions about Greek culture, including the compelling story of the hermit who lives at the edge of the volcano,” writes New Yorker Iris H.

It’s not just the exquisite facilities and cuisine that make Sunset Oia cruises worthwhile, it’s the experience and tailor-made memories that last a lifetime; the feeling of satisfaction that lingers on well after the trip has ended.