Island Hopping: Santorini to Koufonisia & Iraklia

If you’re dreaming of exploring the lesser-known side of the Cyclades, this island-hopping tour from Santorini promises a blend of luxury, quiet beauty, and authentic Greek charm. It’s a full day on a luxurious motor yacht that takes you to two serene islands—Koufonisia and Iraklia—with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and simply soak in the peaceful landscapes.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with understated luxury. You get to cruise in style, enjoy excellent food and drinks, and avoid the crowds that sometimes flock to the more popular islands. A possible drawback? The day is long, with roughly four hours on each island, so it’s best suited for travelers who relish a full, active day on the water.

This tour is ideal for those who want a luxurious escape off the beaten path, with a taste of Greece’s untouched islands. If you’re craving a mixture of adventure and relaxation, and enjoy scenic water views, this could be your perfect day.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Private group on a luxurious motor yacht with personalized service.
• Authentic Islands: Visit unspoiled Koufonisia and Iraklia, far from the crowds.
• Flexible Activities: Swim, snorkel, walk, shop, or relax—your choice.
• Gourmet Onboard: Enjoy a menu of cold meze, fresh fruit, and drinks, including wine and beer.
• Breathtaking Views: See Santorini’s iconic caldera from the water, plus quiet beaches and rugged landscapes.
• Full-Day Adventure: Approximately 10 hours, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail from Santorini: What to Expect

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup, often from your accommodation in Thera, making it convenient and hassle-free. After a scenic 40-minute drive to Vlychada Marina, you’ll get a safety briefing on your elegant motor yacht, ready for the day ahead. The boat is well-equipped, with snorkeling gear, towels, and plenty of space to relax.

The first leg of your cruise offers a fantastic perspective of Santorini’s caldera—a view that’s hard to beat. As the boat cuts through the water, you’ll get a chance to appreciate the island’s volcanic cliffs from a unique vantage point, with ample time to snap photos and soak in the scenery.

Exploring Koufonisia: The Heart of Quiet Beauty

Arriving after roughly four hours, you’ll step onto Koufonisia, a small group of islands renowned for their crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches. Known for their understated charm rather than tourist hype, Koufonisia’s beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on soft sands.

Guests frequently mention how calm and unspoiled this island feels. You might spend your time walking around, shopping for local crafts, or enjoying a guided tour if you choose. Some reviews highlight how beautiful the scenery is, with one guest noting “the quiet beaches and stunning landscapes” as the highlight.

This stop provides a perfect balance of activity and relaxation—whether you want to explore or just unwind with a cold drink.

Visiting Iraklia: Untouched and Peaceful

After a hearty four-hour visit to Koufonisia, the yacht heads to Iraklia, another quiet gem of the Cyclades. This island is known for its stunning landscapes and serene beaches, offering a sense of being far from busy tourist spots.

Here, you’ll find similar options: guided sightseeing, swimming, or wandering through local shops. The overall atmosphere is laid-back and authentic, making it an ideal place for travelers who prefer a quieter, more genuine experience of Greek island life.

Guests have appreciated the peacefulness of Iraklia, saying that it’s a “quiet, untouched paradise.” The landscape is rugged, and the beaches are less crowded, which makes it perfect for a relaxing break.

The Return Journey and Sunset Views

As the day winds down, you’ll board a speedboat for the approximately 40-minute journey back to Santorini. The return trip offers a few more scenic moments, including a photo stop and a chance to admire the views of Santorini’s coastline again. If timing aligns, you might catch the sunset from the water—a truly breathtaking sight that’s often highlighted in reviews.

Finally, after a full day, the tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, giving you time to reflect on a day full of new sights and peaceful moments.

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The Food and Drinks: A Gourmet Touch

One of the standout features of this trip is the onboard menu. It includes a plate of cold ‘meze’—think finger foods and seafood—that pairs beautifully with the open bar of white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water. Guests rave about the fruit salad and the sparkling Moscato D’asti wine at sunset, turning the journey into a feast for the senses.

While lunch isn’t included on the islands themselves, the onboard food and drinks elevate the experience, making it feel both luxurious and authentic. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a swim or a walk.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience suits travelers looking for a luxurious, guided day on the water—especially those who value authentic, quiet islands over crowded tourist hotspots. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a private, tailored experience with personalized attention.

If you love stunning water views, delicious food, and a relaxed pace, this tour will meet your expectations. However, keep in mind it’s a long day, so those with limited mobility or early bedtimes might find it a bit tiring.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular, and you can reserve without paying upfront.
• The duration is around 10 hours, so pack accordingly—don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a camera.
• The itinerary may change due to weather, so stay flexible and keep an eye on updates.
• Evening temperatures can drop, so bringing a light jacket for the return is wise.
• The tour is a private group, providing a more intimate experience, but it also means you’ll have some flexibility in how you spend your time.

Pricing and Value

While the price isn’t specified, the value lies in the luxury, personalized service, and exclusive access to unspoiled islands. The onboard amenities, including food and drinks, add to the experience, making it a good deal for those seeking a premium day out. Remember, it includes hotel pickup and snorkeling gear, reducing additional costs.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini to Koufonisia & Iraklia tour offers travelers a chance to see some of Greece’s less-traveled islands in style. The combination of stunning scenery, quiet beaches, and luxurious comfort makes it stand out among water-based tours.

It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and exclusive experience away from the crowds. The day’s focus on authentic landscapes and tranquil waters makes it a memorable escape—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful Greek island adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making it convenient to start your day without extra hassle.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 10 hours, from pickup in the morning to returning in the evening.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and you are encouraged to swim and snorkel at both Koufonisia and Iraklia.

What’s the food like onboard?
You’ll enjoy a menu featuring cold meze, seafood, fruit salad, and a selection of drinks including wine and beer, with sparkling Moscato at sunset.

Is the itinerary fixed or flexible?
The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, but the main stops—Koufonisia and Iraklia—are guaranteed.

Are there any additional costs?
Fuel surcharge, tips, Wi-Fi, transport on the islands, and lunch or cocktails on the islands are not included and may be additional expenses.

This tour is a solid choice for travelers seeking a luxurious, authentic, and scenic day on the sea. With stunning water views, peaceful islands, and excellent onboard amenities, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into Greece’s quieter side—perfect for those who value comfort and extraordinary landscapes in equal measure.

You can check availability for your dates here: