Private Thirasia Cruise Review: Lunch/Dinner Stop Included

Have you ever thought about seeing Santorini from a completely different angle? You know, somewhere away from the crowds and those picture-postcard viewpoints everyone’s scrambling for? I did. So, very recently I jumped at the chance to take a private cruise to Thirasia with a stop for either lunch or dinner. Let me tell you, it was quite an experience, and this is my take on it.

What to Expect from Your Private Thirasia Cruise

What’s super important to keep in mind is that this isn’t your typical crammed-boat tour. I’m talking about a private experience, folks. It usually lasts around five hours and focuses on the often-overlooked island of Thirasia, which is right next to Santorini. First off, most tours include pickup from your hotel, so you do not need to worry yourself with arranging transportation to the port. This just made my travel day easier to manage, so very thankful for it. Then, that includes a stop for a meal, whether that will be a relaxed lunch or maybe a sunset dinner, depending on the time you picked for your excursion. That, too, makes a huge difference to your day and plans around that day. But that’s definitely up to you. What is that all about, you may wonder? Well keep on reading.

Setting Sail: The Boat and the Crew

Let’s get to the boats. I had assumed it would be one of those slightly older, tourist-trodden boats but was quite surprised to see a modern catamaran, quite luxurious and well-maintained! It certainly did add to that sense of a “special” day. Actually, that makes a great impact the moment you see it. A professional crew is ready to handle everything. They are quite friendly, really happy to share tidbits about the islands. Honestly, their local knowledge added a cool dimension to the trip. As a matter of fact, it was kinda like hanging out with really experienced friends, is that fair to say? It’s worth asking them about local legends and hidden spots!

Cruising the Caldera: Views You Won’t Forget

Once we pushed off, then the views truly started to unfold. That volcanic caldera is quite striking seen from the water, more so than anything you can experience from the land in my personal experience. You see Oia clinging to the cliffs, little whitewashed houses sparkling brightly in the sunlight – it is indeed breathtaking. Do not worry that the boat is racing across the water, there are loads of great spots to stop for photos, so get your camera out! Keep your eyes open too because I got to see some cool rock formations and caves, which our skipper very keenly pointed out to us, sharing quite a bit of geological history in the process. Basically, that boat offered a great view.

Thirasia Unveiled: A Step Back in Time

Thirasia itself is pretty different from its well known neighbor. You see, Santorini is vibrant, so bustling and well built for the tourists. Now, this one, Thirasia, is much quieter and far less developed, which is exactly why it’s unique, just so it is. As we walked around, it’s almost as if you were going back in time. Villages there look authentic, that, too, undisturbed by all that is modernity. It’s very worth making a bit of an effort to climb up to the church at the top of Manolas – very rewarding panoramic views from up there. Remember too, you get some freedom to explore at your own rate.

Lunch or Dinner with a View: Savoring the Flavors

Ah, now to what could be the best part – that stop for lunch or dinner! Most cruises include this, usually at a restaurant overlooking the water. I tried some incredibly awesome seafood dishes and traditional Greek mezes. It really did feel pretty great enjoying great food with that cool Aegean breeze and those unbeatable views all around, I tell you. Actually, it adds such a special flavor to it, doesn’t it? So, plan your day wisely around that meal. A late afternoon cruise getting you that sunset dinner? Magical stuff, trust me! That just leaves the rest of the trip for quiet enjoyment.

The Swimming Stops: Taking a Dip

Plenty of tours also offer time for you to take a dip right in the Aegean! Is that appealing? The clear, cool waters are super refreshing, it really doesn’t matter when you visit. A few popular swimming spots are around the caldera, with some cruises going so close to the volcano so you can actually swim in the hot springs – quite sulfurous but, yeah, supposed to be quite therapeutic. Yet just a simple swim in that turquoise water is very worth it for its own sake, that feeling of pure freedom in this beautiful location! What is there not to like, that, too.

Who Is This Cruise Right For?

This specific kind of cruise is top-notch for people wanting a more customized experience, that is true. Like, whether that’s a couple wanting some romance, or a group of friends marking an occasion or a family wanting a more special, memorable day together. Do remember that private tours tend to be somewhat more expensive than the group tours. However, you get what you are paying for: a higher quality of attention, flexibility in that schedule and also you do avoid crowds, that can be a huge advantage, yes? Basically, that’s some special time for yourself, too, to experience.

Making the Most of Your Cruise: A Few Tips

What are some other things to note? Firstly, do not forget your sunscreen. The sun there can really beam down on you, more so when you’re out on the water all day. Bring a hat and sunglasses for additional sun protection. And also, do not forget your camera (or your phone) for some amazing shots – every angle offers one fantastic shot! Wearing layers might be an awesome idea, because the weather is rather changeable out at sea. Then make certain you talk with the crew if there’s anything specific you’re wishing to experience or check out. Did I mention I have very great luck? I caught a glimpse of some dolphins while on that cruise. Wow. That made my whole year if I’m really honest. Basically, just be ready to have fun and relax to enjoy this once in a lifetime day.

Booking Your Cruise: What You Need to Know

It’s often best to reserve a cruise ahead of time, particularly in the peak tourist season which is of course summer, isn’t it? That can also ensure you get that perfect time slot. Look online at different companies and tour operators, read every review thoroughly and do make certain that all inclusions are clear as day to see what’s included within that price, for example the food, drinks and transportation. Always verify that the boat possesses the correct licenses and safety equipment because those are very serious factors. Also, find out what the cancellation policy is before committing to it. Actually, compare a handful of tours, that might give you the better deal.

#Santorini #Thirasia #PrivateCruise #Greece #IslandHopping #TravelReview