Santorini Caldera Cruise Tour (Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia)
Description
Your journey begins based on your selection: with pickup from Athinios Port, or without pickup from the Old Port of Fira. The first stop is the volcano, where you’ll have 1.5 hours to hike its rugged trails and explore its unique landscape. A 5€ entrance fee is required to access the volcano. Your tour escort will guide you along the paths, sharing fascinating stories about its history and eruptions. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for this moderate hike, which rewards you with stunning panoramic views at the summit. Next, sail to the hot springs at Palea Kameni. The boat will anchor 30-50 meters from the springs, requiring a swim to reach the warm, sulfur-rich waters. This activity is recommended only for strong swimmers due to the distance. The final stop is Thirassia, where you can explore its charming villages, take in breathtaking views, or savor a delicious meal at a traditional taverna before returning to your starting port.
Tour Options
Itinerary
As your boat nears the volcanic island, its rugged cliffs and stark beauty set the stage for your adventure. Step ashore and begin a guided hike along volcanic trails as your tour escort shares the island’s fascinating geological history and stories of its eruptions. A 5€ entrance fee is required to access the volcano. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat, and carry water to stay hydrated during the hike. At the summit, enjoy sweeping views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea, surrounded by the raw power of nature. Steam vents and volcanic rock formations create a truly mesmerizing, otherworldly landscape. After taking in the views and captivating stories, return to the boat with unforgettable memories. Always follow your tour escort’s guidance for a safe and enjoyable experience.
The next stop is the island of Palea Kameni, home to the renowned hot springs nestled on its west side. Here, you’ll have 30 minutes to experience the rejuvenating thermal waters, celebrated for their rich volcanic minerals and therapeutic properties. The boat will anchor approximately 30-40 meters from the springs, and you’ll need to swim this distance to reach the warm, orange-hued waters. Surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes, this is a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s healing embrace. Please note, this activity is best suited for comfortable swimmers, as the swim requires confidence and stamina. For those who venture into the waters, it’s a moment of pure relaxation and connection with Santorini’s unique volcanic energy. Afterward, return to the boat, refreshed and recharged, to continue your unforgettable journey.
The final stop of your journey is the picturesque island of Thirassia, a quiet gem in the caldera untouched by time. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore traditional Greek villages, stroll through charming narrow streets, and admire breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. For those seeking relaxation, unwind by the waterfront or enjoy a refreshing swim. Food lovers can indulge in a delicious meal at one of the local tavernas, savoring authentic Santorini flavors. Whether you choose to explore, dine, or simply relax, Thirassia offers a perfect glimpse of the tranquil island life before heading back to your starting port. The cruise will end 30 minutes earlier than usual during this period.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Traveler pickup is available at an additional cost. We have specific pickup points available. If you are unsure of the nearest one, please provide us with the name of your current or future accommodation upon reservation. We will select the closest pickup point for you and inform you of the exact location and pickup time.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- For the volcano tour, wear comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and bring water.
- Dark swimsuits are recommended to avoid sulfur stains.
- A minibar is available on board for water and snacks.
- Bring sunscreen for sunny days or a light jacket if it’s windy.
- Swimming in the hot springs is not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart issues or serious medical conditions.
Reviews(1,402)
We really enjoyed the Caldera tour, visiting the Nea Kameni volcano, hotsprings and Thirassia island. The views were amazing and the guide provided interesting information on the Santorini island complex, history of the volcanic erruptions and formation of the Caldera, and the different regions/towns of the main Fira island. Climbing the volcano was worth the beautiful panoramic views of the whole of Santorini - would definitely recommend suitable footwear for this. The climb wasn't too intensive but you will need a basic level of fitness. The hotsprings were fun for a refreshing dip in the sea, but as advised the sulfur waters can stain your costume (mine was purple and still stained) - definitely avoid white/light coloured costumes. They were comparatively warmer than the rest of the sea, but not as hot as the name "hotsprings" may suggest. Still a very cool experience. The stop in Thirassia was cut short to 1hr 20mins for some reason, but we still enjoyed the visit to the pretty port of the island, with restaurants, cafes, and a pebbly beach where you can swim or sunbathe. I will say that a lot of the food options there are quite overpriced/tourist trap vibes, as is typical for Santorini, so do your research if you want to find a more budget option. The boat felt safe and was great for enjoying the sun & views of Santorini. Although other reviews have sometimes reported overcrowding, this was not our experience despite visiting in mid August. Overall would definitely recommend, a great way to get to know the island in 1 day!
Very well organized. Visitors need to be in a decent state of health for an uphill climb to watch the effects of the volcanoes which is one part of the trip.
Great views, good food at the last stop. The waves were choppy that day and it was still a blast. For the price you get a lot for a whole day
A very well-organized outing and, above all, with an excellent guide (Spyros). The stop times are very well organized and each stop is enjoyable. Highly recommended to book this outing to spend a beautiful day on the boat and visit other islands.
Quite chilled boat trip the third stop is the best to get food and the swim in the water is very good
The pickup option does indeed drop off at the same location as the initial pickup. There is indeed a French guide (even if he is alone, he speaks several languages).
The tour was very pleasant, the guide seemed to like what was doing explained everything about the island, this made our experience to be richer in Santorini, and the price is much lower than the others, we went to beautiful places and took good photos, a cheap good
Beautiful experience. The guide explains everything with passion, first in English and then in Greek. There is some walking to do, but it is definitely worth it.
A very beautiful day, the excursion to the volcano is really worth doing, a little short for swimming but a really beautiful moment.
You visit things that are not possible otherwise. You spend a very pleasant day. You don't actually visit the town, there is no time to go up.
