Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Cruise Tour from Fira Old Port
Description
Your adventure begins at the old port of Fira, where you'll board a traditional boat to explore Santorini's volcanic wonders. The first stop is the famous volcano, where you’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring its unique terrain. A 5€ entrance fee grants access to the volcanic trails. Guided by your tour escort, you’ll uncover key landmarks and fascinating stories about the volcano’s history and eruptions. The hike requires moderate effort and sturdy footwear, so come prepared for an unforgettable journey to the summit with breathtaking views. Next, sail to the natural hot springs at Palea Kameni. To reach the warm, sulfur-rich waters, you’ll need to swim 30-50 meters from the boat to the shore. This activity is recommended only for strong swimmers due to the required distance. Relax in the therapeutic, mineral-rich waters before returning to the boat, carrying unforgettable memories of Santorini’s natural wonders.
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.
Highlights
What's included
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.
- To avoid delays, arrive at the cable car or start walking 45 minutes before departure.
- 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(1,296)
In general, the tour was as expected. Clean boat, plenty of seating and smooth sailing. However, a couple of things occurred that turned me off during the hot springs portion,. First, it had not been mentioned in the Advertised details that you must be a strong swimmer since the boat puts down its anchor about 30 to 60 meters away from the hot springs. Secondly, my husband was rudely challenged by one of the boat’s personnel (not sure what role he actually had as he did not identify himself) when he went to enter the water with his flippers on. It is okay to ask if someone is a strong swimmer but not to argue the point once they respond.
Don't do that, it's not hot spring, there is no spring your swim wear will be brown and the stain will stay there forever, top of the volcano 🌋 there is nothing Just wasting your 1 hour
Excellent tour. Great guide and good English. Timing was spot on. 1hr before tour start time is excessive. Line up starts approx 30 min before but boarding at 10 min before. If you are planning to walk down the steps from Fira to old port and review says 30 min - it is more. With donkeys going up and down it is about 45 min - 3 cruises and thus busy.
This was a great adventure for 3 hours. The only thing to note is you leave from the okf port and if like me youve a child that wont go on a cable car.... youve to walk down. Or get a donkey! The volcano is worth a visit and amazing views. The boat is fabulous and lovely staff on board.
Especially with the walking path out of service, leaving directly from the Old Port in Fira avoids the massive line for the cable car when arriving by cruise ship. Hot walk up the volcano but a nice cool dip afterwards.
We were delighted with the excursion; the staff was helpful and friendly. Satisfied to have done it. The swimming was very, very refreshing.
Very efficient. Hike up to volcano is a bit tough but a few short stops. Bring plenty water/snacks. Hot springs are great fun. Need to be a fairly confident swimmer and comfortable swimming in the sea but you can also get pool noodles. Definitely worth every penny.
Fantastic day out with an excellent and knowledgeable tour guide. Staff were organized, everything ran to time. Very enjoyable for an easy day out in Santorini
Very friendly staff, nice boat trip and chance for a swim in the warm water of the volcanic pools. Take an old swimsuit as the water can stain. Beware, the walk on the volcanic National Park is very hot in summer and strenuous.
First of all nothing but great things to say about the hike up the volcano, the guide, and the swim in the hot springs. The woman at the port was rude and kicked us out of the room to wait for the boat. Then we came back at the time she told us again was rude and other people were then sitting in the office that we were kicked out of. No communication of boat name or where it would dock on the port, therefore when it was time to board we had to move again. So generally the woman at check in ruined the experience before it started. The boat and excursion made it 4/5 stars.
