1-Day Boat Trip: Santorini Volcano, Thirassia & Oia Sunset

This 1-Day Boat Trip in Santorini offers a memorable journey through some of the island’s most iconic sights, all for $64 per person. With a 9-hour duration, this tour combines active volcano exploration, relaxing hot springs, and scenic island visits, making it ideal for travelers seeking an adventurous and scenic day. The tour departs from Athinios port, with hotel pickup included in popular locations like Fira, Imerovigli, Kamari, Ia, and Perissa. A highlight for many is the opportunity to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world in Oia.

While the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, especially Cristos, and well-organized schedule, it tends to run a bit longer than advertised, sometimes exceeding 9 hours. This is worth noting for travelers with limited stamina or tight schedules. Nevertheless, the combination of scenic stops, cultural insights, and relaxing moments makes this trip a solid choice for those eager to see Santorini’s natural wonders and charming villages.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $64 for a full 9-hour experience, including hotel pickup.
• Main Highlights: Visits to Nea Kameni volcano, hot springs, Thirasia, and Oia sunset.
• Expert Guides: Cristos and other guides offer informative, friendly commentary.
• Physical Activity: Involves a moderately strenuous hike to the volcano and some walking on steep stairs.
• Inclusions: Roundtrip hotel transfer and boat tour guide are included; entry fee for the volcano is 5 cash at site.
• Limitations: Boat may not stop at Thirasia until end of June, with snacks available for purchase onboard during this period.

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Embarking from Athinios Port to Active Volcanoes and Hot Springs

The tour begins with hotel pickup and a bus transfer to Athinios port. Once aboard the boat, the adventure starts with a visit to Nea Kameni, an island formed by volcanic activity. Guides lead you along a bumpy trail to reach the active crater, revealing fascinating geological features. Continuing to Palea Kameni, the boat approaches within 50 meters of the green sulfurous thermal springs, where swimming is encouraged. The waters’ distinctive color and mineral content make for a unique experience, although swimming is optional.

This part of the trip offers hands-on encounters with Santorini’s volcanic activity. The hot springs are a favorite stop, providing a chance to splash around or simply relax in the warm waters. The guides explain the significance of these natural features, adding layers of understanding to the scenic experience.

Visiting Thirasia: Old Villages and Rocky Beaches

Following the volcano exploration, the boat sails to Thirasia, a smaller island once part of Santorini before a volcanic eruption separated it. On Thirasia, travelers can swim, eat, or explore the old village of Manola, characterized by spiral staircases and quaint houses. The island offers a more relaxed pace compared to Santorini’s busier towns.

The beach on Thirasia provides the chance to swim or lounge, while the village stroll reveals traditional architecture and local charm. Visitors often enjoy snacking or relaxing on the rocky shores, though the rocky beach may be less ideal for those seeking sandy shores. During the period until end of June, the boat does not stop at Thirasia, and passengers stay onboard, where snacks for purchase are available.

Scenic Return Sailing Past the Cliffs of Ia

After leaving Thirasia, the boat proceeds under Oia, offering viewers spectacular views of the cliffs and colorful houses that make this town famous. The approach to Ia is spectacular, with photo opportunities of the caldera and the whitewashed buildings perched on steep cliffs.

The return trip is an excellent chance to appreciate Santorini’s volcanic landscape from a different perspective. Many appreciate the relaxed cruise, which provides fantastic scenery without the hustle of land-based tours.

Sunset Viewing in Oia Village

The tour continues with a bus transfer to Oia, where travelers can enjoy one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world. This part of the trip is often highlighted as a top memory, with spectacular views of the sun dipping below the horizon, casting golden hues over the cliffside.

The sunset experience lasts approximately 30 minutes, after which the group gathers at the designated pickup point in Oia for the return transfer. The timing is flexible enough to enjoy wandering Oia’s shops and cafes before heading back.

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Practical Details: Transport, Food, and Entry Fees

Roundtrip hotel transfer is included, making logistics straightforward for travelers based in Fira, Imerovigli, Kamari, Ia, or Perissa. The tour features an English-speaking guide, who shares informative commentary throughout the day.

Entry to the volcano costs 5 cash paid on site, and lunch expenses on Thirasia are not included. Interestingly, drinks, sandwiches, and coffee are available for purchase onboard, providing options for snacks and refreshments during the cruise.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for the hike to the volcano, swimwear, a towel, and a jacket for cooler evenings or windy conditions. The tour is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking involved.

Guide Expertise and Personalities

The guides, notably Cristos and Tanja, are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ ability to explain the geology, history, and local stories in a lively manner, adding depth and enjoyment to the experience. Travelers highlight Cristos’s professionalism and Tanja’s engaging storytelling as standout qualities.

Physical Demands and Accessibility

This tour involves moderate physical activity, including a steep hike up the volcano and walking on stairs and uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Travelers are advised to wear good shoes and bring water.

Timing, Pacing, and Overall Organization

The timing of each stop is well-planned, allowing enough time to explore each location and enjoy the scenery. The trip can run longer than 9 hours, so travelers should be prepared for a full day. Some reviews note that the boat may take longer or that the schedule can be tight, especially with the sunset in Oia.

The pick-up process is generally smooth, although some reviews mention initial confusion. The bus drivers are appreciated for their skillful navigation, making the journey comfortable.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

At $64 per person, the tour is considered good value, especially given the inclusion of hotel transfers and guidance. The multiple stops, scenic views, and expert guides contribute to a worthwhile experience.

While some disappointments include longer durations than expected or limited time at Thirasia during certain periods, the tour’s highlight features—such as the volcano hike, hot springs, and Oia sunset—make it a highly recommended option.

Final Thoughts on the Santorini Boat Tour

This 9-hour boat trip offers a comprehensive peek into Santorini’s volcanic heart and charming villages. The guides’ expertise and scenic stops make it a memorable day. The cost is reasonable, considering the transport and guided experiences, and it suits travelers prepared for active walking and some time on the water.

Travelers who enjoy geology, scenic vistas, and sunset views will find this tour especially rewarding. Be mindful of the length and physical demands, and consider bringing extra snacks and cash for optional purchases. Overall, it’s a well-organized, value-packed day that captures the essence of Santorini’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip hotel transfer is included, with pickups from Fira, Imerovigli, Kamari, Ia, and Perissa.

How much does entry to the volcano cost?
The entry fee for the volcano is 5 cash, payable on site.

Can I swim in the hot springs?
Yes, visitors can swim or relax in the green sulfurous waters of Palea Kameni’s hot springs, although swimming is optional.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, this tour requires walking on uneven terrain and steep stairs, making it unsuitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and a jacket. It’s also wise to carry water and cash for entry fees and snacks.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The expert guides, especially Cristos, scenic volcano hikes, hot springs, and the Oia sunset are key highlights. The tour’s value for money and comprehensive itinerary make it a popular choice.

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