Key Points

12-hour guided tour from Rethymno to Santorini with high-speed ferry transportation
Includes guided bus sightseeing of Oia and Fira, with free time at each stop
Ferry tickets for the fastest, most comfortable ships provided, with open decks and air conditioning
Guided tour available in English, French, and German, with professional staff at the port
Additional insurance and information support included for peace of mind
Transfers from Rethymno hotels can be arranged, but extra charges may apply outside the region

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience the High-Speed Journey from Crete to Santorini

This guided tour offers a convenient way to visit Santorini in just one day from Rethymno on Crete. The trip begins at the SeaJets port in Rethymno, where travelers board a comfortable, fast cruise ship that takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Santorini. The vessel features an open deck perfect for enjoying Greece’s sea breeze and panoramic views, along with air-conditioned lounges for comfort during the trip.

The ferry tickets are for the fastest ships, ensuring a quick and smooth crossing. The English-speaking staff at the port helps with boarding and provides essential information, making the experience seamless. Despite potential delays in the return trip, the bus transfer in Crete always aligns with the ship’s arrival, providing a reliable schedule for travelers.

Exploring Santorini’s Iconic Towns: Oia and Fira

After arriving at Santorini’s Athinios port, a bus guided tour begins, taking travelers through the island’s most famous spots, Oia and Fira. At each location, there’s free time to explore at your own pace, which allows for personal photos, shopping, or simply soaking in the views.

Oia is renowned for its stunning sunset vistas, charming narrow streets, and iconic blue-domed churches. Fira offers lively cafes, shops, and panoramic caldera views that make it a must-see spot. The guided bus tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, and German, making it accessible for diverse visitors.

The stops are designed to give a balanced experience, with enough time for sightseeing and exploring, yet organized to maintain the schedule. This makes it ideal for visitors who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Visiting the Santorini Volcano by Boat Cruise

One of the tour’s key highlights is the 40-minute boat cruise to visit the Santorini volcano. Departing from the main bus route, this boat ride offers a close-up view of the volcanic island and the opportunity to learn about the island’s fiery past. The boat cruise is included in the itinerary and provides a unique perspective of Santorini’s volcanic landscape.

This part of the tour is especially appreciated for the scenic views and the chance to see the island’s geological features up close. Weather conditions or sea state can influence the experience, but the cruise generally offers stunning photo opportunities and a memorable experience.

Timing and Pacing of the Tour

The total duration of the tour is approximately 12 hours, with 6 hours spent in Santorini and about 2 hours and 30 minutes on the ferry each way. The tour starts early in the morning and includes free time in Oia and Fira, allowing visitors to customize their experience at each stop.

The timing is designed for a full-day adventure, so travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule. The ferry trips are scheduled to maximize time on the island, but there may be delays in the departure from Santorini, which are balanced by the reliable bus transfer in Crete.

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Logistics: Pickup, Transfers, and Meeting Points

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Rethymno; travelers are contacted after booking with specific pickup details. The bus stops at main roads in Rethymno for transfer, and travelers should ensure they specify their location during booking for smooth pickup arrangements.

Upon arriving at Heraklion port, staff assist with exchanging vouchers for ferry tickets, streamlining the boarding process. The return journey follows the same process, ending back at the original meeting point in Rethymno.

It’s important to arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before the ferry departs. The tour does not include hotel transfers in Crete, but optional transfers are available for an extra charge outside the Rethymno region.

Inclusions and Extras: What’s in the Package

This tour package covers ferry tickets on the fastest, most comfortable ships, and guidance in your chosen language. It also includes additional insurance for participants and comprehensive information support before and during the trip, which helps ensure a smooth experience.

The English-speaking staff at the port assists with boarding, and the tour is led by a professional guide in multiple languages. The informative brochure provided at the port offers helpful details about the trip, and the ferry tickets are issued at the SeaJet kiosk.

Not Included: Additional Costs and Considerations

Travelers should note that the tour does not include transfers from hotels outside Rethymno, and food or drinks are not provided during the day. If travelers wish to explore beyond the scheduled stops, they will need to make arrangements independently.

Extra charges may apply for pick-up outside the designated Rethymno area, and those not booking from Rethymno itself should verify costs beforehand.

The Experience of the Guided Bus Tour in Santorini

The guided bus tour of Santorini is led by professional guides fluent in English, French, and German. These guides help visitors learn about the island’s volcanic history, legends, and local culture as they travel between Oia and Fira.

The free time allows for personal exploration, shopping, and taking photographs of the famous caldera views, with the guides available for questions and insight. The miniature group sizes and organized schedule make this a practical way to see the island’s highlights without stress.

Practical Tips for the Day

It’s advisable to dress comfortably and bring a jacket or layer, as the ship has active air conditioning. Arrive early at the port to avoid missing the ferry, and ensure your voucher is exchanged for tickets at the SeaJet kiosk.

Transportation from hotels in Rethymno is arranged, but travelers outside this area should consider the extra costs for the transfer. Booking in advance guarantees availability and helps coordinate pickup details.

Why Choose This Santorini Tour from Rethymno

This 12-hour guided tour offers a well-organized way to visit Santorini from Crete, combining fast ferry travel, guided sightseeing, and free time at the island’s main towns. The ferry experience is highlighted by the open deck and comfortable lounges, making the crossing enjoyable regardless of weather.

The multi-language guided tour ensures clear explanations and engaging storytelling, especially about Santorini’s volcanic past and legends. The inclusion of additional insurance and professional staff adds to the sense of security and comfort.

While the tour is ideal for those looking for a full-day trip, it’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a structured schedule with the flexibility of free exploration. The price of $226 per person reflects the convenience and inclusions, making it a solid choice for visitors wanting to maximize their time in Santorini without the hassle of planning transportation or guides.

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Santorini Island: Guided Tour from the port Rethymno Crete

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry trip from Crete to Santorini?
The ferry journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes each way on a high-speed ship.
What stops are included in the guided tour?
The tour includes free time in Oia and Fira, the two most famous towns on Santorini.
Is there any guided commentary during the bus tour?
Yes, the guided bus tour is led by professional guides in English, French, and German.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.
What is the duration of the entire trip?
The total duration is about 12 hours, including ferry rides, sightseeing, and free time.
Can I book transfers from hotels outside Rethymno?
Extra charges may apply for pickup outside the Rethymno area.
What should I bring for the boat cruise?
Bringing a jacket for the air-conditioned ship and camera for photos is recommended.
Is the schedule flexible?
The schedule is organized but includes free time for exploration, with timing subject to minor delays.
How do I receive my ferry tickets?
Upon arrival at Heraklion port, staff assist with exchanging your voucher for ferry tickets at the SeaJet kiosk.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with standing and walking during stops, it’s suitable for most age groups.
You can check availability for your dates here:

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