Santorini 3 Islands Trip Sailing Wooden Boat

The Santorini 3 Islands Trip Sailing Wooden Boat offers a budget-friendly way to explore some of the most captivating sights around Santorini. Priced at $40.52 per person, this tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet affordable experience. Starting from Fira’s old port, the trip departs at 11:30 am, and the group size is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a cozy and personalized atmosphere.

This tour is especially suited for visitors interested in volcano exploration, swimming in hot springs, and discovering traditional island life. The itinerary combines engaging activities with scenic sailing, guided by bilingual guides in English and Greek. While it does not include food, the affordable price and well-paced stops make this trip attractive for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $40.52 per person for nearly 6 hours of island exploration
• Includes visits to Santorini Volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia Island
• Two guided stops with included admission tickets for volcano and hot springs
• A relaxed pace with plenty of swimming and free time on Thirassia
• Departure from Fira’s Old Port at 11:30 am, with a maximum group size of 50
• Guides speak both English and Greek, providing clear explanations throughout

Departing from Fira’s Old Port at 11:30 am

The tour begins at Santorini Excursions – Dakoutros Bros in the Fira Old Port area. This central starting point makes it easy to join, especially since it’s near public transportation options. The boat itself is a charming wooden vessel, adding a traditional touch to the sailing experience. The departure time of 11:30 am ensures you get plenty of daylight for the activities ahead.

The group size is limited to 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. The tour offers a full briefing upon departure, setting expectations for the stops and activities to come.

Exploring the Santorini Volcano and Craters

The first stop is the Santorini Volcano, where the ship remains for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Travelers have the opportunity to walk approximately 20 minutes up a walkable path to reach the active craters. This ascent is manageable and well worth the effort.

Once at the top, you can observe steam escaping from the surface and smell the sulfur, which adds to the volcanic atmosphere. The guides provide explanations about the volcano’s activity, helping to contextualize what you’re seeing. The admission to the volcano is included in the tour fee, making this a convenient experience.

This visit offers a rare chance to get close to an active volcanic site without the heavy crowds often found on larger excursions. The walk up and the views from the top make it a highlight of the trip.

Swimming in Palaia Kameni’s Hot Springs

After exploring the volcano, the boat moves to Palaia Kameni, where hot springs await. The boat anchors just outside a small bay, near Agios Nikolaos. From here, a ladder is lowered into the water, allowing guests to swim about 30 meters to reach the famous mud baths.

The water temperature ranges between 30-35°C, constantly mixing with seawater, providing a warm and soothing experience. The 30-minute swimming stop gives plenty of time to enjoy the mud baths, which are believed to have skin and health benefits.

Since the island lacks beaches, this is mainly a swimming stop rather than a lounging spot. The inclusion of admission tickets simplifies logistics, so no additional costs are necessary, apart from optional souvenirs or extra treatments.

Free Time and Exploration on Thirassia Island

Following the volcanic activities and hot springs, the boat sails to Thirassia, a smaller island offering a quiet, authentic Greek island atmosphere. Here, visitors are granted 2 hours of free time to enjoy.

During this period, the options include swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Korfos or wandering through the traditional village of Manolas. The village is charming, with narrow streets and stunning views of Santorini across the caldera. Many choose to visit on foot or by donkeys, adding to the local experience.

The free time allows for a relaxed exploration, with the chance to sample some local dishes at traditional taverns, or simply soak in the scenic views. This break is thoughtfully timed, allowing travelers to unwind amid picturesque surroundings before heading back.

Sailing Near Oia for Scenic Photo Opportunities

As the tour winds down, the boat begins its return journey, sailing near Oia’s volcanic cliffs, famous for their striking landscapes. This segment offers excellent photo opportunities of the caldera, with sweeping views of the rugged coastline and sunset-worthy scenery.

While the trip doesn’t include a specific sightseeing stop here, the proximity to Oia provides a scenic conclusion to the day’s adventure. The sailor guides help point out the most photogenic spots along the way, making this a memorable visual highlight.

Practicalities and Group Experience

The tour is designed for comfort and ease. The meeting point at the Fira Old Port is easily accessible, and the vessel’s classic wooden boat adds a traditional feel that enhances the sailing experience. The guides speak both English and Greek, ensuring clear explanations and friendly interaction.

Since snacks and additional food are not included in the price, travelers should plan accordingly if they wish to bring snacks or purchase on the islands. The volcano entrance fee of $5 is an extra cost if not included in the ticket, but it’s generally straightforward to pay on-site.

This experience is not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions, given the physical activity involved and the natural terrain of the volcano walk.

Why Choose This Tour? Value and Versatility

At just over $40, this tour offers excellent value for money, with guided visits to key volcanic sites, hot springs, and Thirassia Island. The well-paced itinerary balances activity and leisure, making it suitable for a broad range of visitors.

The inclusion of admission tickets simplifies the experience, and the friendly, bilingual guides help bring the sights to life. Though it doesn’t feature luxury amenities, it delivers a charming, authentic sailing adventure that captures the essence of Santorini’s volcanic landscape.

Final Thoughts on the Santorini 3 Islands Trip Sailing Wooden Boat

This affordable sailing tour stands out for its authentic wooden boat experience and carefully curated stops. It caters well to those who enjoy moderate physical activity, scenic views, and local culture. The hot springs, volcano, and Thirassia village provide a well-rounded taste of Santorini’s volcanic and island life.

While the tour doesn’t include food, the price point and included attractions make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers. The friendly guides and informative explanations enhance the overall experience, making it both enjoyable and educational.

In summary, this trip is best suited for families, couples, and solo visitors seeking a relaxed yet engaging day on the water. It’s a solid option for anyone wanting a traditional boat experience without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour offers discounted rates for children and generally suits most ages, though physical activity like walking up the volcano should be considered for young children.

Are food or drinks included?
No, snacks and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring their own if desired. The tour does not provide meals.

What is the best time of day to join?
The tour departs at 11:30 am and lasts nearly 6 hours, making it ideal for enjoying the daylight and scenic views during the afternoon.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the volcano entrance fee of $5 is payable if not included in the ticket. Other optional expenses could include souvenirs or extra treatments at the hot springs.

Can I swim at the hot springs?
Yes, the hot springs are specifically designed for swimming, with a ladder into the water and a 30-minute window for enjoying the mud baths.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The volcano walk involves some walking uphill on a manageable path, but it may not be suitable for guests with serious mobility limitations.