From Old Port:Volcanic Islands Boat Trip & Hot Spring Visit

Explore Santorini’s Volcanic Landscape in Just 3 Hours

This boat trip from the Old Port of Fira offers a compact yet memorable glimpse of Santorini’s volcanic wonders. Priced with an admission fee of €5 for the volcano, it includes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring Nea Kamenis’s active craters and 30 minutes soaking in Palea Kamenis’s hot springs. Departing twice daily at 11:00 AM and 14:15 PM, the tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a thorough experience of Santorini’s volcanic sites.

With a duration of 3 hours, the trip balances sightseeing, activity, and relaxation. The group size remains manageable, and the live English-speaking guide ensures informative commentary throughout. The tour’s focus on natural features makes it especially appealing for those eager to see volcanic activity up close and enjoy a soothing swim in thermal waters.

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Visiting the Old Port of Fira: Starting Point for Volcanic Adventures

The tour begins at the Old Port of Fira, also known as Gialos, located just below the town of Fira. Travelers arrive by either cable car ride (costing €6) or by walking down the 587 steps. The descent offers spectacular views of the Caldera and cliffside cave houses, setting the scene for a scenic day at sea.

Upon arrival at the port, guides from the Santo Star travel office welcome guests, providing tickets and final instructions. The short 15-minute boat ride to the volcano bay quickly transports everyone to the heart of Santorini’s volcanic activity, signaling the start of a dynamic and visually impressive trip.

Navigating the Volcanic Craters of Nea Kameni

The main highlight of the tour is the visit to Nea Kamenis, a small island dominated by dramatic volcanic craters. The boat docks near the island, where passengers have around 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore. An optional trail hike to the top allows visitors to get up close to the active craters, which emit smoke and showcase the island’s ongoing geological activity.

The views here are a major draw, with stunning volcanic formations and bubbling vents making the experience both impressive and educational. The guides provide detailed explanations, helping visitors understand the volcanic processes shaping Santorini.

Palaia Kammeni and the Hot Springs: A Relaxing Thermal Escape

Next, the tour heads to Palaia Kammeni, a smaller volcanic island famous for its hot springs and mud baths. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, during which visitors can swim in the thermal waters and enjoy the sensation of a warm, soothing bath formed by volcanic eruptions over the years.

The water temperature varies depending on the season, but generally remains warmer than the surrounding sea currents, providing a healthy, relaxing experience. The hot springs are a highlight for those seeking a combination of natural beauty and physical comfort, with the setting offering a peaceful escape after the volcanic hiking.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Tour Logistics

The tour starts at the Old Port of Fira (Gialos), with easy access via cable car or stairs. Travelers who choose the cable car pay €10 per person round-trip, but this cost is not included in the tour fee. The guides are waiting at the Santo Star travel office at the port, where tickets are issued and final instructions are given.

The return is directly to Fira’s Old Port, ending the tour at the same meeting point. The 3-hour duration makes the tour convenient for those with tight schedules or looking for a quick yet comprehensive experience.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This activity includes a visit to Santorini’s volcano for 1 hour and 30 minutes and a 30-minute swim in thermal waters. However, there are additional costs for the volcano entrance (€5) and the cable car ride (€6), which are not included in the tour price. Travelers should also bring a towel, as it’s not provided.

Notably, pets are not allowed, and visitors should be prepared for easy walking and some light hiking on the volcanic trails. The guided commentary is provided in English, ensuring clear explanations throughout the trip.

The Experience Provider and Booking Flexibility

Offered by 1st Choice Santorini, this tour features the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans. The reserve now, pay later option allows travelers to secure a spot without immediate payment and keep their options open.

This 3-hour cruise is an accessible and efficient way to experience the island’s volcanic highlights, especially suited for those who prefer a shorter, guided excursion that balances activity and relaxation.

The Views and Atmosphere on the Water

The boat ride itself offers beautiful perspectives of Santorini’s cliffs and caldera, with stunning scenery on the way to the volcanic sites. The small boat setting ensures a personalized feel and close-up views of the volcanic islands.

The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, providing insights into the volcano’s activity and geological history. The relaxing swim in the thermal waters completes the trip, giving an extra layer of enjoyment amid natural beauty.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This shorter, focused trip is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want an immersive experience of Santorini’s volcanic features. It suits those interested in geology, natural hot springs, and scenic boat rides.

The moderate physical activity involved in hiking around Nea Kamenis and swimming in the hot springs makes it suitable for most healthy visitors, but those with mobility concerns should consider the walking involved in descending the steps at the port.

Limitations and Considerations

While the adventure is packed into three hours, the costs for the volcano entrance and cable car are additional expenses. The hot springs’ water temperature can vary with the season, which may influence comfort.

The group size is manageable, but space on the boat and at stops can be limited during peak times. Travelers should bring a towel to enjoy the thermal waters comfortably, as towels are not provided by the tour.

Final Thoughts on the Santorini Volcanic Islands Trip

This 3-hour boat tour from Fira offers an efficient, engaging way to experience Santorini’s volcanic activity and soothing hot springs. Its manageable duration, live guide, and scenic stops make it a popular choice for visitors wanting a compact yet comprehensive adventure.

The stunning views, active craters, and thermal baths are the core attractions that set this tour apart. Although there are additional costs for entry and transport, the overall value remains high for those seeking a short, scenic escape into Santorini’s volcanic soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific departure times at 11:00 AM and 14:15 PM.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Old Port of Fira (Gialos) and ends back at the same location.

What is included in the price?
Visit to the volcano (1 hour 30 minutes) and swim in the hot springs (30 minutes) are included.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, the volcano entrance fee of €5 and the cable car ride of €6 are extra. Towels are not included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It involves light hiking and swimming, making it generally suitable for most healthy travelers. Those with mobility issues should consider the steps involved at the port.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a towel for the hot springs. It’s also wise to wear comfortable shoes for walking on volcanic terrain.

Is there a guide on the tour?
Yes, an English-speaking guide provides live commentary during the trip.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I get to the meeting point?
You can take the cable car (€6 round-trip) or walk down 587 steps to reach the Old Port.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of volcanic crater exploration, hot springs, and manageable 3-hour duration make it a balanced and scenic experience suitable for a wide range of travelers.

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