From Rethymno: Full-Day Trip to Santorini by Boat

Discover the charm of Santorini on this full-day trip from Rethymno, offered by PLATANOS TOURS for $234 per person. The tour spans approximately 13 hours, combining a high-speed ferry ride with guided excursions around the island’s most iconic spots. Expect stunning views of the caldera, visits to Oia and Fira, and opportunities for free time to explore or shop. This experience is ideal for those wanting to see the highlights of Santorini in a single day, though the schedule is quite packed and requires good pacing.

The tour is well-rated, holding a 4 out of 5 stars based on 265 reviews, with many appreciating the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery. It includes boat tickets, transportation on the island, and an optional hotel pickup, providing a convenient way to visit Santorini without the hassle of planning individual transfers. However, travelers should be prepared for a long day, with significant time on the ferry and walking, and limited time at each stop, especially in Oia.

Key Points

• Cost: $234 per person for a comprehensive day trip from Rethymno
• Duration: 13 hours, including ferry rides, guided tours, and free time
• Transport: High-speed catamaran from Crete to Santorini, plus bus tours around the island
• Highlights: Oia, Fira, caldera views, optional boat ride to the volcano
• Includes: Boat tickets and transportation on Santorini, optional hotel pickup
• Limitations: Fast-paced schedule, limited time at major stops, not suitable for wheelchair users

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From Rethymno to Santorini by Ferry: A Scenic 2.75-Hour Voyage

This tour departs from the port of Rethymno, where travelers receive their ferry tickets in advance to board the luxury high-speed catamaran. The 2.75-hour ferry ride is the centerpiece of the journey, offering a chance to enjoy the Aegean Sea’s views. The boat features snack and drink options and restrooms, making the crossing more comfortable.

Travelers should note that the ferry ride can be choppier than expected, with some experiencing motion sickness, and the ride may extend beyond the expected time. Arriving in Santorini, the group is met by a guided bus tour that leads to the island’s most scenic spots. The ferry’s departure times and the overall schedule mean that passengers need to be ready for a long travel day, but the scenic sea crossing is often considered a highlight.

Exploring Santorini’s Iconic Village of Oia

The village of Oia at the northern tip of Santorini is built on the edge of a volcanic caldera, offering some of the most breathtaking views in Greece. The tour includes a guided scenic drive, followed by free time of about 105 minutes to explore the town. Visitors can stroll through picturesque alleys, admire the blue-domed churches, and grab photos of the stunning caldera backdrop.

Oia is renowned as a romantic spot, especially at sunset, though the tour only allows a short window for sightseeing. The guide provides a brief tour of the area, but many visitors find this is just enough time to take a few pictures and enjoy the atmosphere. Some may find the crowds overwhelming during peak season, but the views are undeniably beautiful.

Fira’s Vibrant Streets and Scenic Cliffs

Next, the tour moves to Fira, the bustling capital of Santorini. After a guided bus tour and a scenic drive, travelers are given approximately 2 hours of free time to explore. Fira’s winding alleys are lined with shops, cafes, and bars, many offering stunning viewpoints of the volcano and caldera.

Participants can browse local souvenirs, enjoy a drink with a view, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The tour guide leads a photo stop and provides insight into the town’s architecture and history, making this part of the trip both scenic and informative. The quick pace means visitors should prioritize their favorite activities within the available time.

Optional Boat Trip to the Volcano

A notable feature of this tour is the chance to visit the volcano up close by boat, if available. This optional excursion costs an additional €20 and offers a closer view of the volcanic caldera. It is a popular add-on, providing a unique perspective not available from land alone.

However, access to the volcano may depend on weather and sea conditions, and availability can vary. The boat ride to the volcano is an alternative to walking uphill, but some reviews suggest that it can be stressful due to the quick pace, especially if you choose to visit the beach afterward. The boat option is ideal for those wanting an up-close look at the volcanic site.

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Free Time at Fira and Oia

The tour includes free time at both Oia and Fira, but the durations are fairly limited—around 1 hour and 20 minutes in Oia, and about 2 hours and 50 minutes in Fira. This means visitors should plan their must-see sights or shopping priorities accordingly.

Many appreciate the opportunity to walk the alleys, take photos, and browse local shops, but some note that the tight schedule limits exploration, especially in Oia, which is known for its picturesque architecture. The short visits reflect the tour’s goal to maximize sightseeing within one day.

Return Journey to Rethymno

In the evening, travelers board the ferry for the return trip to Crete. The 2.75-hour boat ride back features similar amenities as the outward journey. The tour concludes at the port of Rethymno, where guests are either dropped off at their hotel if pickup was included or at the port.

The overall schedule is designed to make the most of the day, but it leaves little room for extended sightseeing. The long travel hours mean the trip demands a good level of stamina and patience.

Practical Tips for the Trip

Guests should bring their passport or ID for identification purposes during the ferry crossing. The tour recommends arriving early at the dock, ideally before 7:30 am, to ensure smooth boarding. While snacks and drinks are available on the boat, bringing some personal supplies can enhance comfort.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the transportation and stops. The small group format allows for more personalized attention, but the fast schedule may feel rushed for some travelers.

The Overall Value and Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This full-day Santorini trip offers a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s most famous sights, combined with scenic sea crossings. The price reflects the inclusion of boat tickets and transportation, along with insights from English, German, French, Russian, and Polish guides.

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, especially the views from Oia and Fira. The optional volcano boat ride adds a memorable element, though it costs extra. The long travel hours and limited stop times mean this tour is best suited for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing in one day and are comfortable with a fast-paced schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option; otherwise, you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride from Rethymno to Santorini and back lasts approximately 2.75 hours each way.

Can I visit the volcano?
Yes, there is an optional boat trip to the volcano available for an additional fee of €20.

How much free time do I get in Oia and Fira?
You get about 105 minutes in Oia and around 2 hours and 50 minutes in Fira to explore and take photos.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of transportation and terrain.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring their passport or ID and some personal supplies for comfort during the ferry and walking.

How do I know where to meet the guide?
You will receive your ferry tickets in advance, and the guide will find you on the boat before arriving in Santorini.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The scenic ferry crossing combined with visits to Oia and Fira, offering spectacular views of the caldera and the chance to explore two of the island’s most picturesque towns.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those wanting a cost-effective way to see Santorini’s highlights in a single day, with the convenience of guided tours and transportation included.

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