Santorini Port: Cruise to Volcano, Hot Springs & Thirassia
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Reservations
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Seating areas
History
Santorini’s caldera was born from a cataclysmic eruption around 1600 BCE—one of the largest in human history—that collapsed the island’s center and may have inspired the Atlantis myth. Nea Kameni, the volcanic islet at the heart of the caldera, emerged in 1707 and remains active, with its last eruption in 1950.
Palea Kameni’s hot springs are fed by underwater vents heated by magma just 300 meters below, rich in iron and sulfur. Thirassia, once part of ancient Thira, was severed by the great explosion, preserving a quieter, traditional Cycladic lifestyle untouched by mass tourism.
Highlights
- Hike to the steaming crater of Nea Kameni active volcano
- Soak in therapeutic, iron-rich hot springs at Palea Kameni
- Free time to explore the serene island of Thirassia
- Sail through Santorini’s dramatic caldera with audio commentary
- On-board bar with drinks available for purchase
Full Description
Begin your journey from either Fira Old Port or Athinios Port (with pickup option) and sail into the sunken caldera aboard a traditional wooden kaiki. As you glide past towering red and black cliffs, audio commentary reveals the island’s explosive past.
Dock at Nea Kameni for an optional self-guided hike (20–30 minutes) along a rugged path to the crater’s edge, where sulfur fumes rise from warm ground. Continue to Palea Kameni, anchoring near mud-colored thermal springs—wade in with provided foam noodles as the water warms to 35°C.
Conclude on Thirassia, a peaceful escape with whitewashed houses and panoramic caldera views. Wander the car-free village, climb to Manolas via donkey (extra cost) or 300+ steps, or relax at a seaside taverna. Return via a scenic sunset-tinted sail.
Why Choose This Experience?
This classic half-day cruise is the most authentic way to experience Santorini’s volcanic soul without strenuous trekking. A local guide and multilingual audio narration provide depth, while the traditional boat and small group size keep the vibe intimate.
From geothermal swims to quiet island exploration, it balances adventure, relaxation, and culture—perfect for cruise passengers or those staying in Fira/Oia with limited time.
What’s Included
- 6-hour traditional kaiki boat cruise in the caldera
- English-speaking local guide on boat
- Audio commentary (multiple languages)
- Self-guided hike on Nea Kameni (volcano entry fee €5 payable on site)
- Hot springs swim stop with foam pool noodles
- Free time on Thirassia Island
- On-board bar (drinks at own expense)
- Optional hotel pickup/drop-off (from accessible points)
- Safety briefing and emergency life jackets
- Port authority registration (names/DOB required at booking)
Itinerary
- Meeting at Fira Old Port (10:15 am) or Athinios Port (with pickup, 9:45 am)
- Sail into caldera with audio guide
- Nea Kameni – optional volcano hike (60–75 minutes total)
- Palea Kameni – hot springs swim (30 minutes)
- Thirassia Island – free exploration (90 minutes)
- Return sail to starting port
Pricing
From $41 per person
Meeting Point
Fira Old Port – Santo Star Office (10:15 am, departure 10:30 am). With pickup option – Athinios Port (departure 9:45 am). Pickup from hotel or nearest accessible point; details emailed 24–48 hours prior.
How to get there
- Self-drive/walk to Fira Old Port: Take cable car (€6) or walk 600 steps down from Fira
- Pickup option: From hotel or nearest point; email confirmation required
- Athinios Port: 15-minute drive from Fira; free parking available
- Return to same port
Good to Know
What to bring
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes (volcanic gravel)
- Sunglasses & sun hat
- Swimwear & towel
- Sunscreen & beach cover-up
- Cash for volcano fee (€5), drinks, donkey ride
- Light jacket (windy on boat)
- Water bottle (refillable)
Know before you go
- Volcano hike is moderate—uneven, uphill, hot; not wheelchair/stroller friendly
- Hot springs water is warm (not hot) and stains light swimwear brown
- Donkey ride to Manolas (€10–15) or 300+ steps; wear sturdy shoes
- No toilets on Nea/Palea Kameni—use boat facilities
- Full names and DOB required at booking for port authority
- Not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues
Reviews
- Perfectly organized from start to finish. The volcano hike was thrilling, hot springs relaxing, and Thirassia felt like stepping back in time. Highly recommend!
- Informative guide, stunning caldera views, and the hot springs were a unique experience. Lunch spot on Thirassia was peaceful and authentic.
- Loved the ease of it all—audio guide was clear, boat comfortable, and more time in the springs would’ve been ideal. Still a fantastic day!
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
Is the volcano hike difficult or guided?
The hike on Nea Kameni is self-guided along a marked gravel path, taking 20–30 minutes one way to the crater rim (588m elevation gain total). It’s moderately strenuous due to loose volcanic rocks, heat, and incline—not guided, but signage and the group pace help. Wear closed-toe shoes; no flip-flops. Those who skip can wait at the dock with shade and sea views. The €5 entry fee supports conservation. The path is narrow in parts—stay with your group.
Will the hot springs stain my clothes or skin?
Yes—the iron-rich, muddy water at Palea Kameni stains light-colored swimwear (especially white) a rusty brown. Wear dark swimsuits. The tint washes off skin with soap but may linger on hair. Water temperature is 30–35°C, not scalding. Foam noodles are provided for floating. Depth is waist-to-chest high; non-swimmers are safe near the boat. Rinse off on board after.
How do I get to Manolas village on Thirassia?
From the port, you have two options: a traditional donkey ride up the zigzag path (€10–15, 10 minutes) or walking the 300+ stone steps (20–30 minutes). Donkeys are optional and paid on site. The steps are steep but have landings; wear good shoes. Taxis are rare. Manolas offers tavernas with caldera views—worth the climb. Most guests walk down and take donkey up.
Is hotel pickup available from Oia or remote areas?
Pickup is optional and covers most areas, but not directly from cliff-top hotels in Oia, Imerovigli, or Firostefani due to narrow roads. You’ll be assigned the nearest accessible point (e.g., Fira bus station, 5–10 minute walk). Confirmation email includes exact location and time. Contact MTM Travel if not received 24 hours prior. Cruise passengers can join at Athinios Port. Self-drive to Fira Old Port is easiest from central areas.
What if I can’t swim or have mobility issues?
Non-swimmers are welcome—foam noodles and life jackets (emergency only) are provided. Hot springs are shallow near the boat. However, the tour involves boat transfers, uneven docks, and optional hiking/stairs—not suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, or severe mobility issues. Children must be with adults. Those skipping the volcano can relax on board. The crew assists with boarding. Consult your doctor if unsure.
