Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit in Santorini
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Reservations
History
Santorini’s volcanic origins trace back to the massive Minoan eruption around 1600 BCE, one of the largest in recorded history, which collapsed the island into its iconic caldera and may have inspired legends of Atlantis. The volcano has erupted multiple times since, with significant activity in the 20th century, including lava flows in 1950 that added new land to Nea Kameni.
Today, the central islands of Nea and Palea Kameni remain geothermally active, with fumaroles, hot springs, and seismic monitoring stations. Cruises allow safe access to this living volcanic landscape, offering a rare chance to walk on terrain shaped by ongoing geological processes beneath the Aegean Sea.
Highlights
- Sail through Santorini’s dramatic caldera on a traditional wooden boat
- Hike to the active volcano crater on Nea Kameni (optional, self-guided)
- Swim in therapeutic sulfur-rich hot springs at Palea Kameni
- Enjoy a relaxing swim stop in the serene bay of Thirassia
- Admire towering volcanic cliffs and cliffside villages from the sea
- Optional sunset experience in the world-famous village of Oia
Full Description
Depart from Athinios Port on a classic wooden sailboat and immerse yourself in Santorini’s volcanic wonders. Multilingual live commentary brings the geology and history to life as you cruise through the flooded caldera, surrounded by sheer cliffs rising up to 300 meters. This journey combines natural spectacle with cultural insights into one of Greece’s most unique destinations.
Your first stop is Nea Kameni, the heart of the active volcano. Disembark and follow the marked trail to the crater rim, where steam vents and sulfur deposits reveal ongoing geothermal activity. The hike is unguided, allowing personal pacing, but requires caution on loose gravel paths. Panoramic views reward every step, showcasing the scale of the ancient eruption.
Continue to Palea Kameni, where warm, mineral-rich springs bubble into the sea. Swim from the boat to experience the therapeutic waters, known for skin benefits due to high sulfur and iron content. Note that light swimwear may stain. The tour proceeds with a swim stop at Thirassia and a scenic sail past Oia and Fira before returning to port.
Why Choose This Experience?
This cruise delivers an authentic encounter with Santorini’s volcanic soul, far from crowded viewpoints. From hiking an active crater to bathing in natural hot springs, it offers hands-on geology in a safe, structured format—perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Flexible options, including Oia sunset transfers and multiple languages, make it accessible to solo travelers, families, and groups. With guaranteed seating, professional crew, and complimentary transfers, it ensures a hassle-free day of discovery in one of the world’s most photogenic seascapes.
What’s Included
- Round-trip bus transfer from centralized pickup points near your hotel (if option selected)
- Live tour guide in Italian, English, French, Spanish, Greek, and German
- Audio commentary onboard the boat
- Entry to Nea Kameni and optional volcano hike
- Swim stop at Palea Kameni hot springs (30 minutes)
- Swim stop at Thirassia bay (weather permitting)
- Free time and sunset viewing in Oia with bus transfer (if option selected)
- Foam pool noodles for swimming support
- Life jackets (available in case of emergency)
- All port fees and taxes
- Complimentary bottled water on the boat
- Safety briefing and crew assistance
- Volcanic trail map and information leaflet
- Access to onboard restrooms and shaded seating
Itinerary
- Pickup from centralized village locations (if option selected)
- Transfer to Athinios Port (New Port)
- Check-in at NST ticket counter (arrive by 9:30 AM)
- Departure by wooden sailboat (9:45 AM sharp)
- Sail through the caldera (30 minutes)
- Nea Kameni: Free time + optional volcano hike (1–1.5 hours)
- Palea Kameni: Hot springs swim stop (30 minutes)
- Thirassia: Swimming break in calm bay (30 minutes)
- Scenic caldera sailing with photo stops
- Optional transfer to Oia for free time and sunset (2–3 hours)
- Return transfer by bus to original pickup area
- Arrive back at Athinios Port (~3:45 PM) or final drop-off (~10:00 PM with Oia)
Pricing
From $29 per person
Meeting Point
NST ticket counter at Athinios Port (New Port), directly in front of the wooden boats. Arrive no later than 9:30 AM for check-in. Optional centralized pickup points (times are approximate):
- NST Travel Agency Oia: 8:25 AM
- Imerovigli Bus Stop: 8:50 AM
- Firostefani Central Square: 8:55 AM
- NST Experiences (Fira): 9:00 AM
- Kamari Erotokritos Cretan Bakery: 8:45 AM
- Perissa Meltemi Village: 8:45 AM
- Akrotiri Mathios Village: 9:00 AM
- Megalochori The Family Bakery: 9:10 AM
- Pyrgos Restaurant: 9:10 AM
How to get there
- Take the local KTEL bus from Fira to Athinios Port (runs every 30–60 minutes)
- Drive and use port parking (limited; arrive early to secure a spot)
- Taxi or private transfer from your hotel (10–30 minutes depending on village)
- Join optional bus pickup from your area (exact location emailed post-booking)
Good to Know
What to bring
- Sun hat or cap
- Towel (quick-dry recommended)
- Sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers
- Swimwear (dark colors to avoid sulfur stains)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or waterproof phone case
- Light jacket (for wind on boat)
Know before you go
- Boat departs promptly at 9:45 AM—late arrivals cannot board
- Volcano trail is rocky and uphill; not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs
- Hot springs require swimming ~100m from boat; noodles provided
- Sulfur may stain light clothing and jewelry—leave valuables onshore
- Boat has shaded areas but gets crowded in summer—secure seats early
- Itinerary subject to weather and port authority decisions
- Oia sunset option extends tour significantly—bring snacks if needed
Reviews
- The volcano hike was the best part—walking among steaming craters felt otherworldly. Only strong swimmers should attempt the hot springs; the swim-out is challenging.
- Amazing value for money! We missed our morning tour due to a ferry delay, but the team accommodated us on the afternoon sailing without extra charge.
- Beautiful cruise with crystal waters and dramatic views. The volcanic hike was fun and informative, though the hot springs stop felt rushed at just 30 minutes.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
Is the volcano hike guided?
No, the hike on Nea Kameni is self-guided to allow visitors to explore at their own pace and spend more time at viewpoints or geological features that interest them most. The trail is well-marked with ropes and signs, leading from the dock to the main crater (Dafne crater) and several active fumaroles. Informational boards in multiple languages explain volcanic processes and safety protocols. The climb takes 20–40 minutes depending on fitness, with an elevation gain of about 130 meters. Crew members provide a briefing on hazards—such as loose rocks, heat, and sulfur fumes—before disembarking. You must return to the boat within the allotted time (usually 1–1.5 hours) to maintain the schedule. Non-hikers can stay onboard or walk the flat dock area. This format balances freedom with group coordination.
Can non-swimmers join the hot springs stop?
Yes, non-swimmers are welcome to remain on the boat during the Palea Kameni hot springs stop for safety and comfort. The boat anchors approximately 100–150 meters from the springs, and participants must swim independently to reach the warm, shallow pools near the shore. Foam pool noodles are distributed to all swimmers for buoyancy, and the crew demonstrates proper use. Life jackets are stored onboard and issued only in emergencies per maritime regulations. Children under 12 and unsure swimmers are strongly encouraged to stay aboard. The crew assists with water entry via a ladder and monitors from the deck. The springs themselves are waist-deep in most areas, but strong currents or waves can occur. This policy ensures everyone enjoys the cruise regardless of swimming ability.
What happens if I book the Oia sunset option?
When selecting the Oia extension, the cruise follows the standard route and returns to Athinios Port around 3:45 PM. A dedicated air-conditioned bus waits at the port to transport you directly to Oia village, a 30-minute drive along scenic coastal roads. Upon arrival, you receive 2–3 hours of free time to explore the marble-paved alleys, blue-domed churches, boutiques, and panoramic terraces. The driver provides a map and confirms the exact pickup location—typically the main bus terminal—and time, set 15 minutes after official sunset. Sunset varies by season: around 6:30 PM in April, 8:30 PM in July. Photography is spectacular as the sky turns golden over the caldera. The return bus drops you at your original pickup point, completing a 10-hour day. This add-on is ideal for capturing Santorini’s iconic postcard moments.
Is lunch provided on the cruise?
No, lunch is not included in the tour package, but you are encouraged to bring your own snacks, sandwiches, and non-alcoholic beverages in a small soft cooler or backpack. Onboard space is limited, so compact and mess-free items are best. There are no food sales at Nea Kameni or Palea Kameni, and the Thirassia swim stop does not include tavern access in the standard itinerary. Some longer departures (6+ hours) may dock briefly at Thirassia village where tavernas offer quick meals like souvlaki or salad for €10–15, payable onsite—ask the crew upon boarding if this is planned. Complimentary bottled water is provided throughout. For dietary restrictions or allergies, inform staff during check-in so they can advise on safe snacking areas. Most guests eat breakfast before departure and dinner after return.
What if the weather is bad?
In the event of unfavorable weather—such as strong northern Meltemi winds, rain, or high waves—the captain and port authority evaluate sea conditions each morning for passenger safety. If the tour is canceled, you receive a full refund within 48 hours or the option to reschedule for another date at no extra cost. Minor weather may lead to itinerary adjustments, such as skipping the Thirassia swim, shortening hot springs time, or sailing a sheltered route. Notifications are sent via email and SMS by 7:00 AM. Light rain does not typically cancel the tour; ponchos are recommended in spring/autumn. The wooden boats are stable and equipped with covered decks. All decisions prioritize safety while maximizing the experience. If only the Oia transfer is affected (e.g., foggy sunset), the cruise portion still operates as planned.
