Santorini’s volcanic landscape has long captivated travelers, and the "Santorini Port: Cruise to Volcano, Hot Springs & Thirassia" excursion offers a chance to take in this remarkable destination. From hiking the active Nea Kameni volcano to rejuvenating in the therapeutic hot springs of Palea Kameni, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable adventure. But the journey doesn’t end there, as the charming village of Thirassia awaits, ready to unveil its unique charm and heritage.
Key Points
- This 6-hour excursion from Santorini port includes a cruise to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni, a hike to the crater, and a visit to the therapeutic hot springs of Palea Kameni.
- Travelers will also have the opportunity to explore the picturesque village of Thirassia at their own pace, with English-language audio commentary provided throughout the journey.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to moderate walking involved, and non-confident swimmers can remain on the boat during the hot springs stop.
- Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, and cash for the €5 volcano entrance fee and optional €6 cable car ticket.
- The hike to the volcano crater takes 30-45 minutes and is of moderate difficulty, allowing travelers to self-guide during this portion of the excursion.
Activity Overview
The activity is titled "Santorini Port: Cruise to Volcano, Hot Springs & Thirassia" and costs from $32.77 per person.
It’s a 6-hour excursion with English-language audio commentary. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.
Pickup may not be directly from hotels, but a nearby point will be provided by email.
The highlights include hiking to an active volcano crater, swimming in therapeutic hot springs, and exploring the village of Thirassia.
Hike an active volcano, swim in therapeutic hot springs, and explore the village of Thirassia.
The tour includes a local guide, entrance fees, and optional cable car tickets, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to moderate walking involved.
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Itinerary Highlights
Nea Kameni, an active volcano, beckons visitors to hike to its crater, offering a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature.
After the volcanic exploration, the cruise stops at Palea Kameni, where guests can swim in therapeutic hot springs and relax in a foam pool.
The tour then continues to Thirassia, a charming village where travelers can explore at their own pace, discovering local culture and dining options.
Throughout the journey, an audio commentary provides insights, and drinks are available for purchase on the boat, enhancing the overall onboard experience.
Included Features
A local guide accompanies travelers on the bus and boat, providing audio commentary during the cruise to enhance the overall experience.
The included features offer a well-rounded excursion:
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Hike to the crater of an active volcano on Nea Kameni.
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Swim in the therapeutic hot springs of Palea Kameni, complete with foam pool noodles.
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Explore the picturesque village of Thirassia at your leisure.
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Optional hotel pickup and drop-off service, along with the entrance fee to the volcano and cable car ticket, are also provided.
Important Information
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended items to bring on this excursion.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the moderate walking involved. Hikers should be aware that the hike to the volcano crater is self-guided.
Non-confident swimmers can remain on the boat during the hot springs stop, which is limited to 30 minutes.
Travelers should bring cash for the 5 EUR volcano entrance fee, as well as the optional 6 EUR cable car ticket each way.
More Great Tours NearbyPreparing for the Excursion
What essential items should travelers pack for this excursion? Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for the moderate hike are a must.
Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen will protect against the Mediterranean sun. A swimsuit and towel are necessary for the soak in the hot springs.
And don’t forget to bring some cash for the entrance fee and optional cable car ticket.
With these essentials in tow, travelers will be ready to fully experience the highlights of Santorini’s volcanic landscape and thermal waters during this 6-hour cruise adventure.
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Exploring Nea Kameni Volcano
After disembarking from the cruise ship, travelers have the opportunity to hike up the active volcano of Nea Kameni. The trail leads through the volcanic landscape, offering stunning views of the caldera. Along the way, hikers can observe the unique geology and learn about the volcano’s history. At the top, they are rewarded with a panoramic vista of the surrounding islands. The hike requires moderate fitness, but the journey is well worth the effort, providing a chance to witness the power of nature firsthand.
| Hike Duration | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Level | Recommended Gear | Entrance Fee |
| — | — | — | — | — |
| 30-45 minutes | 130 meters | Moderate | Sturdy shoes, hat, water | €5 (cash only) |
Relaxing in Palea Kameni Hot Springs
Next, the cruise journey takes passengers to Palea Kameni, where they can indulge in the therapeutic hot springs.
Relaxing in the natural hot pools, visitors can soothe their muscles and rejuvenate their bodies. The experience is enhanced by:
Visitors can soothe their muscles and rejuvenate their bodies by relaxing in the natural hot pools, enhanced by floating pool noodles, stunning views, and refreshing mineral-rich waters.
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Foam pool noodles to float and unwind
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Stunning views of the caldera and Santorini’s cliffs
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Refreshing dips in the warm, mineral-rich waters
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A limited 30-minute stop, encouraging visitors to make the most of their time
After soaking in the hot springs, passengers return to the boat, ready to explore the island’s next captivating destination.
Discovering the Village of Thirassia
From the hot springs, the cruise continues to the small island of Thirassia, where passengers have the opportunity to explore the traditional Greek village at their own pace. The island’s quaint streets are lined with whitewashed buildings and narrow staircases that wind up the hillside. Visitors can wander through the local shops, admire the picturesque views, and perhaps enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the seaside tavernas.
| What to Do | Where to Go | How Long |
| — | — | — |
| Browse local shops | Village center | 30-60 minutes |
| Dine at a seaside taverna | Waterfront | 60-90 minutes |
| Hike up the hillside | Trails above the village | 60-90 minutes |
| Relax on the beach | Thirassia Beach | 30-60 minutes |
| Take in the views | Panoramic vantage points | 30-60 minutes |
Things To Know
Can I Book This Tour for a Group?
Yes, you can book this tour for a group. The activity overview states that it’s available for purchase, and the details don’t indicate any restrictions on group size. Just be sure to coordinate the booking accordingly.
Is There a Discount for Children or Senior Citizens?
The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is the same per person, regardless of age. However, the activity may be suitable for families and older travelers, as long as they can handle the moderate walking involved.
How Many People Are Typically on These Tours?
The tours typically accommodate around 20-30 passengers. The group size can vary, but these small-group excursions allow for a more personalized experience and easier navigation of the destinations. The exact number may depend on the specific tour date and availability.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. The tour allows for self-catering, so you’re free to pack snacks and beverages to enjoy during the cruise.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to directly extend the tour duration. However, travelers can explore Thirassia village on their own after the cruise portion ends, allowing them to extend their overall experience.
Sum Up
The "Santorini Port: Cruise to Volcano, Hot Springs & Thirassia" excursion offers a thrilling and comprehensive experience of Santorini’s stunning volcanic landscape. Travelers can hike to the crater of the active Nea Kameni volcano, swim in the therapeutic hot springs at Palea Kameni, and explore the charming village of Thirassia, all while enjoying the convenience of a local guide and included entrance fees.
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