From Rethymno: Full-Day Trip to Santorini by Boat

Experience the stunning island of Santorini on a full-day trip from Rethymno, Crete. Cruise across the Aegean Sea by high-speed catamaran, then explore Santorini’s iconic clifftop villages, including the picturesque white-and-blue buildings and charming alleys of Fira. Enjoy free time to discover Fira’s hidden gems, from boutiques to family-owned tavernas. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the option to add a volcano boat tour, this excursion offers an immersive and unforgettable Santorini adventure. There’s more to uncover about this captivating day trip.

Key Points

• A full-day trip from Rethymno, Crete to the iconic island of Santorini, with a journey by high-speed catamaran lasting approximately 2.75 hours each way.
• Explore the renowned clifftop villages of Santorini, including the stunning blue and white buildings and picturesque alleys of Fira.
• Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea during the journey and take advantage of the smooth ride and onboard amenities.
• Free time to explore the vibrant capital of Fira, with the opportunity to uncover hidden gems, visit charming boutiques, and savor the Aegean Sea vistas.
• Convenient drop-off at hotels or nearby locations in Rethymno upon return, allowing travelers to reflect on the highlights of the day’s adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day trip from Rethymno, Crete to the iconic island of Santorini by high-speed catamaran promises an unforgettable experience.

The journey takes approximately 2.75 hours each way, allowing ample time to explore Santorini’s renowned clifftop villages, marveling at the stunning blue and white buildings, and strolling through the picturesque alleys of Fira.

Included in the trip are boat tickets, transportation on the island, and an English, German, French, Polish, or Russian-speaking tour guide.

Guests can also opt for an additional volcano boat tour for €20.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from select locations, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.

Journey to Santorini

The journey from Rethymno to Santorini aboard the high-speed catamaran takes approximately 2.75 hours each way, providing ample time for passengers to take in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

As the catamaran cuts through the waves, travelers can marvel at the stunning blue hues of the water and the rugged, volcanic landscape of the islands that dot the horizon.

The smooth ride allows for a comfortable and relaxing journey, during which passengers can enjoy the onboard amenities and prepare for the adventures that await them on the iconic island of Santorini.

Exploring Oia and Fira

Upon arriving in Santorini, the tour takes visitors on an air-conditioned bus to explore the iconic clifftop villages of Oia and Fira.

In Oia, they’ll marvel at the picturesque blue and white buildings that tumble down the cliffside, strolling through the charming alleys and capturing breathtaking views of the caldera.

The tour then continues to Fira, the island’s vibrant capital, where visitors have free time to wander at their own pace. They can peruse the local shops, stumble upon hidden cafes, and soak in the Aegean Sea vistas that make Santorini so renowned.

This immersive experience allows travelers to fully enjoy the unique character and beauty of these two captivating Santorini destinations.

Free Time in Fira

Once the guided tour of Oia concludes, visitors are granted a generous block of free time to explore the vibrant capital of Fira at their own pace, allowing them to uncover its hidden gems and savor the intoxicating Aegean Sea vistas that have made Santorini so renowned.

Visitors can meander through the winding streets, popping into charming boutiques, art galleries, and family-owned tavernas serving up authentic Greek cuisine.

Many choose to visit the iconic Santorini Caldera, a stunning natural wonder formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.

With its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets, Fira captivates all who set foot in this picturesque town.

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Return to Rethymno

After the free time in Fira, travelers board the high-speed catamaran for the return journey to Rethymno, which takes approximately 2.75 hours. The return trip offers a chance to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views of the Aegean Sea.

Once back in Rethymno, travelers can expect the following:

1. Disembarkation at the same port they started from in the morning.
2. Convenient drop-off at their hotels or nearby locations, ensuring a seamless end to the day’s adventure.
3. Reflecting on the highlights of the trip, from the iconic blue-and-white buildings of Oia to the charming streets of Fira.

Optional Volcano Boat Tour

Travelers can enhance their Santorini experience with an optional volcano boat tour, which takes them on a journey to explore the island’s volcanic past. This add-on activity, priced at €20, provides visitors with the opportunity to venture beyond the main villages and gain a deeper understanding of Santorini’s geological history and natural wonders. The tour includes a boat ride to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni, where participants can hike to the crater and observe the steaming vents and ash-covered slopes up close. Afterward, the boat sails to the nearby hot springs, allowing travelers to swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters.

Highlights	Duration	Price
Nea Kameni Volcano	2-3 hours	€20
Hot Springs	1 hour	Included
Geological Insights	Flexible	Included
Photo Opportunities	Flexible	Included

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The full-day trip from Rethymno to Santorini includes convenient pickup and drop-off options at hotels in Bali, Panormo, Scaleta, and other nearby locations. This makes it easy for travelers to join the excursion without the hassle of arranging their own transportation.

The pickup service ensures a smooth start to the day, while the drop-off at the end of the trip allows for a stress-free return. Some key benefits of the pickup and drop-off service include:

1. Hassle-free transportation to and from the catamaran port
2. Availability at hotels in multiple nearby towns for maximum convenience
3. Seamless logistics so travelers can focus on enjoying the Santorini experience

Inclusions and Duration

This full-day trip from Rethymno to Santorini includes a range of convenient inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

The package covers boat tickets for the round-trip journey between the two islands, which takes approximately 2.75 hours each way on a high-speed catamaran.

Plus, transportation on the island of Santorini and the services of a multilingual tour guide are provided.

Travelers can also choose to add an optional volcano boat tour for €20.

With a total duration of 13 hours, this excursion allows visitors to discover Santorini’s iconic clifftop villages, marvel at the picturesque blue and white buildings, and stroll through the charming alleys of Fira.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Stay Overnight on Santorini?

The provided information does not mention an option to stay overnight on Santorini. The trip appears to be a full-day excursion, with the return journey to Rethymno scheduled for the same day. There’s no indication of an overnight stay on the island.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat for the trip to Santorini. However, there may be refreshments available for purchase on board as well. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.

What Is the Refund Policy if I Cancel the Tour?

The tour operator’s refund policy allows for a full refund if the cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee or partial refund, subject to the tour operator’s terms.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator offers student and senior discounts, but the specific discount amounts are not specified. Travelers should inquire about these options when booking to take advantage of any available savings.

Can I Book Additional Activities on Santorini During the Free Time?

Yes, travelers can book additional activities on Santorini during the free time. There are various options like private boat tours, wine tastings, and hiking excursions that can be arranged with the tour guide or booked independently.

Recap

This full-day trip from Rethymno to Santorini promises an unforgettable experience.

Travelers will be enchanted by Santorini’s iconic architecture, picturesque villages, and stunning natural beauty.

With comprehensive transportation, a guided tour, and optional activities, this excursion offers a well-rounded exploration of one of Greece’s most captivating islands.

Whether admiring the whitewashed buildings or discovering the volcanic landscape, this day trip to Santorini is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: