Set out on a captivating 1-day cruise from Rethymno, Crete to the stunning island of Santorini. Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour, exploring the island’s most beautiful locations, including the charming town of Oia and the lively capital of Fira. Wander the streets, browse local shops, and capture breathtaking photos of the volcanic landscape. Upgrade your experience with an optional boat cruise to the Santorini Volcano for a deeper dive into the island’s fascinating geological history. Uncover the highlights of this iconic Greek destination through this comprehensive tour.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Tours In Ormos Athinios.
Key Points
- This 1-day cruise from Rethymno, Crete to Santorini includes a guided sightseeing tour to explore the island’s most beautiful places.
- Participants can visit the charming town of Oia and the capital city of Fira, with free time for wandering, shopping, and capturing photos.
- The tour includes comfortable high-speed ship tickets, English-speaking staff, guided tours in multiple languages, and transfers from hotels in the Rethymno area.
- Highlights of the tour include breathtaking views of the caldera, picturesque streets and whitewashed buildings in Oia, and the lively atmosphere and bustling markets in Fira.
- Participants have the option to take a boat cruise to the Santorini Volcano for further exploration of the island’s volcanic landscape.
Tour Overview
The tour begins with a 1-day cruise from Rethymno, Crete to the picturesque island of Santorini, where visitors will embark on a guided sightseeing tour by bus.
This excursion offers the opportunity to explore the most beautiful places on the island, including the charming town of Oia and the capital city of Fira.
During the free time allotted, travelers can wander the streets, browse local shops, and capture breathtaking photos of the island’s iconic white-washed buildings and stunning caldera views.
For those seeking an additional adventure, an optional boat cruise to the Santorini Volcano is available, allowing further discovery of this unique volcanic landscape.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ormos Athinios.
Departure and Return
The tour departs from Rethymno Port in Crete and returns to the same location, with the journey taking approximately 2.33 hours each way.
Participants meet at the SeaJets Crete terminal at the designated departure time to board the comfortable high-speed ship that will ferry them to the stunning island of Santorini.
The return journey takes around 2.25 hours, ensuring a full day of exploration on the volcanic island.
Included in the Tour
Comfortable high-speed ship tickets, along with English-speaking staff, are included in the tour. Guided tours in multiple languages, additional insurance, and information support before and during the tour are also provided. Transfers from hotels in the Rethymno area round out the inclusions for this comprehensive one-day excursion to Santorini.
| What’s Included | Description |
|---|---|
| Transport | High-speed ship tickets from Rethymno, Crete to Santorini and back |
| Guides | English-speaking staff and guided tours in multiple languages |
| Insurance | Additional insurance coverage |
| Assistance | Information support before and during the tour |
| Transfers | Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Rethymno area |
The inclusions cover all the essential elements for a seamless and enjoyable day trip to the stunning island of Santorini.
Highlights of the Tour
Visiting the most beautiful places in Santorini, such as the charming town of Oia and the vibrant capital of Fira, is a highlight of this guided tour. Guests will have ample opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and capturing stunning photographs throughout the island’s captivating scenery.
Plus, the tour allows for exploration of Santorini’s rich history and legendary volcanic origins.
Some of the highlights of the tour include:
- Breathtaking views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea
- Picturesque streets and whitewashed buildings in Oia
- Lively atmosphere and bustling markets in Fira
- Opportunities to learn about Santorini’s volcanic past
- Chances to indulge in local cuisine and wine tasting
Exploring Oia and Fira
On this guided tour, guests first explore the charming town of Oia, renowned for its stunning whitewashed buildings and captivating views of the caldera and Aegean Sea. Wandering Oia’s picturesque streets, they’ll find endless photo opportunities and chances to enjoy the island’s unique architecture and culture.
Next, the tour continues to the lively town of Fira, Santorini’s capital. Perched on the edge of the island’s dramatic cliffs, Fira offers a wealth of shops, restaurants, and stunning panoramic vistas. Visitors can stroll along the scenic pathways, browse local boutiques, and soak in the island’s iconic blue-domed churches and stunning natural beauty.
Volcanic Island History
Santorini’s volcanic origins date back thousands of years, shaping the island’s dramatic landscapes and captivating history.
The last major eruption, which occurred around 1600 BCE, famously buried the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri under layers of ash and pumice. This volcanic activity has left an indelible mark on Santorini, creating:
- Iconic caldera cliffs and black sand beaches
- Fertile volcanic soil ideal for viticulture
- Unique geological formations and hot springs
- Opportunities for geothermal energy production
- Fascinating archaeological sites like Akrotiri
Visitors can explore Santorini’s volcanic past through guided tours, hiking trails, and visits to the island’s famous volcano and archaeological sites, offering a deeper understanding of this captivating Mediterranean destination.
Sightseeing, Shopping, and Photography
With Santorini’s captivating volcanic history as a backdrop, the island offers visitors a wealth of opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and photography. Travelers can explore the island’s picturesque towns, discover unique local crafts, and capture the breathtaking landscapes. From the iconic white-washed buildings of Oia to the lively markets of Fira, there’s something to delight every visitor. Whether you’re browsing for handmade ceramics, admiring the stunning caldera views, or snapping photos of the iconic blue-domed churches, Santorini provides endless possibilities for a memorable experience.
| Sightseeing | Shopping | Photography |
|---|---|---|
| Explore Oia’s charming streets | Browse local pottery and ceramics | Capture the iconic blue-domed churches |
| Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri | Discover Santorini’s renowned wines | Photograph the stunning caldera views |
| Marvel at the stunning sunsets over the caldera | Shop for handmade textiles and jewelry | Immortalize the whitewashed buildings of Fira |
Exclusions From the Tour
Though the guided tour from Rethymno, Crete to Santorini Island includes an array of services, it doesn’t cover food and drinks, which visitors will need to purchase separately during their time on the island.
This exclusion allows travelers the flexibility to explore Santorini’s culinary scene at their own pace and preference.
Some things not covered in the tour price include:
- Meals at local restaurants and cafés
- Snacks and refreshments
- Wine tastings or visits to wineries
- Specialty coffee or tea
- Souvenirs and other personal purchases
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Cancel or Reschedule the Tour?
Customers can typically cancel or reschedule the tour, but policies may vary. It’s best to check with the tour provider as soon as possible to understand the specific cancellation and rescheduling options and any applicable fees.
How Many People Are Typically on the Tour?
The typical group size for this guided tour varies, but is generally around 20-30 people. The tour operator aims to maintain a comfortable, manageable group size to provide an enjoyable and personalized experience for all participants.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
The tour offers occasional discounts and special offers, such as reduced pricing for children or packages that include meals. Customers should check with the tour provider for any current promotions when booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Travelers are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though some tour operators may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider beforehand to understand their policies on outside food and beverages.
What Is the Best Time of Day to Visit Santorini?
The best time to visit Santorini is early morning or late afternoon. The island’s iconic whitewashed buildings and dramatic cliffs look their most picturesque during these times, when the lighting is softer and the crowds are smaller.
Recap
This guided tour from Rethymno, Crete, to the captivating island of Santorini offers an immersive experience. Travelers will be enchanted by the island’s stunning landscapes, whitewashed villages, and rich cultural heritage.
With knowledgeable guides, visitors can explore iconic sights, indulge in local cuisine, and capture breathtaking vistas, making this an unforgettable journey through one of Greece’s most beloved destinations.
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