Santorini Old Port: Boat Cruise to the Volcano & Hot Springs

Santorini’s stunning natural landscape has long captivated travelers from around the world. Embarking on a boat cruise from the island’s Old Port offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the volcanic wonders that have shaped this mesmerizing destination. From the centuries-old Volcano Park to the soothing hot springs of Palea Kameni, this three-hour excursion promises to immerse guests in Santorini’s captivating geological history. With expert commentary and ample opportunities for captivating photography, the journey promises to reveal the island’s most breathtaking sights. For those seeking to fully enjoy Santorini’s volcanic splendor, this boat cruise may just be the perfect adventure.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Fira.

Key Points

• 3-hour boat cruise departs from Santorini’s Old Port, providing access to the Volcano Park and hot springs.
• The tour includes a 75-minute cruise to the Volcano Park, with the opportunity to hike active craters and swim in 30-35°C hot springs.
• The starting price is €63 per person and includes the Volcano Park entrance fee, along with live English and Greek commentary.
• The excursion is suitable for adults and children aged 6-12, with a recommended arrival 20 minutes early due to cable car wait times.
• Customers should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, towel, sunscreen, and water, and be aware of the potential for swimwear staining from the thermal springs.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Offering a leisurely 3-hour boat cruise, this Santorini excursion departs from the Old Port and takes visitors to the island’s iconic Volcano Park and nearby hot springs.

Priced from €63 per person, the tour includes a live English and Greek commentary and the volcano entrance fee.

Participants will board a traditional boat at Fira’s Old Port, accessible via cable car or stairs, and embark on a 75-minute cruise to the Volcano Park.

There, they’ll have the opportunity to hike to the active craters and capture stunning photos.

The tour also features a 30-minute swim in the 30-35°C hot springs of Palea Kameni before returning to Fira’s Old Port.

Itinerary Details

The boat cruise departs from Fira’s Old Port, which can be reached by taking the cable car or stairs down from the town.

Passengers board a traditional vessel and embark on a 75-minute journey to the Santorini Volcano Park. Upon arrival, they’ll have the opportunity to hike to the active craters and capture stunning photographs.

The tour then continues to the nearby Hot Springs Palea Kameni, where visitors can enjoy a 30-minute swim in the warm, 30-35°C waters.

After the volcanic and thermal activities, the boat will return to Fira’s Old Port, completing the 3-hour excursion.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This boat cruise package includes the boat cruise itself, as well as the entrance fee to the Santorini Volcano Park, and live commentary provided by the tour guide throughout the journey.

However, it excludes any food or drinks, hotel transfers, and the cable car ticket required to reach the Old Port.

The total duration of the excursion is 3 hours, and the cost starts from €63 per person.

It’s important to note that there’s a free cancellation policy in place, allowing for a full refund if the booking is canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

The tour is suitable for adults and children aged 6-12, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.

Participant Information

The boat cruise is suitable for adults aged 13 to 99 as well as children between 6 and 12 years old. However, it isn’t recommended for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments. Children under 2 are also not permitted on the tour.

Passengers should meet at the Old Harbor pier, where the Dakoutros office is located next to the cable car station. Visitors are advised to arrive 20 minutes early, as the cable car runs every 20-30 minutes.

Those with limited mobility may find the stairs and hike to the volcano’s craters challenging. The tour is appropriate for most able-bodied travelers seeking an adventurous experience in Santorini.

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Important Tips and Customer Feedback

Visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a hat, towel, sunscreen, and water to make the most of the boat cruise experience.

Participants are advised to arrive 20 minutes early, as the cable car servicing the Old Harbor pier runs every 20-30 minutes.

While the tour offers good value and a comfortable boat ride, some customers have expressed a need for more information from the live guide during the excursion.

Plus, swimmers should note that the thermal springs may stain their swimwear.

With an overall customer rating of 4.2/5 based on 203 reviews, the Santorini Old Port: Boat Cruise to the Volcano & Hot Springs is a popular activity that provides a unique opportunity to explore the island’s natural wonders.

Starting Location and Boarding

The tour departs from the Dakoutros Bros J.V. office located at Santorini Excursions in the Old Port area, which is accessible by taking the cable car or walking down the stairs from Fira.

Once at the departure point, you will board a traditional boat moored at the Old Port’s pier. The boarding process is straightforward:

1. Check-in at the Dakoutros office to receive your tickets and any additional information.

2. Follow the signs or ask staff to locate the departure pier, which is just steps away from the office.

3. Carefully step onto the boat, which is staffed by experienced crew members to assist you.

After boarding, the 3-hour cruise to the Santorini Volcano Park will begin.

Volcano Hike and Photo Opportunities

After boarding the traditional boat, passengers will embark on a 75-minute cruise to the Santorini Volcano Park.

Once docked, they’ll have the opportunity to hike up to the active craters, where they can snap stunning photographs of the dramatic volcanic landscape.

The hike, though moderately challenging, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the caldera and the surrounding islands.

Visitors can explore the steaming craters and observe the ongoing volcanic activity, gaining a deeper understanding of Santorini’s unique geological history.

With ample time for photographs and exploration, this portion of the tour promises an unforgettable and educational experience for all participants.

Hot Springs Swim

Following the invigorating hike, you will have the opportunity to indulge in a 30-minute swim at the renowned Hot Springs of Palea Kameni.

The thermal waters, heated by the volcanic activity, maintain a comfortable temperature between 30-35°C, creating a soothing and rejuvenating experience for all who enter.

Surrounded by the dramatic cliffs of the caldera, the natural hot springs offer a truly unique and picturesque setting for visitors to relax, unwind, and enjoy Santorini’s captivating geothermal wonders.

The hot springs swim offers several key benefits:

1. Relaxation and stress relief

2. Improved circulation and muscle recovery

3. Exposure to the area’s fascinating volcanic history

Recap

Santorini’s Volcano Park and hot springs promise an unforgettable experience.

The boat cruise takes you on a 75-minute journey, allowing you to explore active craters and enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm thermal waters.

With breathtaking views and a wealth of photo opportunities, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the stunning island of Santorini.

You can check if your dates are available here: