From Old Port:Volcanic Islands Boat Trip & Hot Spring Visit

Exploring Santorini’s Volcanic Islands: A Practical Review of the Old Port Boat Trip & Hot Spring Visit

Santorini’s dramatic volcanic landscape is truly one of the most captivating sights in Greece, and this boat tour from the Old Port offers a balanced blend of natural beauty and engaging discovery. It’s a popular choice for visitors eager to see the volcanic craters up close, unwind in thermal waters, and get a taste of island life in Thirassia. We’re here to give you an honest look at what makes this trip worth considering—and what might make you think twice.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines active exploration with relaxing downtime. You get to hike near active craters, which is both thrilling and educational, then soak in thermal waters that are said to be healing. The tour’s timing is flexible, with departures at 11:00 and 14:15, making it suitable whether you’re a morning person or prefer a lazy afternoon. However, the cost involves some extra fees—namely for the volcano entrance and cable car rides—that add to the overall expense. This is a good fit for travelers who value authentic, small-group excursions over larger, more commercial cruises.

If you’re someone who loves stunning vistas, natural geological wonders, and a sense of adventure, this tour checks many boxes. But if you’re after a more comprehensive sightseeing experience or need a more leisurely pace, it might be worth considering other options. Overall, it’s a compact, rewarding trip that’s best suited for those who want a taste of volcano exploration without committing a full day.

Key Points

• Close-up of Active Craters: You’ll get about 1 hour and 30 minutes at Nea Kamenis, with options to hike up for a more immersive experience.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: The 30-minute swim at Palea Kamenis offers a warm, volcanic-mud bath, perfect for unwinding.
• Concise Duration: The entire tour lasts around 3 hours, making it ideal for those with limited time or fitting into a busy travel schedule.
• Cost and Extras: The tour includes visits but not the entrance fee (€5) or cable car (€6); towels are not included.
• Departure Point: Easy to access from Fira’s Old Port, either on foot or via cable car, with clear meeting instructions.
• Authentic Experience: Small group of travelers, guided in English, with attentive crew (noted by reviewers as particularly caring).

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off at the Old Port of Fira, situated just below the main town. You can reach the port via a quick 3-minute cable car ride or, if you’re feeling energetic, walk down the 587 steps. It’s a fun way to start your day, with plenty of scenic views of the caldera and cliffside houses. Once at the port, you’ll find the Santo Star travel office, where you’ll check in and receive your tickets and final instructions.

The tour departs at either 11:00 am or 2:15 pm, giving you flexibility depending on your plans. The shorter, 3-hour window is perfect if you’re tight on time but still want a taste of Santorini’s volcanic side.

The Boat Ride and Volcano Exploration

After a breezy 15-minute boat ride from the port, you’ll arrive at the volcanic bay, which forms the heart of this experience. Here, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring Nea Kamenis, the active volcano of Santorini. The highlight for many is walking up the trail leading to the crater’s edge—an accessible hike that offers stunning views of the bubbling, smoking crater.

The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with reviews mentioning an attentive crew that’s eager to share insights. The opportunity to see the volcano up close, with its volcanic vents and rugged landscape, is a highlight for geology buffs and casual travelers alike. It’s worth noting that the actual active crater is visible, offering a raw, intense reminder of the island’s fiery origins.

Hot Springs at Palea Kamenis

Next, the boat heads to Palea Kamenis, famed for its natural hot springs. The waters here are heated by volcanic activity, creating a soothing environment for a swim. You’ll be allowed about 30 minutes to enjoy the warm, mineral-rich waters—an experience many reviewers describe as both relaxing and invigorating.

The water temperature varies with the season but generally remains warmer than the surrounding sea. Many guests also mention the presence of volcanic mud baths, which are said to have detoxifying properties. Keep in mind that towels are not included, so bringing your own or arranging to rent one locally could be a good idea.

Return & Reflection

After soaking, the boat returns to Fira’s Old Port, bringing you back after a well-paced, enriching trip. Along the way, you’ll likely enjoy views of the caldera cliffs, the scattered islands, and perhaps some local wildlife. It’s a smooth, scenic journey that leaves you with plenty of memories—and a camera full of shots.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the Price:
– Visit to the volcanic island (Nea Kamenis) for about 1 hour 30 minutes
– Swim at the thermal waters of Palea Kamenis for about 30 minutes

Not Included:
– Volcano entrance fee (€5)
– Cable car ride (€6), which is optional but makes the descent quicker and easier
– Towels, so plan to bring your own if you want to dry off or stay warm after swimming

Knowing these costs upfront helps prevent surprises and allows you to budget accordingly.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Arrive early: The meeting point is straightforward, but arriving a little ahead of the departure time ensures you’re ready to go and won’t miss the boat.
• Bring a towel: Towels are not included, and swimming gear is a must if you want to enjoy the hot springs comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The hike up to the volcano crater involves some uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Prepare for the weather: The boat can be breezy, and the volcanic sun intense, so light layers and sun protection are wise.
• Budget for extras: Factor in the €5 entrance fee and €6 cable car if you choose to ride up from the port—these are not included in the tour price.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the attentiveness of the crew, with Aurelie describing it as a “top-notch excursion” where the staff are “attentive and friendly.” Many appreciate that the tour offers enough free time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed, noting the stunning views that truly elevate the experience.

One traveler mentioned how they loved the up-close view of the volcano’s active craters, which gave them a sense of the island’s volcanic power. Others valued the soothing hot springs, noting that the warm water and mud baths provided a perfect way to unwind after the hike.

Some pointed out the tour’s small-group atmosphere as a plus, fostering a more personal and relaxed environment. The timing flexibility—with options at 11:00 and 14:15—also helps travelers fit this adventure into different itineraries.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Fira offers a compact, immersive way to experience Santorini’s volcanic heritage. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a guided, authentic experience that balances adventure and relaxation in just a few hours. The blend of active crater exploration and soaking in thermal waters makes it an ideal choice for those seeking both excitement and pampering.

While it’s not a full-day tour, the value lies in the quality of the sights and the intimate feeling of the small group setting. The extra costs for entrance fees and cable car rides are minor considerations for most, especially given the immersive nature of the volcanic experience.

In essence, if you’re drawn to stunning vistas, geological wonders, and authentic hot springs, this trip will satisfy your curiosity and leave you with lasting memories of Santorini’s fiery origins.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 hours, with departures at 11:00 and 14:15.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Old Port of Fira, located just below the town, accessible by foot or cable car.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll visit the volcano for about 1.5 hours and swim at the thermal springs for around 30 minutes.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, the volcano entrance fee (€5) and cable car ride (€6) are not included. Towels are also not provided.

What should I bring?
A towel, comfortable shoes for hiking, and sun protection are recommended.

Can I hike to the volcano crater?
Yes, you have the option to hike up to see the active craters more closely.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour is guided in English, and the crew is known for being attentive and friendly.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the hike and boat trip are generally manageable for children with suitable supervision.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Is this a good way to see Santorini’s volcanic features?
Absolutely. It offers a focused, intimate look at the volcano and hot springs, perfect for those passionate about geology or seeking unique experiences.

In summary, this tour is a smart choice for travelers wanting a short but meaningful peek into Santorini’s volcanic history, with the bonus of relaxing in natural thermal waters. Its combination of guided exploration and scenic views makes for an engaging and authentic day out—especially suited for those who value quality over quantity when it comes to sightseeing.