Santorini: 3-Hour Boat Tour to Oia & Thirassia Hot Springs

Exploring Santorini from the water offers a completely different perspective on this stunning island. This 3-hour private boat tour is designed to showcase some of the island’s most iconic sights — from the legendary cliffs of Oia to the natural thermal springs. With an experienced captain guiding you, you’ll enjoy a relaxed yet awe-inspiring voyage, perfect for travelers craving authentic scenery and a touch of adventure.

One of the best features of this tour is the chance to see Santorini’s famous caldera up close, while also getting to swim in crystal-clear waters near Saint Nicholas Church and soak in the natural hot springs. The small group setting promises personalized attention, making the experience more intimate and flexible. However, since food isn’t included, you might want to plan your meals around the trip or bring some snacks along.

This tour suits those who love scenic views, appreciate cultural highlights, and enjoy a laid-back day at sea. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a combination of sightseeing and relaxation, especially if you prefer a private or semi-private experience rather than a large-group activity. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and it’s important to check the starting times and pick-up options beforehand.

Key Points

Stunning caldera views from the sea provide a unique perspective on Santorini’s famous cliffs.
Personalized private group ensures a more flexible and intimate experience.
Multiple swimming stops at Hot Springs and near Saint Nicholas Church offer refreshing breaks.
Passage by iconic landmarks like Oia’s cliffs and Thirassia Island enriches the sightseeing.
Inclusive amenities like towels, snorkeling gear, and photos turn the trip into a memorable keepsake.
Short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary, but with enough time to savor key sights.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Hour Caldera Cruise

The Itinerary: A Perfect Balance of Sightseeing and Relaxation

Your journey begins with a pickup from your designated location — whether it’s the Athinios Port, Old Port of Fira, or Ammoudi Bay. Once aboard, the boat gently sets sail, and the real magic begins. The first highlight is passing Oia’s dramatic cliffs. As you cruise along, you’ll get spectacular views of the whitewashed buildings perched precariously on the edge — scenes that are even more breathtaking from the water.

Many reviewers mention how passersby and photographers love capturing this view from the sea, giving you a sense of why Oia’s charm is renowned worldwide. You can expect the captain to point out landmarks and share some insights about the geography and history of the area, although this is primarily a sightseeing-focused ride.

The Swim Near Saint Nicholas Church

After taking in the cliffs, the boat anchors at a spot near Saint Nicholas Church for a swim. The waters here are described as crystal-clear and inviting, perfect for cooling off after a warm day of touring. Several reviews mention how the water’s temperature and clarity make it a favorite stop. Guests often use provided snorkeling gear or noodles, which makes floating around more fun and accessible.

Passing Thirassia Island

Next, the boat glides past Thirassia, a smaller, less touristy island that offers a glimpse into an untouched Greek village lifestyle. Many travelers appreciate this part of the cruise, as it offers an authentic backdrop away from the crowds. It’s a good photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the calmer side of the Cyclades.

Sailing Around the Volcano & Visiting the Hot Springs

The climax of the tour is sailing around Santorini’s volcano, a truly impressive sight with its rugged, black-lava slopes. The captain often points out the volcanic craters and shares a bit of the island’s geological story. The final stop is at the Hot Springs. The warm, mineral-rich waters are known for their therapeutic qualities, and guests say they enjoy soaking in these natural thermal baths — a highlight for many.

Several reviewers applaud the warmth and buoyancy of the springs, noting that it’s a relaxing way to wind down the trip. Towels, showers, and toilets are available on board, adding comfort to this segment.

What Does the Experience Feel Like?

The overall experience is described as relaxing and scenic. The boat is comfortable, the crew friendly, and the views – simply stunning. Guests frequently mention the personalized touch — from the captain’s knowledge to the photos and videos taken during the cruise. The inclusion of a glass of local wine or soft drink adds a nice local flavor to the trip.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Included & Excluded

All necessary safety gear such as life jackets and snorkeling equipment are provided, along with towels and drinks. The photos and videos offer a lovely way to remember this trip, especially since you might not have the best equipment to capture all the scenery yourself. The only thing missing is food, so plan to have a meal before or after the tour.

Duration & Timing

The tour lasts 3 hours, which is perfect for those wanting a quick yet rundown of Santorini’s caldera. Starting times can vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking. The flexibility of reserve now and pay later offers added convenience, especially if your plans are still in flux.

Pick-Up & Group Size

You can choose the pick-up location, which includes the Athinios Port, Old Port of Fira, or Ammoudi Bay, making it easy to coordinate with your existing plans. The tour takes place in a private group setting, meaning it’s tailored to your party, unlike larger cruise options that can feel crowded.

Accessibility & Suitability

It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, due to the boat’s physical constraints. It’s ideal for those who enjoy small group adventures and want to avoid the hustle and bustle of large tours.

Authenticity & Value

Given the focus on scenic beauty and relaxation, this tour offers good value for travelers wanting an authentic, intimate experience of Santorini’s coastal highlights. The inclusion of amenities like towels, photos, and drinks adds to the sense of quality and care. While it doesn’t include lunch or extensive sightseeing ashore, the highlights from the boat itself are enough to give you a memorable snapshot of the island’s natural beauty.

Many reviews praise the professionalism of the crew, especially the captain, who is known for being informative and friendly. The opportunity to enjoy the thermal springs without the crowds or long waits is another big plus — many guests consider this a highlight.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour suits travelers who appreciate stunning views, enjoy a relaxing pace, and want a personalized experience. It’s ideal if you prefer a private group setting over larger, more commercial tours, and are comfortable with basic swimming and snorkeling. Its short duration makes it a good choice for those trying to fit sightseeing into a busy schedule, or for travelers who want to combine this with other activities on Santorini.

If you’re after a scenic, calming adventure that highlights the natural beauty of Santorini’s caldera, this tour ticks all the boxes. However, if you’re looking for a full-day experience with meals and more extensive land excursions, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This 3-hour private boat tour to Oia, Thirassia, and the hot springs strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic Greek island charm. It’s perfect for those who want to see Santorini’s iconic cliffs from the water, enjoy refreshing swims, and indulge in a peaceful, scenic cruise. The inclusion of amenities like towels, snorkeling gear, drinks, and photos helps turn a simple boat ride into a memorable experience.

While it’s not a comprehensive island tour, the highlights offered by this cruise make it a worthwhile addition to your Santorini itinerary — especially if views and relaxation are your priorities. Its intimate nature and flexibility make it most suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a more personalized way to explore the island’s natural beauty.

If you’re after a well-rounded, scenic cruise with the right mix of adventure and downtime, this tour delivers on its promises.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
All essential safety gear like life jackets and snorkeling equipment, towels, a captain, drinks (one glass of local wine or soft drink per person), and photos/videos taken during the trip are included.

How long is the tour?
The boat cruise lasts 3 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.

Where do I get picked up?
You can choose to be picked up from Athinios Port, Old Port of Fira, or Ammoudi Bay. Make sure to specify your preferred pick-up location when booking.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. You might want to eat beforehand or plan to explore local restaurants afterward.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, unfortunately, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the boat’s physical constraints.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is designed for private groups, which allows for a more personalized experience and the chance to tailor aspects of the trip.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of passing by Oia’s cliffs, swimming in crystal waters, exploring Thirassia, and sailing around the volcano with hot springs makes it a truly scenic and relaxing way to experience Santorini’s natural beauty.

In summary, this boat tour is a well-balanced, scenic experience that emphasizes Santorini’s iconic landscapes and natural thermal springs. It offers a personalized, intimate alternative to larger cruise options, making it perfect for those who value quality over quantity and want to enjoy the island from a unique perspective.