1-Day Boat Trip: Santorini Volcano, Thirassia & Oia Sunset

Santorini’s dramatic landscapes and fiery volcanic history make it a must-see destination. This 9-hour boat trip offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s volcanic scenery, quaint villages, and one of the world’s most famous sunsets. Based on numerous reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to combine natural beauty with cultural charm, all while enjoying the comfort of included transfers and a knowledgeable guide.

What I like about this tour is how it balances adventure with relaxation. You get up close with Nea Kameni, the active volcano, and can even dip into the thermal hot springs—a true highlight. Plus, the visit to Thirasia feels like stepping back in time, with its cozy streets and inviting beaches. An additional standout is catching the sunset at Oia, which many reviewers describe as unforgettable.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour runs quite long, around nine hours, with some guests feeling it stretches beyond the advertised time. If you’re not a fan of long days or physically demanding walks, this is something to consider. Also, until late June, the boat will not stop at Thirasia; instead, you’ll remain on board and enjoy snacks, which might affect those hoping for a longer land visit.

This journey is a fantastic way to see Santorini’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a guided experience, value good scenery, and are comfortable with a bit of walking and a full day out.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Active Volcano Experience: Climbing the trail to Nea Kameni’s crater offers a real sense of nature’s raw power.
• Thermal Springs: Swimming in the sulfurous waters at Palea Kameni is a unique, relaxing activity that many find memorable.
• Authentic Village Visit: Thirasia gives a taste of traditional island life with its old village, beach, and spiral staircases.
• Sunset at Oia: The tour’s finale at sunset provides some of Greece’s most stunning scenery, often described as magical.
• Guide Quality Matters: Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Christos and Tania for their knowledge, humor, and professionalism.
• Long but Worthwhile: Expect a day of walking, sightseeing, and sightseeing, so bring good shoes and be prepared for a full schedule.

From Hotel to the Sea: Transportation and Logistics

Getting picked up from your hotel in Fira, Imerovigli, Kamari, Ia, or Perissa makes this tour hassle-free. The transfer is included in the price, which adds substantial value. The ride to Athinios Port is straightforward, but be aware that if your hotel can’t be reached by car, you’ll be directed to the nearest accessible meeting point.

Once at the port, the boat boarding process is usually smooth, and you’ll share the vessel with a group of travelers eager to explore Santorini’s volcanic side. The tour provider, Cretanholidays, is known for maintaining punctuality, but some reviews mention minor delays, so patience is always helpful.

The Volcano: Up-close with Nature’s Fire

The first stop is Nea Kameni, the volcanic island at the heart of Santorini’s fiery history. The trail to the crater is bumpy and can be dusty—wear sturdy shoes and take your time. The climb is worth it; you’ll see the active crater bubbling and get a sense of how this island was born through eruptions. Several reviews highlight this as a “strenuous but rewarding” hike, with one reviewer noting it’s better done in cooler months due to dust and heat.

Guides like Christos make the climb informative and lively, sharing insights about the volcano’s geology and the island’s formation. If you’re a photo enthusiast, the views from the top are stunning—crimson and black volcanic rocks stretching into the sea.

Hot Springs: A Sulfurous Soak

After the volcano, the boat takes you within 50 meters of Palea Kameni’s thermal springs. Many guests dive in to splash around in the green sulfur-rich waters, which are said to have therapeutic properties. The waters are warm and somewhat mineral-rich, making for a memorable swim—though some reviews joke about the sulfur smell being strong! Bring a towel and swimsuit; you might want to avoid white clothing, as some reviewers warn about staining.

Note that until the end of June, the boat might skip stops at Thirasia, and instead, you’ll stay onboard to enjoy snacks and the scenic ride. This change can be disappointing if you were looking forward to a longer land visit but still offers a chance to relax on deck.

Thirasia: A Tamed Corner of Santorini

The island of Thirasia feels like a step back in time. Once part of Santorini, it was separated by a volcanic eruption, carving out a quieter, less touristy spot. Many guests love wandering the old village of Manola—its spiral staircases and small houses create a charming atmosphere.

On Thirasia, you can swim, explore, or enjoy a snack at a seaside tavern. Several reviews mention how friendly and authentic this part of the trip feels. Some guests even take a short walk up to the village for panoramic views. However, be prepared for some climbing if you want to explore further.

The Return Journey: Scenic Views and the Oia Sunset

As the boat sails back under Oia, you’ll get a glimpse of the iconic caldera cliffs—a perfect photo opportunity. Many travelers mention how spectacular the coastline looks from the water, especially during late afternoon.

The final stop is Oia, where a bus will transfer you to the famous sunset viewpoint. The sunset here is often described as awe-inspiring—bright orange and pink hues casting a glow over the village’s iconic blue-domed churches and narrow streets. Many reviews highlight how well-organized the sunset transfer is, with the experience lasting about 30 minutes after the sun dips below the horizon.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Bring comfortable shoes: There’s a fair amount of walking, especially on rocky or steep terrain.
• Pack swimwear and a towel: The hot springs provide a unique bathing experience.
• Dress for the weather: A jacket is suggested for the evening, as it can get chilly or windy.
• Cash for entry fees: The volcano’s entry fee (€5) is paid on site in cash. Many eateries on Thirasia and Oia also prefer cash.
• Time management: The tour is long—about 9 hours—so plan your day accordingly. Many reviewers say they finished around 8:30 pm, making for a very full but rewarding day.

Who Will Love This Tour

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided look at Santorini’s volcanic heart and scenic coastlines without worrying about logistics. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate stunning vistas, authentic village visits, and a lively guide. If you’re comfortable walking and enjoy a full day out, this tour offers excellent value, given the included transfers, guide, and diverse activities.

People with mobility issues or those not keen on long walks might find some parts challenging, particularly the hike up the volcano. Also, if you’re eager for a quieter, less crowded experience, keep in mind that the tour is popular, and the boat can get busy.

This Santorini boat tour offers a well-rounded day of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. The highlights—climbing Nea Kameni, swimming in hot springs, exploring Thirasia, and watching the sunset in Oia—are truly memorable. Guides like Christos and Tania receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, adding warmth to the experience.

While it’s a longer day, the mix of natural wonders and cultural sights packs incredible value into the price. For travelers who want to see Santorini’s volcanic core, enjoy authentic village life, and end with a sunset that’s hard to beat, this tour hits the spot. Just come prepared for a full day, and you’ll leave with pictures, stories, and memories that last.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes roundtrip hotel transfer from specified locations like Fira, Imerovigli, Kamari, Ia, and Perissa.

What should I bring on the trip? Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and a jacket are recommended. Sunscreen and water are also wise, especially for the volcano hike.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, from pickup to drop-off, with some guests noting it can extend slightly beyond that.

Are there any extra costs? Yes, a €5 cash payment is required for the volcano entry fee, and lunch expenses on Thirasia are not included.

What if I want to skip Thirasia? Until late June, the boat won’t stop at Thirasia—guests stay on board and enjoy snacks instead. Post-June, the land visit is typically included.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues? It’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments due to the walking involved, especially the volcano climb and village exploration.

Can I swim in the hot springs? Yes, many guests do, but be prepared for the sulfur smell and rocky waters. Bring your own swim gear and towel.

What is the best time of year to do this tour? While available year-round, the weather is most pleasant in spring and early fall. The tour may be less crowded outside peak summer months.

This tour offers a rich snapshot of Santorini’s volcanic scenery, authentic villages, and sunset magic—all with the convenience of guided logistics. If you’re looking for an active, scenic, and bucket-list experience, this trip could be just what you need.