Santorini Island, a crown jewel of the Aegean Sea, beckons visitors from Rethymno Port in Crete. This guided tour promises to whisk travelers away on a high-speed cruise ship, offering a seamless journey to the island’s iconic white-washed villages. Once on shore, a thoughtfully curated itinerary unveils the enchanting towns of Oia and Fira, where travelers can enjoy the island’s captivating history and culture. With optional excursions, such as a boat cruise to the Santorini Volcano, the day promises to be a harmonious blend of exploration and relaxation. Discover why this mesmerizing destination continues to capture the hearts of visitors from around the world.
Key Points
- This guided tour allows you to explore Santorini Island from the port of Rethymno in Crete, with transportation via high-speed cruise ship.
- The tour includes a bus tour of Santorini with free time in Oia and Fira, and an optional boat cruise to the Santorini Volcano.
- The tour duration is 12 hours, with the cruise journey taking 2.33 hours each way, and includes hotel transfers in the Rethymno area.
- The tour is guided in multiple languages, and the cruise ship offers comfortable amenities such as air conditioning and open deck areas.
- The tour package includes additional insurance coverage for participants, providing peace of mind during the Santorini excursion.
Tour Overview
The tour from Rethymno, Crete to Santorini Island lasts 12 hours and costs from $227.76 per person. It departs from the SeaJets Crete terminal at Rethymno Port and returns to the same location. Guests can cancel their booking for free up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes transportation via a high-speed cruise ship that takes 2.33 hours each way. The ship has comfortable lounges and an open deck. Hotel transfers in the Rethymno area are included, though extra charges apply for pickups outside this zone.
The tour features a guided bus tour in Santorini with free time to explore Oia and Fira, as well as optional activities like a boat cruise to the Santorini Volcano.
Transportation Details
Guests travel to Santorini Island via a high-speed cruise ship that departs from the SeaJets Crete terminal at Rethymno Port. The journey takes 2.33 hours each way, with comfortable lounges and an open deck for passengers to relax during the ride.
Transfers from hotels in the Rethymno area are included, though there are extra charges for pickups outside this region. The cruise ship is equipped with air conditioning, so guests are advised to bring a jacket.
While the itinerary is subject to change, the tour staff is on hand at the port to assist with ticket exchanges and provide information to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Itinerary Highlights
Santorini Island: Guided Tour From the Port Rethymno Crete
Itinerary Highlights
Upon arrival in Santorini, the guided tour includes a bus tour with free time allotted in the picturesque towns of Oia (1.5 hours) and Fira (2.5 hours), allowing ample opportunity for sightseeing, shopping, and taking photographs.
For those interested in exploring further, an optional boat cruise to the Santorini Volcano is available for an additional fee, offering a 40-minute journey to this iconic landmark.
Throughout the tour, guests will enjoy frequent photo stops and additional time for shopping and sightseeing.
Comprehensive information support is provided before and during the tour, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
Guided Tour Features
Live tour guides, available in English, French, German, and Polish, provide valuable information and commentary throughout the guided tour.
Additional insurance for participants is also included, ensuring peace of mind during the journey. Staff assist travelers at the port with ticket exchange, facilitating a smooth experience from start to finish.
The guided tour offers a range of features to enhance the Santorini experience. Tickets for the fastest ship are provided, allowing for efficient transportation.
The staff is on hand at the port to help with any questions or concerns, ensuring a seamless transition from the mainland to the island.
With these comprehensive tour features, visitors can focus on exploring the stunning landscapes and charming villages of Santorini.
Arrival and Departure
Travelers must arrive at the Rethymno Port at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure a timely boarding process.
Upon arrival, they’ll find a kiosk at the port that provides ferry tickets and information about the bus transportation. The live tour guide will be on hand to assist participants during the ticket exchange.
Once aboard the high-speed cruise ship, travelers can expect comfortable lounges and an open deck, with air conditioning to consider bringing a jacket.
While the itinerary is subject to change, the tour staff will provide information support before and during the trip to account for any potential delays in departure from Santorini.
Cruise Ship Amenities
The high-speed cruise ship boasts comfortable lounges and an open deck, ensuring a pleasant journey for passengers. The ship’s amenities cater to the needs of travelers, providing ample space to relax and take in the scenic views.
Some key features of the cruise ship include:
- Spacious and well-appointed lounges with comfortable seating
- An open-air deck where passengers can enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic vistas
- Air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the journey
- Friendly and attentive staff on hand to assist passengers with any inquiries or needs
These amenities contribute to an enjoyable and hassle-free experience as passengers embark on their guided tour of the stunning Santorini Island.
Tour Participant Insurance
Additional insurance for tour participants is included in the guided tour package, providing an extra layer of protection for travelers. This insurance covers a range of scenarios, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or damaged luggage.
The coverage ensures that tour participants can enjoy their Santorini excursion with peace of mind, knowing that they’re financially protected in case of unexpected events. The tour operator has made this insurance a priority, demonstrating their commitment to the safety and well-being of their customers.
This added benefit allows travelers to focus on the stunning sights and experiences of Santorini, without the worry of potential mishaps during their journey.
Tour Schedule Changes
Santorini Island: Guided Tour From the Port Rethymno Crete
Tour Schedule Changes
While the guided tour’s itinerary is carefully curated, it’s important to note that schedule changes can sometimes occur. Due to factors beyond the tour operator’s control, such as weather conditions or transportation delays, the departure from Santorini may be subject to delays.
Travelers should remain flexible and prepared for potential adjustments to the planned return time to Rethymno. The tour staff will make every effort to keep participants informed of any itinerary changes throughout the day.
Key considerations:
- Delays in departure from Santorini are possible
- Participants should be prepared for flexible schedules
- Tour staff will communicate any changes to the itinerary
- Travelers should remain patient and adaptable
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
Yes, there are discounts available for children and seniors. Children under 4 travel for free, while those aged 4-12 receive a 50% discount. Seniors aged 65+ qualify for a 15% discount on the tour cost.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any restrictions or policies regarding outside items before the trip.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Luggage I Can Bring?
There are no specific luggage restrictions for this cruise. Passengers can bring their regular travel bags and suitcases. However, it’s recommended to pack light to easily carry luggage on and off the ship.
Is There an Option to Extend My Stay in Santorini After the Tour?
The tour doesn’t include an option to extend your stay in Santorini. However, you can make your own arrangements to stay longer if you’d like. The tour simply provides transportation and guided sightseeing for the day.
How Reliable Is the Internet Connectivity on the Cruise Ship?
The internet connectivity on the cruise ship is generally reliable, though passengers should expect some intermittent disruptions. Onboard Wi-Fi is available, but the speed and reliability may vary depending on the ship’s location and network coverage.
Recap
The Santorini Island guided tour from Rethymno Port in Crete offers a comprehensive experience.
Travelers can enjoy a comfortable high-speed cruise, explore the picturesque towns of Oia and Fira, and even take an optional boat cruise to the Santorini Volcano.
This full-day excursion showcases the breathtaking beauty of this iconic Greek island, providing an unforgettable adventure.
