Santorini: Boat tour to Volcano, Hot Springs & Thirasia island

A boat tour around Santorini that visits Nea Kameni volcano, geothermal hot springs, and Thirasia island promises a blend of natural beauty, geological marvels, and traditional Greek charm—all in about five hours. For $83, you’ll enjoy a well-paced journey that combines scenic sailing, a hike to a volcanic crater, a soothing dip in thermal waters, and a peaceful stop on a less touristy island.

What we really love about this tour is how intimate it feels—small groups, personalized touches like a glass of local wine, and the chance to explore at your own pace. Plus, the views from the boat and the volcanic landscape are genuinely breathtaking.

One thing to consider is that the volcano hike involves some climbing, which can be challenging in the heat, and there’s no guide for that part. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy natural wonders and are comfortable with a bit of light adventure. It’s perfect for those craving a relaxed yet active day that combines nature, culture, and beautiful scenery.

Key Points

Natural Wonders: The volcanic island of Nea Kameni offers dramatic landscapes shaped by eruptions, perfect for those who love geological sights.
Relaxing Hot Springs: The geothermal waters at Palea Kameni are a highlight, offering a warm, mineral-rich swim.
Authentic Culture: Thirasia remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, giving visitors a taste of traditional Greek island life.
Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 24 travelers, it’s easier to connect and get personalized attention from the crew.
Value for Money: The tour includes wine, water, towels, and free time, making it a pretty good deal when you consider the scenic stops and authentic experiences.
Convenient Logistics: Starting and ending at Santorini’s Old Port, with flexible cancellation, suits most travelers’ schedules.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Santorini Old Harbor

Our journey begins in Santorini’s iconic Old Port, also called Fira Port. This charming waterfront area is accessible by steps, cable car, or donkeys—though we prefer the cable car for a quick, scenic ride. From here, the boat departs around 10:15 am, giving us plenty of time to soak in the lively yet relaxed atmosphere of the harbor lined with tavernas and shops.

Approaching Nea Kameni

In just about 20 minutes of sailing across the Caldera, we arrive at Nea Kameni, the island formed by volcanic activity. This is the heart of Santorini’s volcanic history. The dark lava rocks and rugged terrain make this a visually striking stop.

While there’s no guided hike, you’re free to explore the volcanic landscape at your leisure. Many travelers find walking around fascinating, feeling the raw energy of the earth beneath their feet. A hike to the crater’s rim is possible, but remember, it’s self-guided and involves some rocky terrain. We loved the sense of standing on a piece of active geology, imagining the eruptions that created this island.

The Hot Springs at Palea Kameni

Next, we sail over to Palea Kameni, famous for its geothermal hot springs. Here, you can jump into the warm, mineral-rich waters—an experience many reviews praise as surprisingly warm and soothing. The waters contain sulfur and iron, which many say have healing properties for skin and muscles.

A word of caution: the sulfur can leave a stain on light-colored swimwear, so pack accordingly. The tour includes towels, and the boat crew takes care of safety, which makes this a low-stress way to enjoy the springs. We found this to be a highlight—being able to float in warm waters with views of the volcanic landscape is pretty special.

Exploring Thirasia Island

After the swim, the boat takes us to Thirasia, an often-overlooked gem. This island used to be part of Santorini but has remained largely untouched by mass tourism, retaining its traditional Cycladic character.

In about an hour and a quarter, we’re free to wander the narrow alleys, admire the whitewashed houses, and enjoy the tranquility away from the crowds of Fira and Oia. Several reviews mention how worthwhile this stop is—lunch on Thirasia has been described as one of the tastiest experiences, with genuine local cuisine. It’s the perfect place to sample traditional dishes and sip local wine in a quiet, authentic setting.

Return to Santorini’s Old Harbor

With a relaxed lunch and some exploring behind us, we sail back toward the Old Port. The return trip is short, about a minute, allowing us to unwind and take in the breathtaking views of the caldera from the water. Many reviews mention how the small boat and friendly crew make the experience more personal and enjoyable.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

Price and Value

At $83, the tour offers a lot of value—covering transportation, some drinks, towels, and free time on Thirasia. While the Nea Kameni entry fee of €5 per person is extra, overall, this is a reasonably priced way to see some of Santorini’s most compelling natural sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 24 travelers, the experience tends to be more intimate than larger cruise ships. Many reviews praise the friendly, helpful staff and the small group vibe, which makes asking questions and enjoying the scenery more relaxed.

Timing and Duration

Starting at 10:15 am and lasting about five hours, this tour fits nicely into a day of sightseeing. You’ll have plenty of time for a leisurely morning, and if you’re staying nearby, it’s easy to fit into a larger itinerary.

Accessibility Considerations

The volcano hike involves some climbing, which not everyone may find easy, especially in the heat. Several reviews mention the effort needed and suggest bringing a windbreaker or hat for protection against sun and wind.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight skilled guides, stunning views, delicious wine, and good value. For instance, one reviewer appreciated the smaller boat and early arrival to sites, avoiding the crowds. Others note that hot springs were warmer than expected, making it a pleasant surprise.

Some critiques include the lack of guided commentary during the volcano hike, so if you’d like detailed information, you might need to do some reading beforehand.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you love geological wonders, peaceful island scenery, and authentic local experiences. It suits travelers who are comfortable with a bit of light hiking and are looking for a small-group experience that balances adventure with relaxation. If you’re eager to learn about Santorini’s volcanic past and enjoy dipping in geothermal waters, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s less suited for those who prefer guided hikes with commentary or have mobility issues, given the self-guided volcanic walk. But for most active travelers, it’s a wonderfully balanced way to see some of the island’s most impressive sights in a single half-day.

The Sum Up

This Santorini boat tour offers a well-rounded experience that mixes natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and relaxing moments. The small-group setting and friendly crew make it more personal and enjoyable, while the stops at Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, and Thirasia highlight some of the island’s most compelling features.

If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible way to explore Santorini’s volcanic terrain, soak in thermal springs, and get a glimpse of local island life, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, good company, and the chance to enjoy authentic Greek hospitality away from the crowds.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about five hours, starting around 10:15 am and ending back at Santorini’s Old Port.

What’s included in the price?
You get a small boat ride, towels, one glass of local wine, water, restroom access, and free time on Thirasia. The tour also includes foam pool noodles for swimming.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the cable car ticket (about €10 each way) is not included, nor is the Nea Kameni entry fee (€5 per person). You should bring cash for these.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but note that the volcano hike is on your own and involves some climbing, which might be tough for some. It’s best for those comfortable with light outdoor activity.

How many people usually go on this tour?
The group size is limited to 24 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Just keep in mind that bad weather could cause a cancellation.

What if I don’t want to swim in the hot springs?
You can enjoy the thermal waters from the boat’s edge or opt to relax onboard. The hot springs are the main attraction for many, but not mandatory.

This tour strikes a pleasing balance between natural wonders and cultural insights, all wrapped up in a relaxed boat ride. For those curious about Santorini’s volcanic heart and craving an authentic taste of Greek island life, it’s a choice worth considering.