Santorini isn’t just about stunning sunsets and iconic whitewashed buildings—it’s also a fantastic place to unwind with spa and hot springs experiences. With its volcanic landscape, the island offers natural thermal waters and unique aquatic adventures that make for memorable moments. We’re particularly fond of the Santorini: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit, which combines a scenic boat ride, a volcano hike, and a soothing dip in sulfur-rich springs—all for a very reasonable price. For a more luxurious outing, the Fira: Private Day Cruise offers privacy, gourmet food, and the chance to swim in pristine waters, perfect for celebrating a special occasion.
If you’re looking to relax while soaking in dramatic views, these tours deliver. Whether you want a budget-friendly adventure or a private luxury cruise, Santorini’s hot springs and spa experiences are worth considering. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated options to help you find your perfect fit.
Quick Overview
This list covers three standout tours in Santorini, each offering a different experience:
- The Santorini: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit is a budget-friendly, full-day boat trip with volcano hiking and thermal springs.
- The Santorini: Volcano and Hot Springs Sunset Dinner Cruise combines a scenic cruise with a delicious dinner and sunset views, ideal for romantics.
- The Fira: Private Day Cruise with BBQ, Drinks, & Hot Springs offers privacy and personalized service, perfect for celebrating or special occasions.
1. Santorini: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit
This tour is the most accessible and economical way to experience Santorini’s volcanic scenery and natural thermal waters. For just around $28 per person, you’ll spend 3 to 10 hours exploring the caldera, hiking a volcano, and swimming in the famous hot springs. The trip starts with a sailboat ride around the caldera, giving you sweeping views of the island’s rugged volcanic landscape, which is truly unlike any other place in the world.
A key highlight is hiking up to the crater of Nea Kameni, where you can stand on the edge of an active volcano — an unforgettable experience. Following that, you’ll have the chance to swim in the volcanic sulfur waters at the Hot Springs, which are reputed to have therapeutic benefits. The tour also includes a stop at Thirassia, where you can enjoy a second swim and take in the peaceful bay.
This trip is a fantastic value, especially considering the reviews praise the knowledgeable crew and breathtaking scenery. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a full day of adventure and natural relaxation without breaking the bank. Keep in mind that the tour can be flexible, with durations from 3 to 10 hours, depending on your preference.
Bottom Line: A great choice for budget-conscious travelers eager to combine volcano exploration with a soothing soak in volcanic waters.
2. Santorini: Volcano and Hot Springs Sunset Dinner Cruise
This evening cruise offers a slightly more luxurious and romantic experience, perfect for celebrating or simply soaking in Santorini’s beauty as the sun dips below the horizon. At around $102 per person and lasting 8 hours, it’s more of an investment, but one that includes a gourmet dinner, a scenic volcano hike, swimming in hot springs, and a spectacular sunset.
The journey begins with a climb to the top of Nea Kameni, where you’ll learn about the volcano’s fascinating history. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a swim in the hot springs at Palia Kameni, with the sulfur-rich waters believed to have healing properties. The boat then heads to a second island for another swim, all while the crew shares insights into the volcanic landscape.
The highlight is definitely the sunset viewing—the sky turns vibrant hues as you dine on board, often with live music or a relaxed vibe that makes the experience even more memorable. The reviews highlight the incredible sunset views, the quality of the food, and the lively atmosphere on the boat.
This tour is best suited for couples or small groups wanting a combination of adventure, relaxation, and fine dining. It’s a well-reviewed experience, with many travelers calling it “truly unforgettable,” though it’s pricier than the other options.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a romantic, all-in-one sunset cruise that combines volcanic exploration with a memorable dining experience.
3. Fira: Private Day Cruise with BBQ, Drinks, & Hot Springs
If privacy and personalized service are your priorities, this luxury private cruise is hard to beat. For around $1,129 per group (up to 4 people), you get a 5-hour customizable experience aboard a motor yacht, perfect for special occasions or those who want a more intimate day on the water.
The trip features exploring Santorini’s islands and beaches at your own pace, with options to swim, snorkel, or simply relax onboard. The highlight is the hot springs, where you can dip into the warm, sulfur-rich waters that are unique to the volcanic islands. You’ll also enjoy a Greek BBQ prepared fresh onboard, using local products, making this cruise both a culinary and visual delight.
Guests rave about the luxury and comfort of the vessel, with reviews emphasizing the personalized service and beautiful scenery. Because it’s a private charter, you can tailor the itinerary to include specific places or activities you’re most interested in.
This tour is perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, families, or small groups seeking exclusivity. The main drawback is the higher price, but many find it a worthwhile splurge for the added privacy and bespoke experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those who value privacy, luxury, and custom itineraries, making it ideal for honeymooners or special celebrations.
$1,129 per group up to 4
How to Choose
When deciding between these amazing options, consider your budget, preferred level of privacy, and how much time you want to spend on the water. If you’re looking for an affordable, active adventure, the Santorini: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit is hard to beat. For a romantic evening with fine dining, the Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a memorable experience. If privacy and personalized service are your top concerns, the Private Day Cruise is the way to go.
Plus, think about the time of year—summer tends to be busier, so booking early is advisable. If you’re not keen on long boat rides, note that the private cruise is shorter but more exclusive.
Final Thoughts
Santorini offers a wide range of spa and hot springs experiences that suit different preferences and budgets. For most travelers, the full-day volcanic cruise provides excellent value and a variety of activities, from volcano hiking to thermal baths. If you want a romantic, sunset-drenched evening, the dinner cruise is hard to beat. And for those seeking intimacy and customization, the private yacht offers a luxurious escape.
No matter which you choose, these experiences promise to add a relaxing and unforgettable dimension to your trip. Be sure to book early, especially in the busy summer months, and enjoy the soothing, volcanic waters that make Santorini such a special place.