From Rethymno: Full-Day Trip to Santorini by Boat

From Rethymno: Full-Day Trip to Santorini by Boat offers a convenient way to experience one of Greece’s most beloved islands without the need for an overnight stay. For $234 per person, the tour spans approximately 13 hours, including ferry rides, guided island excursions, and plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration. It’s perfect for travelers eager to tick Santorini off their bucket list while staying based in Crete.

What we love about this experience are the stunning views of the caldera — especially from Oia — and the well-organized transport that makes navigating this busy island manageable. The boat ride itself is an adventure, offering a chance to enjoy the Aegean Sea, while the guided tour provides insights into the island’s highlights.

A potential consideration is the limited time at each stop, particularly in Oia, which some reviews mention as rushed. If you prefer slow-paced, in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit hurried. Still, for those wanting a taste of Santorini’s most photogenic spots in a single day, this tour hits the mark.

This trip is best suited for first-time visitors, travelers on a tight schedule, or those who want the convenience of an all-in-one package that covers transportation, guided sightseeing, and scenic routes. It’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see Santorini’s famous sights without the hassle of planning multiple connections.

Key Points

• All-in-One Day Trip: Combines ferry, guided bus tour, and free time for sightseeing.
• Iconic Views: Offers spectacular sights of the caldera, Oia, and Fira, often highlighted by travelers.
• Efficient Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned buses and a high-speed ferry for a smooth experience.
• Limited Time: Some stops, especially Oia, are brief, so plan your photo opportunities accordingly.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.
• Value for Money: Includes boat tickets and island transportation, making it a good deal for a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Santorini Day Trip

This tour offers a practical way to see Santorini’s most famous sights, especially if you’re based in Crete. It begins with a hotel pickup (if you choose that option) or at designated meeting points, followed by a scenic drive to the port of Rethymno. From there, you’ll step onto a luxury, high-speed catamaran which whisks you across the Aegean to Santorini’s bustling port of Athinios.

The ferry ride lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, offering a chance to relax on deck and enjoy the sea views, with some reviews noting the ride can be choppy, especially in the morning. It’s worth bringing motion sickness remedies if you’re sensitive, and snacks are available on board. Once ashore, your guides will whisk you onto an air-conditioned bus for the island tour.

Exploring Oia

Your first stop is the village of Oia, at the northern tip of Santorini. Built on the edge of a volcanic caldera, Oia’s charm lies in its narrow alleyways, iconic blue-domed churches, and pastel-painted houses. The tour includes a guided walk and a photo stop, with about an hour and 20 minutes allocated for sightseeing. Many visitors find this short stop a highlight, capturing those postcard-perfect views.

According to reviews, the time in Oia is tight, with some visitors feeling rushed, but they still rave about the scenery. One reviewer mentioned, “Really pretty the Oia town and the views in Fira but in Oia just time for a couple of pictures.” Still, most agree the experience is worth it, even if the pace is quick.

Fira’s Charm and Shopping

Next, the tour heads to Fira, the island’s lively capital. Here, you get about two hours of free time to explore on your own. You can stroll the alleys, browse shops selling local souvenirs, or simply enjoy a drink at a bar overlooking the caldera. Many travelers appreciate the stunning views from Fira’s clifftop streets and note it’s an excellent place for photos and people-watching.

One reviewer enjoyed the time here, saying, “Browse the shops or enjoy a drink at a bar with stunning views of the volcano and its caldera cliffs.” It’s a lively spot, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere.

Optional Volcano Boat Tour

Depending on availability, you might have the chance to visit the volcano up close by boat, adding a memorable touch to your day. This optional trip costs about $20 extra and is highly recommended by some travelers for the unique perspective it offers. If you’re interested, keep in mind this is an additional activity beyond the main itinerary.

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Return Journey

After exploring Fira, your guide will bus you back to the port, where you’ll board the high-speed ferry for the return trip to Rethymno. The second ferry ride mirrors the morning journey, though some reviews mention it can be even longer if the sea is rough. Once back on Crete, the bus will transfer you back to your starting point or hotel.

Transportation and Timing: Why It Matters

The tour’s logistics are clearly designed to maximize your time. The ferry rides are a key highlight, offering a scenic and relaxing way to move between islands. The air-conditioned bus ensures comfort during the 30- to 45-minute drives between stops, which is especially appreciated in Greece’s summer heat.

Timing is tight — with about two hours in Fira and just over an hour in Oia. While some reviews mention that the schedule feels rushed, others find it fits well for a day trip. If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace, this trip might be more about ticking off sights than deep exploration. Still, the guides’ knowledge and the scenic routes compensate for the quick stops.

Practical Aspects

You’ll need to bring your passport or ID card, as it’s a requirement for the ferry. Arriving early at the port is advised because the check-in process and boarding can get crowded. The tour provides tickets in advance, skipping the long lines, which adds to the convenience.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Many travelers praise the guides for their professionalism and friendly manner. One reviewer shared, “The guide was informative, the activities well planned and everything was on time.” Others appreciated the extra insights offered when asked, making the experience more enriching.

However, a few reviews point out that the language skills of some guides, particularly Russian-speaking guides, could be improved. Still, the overall consensus is that the guides make the day enjoyable and informative.

Food, Shopping, and Flexibility

While food and drinks aren’t included, there are plenty of cafes and shops in Fira and Oia for a quick snack or souvenir. Some travelers found that the shopping options in Fira are more affordable than Oia, which is known for its tourist prices.

The tour’s flexibility in pickup and drop-off options makes it accessible for many travelers, especially those staying in Crete’s popular resorts.

Price and Value: Does It Deliver?

At $234, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines ferry rides, guided sightseeing, and free time at iconic sites. Considering the cost of individual ferry tickets, guided tours, and transport, the package represents good value, especially given the convenience of having everything organized.

While some reviews mention the long day and hurried pace, most agree it’s worth it for the chance to see Santorini’s key highlights in a single trip. If you’re short on time or prefer a hassle-free experience, the cost is reasonable for the convenience provided.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Greece eager to see Santorini’s top sights without planning complex logistics. It suits those comfortable with a busy schedule, as the itinerary is fast-paced. It’s also well-suited for travelers who value expert guides and scenic transport routes.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a leisurely, in-depth exploration, or traveling with mobility challenges, this might not be the best fit. The limited time at each stop can feel rushed for those wanting time to linger.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Crete to Santorini offers a practical, scenic, and efficient way to experience one of Greece’s most iconic islands. With spectacular views, well-organized transportation, and knowledgeable guides, it delivers great value for travelers looking to see the highlights in a single day.

While the schedule can be tight, and some stops may feel rushed, the consistent praise for the scenery and guide expertise suggests this trip will satisfy most first-timers or those eager for a hassle-free snapshot of Santorini’s beauty. It’s especially suited for those with limited time, wanting a reliable, enjoyable, and picture-perfect taste of Greece’s legendary island.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes boat tickets for the ferry between Rethymno and Santorini, transportation on the island, and a guided tour in multiple languages. Hotel pickup and drop-off are optional but available if selected.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride each way lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, providing a relaxing sea voyage with scenic views.

Can I visit the volcano up close?
Yes, there is an optional volcano boat tour available for about $20, which allows a closer view of the volcanic site.

How much free time do I get in Oia and Fira?
You’ll spend about 1 hour and 20 minutes in Oia and around 2 hours in Fira, enough for photos, shopping, and a quick meal.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best for travelers who are comfortable with quick stops and walking. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those needing a slow-paced experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun protection, and enough water. Confirm your ferry tickets in advance, and arrive early at the port on the day of travel.

How is the guide’s language skill?
Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, though some reviews mention that the language skills of Russian guides can be less polished.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of cafes and shops in Fira and Oia for a quick refreshment.

What if the weather is rough?
Sea conditions can affect the ferry ride, making it choppier than usual. Carry motion sickness remedies if needed.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule; however, some optional activities like the volcano visit can be added for an extra cost.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide if this Santorini day trip fits your travel style. Whether you’re chasing iconic views or just want a taste of Greece’s most famous caldera, this tour packs a lot into a single, memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: