Santorini 3 Islands Trip Sailing Wooden Boat

Santorini 3 Islands Trip Sailing Wooden Boat offers an inviting way to explore some of the most iconic sights around this volcanic Greek island. For just $40.52 per person, you’ll spend nearly six hours sailing the caldera, visiting the active volcano, soaking in hot springs, and wandering the quaint streets of Thirassia. Guided in both English and Greek, this tour is a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of authentic island life.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this trip are the up-close volcano visit and the opportunity to swim in natural hot springs. These experiences offer something more tangible and memorable than just viewing from afar. The boat’s wooden charm adds a nostalgic, old-world feel, making the journey feel cozy and authentic.

A potential consideration is that the hot springs are on a tiny island without a proper beach, which means you can only swim there for about 30 minutes; there’s no opportunity to lounge on sandy shores. Also, the admission fee to visit the volcano is separate at $5, which adds a small extra cost.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor without breaking the bank. If you enjoy active outings with plenty of photo stops and a relaxed pace, you’ll find this trip hits the mark.

Key Points

• Affordable price with excellent value, includes most activities
• Up-close volcano visit with steam, sulfur smell, and photo opportunities
• Hot springs swim in thermal waters, believed to be beneficial for skin
• Charming island of Thirassia with time for swimming and exploring
• Guided experience in both English and Greek, friendly crew
• Short duration makes it accessible for most travelers

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini 3 Islands Trip Sailing Wooden Boat

The Basics: What to Expect

Starting at Fira’s old port, this tour kicks off at 11:30 am and lasts about 5 hours and 45 minutes. It’s a well-paced trip, designed for those seeking a cost-effective way to see some of Santorini’s highlights. The boat itself is a classic wooden vessel, which adds to the nostalgic charm and makes for a more intimate, authentic sailing experience.

The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable. Guides are bilingual, speaking both English and Greek, and the reviews note they’re friendly and knowledgeable—a big plus when you want to learn about the sites as you go.

First Stop: Santorini Volcano

The highlight of this tour is the active volcano, where you’ll spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The walk up takes around 20 minutes on a walkable path, and the effort is rewarded with a chance to see steam rising from the craters and smell sulfur fumes—a visceral reminder of volcanic power.

What we love here is the closer view of the volcano, which feels both exhilarating and educational. It’s an opportunity to stand right where the earth is still bubbling, and to snap some memorable photos of the rugged terrain and craters. The admission fee to access the volcano itself is $5, which is separate from the tour price, so budget accordingly.

The guides are praised for their clear explanations and friendly demeanor, making the climb accessible even for those with moderate fitness levels.

Second Stop: Palea Kameni and Hot Springs

After exploring the volcano, the boat moves to Palea Kameni, where the famous hot springs await. The boat anchors just outside a small bay, and passengers can swim about 30 meters to reach the mud baths.

The water temperature hovers between 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, thanks to natural geothermal activity, and the mud baths are believed to have healing properties, especially for skin issues. The 30-minute swim here offers a refreshing break, especially after the climb. Keep in mind that there’s no beach on this tiny island, so your time at the springs is brief—about 40 minutes total.

A reviewer describes this as a “nice tour,” noting the swimming was enjoyable and relaxing, while another appreciated the natural experience of the mud baths.

Third Stop: Thirassia

Next, the boat heads to Thirassia, a lesser-known gem with a traditional village. You get 2 hours of free time to either swim in the crystal waters of Korfos Beach or wander the narrow streets of Manolas, which offers spectacular views of Santorini and the volcanic cliffs.

You might opt to eat at a local tavern, enjoying authentic Greek dishes, or stroll through the charming village, which remains less touristy than Santorini’s main towns. The reviews highlight the picturesque streets and the welcoming local atmosphere as real highlights.

Scenic Return and Photo Opportunities

As the tour wraps up, you’ll sail near the volcanic cliffs of Oia, a perfect moment to capture the famous caldera views. The return journey offers a chance to relax and appreciate the stunning scenery—a fitting end to an active, scenic day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers most activities: guided visits to the volcano, swimming at hot springs, and time on Thirassia. The admission to the volcano costs an additional $5, which is worth considering for the experience.

Snacks and drinks are not included, so bringing a water bottle or light snacks might be wise. Since the hot springs are a natural feature, there’s no cost there beyond the boat’s fee, making this tour a great budget option.

Meeting Point & Logistics

The meeting point at Fira Old Port is easy to find, and the tour is near public transportation. It starts at 11:30 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier to settle in. The tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Tips

Based on reviews, the guides’ friendliness and clarity stand out, making the trip enjoyable and informative. The timing of each stop is well thought out, giving just enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The small group size fosters a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

For those worried about cost, the $40.52 price covers most of what you’ll want—except for the volcano entrance fee and any snacks. It’s a solid value considering the sights, swimming, and guided commentary.

Considerations

If you’re not comfortable with walking or swimming, this might not be ideal. The climb to the volcano takes about 20 minutes, and swimming at the hot springs, while fun, is brief. Also, no beach lounging here, so if sunbathing is your priority, you may want a different day trip.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is best suited for budget travelers who want a comprehensive experience without spending a fortune. It’s ideal for active travelers who enjoy walking, climbing, and swimming, and want to see volcanoes, hot springs, and quaint island villages all in one day.

If you appreciate authentic local scenes and prefer guided explanations in English and Greek, you’ll find the crew friendly and informative. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with children, especially with the discounted rates for kids.

Final Thoughts

The Santorini 3 Islands Trip Sailing Wooden Boat offers a well-balanced taste of volcano adventure, thermal springs, and island charm—all at an accessible price point. The guided insights help you appreciate the volcanic activity, while the swimming and exploring give a relaxing, hands-on feel. The boat’s nostalgic wooden charm and the scenic scenery make it a special way to see Santorini’s caldera from the water.

While not a luxury cruise, it’s a practical, enjoyable, and authentic option for travelers eager to combine adventure and relaxation without overspending. Perfect for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Santorini’s volcanic landscape and charming island life.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation to the boat?
Yes, you meet at the Fira Old Port, which is accessible by public transportation or a short walk from central Fira.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes at the volcano, 30 minutes swimming at the hot springs, and 2 hours exploring or relaxing on Thirassia.

Is there an age limit or physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate, but the climb to the volcano takes about 20 minutes, so those with serious medical conditions or mobility issues might want to consider this.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak English and Greek, and are praised for their friendly and clear explanations.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and possibly water or snacks (not included). Remember the $5 volcano entrance fee.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Ultimately, this tour offers an affordable, scenic, and engaging way to see the volcanic heart of Santorini, enjoy a swim, and experience a quieter island escape. Whether you’re seeking adventure, photo opportunities, or just some relaxing downtime, this trip delivers a well-rounded taste of what makes Santorini so captivating.