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Book Santorini’s Volcano Cruises

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Catamaran sailing near rocky cliffs in Santorini, Greece.
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There’s no other place where you can literally hop from one volcanic island to another, sailing through a flooded caldera surrounded by cliffs, whitewashed villages, and geologic wonder. A Santorini volcano cruise takes you across Nea Kameni’s crater trails, the warm waters of Palea Kameni, and the quiet charm of Thirassia, all in one seamless loop. You’ll hike an active volcano, soak in sulfur-rich hot springs, swim off the boat, and still be back in time for a sunset. There are plenty of cruise options you can choose from, some with sunset views, others with luxury touches that take care of most things. Here’s what’s included and why this might be the most effortless way to experience Santorini’s volcanic side.

Top reasons to take a Santorini Volcano Cruise 

Catamarans anchored near Santorini's Red Beach with rocky hills in the background.

Hop between volcanic islands

Set sail across Santorini’s caldera and step onto its most iconic volcanic islets, Nea Kameni and Thirassia. From hiking a dormant crater to walking quiet cliffside paths, each island stop brings a completely different side of the caldera.

Guests swimming in hot springs near a white chapel during Santorini volcanic cruise tour.

Swim in natural hot springs

Take a dip in the rust-colored waters near Palea Kameni, a blend of seawater and warm mineral-rich springs. Accessible only by boat, this experience adds a wild, elemental contrast to a typical beach day.

Catamaran on Santorini Caldera cruise with seating and sunshade.

Choose cruises that fit your style

Whether you're after a guided day tour or a romantic sunset sail, there are plenty of cruises to choose from. Some include hearty onboard dinners, others offer free time for local meals onshore so you can curate your day around what suits you best.

Boats anchored near Nea Kameni volcanic island, Santorini, with rocky landscape and turquoise water.

See Santorini from a different angle

Cruising through the caldera gives you views no clifftop can match. Watch the island’s whitewashed villages spill down volcanic cliffs, feel the breeze shift with every turn, and stay for that golden-hour glow that makes the whole coastline shine.

Things to know before you book a Santorini Volcano Cruise

  • You’re sailing into a caldera, not just a bay
    These cruises take you into the flooded volcanic crater that shaped Santorini. The landscape you’ll sail through was formed by one of the biggest eruptions in recorded history.
  • Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni are the main attractions
    These two volcanic islets sit inside the caldera. One you’ll hike (Nea Kameni), the other you’ll swim beside (Palea Kameni, known for its hot springs).
  • Yes, you can hike an actual volcano.
    Most cruises include a guided hike to the summit of Nea Kameni. The path is dusty and rocky but doable for most fitness levels. Just wear proper shoes.
  • The hot springs are worth taking a dip in
    The waters at Palea Kameni are warm and iron-rich, with a rust-colored tint and a mild sulfur smell. You’ll swim about 30 meters from the boat to reach them.
  • Not all tours are wheelchair or stroller accessible
    Most cruises require getting in and out of boats, walking on uneven paths, or swimming short distances. It’s best to check accessibility details before booking.
  • You’ll likely stop at Thirassia which is more like Santorini’s quieter sibling
    A common stop on most cruises, Thirassia gives you time to explore a sleepy Cycladic village, grab lunch, or just take in the views away from the crowds.
  • Sunset cruises are a thing and they’re spectacular.
    Many volcano cruises offer late afternoon departures that end with golden-hour views of Oia or the cliffs of Fira glowing under the sunset.
  • Cruises range from budget-friendly to luxe.
    You’ll find everything from large-group wooden boats to semi-private catamarans with cushioned decks and chilled wine. Choose what suits your vibe.
  • These cruises are safe, regulated, and very popular.
    The volcano is monitored, boats are licensed, and guides are experienced. You’ll be briefed before swimming or hiking and life jackets are available in emergencies.

Which Santorini Volcano Cruise you should go for

Sailboat on the Aegean Sea during a Santorini sunset cruise.

Go for the Volcanic Islands Sunset Cruise with Optional Dinner. It’s made for those who want a leisurely, scenic day capped with a golden-hour view of the caldera. You’ll still visit the volcano and hot springs, but the real luxury is in the slower pace, optional dinner onboard, and watching the sunset with a glass of Santorini white wine in hand.

Whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches in Oia, Santorini, overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Choose the Santorini Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs, Volcano Hike, Thirassia & Oia. This is the most complete, most popular option. It’s ideal for explorers who want both land and sea. You hike a volcano, swim at Palea Kameni, explore Thirassia, and if you choose the upgrade, even catch the famous sunset in Oia. A great all-rounder for first-time visitors.

Aerial view of a catamaran cruise with swimmers in Santorini, Greece.

Pick the Volcano, Hot Springs & Thirassia Day Cruise from Fira. It includes all the essentials: Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, and a decent stop at Thirassia, without the frills. It’s shorter, simple, and still scenic. Perfect if you’re short on time or want to keep things easy on the wallet while still covering the caldera’s highlights.

About the two volcanic islands near Santorini

Santorini volcano tours take you to the two small volcanic islands that sit in the middle of the caldera: Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. These islets are the heart of the experience. You’ll hike on black volcanic terrain, swim in iron-rich hot springs, and stare up at the cliffs of Santorini from sea level. Together, they offer a striking look at the island’s volcanic origins.

Nea Kameni is the larger of the two, and home to Santorini’s active (but closely monitored) volcanic crater. You can walk a marked trail to the summit, passing sulfur vents and craggy lava fields, with sweeping views of the caldera all around. Palea Kameni, just beside it, is a natural hot spring where where you can swim in its mineral-rich waters.

Tips for taking the Santorini Volcano Cruises

  • Wear proper shoes: The volcano hike at Nea Kameni isn’t Everest, but it is rocky, uneven, and covered in loose volcanic gravel. A closed-toe sneaker or sturdy sandal with grip is your best bet.
  • Don’t wear your favorite white swimsuit to the hot springs: The waters at Palea Kameni are rust-orange from iron and sulfur. They will stain light-colored clothing. Stick to dark swimwear and bring a spare towel if you don’t mind getting a bit orange-tinged.
  • Pack light but smart: You won’t need much onboard: sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, and something dry to change into after your swim.
  • If you’re not a confident swimmer, speak up.: Getting to the hot springs involves a short swim (about 30–50 meters) from the boat. Some cruises provide floats; others don’t. Ask ahead. It’s perfectly okay to enjoy the view from the deck if you’re unsure.
  • Cash is handy for volcano entrance fees and lunch stops: The Nea Kameni hike has a small entrance fee (usually €5 or less), and local tavernas on Thirassia don’t always accept cards. Bring some small bills and coins.

Frequently asked questions about Santorini Volcano Cruises

Is the volcano hike difficult?

It’s not a hard hike, but it’s on loose volcanic gravel, with some incline and little shade. If you’re reasonably mobile and wearing decent shoes, you’ll manage just fine.

Will I miss out if I don’t swim in the hot springs?

Not at all. The swim is optional, and the boat usually anchors with a view. If you’re not keen on the short swim or the murky water, enjoy the volcanic scenery from the deck instead.

Can I do this cruise with small kids?

It depends on the tour. Cruises are long, the hike can be hot, and there's no stroller access. Older kids who enjoy boats and a bit of walking will do great; toddlers, maybe not so much.

What’s actually different about the sunset cruises?

It’s mostly about mood. Same volcano, same water but the light’s golden, dinner might be included, and the vibe is slower, more romantic. If you’re here with a partner, it’s a no-brainer.

Can I visit the volcano without taking a cruise?

Technically, yes. There are water taxis. But it’s tricky to time and doesn’t include Thirassia or the hot springs. Cruises are just a more seamless, all-in-one way to experience it all in a day.

Is this something you should do early in your trip?

Yes, ideally. The cruise gives you a sweeping orientation of the caldera, and weather cancellations do happen. Book it early so you have time to reschedule if needed.