*Experience bought by me

Sian Victoria © - Santorini volcano, hot sulphur springs

Santorini Caldera Sunset Cruise: Volcano, Hot Springs & Therasia

A Santorini holiday would not be considered complete without exploring the island's most popular attractions, which can only be accessed through a boat trip. These include the stunning volcano, the hot springs, Therasia island, and the opportunity to catch a mesmerising sunset over the Caldera while on board. Hiking to the peak of the famed volcano is a unique and unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views of the neighbouring islands.

For those seeking a refreshing way to unwind, a dip in the rejuvenating hot springs is a perfect post-hike activity. The Santorini volcano and hot springs boat tour is a must-do experience that includes a trip to Therasia island and a chance to witness the beauty of the caldera from a different perspective during sunset.

This post will provide all the necessary details about the sights you will see that are featured on the itineraries of most boat tours in Santorini. Moreover, I will share my personal experience of exploring these incredible places.

Sian Victoria © - Thirassia island nearby Santorini

1. Hiking Santorini's Volcano - Nea Kameni

Leaving Fira, the capital and sailing towards Nea Kameni, the focal islet of the caldera in Santorini, which has been formed by volcanic eruptions spanning several thousand years, is an opportunity to embrace the unrestrained strength of nature. This budding islet, born out of eruptions dating back to 1570 AD, has constantly shaped itself with a significant outburst in 1950, showcasing the ever-evolving geological history of the region.

As hikers trek through the rugged terrain leading to the crater, the fuming vents, black rocks and iron and sulphur rich rubble serve as a reminder of the volcano's hidden depths. The climb to the peak offers unmatched vistas of the caldera, the Aegean Sea, and the adjacent isles, rendering it a must-visit spot for any explorer.

It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear, stick to the guided paths and carry water as you won’t find any shops on the volcano and the trail can be strenuous. In addition, the Aegean sun is harsh as there’s no shade and the winds are high, even in the peak of summer as I experienced firsthand.

Roaming through the rugged landscapes of Nea Kameni not only offers an exciting physical excursion but also an understanding of the natural forces that have moulded the iconic caldera that’s made Santorini so appealing to tourists.

2. Swimming in Santorini's Hot Springs

Visiting Santorini's hot springs is an experience that attracts many who seek to relax on this beautiful island. The thermal waters, snuggled in a cove on the uninhabited islet of Palea Kameni, offer a natural spa-like experience that is accessible only by boat.

The warm, mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic properties and as you dip yourself in the sulphur-infused waters, the temperature can reach up to 35°C (95°F) in some spots, providing a pleasant contrast to the cooler Aegean Sea.

The water's orange hues, a result of sulphur and iron content, create a surreal environment that is rustic and natural with rocky surroundings and an open sky above, making it one of the best natural spa experiences you’ll have.

It’s important to note that Santorini boat tours can only visit these rocky sulphur waters at a distance so you’ll need to swim the short distance to the warm orange waters which if your short like me can be rather deep and if you manage to stand on the seabed its mud-like so can be slippy.

If you're seeking a break from the crowded streets of Fira the capital of Santorini, going on a day trip hike of the volcano followed by a dip in these hot springs is the perfect way to unwind and soak in the unique geothermal wonders of Santorini.

3. Visiting Therasia Near Santorini

Therasia, a peaceful and unspoilt island in the Cyclades, serves as a counterpart to its more famous neighbour, Santorini. With a population of approximately 311, this small isle sits to the west of Santorini and is a must-visit while on boat trip viewing the caldera.

Guided boat tours to Therasia offer an intimate exploration of the island's volcanic history and its historical connection to Santorini. Despite their shared history, Therasia contrasts starkly with its more famous neighbour. The island's essence is preserved in its quiet, traditional lifestyle. The capital, Manolas, perched atop the caldera, along with other settlements like Potamos and Agrilia, offer accommodation and dining options that maintain the island's authentic charm.

Therasia's agricultural mirrors that of Santorini, with vineyards, small tomatoes, and wild capers dotting its terrains. However, it is Therasia's untouched beaches, like Agia Irini and the small beach by Korfos port, that offer a serene escape, featuring crystal-clear waters and volcanic sands.

The island is also rich in cultural treasures, from the 21 churches and chapels scattered across the island to its Cycladic architecture and natural trekking paths and breathtaking viewpoints of Santorini and the Aegean Sea.

4. Sailing Around Santorini's Caldera at Sunset

Watching the sun dip below the horizon whilst sailing through Santorini's caldera is a unique experience and the perfect way to end the day’s activities. The water's surface reflects an array of orange, pink, and gold hues, setting a mystical atmosphere that is perfect for photography or soaking up the moment.

This serene journey provides a chance to pause and reflect, offering a peaceful close to a day of exploration. The rugged cliffs of the caldera contrasted against the fading sun's light creates an unforgettable scene that is a highlight of the Santorini boat tour.

My Santorini Boat Trip Experience

During my two weeks in Santorini, my mornings were mostly filled with volunteering at the Santorini Animal Welfare Association. However, one afternoon I booked an excursion for £35 that promised a visit to a still active volcano, the hot springs, Thirasia Island, and a caldera sunset.

On the day of the boat trip, a coach picked up a small group of us in Karterados and drove us down a winding, narrow road to reach the Old Port of Fira. From there, we hopped onto the boat and set sail on the Southern Aegean Sea. The boat offered stunning views of Santorini, and along the way, we saw magnificent cruise ships that were dropping off tourists for a day in Oia and Fira.

Our first stop was a hike on the still active volcano, and our tour guide shared fascinating stories about the volcanic island and the surrounding islands of Santorini. The hike was steep in some areas, but all the young and elderly people on the tour managed to reach the top in the gorgeous Greek heat.

After hiking, it was time to go swimming in the hot springs that were rich in sulphur, giving them an orange colour. Unfortunately, the boat couldn't stop close enough for me to capture a photo, and I had come without my waterproof camera accessories. However, swimming in the warm water was a lovely experience, and the sulphur-rich water did a great job at clearing my skin and destroying my bikini, so it’s wise not to wear your favourite swimwear.

Our next stop was Thirasia Island, where only a small number of people reside. It was a fascinating experience to explore the island and interact with the locals, who were lovely and welcoming. The island was home to numerous cats and dogs, and I fell in love with a blue and brown-eyed dog. We also ate chips in a bag at one of the few restaurants on the island.

After a 7-hour excursion, we ended the day with an amazing Caldera sunset on board the boat. It was such a lovely experience, and I enjoyed chatting with other tourists, including couples and groups of friends from Argentina, California, Singapore, and Italy. If you're planning a holiday in Santorini, I highly recommend the afternoon boat trip with these activities on the itinerary.

Sian Victoria © - Hiking Nea Kameni, Santorini’s volcano

Tips for Making the Most of Your Boat Day Trip

To guarantee an unforgettable boat day trip around Santorini, consider these practical tips. Start by checking the weather forecast before booking your excursion since sea conditions can heavily influence your experience.

Additionally, donning comfortable and sturdy footwear is necessary, especially for crossing the volcanic terrain of Nea Kameni. Do not forget to pack sun protection like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as the Greek sun can be especially intense.

Bringing along a waterproof camera or a protective case for your phone is also useful to capture magical moments, particularly during a dip in the hot springs, so that you don’t miss out on capturing the experience like me. Staying hydrated is crucial, so be sure to carry enough water to refresh yourself throughout the day.

Finally, embrace mingling with fellow travellers, as sharing the beauty of Santorini only adds to the experience. By being well-prepared and open-minded, you will board on an extraordinary journey through some of Santorini's most iconic and scenic spots.

To conclude

Whether hiking the ancient volcano, soaking in restorative hot springs, exploring the peaceful charm of Therasia, or sailing towards a luminous sunset, every moment is a precious gem that must be experienced for an extraordinary holiday in Santorini.

This guide to Santorini's attractions is to encourage you to explore beyond Santorini's beaches and tourists lined streets, to get the most out of your time visiting this iconic Greek island by experiencing the natural elements that have helped shape this unique destination in Europe.