1-Day Boat Trip: Santorini Volcano, Thirassia & Oia Sunset

If you’re dreaming of Santorini, chances are you’ve picture-perfect views of caldera cliffs, colorful sunsets, and volcanic landscapes. This full-day boat tour promises just that — a chance to explore the volcanic origins of the island, relax in thermal waters, visit a charming neighboring island, and finish with the iconic sunset in Oia.

From what we’ve seen in reviews, this experience is a fantastic way to tick off several top sights in one day, especially if you want to maximize your time. Two aspects we particularly like? The knowledge of the guides, who bring the islands alive with stories and insights, and the stunning scenery you’ll enjoy from multiple vantage points.

That said, it’s worth noting that the day can be quite long at around 9 hours—some reviews mention it feeling a bit more stretched out than advertised. Also, the hike up to the volcano can be steep and dusty, so good shoes and a decent level of fitness are recommended. This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of adventure, scenic views, and a well-organized itinerary, but might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or looking for a shorter excursion.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines volcano exploration, hot springs, island hopping, and sunset viewing in one day.
• Experienced Guides: Knowledgeable and funny guides help bring the stories of Santorini to life.
• Scenic Views: Offers some of the most breathtaking vistas of the caldera, especially during sunset in Oia.
• Long but Rewarding: Duration is around 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day of activity.
• Price & Value: At $64, this tour provides good value considering the inclusions and experience.
• Physical Activity: Expect some walking, especially on the volcano, so wear comfortable shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Getting Started & Transportation

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a relief after a long day of exploring. The tour includes roundtrip transfers, so you don’t have to worry about finding your way to the port. The buses are generally punctual and friendly, although one review mentioned some initial confusion in the morning, which is worth noting if your hotel is hard to reach by car. Once at Athinios port, you’ll climb aboard the boat, setting the stage for your adventure.

The Volcano & Hot Springs

Your first major stop is Nea Kameni, the volcanic island at Santorini’s heart. Here, you’ll follow a bumpy trail to the active crater — an experience that feels a bit rugged but worth it for the views and sense of standing on a real volcano. The guides are praised for their knowledge, explaining the geologic history and making the hike more engaging. Expect a challenging walk, especially if it’s hot — sturdy shoes and water are a must.

Next, you’ll continue to Palea Kameni to visit the thermal springs. The waters are green sulfurous pools, which many find fascinating, if a little smelly. Swimming here is a highlight, although some reviewers suggest bringing floating devices for added comfort. Keep in mind that until the end of June, the tour might not stop at Thirassia, and instead, you’ll stay on the boat with snacks available for purchase. It’s a minor change but worth noting if you’re excited about the island visit.

Thirasia & Its Charm

The island of Thirasia offers a different vibe — quieter, more laid-back, and full of character. It’s a reminder that Santorini’s volcanic past created multiple islands with their own stories. You’ll find opportunities to swim, explore old villages, and enjoy local food. Reviewers love the old town of Manola, with its charming spiral staircases and traditional houses, making for great photo opportunities.

Some reviews, like Kelly’s, describe the visit as a highlight, with the hot springs and the volcanic hike standing out as memorable moments. The rocky beach and the quaint village give travelers a chance to slow down and soak in the relaxed island atmosphere.

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The Journey Back & Oia Sunset

After leaving Thirasia, the boat will sail under Oia, offering fantastic views of the cliffs — great for photos. The highlight for many is the Oia sunset, one of the most famous in the world. The tour includes a bus transfer to Oia village, where you will have about 30 minutes after sunset to absorb the scenery and take photos.

This part of the trip is praised in reviews for its breathtaking beauty. However, it can get busy, so if you want prime sunset spots, arriving early is wise. The tour wraps up about 30 minutes after sunset, and the bus will then take you back to your starting point or hotel.

The Practical Details

Pricing & Value

At $64 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering the extensive itinerary, boat rides, and guided commentary. The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus a tour guide on the boat, which adds a lot of value.

You should be aware that entry fees to the volcano cost an extra 5 euros, payable in cash on-site. Also, lunch on Thirasia is not included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy on the island might be a good idea.

Duration & Pacing

While the tour is marketed as 9 hours, some reviews mention it feeling longer—up to around 11 hours for certain groups. This might be due to the full schedule and the travel time involved. The pace is generally well-managed, but be prepared for a long day, especially if you’re not used to lots of walking or early mornings.

What to Bring & Wear

Comfortable shoes are essential, especially for the volcano hike. A swimwear and towel are recommended for the hot springs, and a jacket is suggested for the boat and evening in Oia, as it can get windy or cool. Bringing cash for the volcano fee and any extra snacks is also a good idea.

Accessibility & Other Considerations

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, mainly due to the walking involved, especially on uneven volcanic terrain. Pets are not allowed, and the tour is conducted in English.

What Travelers Are Saying

The majority of reviews paint this tour as a memorable experience. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Christos and Tania, who make the day engaging and fun. Kelly’s review calls it “the highlight of our time in Santorini,” emphasizing the stunning views and the hot springs.

Some comments mention the long hours but also note that the trip is well-organized and worth the effort. A few reviewers pointed out the steep and dusty hike to the volcano, which is a good heads-up for those not prepared.

The sunset in Oia consistently earns praise, often described as “spectacular” and “wreath-taking.” Several reviewers mention the importance of arriving early or being prepared for crowds.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Santorini boat trip offers a compact, well-structured way to see some of the most iconic sights in a single day. If you’re looking to combine adventure—climbing a volcano and swimming in hot springs—with beautiful scenery and a memorable sunset, this is a decent choice.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of physical activity and sightseeing, and who appreciate a good guide to help explain the geology and history. The price point makes it accessible, and the included hotel transfer simplifies logistics.

However, don’t expect a short or leisurely experience—be prepared for a long day of walking, boat riding, and photo opportunities. If you prefer a relaxed, less intense day, you might want to consider shorter or fewer stops.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes roundtrip hotel pickup from several locations in Santorini, making start and end pretty seamless.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 9 hours, but some reviews mention it can extend to around 11 hours depending on the group and schedule.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfers, a guide on the boat, and the boat ride itself. Entry to the volcano costs an additional 5 euros, payable on-site.

Can I swim in the hot springs?
Yes, many travelers enjoy swimming in the green sulfurous waters. It’s recommended to bring floating devices if you want extra comfort.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking/hiking, swimwear and a towel for the springs, and a jacket for the boat and evening.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking involved, especially on uneven terrain.

Will I see the sunset in Oia?
Yes, the tour includes transportation to Oia for sunset viewing, which is widely praised for its breathtaking beauty.

This tour appears to be a solid option for those who want a full, scenic, and educational day in Santorini. Just pack your walking shoes, bring your camera, and prepare for a day packed with some of the island’s best sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: