Santorini 3 Islands Trip Sailing Wooden Boat

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and looking for a budget-friendly way to see the volcanic islands and secret spots around the caldera, this Santorini 3 Islands Trip by Wooden Boat might catch your eye. While it’s not the most exclusive or luxurious experience out there, it offers a solid, well-rounded taste of the island’s highlights without breaking the bank.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its affordable price point—just over $40 per person—and the chance to visit several distinctive spots in one morning or afternoon. Plus, the informative guides and flexible itinerary make it clear that this is designed for travelers who want a relaxed, yet engaging, experience. On the flip side, the short swim stop at the hot springs might feel rushed for some, and the tour’s limited time at each site means you won’t get to linger long. Still, this trip suits those looking for an active, scenic day with a mix of adventure and downtime.

If you’re someone who enjoys a good value, appreciates guided insights, and wants to tick off multiple sights in one go, then this sail trip is probably a good fit. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the volcanic craters, enjoy a swim, and explore a traditional Greek village—all while keeping costs reasonable. It’s less suited for those seeking a luxury experience or extensive exploration at each stop, but it’s a solid pick for most casual visitors.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Just over $40 per person, offering good value for a multi-island experience.
• Diverse Stops: Includes volcano craters, hot springs, and a picturesque island village.
• Informative Guides: Bilingual commentary enhances understanding of each site.
• Limited Time for Stops: Each location is brief, so don’t expect long stays.
• Active Elements: Walking up the volcano and swimming in the hot springs add a fun, engaging touch.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: Perfect if you prefer a mix of sightseeing and leisure over a full-day, intensive tour.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour starts from Fira’s old port, a charming spot teeming with boats and lively local vibes. It kicks off at 11:30 am—perfect for those who want a relaxed morning before setting sail—and lasts about 5 hours and 45 minutes. The overall pace is moderate, giving you enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Stop 1: Santorini Volcano

We loved the way this part sets the tone—up close with the volcanic activity that shaped Santorini. The boat anchors for roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving you a chance to walk about 20 minutes up to the active crater. The path is quite accessible, which is good news if you’re not super fit or have mobility concerns.

Once at the top, the sight of steam escaping and the smell of sulfur are pretty striking. Scratching the surface to see bubbling gases reminds you how alive and dynamic this geological feature is. According to reviews, guides provide clear explanations in both English and Greek, making this educational as well as scenic. One traveler mentioned, “Everything worked great, nice tour, highly recommended,” which suggests the organization is solid.

Stop 2: Palea Kameni and Hot Springs

Next, the boat moves to Palea Kameni, the island famous for its hot springs. The boat drops anchor just outside a small bay, and you’ll swim about 30 meters to reach the mud baths. The water temperature is mentioned as being around 30-35°C, and the natural mud is believed to have beneficial properties.

You’ll have around 30 minutes to swim and soak—plenty of time to enjoy the experience, but not enough for a long soak or extensive exploration. One review pointed out that there’s no beach on the island, which means you won’t be able to stay for a picnic or sunbathe. The hot springs are memorable for the unique experience of swimming in warm, mineral-rich waters that are constantly mixed with seawater.

Stop 3: Thirassia

The next leg takes you to Thirassia, a quieter neighbor of Santorini. You’re given 2 hours to explore this small island—an ideal window for wandering, swimming, or grabbing a bite at local taverns. The village of Manolas is a highlight, with narrow streets, donkeys, and panoramic views of Santorini’s cliffs.

Many travelers rave about the tranquility and charm here. One reviewer said, “The duration of the stages is well thought out and allows time to discover the volcano,” which implies that the schedule is balanced, giving a good taste of the island’s atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Return Journey & Scenic Highlights

After Thirassia, the boat heads back toward Fira, sailing near the volcanic cliffs of Oia. This part is perfect for photos and taking in the dramatic scenery—trust us, the views are breathtaking.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a good value proposition. For the price, you get admission to the volcano and hot springs, guided commentary, and the boat ride itself. Guides speak both English and Greek, which helps large groups understand the significance of each stop.

However, extras like snacks are not included, and there’s a €5 entrance fee to visit the volcano, which is paid on-site. The boat’s capacity is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience even during the busy season.

The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives

Two reviews highlight the tour’s strengths: friendly staff and well-organized stages. One reviewer said, “The crew was friendly and provided clear explanations,” reinforcing the idea that guides enhance the experience. Another appreciated the blend of exercise, swimming, and relaxation, showing that the tour balances activity with downtime.

On the downside, some might find the short duration at each site a little limiting. The hot springs, for instance, only allow about 30 minutes, which might not be enough for a long soak or multiple dips. But remember, the trip keeps a good pace and is designed for those looking to see a lot in a limited time.

Transportation & Group Size

The meeting point is at Fira’s old port, near public transport, making it easy to access. The boat departs at 11:30 am and the group size caps at 50, so it doesn’t get overcrowded, but still offers a lively, social vibe.

Price & Value

At $40.52 per person, this tour is quite competitive. When you consider the cost includes admission to the volcano and hot springs plus the boat ride, it’s a reasonable deal. You’re getting a guided experience that covers the highlights without the hefty price tag of private or luxury tours.

If you’re on a budget but want a meaningful day exploring Santorini’s volcanic environment and charming neighboring island, this trip hits the mark. The reviews suggest that many find it well worth the price, especially given the knowledgeable guides and scenic stops.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing trip is perfect for travelers who want to see the volcanic craters and hot springs without spending a lot. It’s also suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace with some walking and swimming. If you’re interested in photography, the sail past the cliffs near Oia offers plenty of stunning scenery.

It’s less ideal for those seeking a full-day excursion with more time at each site or a more luxurious setting. Families with older children who can handle walking and swimming would find this enjoyable, but it’s not specifically designed as a family-friendly tour for young kids.

If you’re after a cost-effective, engaging way to explore Santorini’s volcanic landscape and neighboring islands, this Wooden Boat sailing trip is a solid choice. You’ll get a taste of the island’s natural wonders, enjoy some swimming, and experience local charm—all within a manageable timeframe. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude add to the overall enjoyment, making it a tour that many travelers find worthwhile.

While the stops are brief, they’re enough to pique your interest and give you a sense of the volcanic activity and local life. It’s ideal for those who prefer a balanced mix of sightseeing, activity, and relaxation without the fuss of a more exhaustive or costly private tour.

If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even with friends, and want a memorable yet affordable day on the water, this tour may be just what you’re looking for. Just keep in mind the time constraints on each stop and plan accordingly—bring your swimwear, camera, and a sense of adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the experience involves walking up to the volcano, swimming at hot springs, and some free time on Thirassia, so older children who can handle these activities may enjoy it. Always check if your children are comfortable with the walking and swimming involved.

How long do we stay at each stop?
The volcano stop lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, the hot springs about 30 minutes, and Thirassia has a 2-hour window. The overall schedule is designed to give you a taste without rushing, but the time at each site is limited.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, snacks are not included. You might want to bring water or some light snacks, but there are no meals provided on this tour.

What is the price of the volcano entrance?
There is a €5 fee to enter the volcano, payable on-site. This isn’t included in the ticket price.

Can I swim in the hot springs?
Yes, you’ll swim in the warm waters of the hot springs, which are believed to have beneficial effects on the skin and health.

Is the guide commentary in English?
Yes, guides speak both English and Greek, providing clear explanations about the sites and volcanic activity.

If you’re looking for a friendly, affordable way to experience Santorini’s volcanic environment and nearby islands, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s a practical choice for travelers seeking a balance of fun, scenery, and local insights without a hefty price tag.