Santorini Tour of Caldera with Glass bottom Boat

Exploring Santorini’s Caldera with a Glass Bottom Boat: An Honest Review

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and considering a boat tour of the caldera, this experience promises to be one of the most comprehensive options out there. It’s particularly attractive for cruise travelers, since it starts right at the port where your ship docks. The tour hits all the key spots—volcano, hot springs, and nearby islands—giving you a well-rounded view of this iconic landscape.

What we really like about this tour is its ability to combine multiple highlights into one 5.5-hour adventure without breaking the bank. Plus, the glass-bottom feature is a definite hit, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just love seeing the seabed without getting wet. The relaxed pace and scenic stops make it a good choice for those wanting a laid-back day on the water.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. The price, while reasonable, doesn’t include the volcano entrance fee, which adds a bit to your overall cost. Also, the tour’s success depends a lot on the weather—choppy seas or cloudy skies could affect the experience, especially at the volcano or hot springs.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full-day, scenic boat adventure that’s easy to fit into a cruise schedule or a day in Santorini. It’s ideal if you’re looking for good views, interesting stops, and a fun, family-friendly vibe. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this experience worth considering—and what you might want to think about before booking.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage: Visits to all main caldera sites—volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia.
• Good value: At around $44.30, it offers a full experience with multiple stops.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the glass-bottom boat, making it a fun, engaging outing.
• Flexibility at stops: Free time on Thirassia allows for swimming or lunch.
• Weather depends: The experience can be affected by sea conditions or weather.
• Additional costs: Volcano entrance fee isn’t included, so budget for that.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Visiting the Santorini Volcano

We start off with a visit to the active volcano, which is a highlight for many. The boat anchors near Nea Kameni, where you get the chance to explore 4-6 craters—an intriguing sight. Climbing to the top takes about 20 minutes, so it’s accessible for most, but keep in mind it’s a bit of a hike. The volcano itself is relatively young, formed after a significant eruption, and standing near the craters really gives you an idea of the island’s fiery origins.

One of the reviews mentioned how the staff was friendly and clear about meeting points, which is reassuring for those worried about logistics. The view from the boat and the chance to see the volcanic landscape up close makes it a memorable part of the tour. Just note that the admission ticket to the volcano is an extra $5 per person, so budget accordingly.

The Hot Springs Experience

Next, the boat heads to Palaia Kameni, where the famous hot springs are located. The boat anchors outside a small bay, and you can hop into the water via a ladder. The hot springs are a popular attraction, and many find the experience relaxing and unique—especially since you’re actually swimming in volcanic waters.

The beauty of this stop is that it’s free, so you get to enjoy a natural spa-like experience without an extra cost. One reviewer mentioned jumping directly from the boat into the springs and enjoying the scenery, which sounds perfect for those wanting a quick, interesting dip.

Thirassia Island: A Slice of Old Santorini

After the hot springs, you’ll sail to Thirassia, a quieter island that offers a glimpse of Santorini’s past. You get about two hours here, enough time to swim in the clear waters of Korfos or explore local taverns. The island’s unspoiled vibe contrasts sharply with the busier Santorini, which many travelers find appealing.

The free time is a real perk, giving you flexibility to relax, eat, or swim at your own pace. The reviews note that the island’s traditional charm makes it a worthwhile stop, especially if you’re interested in authentic Greek food and laid-back scenery.

The Underwater Reef and Sea Views

As you leave Thirassia, the boat passes over a stunning reef that shows the depth and steepness of the caldera’s waters. No diving needed—just look over the side or take photos from the boat. It’s a great photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the geological marvels beneath the surface.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

The tour wraps back at the starting port, usually around lunchtime or early afternoon, depending on the day. The boat itself is air-conditioned and equipped with restrooms, making the ride comfortable. Swimming noodles are also provided, so you can float around if you want.

The crew gets high praise for being friendly and helpful, which definitely enhances the experience. The views from the upper deck are frequently lauded in reviews as magnificent, with a chance to see islands, boats, and the caldera’s dramatic cliffs.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a lot of value considering the price. Included are air-conditioned transportation, restroom access, swimming noodles, and a local guide to help navigate the stops. It’s a straightforward, no-hassle way to see much of Santorini’s caldera without needing to organize separate trips or worry about transport.

However, meals are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan a lunch break on Thirassia. The volcano entrance fee isn’t part of the package, so add an extra $5 per person if you want to walk up to the crater.

The tour doesn’t include transfer services to and from your hotel or cruise ship, so make sure you’re at the meeting point in time. It’s held at the Santorini Excursions office in the Old Port, starting at 10:45 am, which is convenient for most cruise arrivals or mid-morning plans.

Real Traveler Feedback: What People Are Saying

Two of the reviews shared positive experiences, emphasizing the helpfulness of the staff and the spectacular views. One reviewer mentioned how the staff describes each stop clearly, making it easier to enjoy and navigate the day. The upper deck views were frequently praised, and the opportunity to see the islands and boats from above is definitely a highlight.

Another reviewer enjoyed jumping into the hot springs directly from the boat, describing it as a spontaneous and memorable moment. The relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore Thirassia at leisure struck many as the perfect balance between guided sightseeing and free time.

While the overall rating sits at 3.5 out of 5 based on four reviews, those who loved it appreciated the value, scenery, and helpful crew. On the flip side, some travelers might find the experience less engaging if weather conditions are poor or if they prefer more structured or active excursions.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This caldera boat tour with a glass bottom is best suited for travelers seeking a low-key, scenic day on the water. It’s a good fit if you’re on a cruise and want to maximize caldera sightseeing without complicated logistics. Families with children will likely enjoy the glass-bottom feature, and anyone interested in volcanoes, hot springs, and authentic island life will appreciate the variety of stops.

It’s less ideal for travelers who want a packed, adrenaline-filled adventure or who are looking for included meals and more exclusive experiences. The price point is reasonable for what you get—multiple stops, great views, and the convenience of a guided tour—but keep in mind that some costs (volcano entrance fee) are additional.

If weather is clear, the experience is usually quite beautiful and relaxing. Just be prepared for potential weather-related disruptions and bring some snacks or essentials for a comfortable ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, especially since the glass-bottom boat is a hit with kids. The tour’s relaxed pace and open-water stops make it family-friendly, but always consider your children’s comfort with boat excursions.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including stops at the volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia.

What is included in the price?
You get transportation on an air-conditioned boat, restroom access, swimming noodles, and a local guide. The boat also has a glass bottom for viewing the seabed.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can bring snacks or plan to eat on Thirassia during your free time.

Do I need to buy tickets for the volcano?
Yes, the volcano’s entrance fee is an extra $5 per person and is not included in the tour price.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for walking and water activities, and bring sun protection, a hat, and sunscreen. If you plan to swim, bring a towel or change of clothes.

All in all, this Santorini caldera tour offers a good mix of scenery, relaxation, and interesting stops, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a full-day boat experience without fuss or high cost. It’s not perfect, but for the price, it provides a memorable taste of Santorini’s volcanic charm.