When you close your eyes and imagine the Greek islands, chances are your mind paints a picture of white-washed villages, azure domes, and dazzling caldera views. But there’s a side of Santorini that feels more primal, untouched, and raw—the volcanic heart of the island, shaped by fire, ash, and time.
TPO.Travel invites you to discover this elemental beauty on the Volcanic Islands Cruise, a full-day journey that unveils the true geological soul of Santorini. This is more than a boat trip—it’s an immersive odyssey through lava-sculpted landscapes, natural hot springs, and charming volcanic islets, all with optional free time in the postcard-perfect village of Oia.
Your Journey Begins: From Athinios Port to Nea Kameni
Your adventure starts at Athinios Port, where you’ll board a traditional wooden boat or sleek catamaran, depending on your package. As the vessel sails into the expansive Santorini caldera, you’ll be entering the core of a cataclysmic event that forever changed the Mediterranean.
Thousands of years ago, the original island—then a single landmass—was torn apart by a massive volcanic eruption, one of the most powerful in human history. What remains today are the four distinct islands of Santorini: Thira, Thirassia, Aspronisi, and the volcanic twins—Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni.
The first stop is Nea Kameni, the larger and newer of the two volcanic islets. You’ll disembark and hike up a path that leads to the smoking crater, surrounded by moon-like terrain and volcanic rock in striking shades of black, red, and orange. The 30-minute trek to the summit is invigorating, and the panoramic view from the rim is simply breathtaking—offering a 360-degree vista of Santorini’s rim and the shimmering Aegean Sea.
Note: The volcano entrance fee is not included in the tour price (approx. €5 per person).
The Healing Touch of Fire: Swim in Sulfur Springs at Palia Kameni
After you descend from Nea Kameni’s crater, the boat sets sail again toward Palia Kameni, the older sibling island known for its natural hot springs.
As the boat anchors just offshore, you’ll have the chance to dive into the sulfur-rich waters, tinged with a golden-green hue. Swimming here feels like entering a natural spa—the warm water (ranging from 30°C to 35°C) is not only soothing but also believed to have therapeutic properties due to its mineral content. The seabed is soft, the mud rejuvenating, and the atmosphere utterly serene.
It’s one of the most unique swimming experiences in all of Greece—floating in volcanic warmth beneath cliffs formed by ancient eruptions, surrounded by silence and sea.
Untouched Island Life: Explore Thirassia’s Authentic Charm
Next, your boat continues to Thirassia, a lesser-known island that offers a glimpse into what Santorini was like before tourism transformed it. With only a few hundred inhabitants, Thirassia is a time capsule of Cycladic life.
You’ll dock at the small harbor and can choose how to spend your free time:
- Swim in crystal-clear waters near the shore
- Dine at a family-run taverna serving fresh seafood and local specialties
- Hike or ride a donkey up to Manolas, the island’s hilltop village
Perched high above the caldera, Manolas is a peaceful hamlet of cobblestone alleys, traditional homes, and sweeping views. From here, the vistas of Santorini and the open sea are unforgettable, offering some of the most Instagram-worthy scenes of your journey.
Optional Add-On: Sunset Magic in Oia
Depending on your package, you may opt to include free time in Oia, Santorini’s most famous village. Known for its dramatic sunsets, blue-domed churches, and boutique-lined alleys, Oia is the ultimate romantic finale to your volcanic voyage.
TPO.Travel offers seamless transportation for guests who wish to conclude their day in Oia. Wander its winding streets, shop for artisanal goods, or secure a spot at one of the caldera-facing terraces to witness the sun dip into the sea, painting the white buildings with hues of amber and rose.
Why Choose TPO.Travel’s Volcanic Islands Cruise?
TPO.Travel curates experiences that blend comfort, culture, and connection to the destination. Here’s what sets this cruise apart:
Premium boats and small groups, ensuring a more personalized and comfortable experience
Flexible itineraries—choose a standard cruise or upgrade to include Oia sunset time and luxury transfers
Tailored assistance, including pre-departure communication, pickup options, and post-tour recommendations
TPO.Travel is not just about taking you to the destination—it’s about transforming travel into memory-making magic.
Traveler Tips for a Seamless Cruise Day
To make the most of your Volcanic Islands Cruise, consider the following tips:
Bring sunscreen and water – The sun can be intense, especially during the hike on Nea Kameni.
Wear sturdy walking shoes – Volcanic terrain is uneven and dusty.
Wear your swimsuit underneath – Changing onboard can be tricky; be ready for the hot spring dip!
Expect sulfur staining – The hot springs may stain light-colored swimsuits, so wear dark colors.
Charge your phone or bring a camera – Every stop is a photo opportunity.
Carry small cash – For the volcano entrance fee and optional tavernas on Thirassia.
From Earth’s Fury to Nature’s Beauty: A Journey Worth Taking
This isn’t just another Santorini boat trip—it’s a powerful encounter with the very elements that shaped this mythical island. Whether you’re hiking to a live volcanic crater, floating in thermal waters, or sipping ouzo in a sleepy cliffside village, the Volcanic Islands Cruise with TPO.Travel gives you a full spectrum of history, geology, relaxation, and authenticity.
It’s a tour that touches every sense—and every soul.
Book your Volcanic Islands Cruise with TPO.Travel today and set sail for an experience that blends fire, water, history, and heart—crafted for the discerning traveler who wants to see beyond the blue domes and into the spirit of Santorini itself.