From Rethymno: Santorini Day Trip with Cruise and Guide

Traveling from Rethymno to Santorini for a day is a popular way to squeeze in a taste of this iconic Greek island. While the trip packs a lot into just over 11 hours, it’s perfect for those who want to see the highlights without spending several days on the island. We’re here to give you a detailed look at what to expect, what’s worth your time, and how to make the most of this adventure.

What we love about this trip is the combination of guided exploration and free time, allowing you to soak up Santorini’s charm at your own pace. The high-speed catamaran cruise adds an extra thrill, whisking you between islands comfortably, while the visits to Oia and Fira showcase the quintessential beauty of the island. A possible downside? The day is quite packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel rushed. But overall, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to tick Santorini off their bucket list in one day.

This tour suits those who want an efficient, guided experience with some flexibility, especially if you’re short on time but crave a taste of Santorini’s iconic sights. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to capture the essentials without the commitment of an extended stay.

Good To Know

• Efficient full-day experience blending guided tours and free time.
• High-speed catamaran cruise offers comfort and scenic views.
• Visit to Oia and Fira provides chance to explore two of Santorini’s most famous towns.
• Optional volcano boat tour lets you get up close to the volcano and hot springs.
• Travel flexibility with multiple pickup locations and language options.
• Limited extras—food, drinks, and museum tickets are not included, so plan accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Experience

This trip is a well-organized way to visit Santorini from Rethymno, combining boat travel, guided sightseeing, and personal exploration. The logistics are carefully arranged, making it an accessible option for many travelers. It’s particularly appealing to those who enjoy a mix of guided and independent activities, along with an appreciation for scenic boat rides.

The journey begins early with pickup options from 27 different locations around Rethymno, covering hotels, bus stops, and popular spots like Pripis Market and the port. The round-trip boat ride from Rethymno to Santorini is the core of the experience, offering a swift and comfortable means to hop islands. The boat itself is a high-speed catamaran, known for its stability and spaciousness, ensuring you arrive in Santorini relaxed and ready to explore.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

From Rethymno to Santorini

The day kicks off with a bus transfer from one of your chosen pickup points, ensuring minimal fuss. Once at the port, you’ll meet your guide and receive a brochure detailing the day’s schedule, along with your boarding card for the boat. This small touch helps keep everyone organized and informed.

The Cruise Experience

The high-speed catamaran cruise is often praised for its smooth ride and comfortable seating. Travelers have noted that the cruise offers scenic views of the sea and surrounding islands, making it a highlight in itself. The duration of the trip is just enough to enjoy the sea breeze and take in the views, without feeling overly long or tiring.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Oia – The Architectural Gem

The first stop in Santorini is Oia, renowned for its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and narrow cobbled streets. The guide usually emphasizes the town’s charm, with many guests commenting on how photogenic and atmospheric it is. You’ll have free time here to wander, browse boutique shops, or simply soak in the stunning sunset views if you’re lucky with timing.

A reviewer highlighted that “Oia’s charm is undeniable, and the free time allows you to explore without feeling rushed,” which is especially important given the busy nature of the town. However, some travelers mention that Oia can be crowded, particularly during peak season, so a quick stroll might be all you need to appreciate its beauty.

Fira – The Heart of Santorini

Next, the tour continues to Fira, the island’s vibrant capital. Here, you’ll meet your guide in front of the Orthodox Cathedral, Panagia. Fira offers a lively atmosphere with cafes, shops, and panoramic views of the caldera.

Free time in Fira is a chance to explore independently—whether you want to shop for souvenirs, grab a coffee with a view, or just people-watch. Several reviews mention that Fira’s lively vibe makes it a great place to observe everyday Greek life, away from the major tourist crowds.

Optional Volcano Boat Tour

One of the tour’s most appealing options is the boat trip to the volcano and hot springs. The traditional wooden boats take visitors to Palea Kameni, where stunning views of the volcano and caldera make for perfect photo ops.

Guests who opted for this tour say it’s a unique experience to see the active volcano up close, and the hot springs provide a relaxing opportunity—though swimming in the springs costs extra. Some reviews mention that the boat ride is the highlight, with lively commentary and impressive scenery.

Relaxing in Fira or Further Exploration

For those who decide not to take the boat tour, Fira’s free time is ample for sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing in a café. The town’s compact layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace, with plenty of spots for picture-taking and people-watching.

Practical Details

Transportation & Timing

The bus transfers are well-coordinated, with 27 pickup and drop-off points designed to maximize convenience. The round-trip boat journey is a key feature, saving you the hassle of navigating ferry schedules on your own.

Duration & Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 11.5 hours, which may seem long, but most travelers find the schedule well-paced. The group sizes vary, but the tour is designed to be manageable, with a live guide providing insights throughout.

Cost & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified, the included features—guided island tours, boat transfers, and visits—offer good value compared to booking these elements separately. The option to upgrade with a volcano tour at extra cost adds flexibility.

What to Bring

Given the time spent outdoors, pack comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), camera, and plenty of water. The tour explicitly mentions that smoking is not allowed, which helps maintain a pleasant environment.

Authentic Insights From Reviewers

Multiple travelers note that the guides are knowledgeable and helpful, often providing local tips. One reviewer mentioned that “the guide was fantastic, giving us just enough background without overloading us,” which helps keep the experience engaging and manageable.

Others appreciated the smooth boat ride and the timing of the free exploration in Oia and Fira, allowing them to avoid feeling rushed during their sightseeing. Some mention that the hot springs are a fun bonus, though the extra cost for swimming might be worth considering beforehand.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive taste of Santorini without the hassle of planning transport and sightseeing logistics. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a full schedule, as it packs in several highlights in one day.

However, those seeking a very relaxed pace or wishing to explore at their own speed might find it a bit hectic. The tour also isn’t ideal for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness, as the boat ride, while comfortable, can be bumpy.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini day trip from Rethymno offers an impressive snapshot of one of Greece’s most iconic islands. It combines guided sightseeing, free time, and the thrill of a high-speed cruise, making it a well-rounded experience for travelers eager to see the highlights in a single day.

While it’s not a leisurely exploration, the convenience, expert-guided insights, and scenic boat rides make it a worthwhile choice for first-timers or those short on time. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of guided and independent activity, and don’t mind a full day of adventure, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11.5 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and free exploration time.

Are there multiple pickup locations?
Yes, there are 27 pickup points around Rethymno, making it easy to find a convenient spot.

Is food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s best to bring some snacks or plan to buy in Santorini.

Can I take the volcano boat tour?
Yes, the boat tour to the volcano and hot springs is optional and available at an extra cost on the boat itself.

Do I need to pay for museum tickets?
Museum tickets are not included, so if you wish to visit museums, plan for additional expenses.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but consider the full day and boat ride if traveling with very young children.

What language are the guides in?
Guides are available in English, German, French, and Polish.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, water, and a hat are recommended.

How flexible is the schedule?
The schedule is structured but allows for free time in Oia and Fira, giving you some flexibility to explore or relax as you wish.

This day trip offers a solid balance of guided insight and independent exploration, perfect for travelers who want a full taste of Santorini without the hassle of multi-day planning. It’s a smart choice for first-timers and busy travelers alike seeking a memorable, scenic, and well-organized adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: