Santorini: 3-Hour Boat Tour to Oia & Thirassia Hot Springs

Traveling to Santorini offers breathtaking vistas and unforgettable scenery, and a boat tour around the caldera is often considered a highlight. This 3-hour private cruise takes you along some of the island’s most iconic sights, blending scenic views with opportunities for relaxation and adventure. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out—and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your trip.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the spectacle of floating past the cliffs of Oia, the refreshing swim near Saint Nicholas Church, and the chance to relax in the natural hot springs. Plus, the intimate private group setup ensures you won’t be lost in the crowd. However, keep in mind that the tour’s duration is just three hours, which may leave some wanting more time to explore or linger at each stop. This tour seems ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation in a relatively short time.

This experience appeals most to those who want a personalized, scenic cruise with excellent photo opportunities and a touch of adventure. It’s perfect if you’re after a flexible, intimate outing rather than a large group tour. Just be prepared for a limited timeframe and ensure you’re comfortable with the basic itinerary.

Good To Know

• Scenic caldera views and picturesque cliffs of Oia make for unforgettable photo moments.
• Swim opportunities near Saint Nicholas Church and in the hot springs provide refreshing breaks.
• Private group experience enhances comfort and personalized service.
• Includes amenities like towels, snorkeling gear, and drinks, adding value to the experience.
• Flexible pickup options from Athinios Port, Old Port of Fira, or Ammoudi Bay simplify logistics.
• Duration of 3 hours offers a quick but scenic and relaxing taste of Santorini’s waters.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise begins with a pickup from your preferred location—whether that’s Athinios Port, the Old Port of Fira, or Ammoudi Bay—making it easy to fit into your plans. Once onboard, the captain will set sail into the caldera, where you’ll enjoy the dramatic views of Santorini’s cliffs and the town of Oia. We loved how close you can get to these iconic formations—standing on the boat, it’s almost surreal to see the sheer cliffs towering above.

As the boat glides past, the crisp sea air and the stunning scenery make it clear why Santorini’s caldera is renowned worldwide. In reviews, travelers mention “the views were absolutely breathtaking,” and many appreciate how the boat’s vantage point offers a different perspective from the usual land-based sightseeing.

The first stop often is near Saint Nicholas Church, where the azure waters beckon for a swim. Passengers can don the provided snorkeling gear or simply enjoy a splash in the clear blue waters. The experience is described as “so refreshing—it’s the perfect way to cool off after soaking in the sun,” and the calm, inviting waters make it suitable even for those new to swimming.

Next, the boat proceeds past Thirassia Island, one of Santorini’s less visited gems. It remains relatively untouched and less crowded—ideal if you’re after authentic charm away from the tourist-heavy spots. The views here are described as “serene and unspoiled,” offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling caldera.

The highlight of the tour is sailing around the volcano, giving passengers a close-up view of the geological marvel that shaped this landscape. The boat’s proximity to the volcanic crater offers a sense of scale and power that’s hard to match from land. Many reviewers like the fact that the boat is small enough to navigate close to the volcano, providing an intimate experience.

Finally, the hot springs are the perfect spot to unwind. The waters are naturally warm, and many describe the experience as “therapeutic and relaxing,” with some mentioning how the mineral-rich waters feel soothing on tired muscles. The tour provides towels and snorkeling noodles, allowing guests to float and relax comfortably.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour package contains several thoughtful amenities—life jackets, towels, snorkeling equipment, and refreshments like a glass of local wine or soft drink. Plus, photos and videos are taken during the trip, helping you preserve the memories. The inclusion of toilets and showers on board adds a touch of convenience, especially for a short trip.

One important consideration is that food is not included, so if you’re a fussy eater or prefer a full meal, you might want to plan accordingly. The tour is also not suitable for wheelchair users, which is worth noting for those with mobility concerns.

Pricing appears to be reasonable given the personalized nature of the experience, and the availability of reserve now, pay later options offers flexibility for travelers with changing plans.

Why This Tour Can Be a Great Choice

For travelers seeking an up-close view of Santorini’s caldera, this cruise delivers. The small-group, private setup ensures a more intimate experience, and the variety of stops keeps the trip dynamic. It offers excellent value for those wanting to combine sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing—all within just three hours.

The tour’s focus on scenic beauty and authentic experiences makes it especially appealing to photographers, nature lovers, and those who want a manageable, stress-free adventure. The added touches like towels, snorkeling gear, and photos create a well-rounded package.

That said, if you’re after a longer or more comprehensive cruise, or want to explore other islands or landscapes, you might find this tour somewhat limited in scope. But for a quick, picturesque taste of Santorini’s waters, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This 3-hour private boat tour offers an ideal way to see Santorini’s most stunning coastal sights without committing to a full-day adventure. The combination of breathtaking cliffs, serene waters, volcanic landscapes, and thermal springs makes it a well-balanced activity for many travelers.

It’s perfect for those who value personalized service and want a relaxed experience with plenty of photo opportunities and swimming. The fact that it’s private means you can tailor your experience a bit, making it more enjoyable and less rushed. If you’re short on time but want to soak up Santorini’s aquatic beauty, this tour is a smart choice.

However, if you’re looking for a longer, more in-depth exploration, consider combining it with other tours or activities. Overall, it delivers scenic splendor and relaxation at a fair price, making it a worthwhile addition to any Santorini itinerary.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While it’s generally suitable for most ages, it’s not ideal for wheelchair users or guests with mobility issues, as the tour involves some walking and swimming.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. The tour provides towels and snorkeling gear, but feel free to bring your camera and any personal items you’d like to keep handy.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, you can select your pickup point from Athinios Port, Old Port of Fira, or Ammoudi Bay when booking. Make sure to specify your preference.

Is food included?
No, food is not included in this tour. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the cruise.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, which is great for a quick but scenic escape, but you may want to plan extra time for other activities.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Most travelers rave about the stunning views of the caldera and Oia’s cliffs, plus the chance to swim in the clear waters and relax in the natural hot springs.

This 3-hour boat tour provides a compact, scenic slice of Santorini that balances adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation. Whether you’re after the perfect photo ops or just want to unwind in thermal waters, it’s a memorable way to explore the island’s coastal beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: