Santorini Tour of Caldera with Glass bottom Boat

Santorini Tour of Caldera with Glass Bottom Boat: An Honest Review

When it comes to exploring Santorini’s iconic caldera, a boat tour that combines scenic beauty, volcanic adventure, and authentic island charm sounds tempting. This particular tour, offered by Dakoutros Bros J.V., receives mixed reviews but offers an intriguing mix of experiences that could appeal to many travelers.

What I like about this tour are the opportunity to visit all the main caldera islands in just over five hours, the unique glass-bottom feature for families, and the chance to see the active volcano up close. On the flip side, the additional entrance fee for the volcano and the roughly 20-minute climb might be considerations for some.

This tour works well for cruise travelers, those wanting a comprehensive view of Santorini’s volcanic landscape, or families eager for a fun boat experience with kids. If you’re after a value-packed adventure that combines sightseeing and relaxation, this could be worth considering.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Caldera Experience: Visit volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia island in one trip.
• Family-Friendly: Glass-bottom boat offers a fun view for kids; adults will enjoy the scenic routes.
• Active Volcano Climb: About 20 minutes to climb to multiple craters, with an optional entrance fee.
• Authentic Island Feel: Thirassia gives a mood of Santorini from 30 years ago.
• Cost-Effective: At roughly $44, it offers a lot of sights for the price.
• Limited Food Options: No included lunch or snacks, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Caldera Boat Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Start Point & Timing

The tour begins at the Old Port of Fira, around 10:45 am, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle to transfer you to the boat. This setup is convenient, especially if you’re already docked in Santorini or staying nearby. The group size maxes out at about 70 travelers, which balances the feeling of a shared adventure without feeling overcrowded.

Stop 1: The Active Volcano of Nea Kameni

The first highlight is the active volcano, where you’re encouraged to climb 20 minutes to see 4-6 craters. The volcano is the youngest piece of land formed after a big eruption, and you’ll get close enough to witness its volcanic activity. The guides are described as friendly and helpful, and the views from the upper deck are said to be magnificent, with reporters sharing that they appreciated the clear descriptions of each point.

What’s worth noting? The admission ticket to the volcano costs €5 per person and is not included in the tour price. Also, the climb might be challenging for some, but it’s a short trek with rewarding views. One reviewer mentioned, “The staff is very friendly and helpful, describing the various points very nicely.”

Stop 2: The Hot Springs of Palaia Kameni

Next, the boat anchors near Agios Nikolaos, where visitors can descend a ladder into the water. The hot springs are renowned for their mineral-rich waters, and the experience of swimming directly from the boat is a highlight for many. The hot springs are free to access, although the boat just stops outside the bay rather than allowing a full swim from the shore.

Authentic experience tip: Some travelers enjoyed jumping straight into the hot springs, as one reviewer noted, “Jumping directly from the boat into the hot springs was a memorable part of the trip.”

Stop 3: Thirassia Island

The next leg takes you to Thirassia, a quieter, more authentic island that offers a glimpse of Santorini as it was 30 years ago. You’ll have about 2 hours to explore, swim in the crisp waters of Korfos, or enjoy a leisurely lunch in traditional taverns. This free time seems to be well-liked, giving travelers a chance to relax or wander at their own pace.

Reviewer insight: One traveler mentioned, “Thirassia gives you an idea of Santorini like 30 years ago,” emphasizing its unspoiled charm. The waters here are crystal clear, perfect for swimming or relaxing on the beach.

Final Passage: The Reef and Caldera Views

After the free time, the boat passes over a unique reef, showcasing the steep depths of the caldera. Many reviews appreciated this vantage point, as it offers a spectacular view of the seabed without needing to snorkel or dive.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included in the price:

• An air-conditioned boat with restrooms onboard
• Swimming noodles for water fun
• A local guide, who reportedly provides clear and friendly commentary

Extras to budget for:

• €5 per person for the volcano entrance
• Lunch, snacks, or transfers are not included, so packing some snacks is advisable

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The positives:
The boat’s glass-bottom feature is a hit for families, providing a view of the seabed that’s both fascinating and safe for kids. The stops at the volcano and hot springs deliver on the volcanic adventure many seek when visiting Santorini. Plus, the overall price offers significant value, considering how much of the caldera and surrounding islands you get to see.

The negatives:
Some travelers feel the tour could be longer or more flexible—two hours in Thirassia might seem short for those wanting to explore more deeply. The climb up the volcano, though brief, might be tiring for some, and the extra €5 fee can be an obstacle if you’re on a tight budget. Plus, the lack of included lunch or snacks means you might want to bring provisions.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared, “The views from the upper deck are magnificent,” highlighting the visual appeal. Another appreciated the helpful staff and clear explanations, making the experience more informative and enjoyable. However, the limited free time on Thirassia might leave some wishing for more exploration options or a longer stay.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This caldera tour suits cruise visitors looking for a comprehensive yet affordable way to see Santorini’s volcanic landscape and islands. It’s perfect for families with kids because of the glass-bottom boat and the opportunity to swim in hot springs. If you’re keen on picturesque scenery, volcanic activity, and authentic island charm, you’ll find this tour offers a good mix.

However, those wanting a more leisurely or in-depth experience might prefer to explore some sites independently or choose a tour with longer stops. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the overall value, especially given the views and variety of sites covered.

The Sum Up

The Santorini Caldera with Glass Bottom Boat tour offers a compact, scenic, and family-friendly way to experience the island’s volcanic core and surrounding islands. It balances value and adventure, making it ideal for cruise travelers or families eager to see the highlights without fuss. The inclusion of the active volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia ensures a varied experience, while the boat’s glass bottom adds an extra layer of fun.

While the tour’s timing and additional costs for the volcano entrance could be drawbacks, the friendly guides and spectacular views help offset these concerns. If you’re looking for a practical, affordable way to tick off Santorini’s key sights in a single morning or afternoon, this trip could be just the ticket.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and free time on Thirassia.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes an air-conditioned boat, restroom facilities, swimming noodles, and a local guide. Entrance to the volcano costs €5 extra.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, lunch and snacks are not included, so bringing some food or snacks is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially because of the glass-bottom boat which kids find exciting. The volcano climb may be short but could be tiring for very young children.

How much time is spent at each stop?
You’ll spend about 2 hours at the volcano, 30 minutes at the hot springs, and 2 hours on Thirassia, with the rest of the time traveling between sites.

Can I swim in the hot springs?
Yes, you can swim in the hot springs from the boat, which lowers a ladder into the water. It’s a memorable feature of the tour.

Is there any snorkeling or diving involved?
No, but you can enjoy the seabed views through the boat’s glass bottom, which is often a hit with families.

What are the meeting and departure points?
The tour starts at Santorini Excursions – Dakoutros Bros J.V. in Fira Old Port, with pickup at 10:45 am.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking beforehand is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and swimwear for the hot springs. Bring a towel if you plan to swim.

This boat tour offers a practical and scenic way to soak in Santorini’s volcanic essence, perfect for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning views.