Plan your visit before you board Santorini Cruises

​Santorini has long been the stuff of travel legend with its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed homes topped with blue domes, and sunsets that stop you in your tracks. One of the best ways to experience this is by hopping on a Santorini cruise. These cruises have become iconic not just for their postcard-perfect views, but for everything they pack into a single day: island hopping, volcanic hikes, natural hot springs, cliffside villages, and sometimes even dinner on deck.

The key is knowing how to choose and prepare. From where you'll board to what shoes to bring, a little planning goes a long way. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know before you set sail.

Things to know before you board 

• You’ll cruise past beaches and coves you can’t reach by road: Some cruises glide along the Red Beach and White Beach, while others pause near hidden shores like Mesa Pigadia. These are spots only accessible by sea. It’s Santorini’s quieter side, and it’s stunning.
  
• Cruises depart from different points across the island: Main departure ports include Vlychada Marina, Ammoudi Bay, and Athinios Port. Some cruises even include hotel pick-up, so that you don’t have to plan a thing.
  
• There are many types of Santorini cruise: Volcanic island tours cover hikes and hot springs; sunset cruises focus on timing and views; luxury tours add BBQs, drinks, and are perfect if you are looking to join a much smaller group.
  
• Some cruises are all about sights while others add in wine, BBQs, or even swims: Open bars, Greek lunches, volcanic dips, or simply scenic sailing. The vibe changes across tours. Always check the inclusions so you’re not surprised by what is (or isn’t) on board.
  
• Not every cruise follows the exact same route: While most include the volcano and hot springs, some also stop at Indian Rock, Mesa Pigadia, or pass Oia during golden hour. If there’s something specific you’re keen to see, double-check if it’s on the itinerary.
  
• Snorkeling gear, towels, blankets, and float aids may be included: Many cruises, especially the premium ones, throw in extras for comfort and fun. Not every tour includes the same add-ons, so it’s worth checking the fine print.
  
• There will be a fair bit of walking involved: At Nea Kameni, expect a short uphill hike over gravel paths. It’s not intense, but you’ll want closed-toe shoes with grip. Leave the flip-flops for the beach.

Best time to go on a Santorini Cruise

For the perfect balance of weather, crowds, and cruise availability, April to early June and September to mid-October are ideal. These shoulder seasons offer mild temperatures (18–26°C), blooming landscapes, swimmable seas, and fewer tourists jostling for volcano selfies or sunset spots. Most cruise operators run a full schedule during these months, making it easy to visit Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, and Thirassia without the summer squeeze. Local tavernas, ports, and attractions are all open. It’s the sweet spot for travelers who want space and sunshine.

Peak summer (July–August) means full-capacity boats, packed beaches, and blazing heat often above 30°C. It’s also peak time for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset cruising, with calm seas and long days. On the flip side, winter (December to February) is a wildcard: while most tours stop, a few intimate cruises still run. Expect moody skies, cool winds, and a quiet caldera.

As for timing, morning cruises (around 10am) are relaxed and warm, while sunset cruises trade heat for golden skies and that caldera glow that made Santorini famous.

What to bring (and what to leave behind)

• Sturdy shoes for hikes, slippers for the boat: The volcanic trail at Nea Kameni is rocky and uneven, so closed-toe shoes with grip are a must. But once you're back on board or headed for a swim, you'll want a comfy pair of flip-flops. Bring both, switch when needed. Your feet will thank you.

• A swimsuit you don’t mind sacrificing to the hot springs: Palea Kameni’s sulfur-rich waters are great for the skin, but terrible for light-colored clothing. It’ll leave some stains. Wear an old or dark-colored suit and maybe skip the designer swimwear just this once.

• A quick-dry towel and a change of clothes: After a swim or soak, having something dry to slip into feels like luxury. The Aegean breeze can turn cool after 5pm, especially from April to early June and in shoulder season evenings. You’ll be glad you packed layers.
  

• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses: Santorini has 300+ days of sunshine a year, and the glare bounces off both water and white buildings. Bring reef-safe sunscreen if you’re swimming, and a wide-brimmed hat that won’t fly off with the wind.

• A refillable water bottle and maybe a little cash: Stay hydrated especially on cruises with hikes. Most boats have drinks onboard, but having your own bottle is easy and eco-friendly. Also, bring some euros for volcano entrance fees, snacks at Thirassia, or tipping the crew.

• Dry bag or Ziploc for your phone and valuables.: Getting to the hot springs usually means a short swim from the boat. Keep your phone, wallet, or other valuables in a dry bag unless you want to test their waterproof claims the hard way.
  
• Skip the single-use plastic and heavy packaging: Santorini’s fragile ecosystem is already strained by tourism. Avoid bringing unnecessary packaging or disposable plastics. Your cruise will thank you, and so will the Aegean Sea.