Planning your cruise to Santorini can seem daunting with the many options and details to consider. Did you know this idyllic Greek island doesn’t have a proper dock for large cruise ships?
Not to worry, as our comprehensive guide simplifies every aspect of your journey – from choosing between Athinios port and Old Port of Fira, accessing local transportation, exploring must-see spots like Oia or Akrotiri site to getting the taste of authentic Greek cuisine.
About the Port
The Santorini Cruise Port is at the base of the Caldera Cliffs in Fira, offering a breathtaking view to all visitors. It is an important docking area for cruise ships, and its location provides easy access to several key points on the island.
Just a short distance lies Athinios Port, which holds the title of Santorini’s main port and is the primary entry point for ferry passengers.
Cruise ship passengers have a unique arrival process; they tender to Skala Port, located just below Fira. This proximity allows you direct entry into Firá town from Skala – a convenient link between sea and land travel that adds charm to your overall journey.
The short ride from the dock to town offers an excellent first impression of what this picturesque island has to offer!
Cruise Terminal Information
Cruise ships docking in Santorini have two ports: Athinios Port and the Old Port of Fira. It’s typical for cruise ship itineraries to drop passengers off at Athinios port.
Large tender boats transfer some cruise passengers ashore, bringing them smoothly from the cruise ship to the ferry port of Athinios.
On the other hand, if your itinerary includes a stop at Skala, situated below Fira – the island’s capital – you’ll be tendered directly there. TUI All-inclusive cruises often dock at this location.
Both ports provide efficient services, ensuring smooth voyages for every traveler.
These locations are packed with amenities and offer delightful views, adding another layer of charm to your Santorini island adventure. The Ports not only function as arrival points but also serve as gateways into the heartland of this picturesque Greek Island.
How to Get Around
Navigating through Santorini from the cruise port offers you a few interesting options. The beautiful village of Thira (Fira) is accessible by a scenic 580-step walk, a donkey ride, or a cable car journey.
Oia, from the Santorini cruise port, is straightforward, too. Either hail a taxi for a speedy trip or catch a local bus service for a real experience.
Both provide convenient transportation and amazing views along the way. Contact a local travel guide if your itinerary seems too much; they can offer valuable insights to make your day trip more enjoyable and efficient.
Use the Santorini cruise port schedule to plan well so that you won’t miss out on anything during your visit to this beautiful island.
Things to Do
There are plenty of exciting things to do during your visit. Start by visiting Akrotiri, an ancient archaeological site known for its well-preserved ruins.
Take a walk around Fira, the capital town, and walk its charming, narrow streets with shops and restaurants offering local cuisine.
Try the local wineries in Santorini by scheduling a wine tasting if you have the time.
Don’t miss out on a trip to Oia Village, famous for its incredible sunsets and unbelievable views of the Aegean Sea. Don’t forget to spend some time at one of Santorini’s multicolored beaches, where you can relax and enjoy the crystal-clear blue waters.
Beach Pass Information
Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Santorini without needing a beach pass! With its stunning black sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Santorini offers the perfect opportunity to unwind with the Mediterranean sun.
A beach pass allows you access to some of the best swimming spots on this Greek island, whether you prefer a secluded bay or a popular beach bar atmosphere.
One of the must-visit locations is Ammoudi Bay, famous for being the top spot for swimming in Santorini. The bay offers a unique swimming experience surrounded by volcanic soil and rocks.
You can also explore other famous beaches, such as Perivolos and Kamari Beach, known for their energetic beach clubs and restaurants.
Don’t miss out on experiencing Navagio Beach either – located only accessible by boat due to its steep cliff surroundings; it’s truly an adventure worth embarking on during your visit to Santorini.
Local Cuisine & Best Places to Eat
Experience the local cuisine of Santorini and discover the best places to eat on your cruise. From traditional dishes with authentic flavors to gourmet cuisine that will make your taste buds happy, Santorini offers a variety of culinary fares.
Try Lefkes, a unique Greek restaurant in a 19th-century wine cave in Finikia, serving traditional Greek food.
Enjoy some of the island’s finest food. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood (Ammoudi Fish Tavern in Oia) by the beach or exquisite dining options with stunning views (Lure Restaurant in Oia at the Mystique Hotel), there are many choices for amazing food.
Don’t miss out on trying souvlaki shops serving delicious skewered meats or indulging in delectable desserts. If you can’t decide and have the time, take a walking food tour.
Shopping Opportunities
The Santorini Cruise Port offers fantastic shopping opportunities for tourists. You can find a variety of souvenir and craft shops where you can pick up unique items to remember your trip.
Clothing stores are also available, offering fashionable options for both men and women. If you’re looking for jewelry, many stores are offering beautiful pieces.
Additionally, the shopping near the port carries personal care products, making it convenient to stock up on anything you may need during your visit. Whether you’re looking for local or international brands, these shops have many items.
Local Currency
The local currency in Santorini is the Euro (€), and prices for services and products are quoted in Euros. You can easily exchange your foreign currency for Euros at currency exchange services available in the area.
Credit cards are accepted at locations in Santorini, and ATMs are available if you need to take out cash.
Safety Tips
Wearing the right footwear is necessary for an enjoyable experience in Santorini. Wear walking sandals instead of flip-flops, especially during hot weather. They provide better stability and protect your feet while exploring the island’s narrow streets and uneven terrain.
Santorini has low crime rates, making it a generally safe destination for travelers. It’s always important to take basic safety precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the cruise port in Santorini is in April or October. It is the optimal season to experience the island’s beauty without facing too much of a crowd. In April, May, June, and September-October, you can enjoy pleasant weather, affordable rates, and fewer tourists.
March to May is especially great as you’ll find better weather conditions and more open tourist establishments. On the other hand, July and August are the peak tourist months, with a high influx of visitors and hot weather.
Popular Cruise Lines that visit Santorini Cruise Port
Popular cruise lines that visit Santorini Cruise Port offer a variety of vacation destinations and itineraries in the Mediterranean. Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean, for example, provide vacation itineraries and shore excursions to Santorini.
TUI All Inclusive cruises are also known to frequently visit the port of Skala in Santorini, offering opportunities for nearby island hopping and discovering popular tourist attractions.
Viking Cruises and Virgin Voyages also port at Santorini.
FAQs
If you want all your questions answered about getting around Santorini, taxi drivers, and more, keep reading!
Can you walk from the cruise port in Santorini?
Exploring Santorini on foot from the cruise port is not possible due to the inability of the cruise ships to dock directly at the port. Once you are dropped at one of the ports by a tender boat, the best option is a cable car to one of the nearby towns. You can ask your cruise ship operator for more information.
What port do cruise ships dock in Santorini?
Cruise ships don’t dock in Santorini as the ports are too small. The cruise ships anchor near the Old Port, below Firá town. Tender boats take passengers to either the main port of Athinios (also known as the “New Port” or “Thira Port.”) or the Skala dock located in Fira.
How much is a taxi from the port to Fira?
Taxis from the port to Fira typically cost around 40-50 Euros. It’s a convenient way to reach your destination quickly and comfortably. Just remember to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Booking Information
Luckily, there are plenty of options available for booking your cruise to this stunning Greek island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Many popular cruise lines offer itineraries that include Santorini as a port of call, as mentioned previously in the guide. You can also opt for private cruises that start from Ammoudi Port or Vlychada and drop you off at the Old Port of Fira, also known as Skala Pier.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Plan your dream cruise to Santorini and explore the stunning beauty of this Greek island. From the magnificent Caldera Cliffs to the picturesque villages of Fira and Oia, there is so much to see and do in Santorini.
Indulge in local cuisine, relax on the beaches, and experience the rich history and culture of this ancient island. Book your Santorini cruise now for an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful destinations in the Mediterranean.
