Santorini Tour of Caldera with Glass bottom Boat

If you’re considering a boat tour of Santorini’s caldera, you’re in for a day full of stunning scenery and memorable moments. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, based on its details and reviews, it offers a well-rounded experience that should appeal to a variety of travelers.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it covers all the main highlights—volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia—in one trip. Second, it’s designed to be accessible and engaging, especially for families, with the glass-bottom boat adding a fun twist. That said, there are a few things to consider, such as the optional cost of the volcano entrance fee and the somewhat busy schedule.

This tour is best suited for cruise travelers wanting a comprehensive, value-packed excursion or families seeking a fun, interactive day out without breaking the bank. If you’re after something more relaxed or deeply historical, this might not be the ideal choice.

Comprehensive caldera experience: Covers volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia in one tour.
Family-friendly: The glass-bottom boat delights kids and adds a fun element.
Moderate pace: About 5.5 hours, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and walking.
Cost-effective: At around $44, it provides a solid value considering the sights visited.
Active elements: Climbing the volcano and swimming in hot springs are highlights, but require some physical effort.
Limited included costs: Entrance fees and meals are extra, so budget accordingly.

Visiting the Volcano

Our journey begins at Nea Kameni, the island formed from a recent volcanic eruption. The highlight here is the chance to walk up to 4-6 craters, following your guide to the top—an activity that offers both a sense of adventure and the chance to witness active geology firsthand.

Reviewers praise the staff’s clarity in describing the volcano, with Nicholas noting the “magnificent views from the upper deck” and how helpful the guides are. The climb takes about 20 minutes, which is manageable for most, but remember, the entrance ticket for the volcano costs an additional €5 per person, so don’t forget to budget that in.

Hot Springs: A Natural Spa

Next, the boat heads to Palaia Kameni, where you can swim in the natural hot springs. The boat anchors just outside a small bay, and swimmers can lower themselves into the warm waters via a ladder. The experience is free, but the water’s warmth and mineral-rich qualities make it a unique stop.

One reviewer, Susanne, enthusiastically describes jumping straight into the hot springs from the boat, highlighting how accessible and fun this stop is. It’s a quick 30-minute pause but offers a memorable, relaxing break amid geological marvels.

Thirassia: A Step Back in Time

The third stop is Thirassia, a quiet island that feels like a glimpse into Santorini’s past. With about 2 hours of free time, you can explore, swim in crystal waters at Korfos, or enjoy local dishes at traditional taverns.

The reviews emphasize Thirassia’s charm—Susanne mentions wandering to the volcanic crater, while others enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a chance to slow down and appreciate the local way of life away from the busy tourist spots.

The Underwater Reef and Final Views

After Thirassia, the boat passes over an impressive reef, offering a chance to see the seabed through the glass bottom, a highlight for kids and camera enthusiasts. The tour wraps up with a final pass over the caldera’s steep waters, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the submerged terrain.

This tour offers many conveniences: air-conditioned vehicle, swimming noodles, a restroom onboard, and a local guide. It’s designed for comfort and easy access, which is great if you’re traveling with kids or simply want a hassle-free experience.

However, there are some costs outside the package: lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring or buy your own. The volcano entrance fee (€5) is additional, and no transfers to and from your hotel are provided—so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at the Old Port.

Reviews are generally positive, with a 3.5/5 rating based on four reviews. Nicholas appreciated the friendly staff and the magnificent views from the upper deck, describing the trip as very well-organized. Susanne’s review highlights the fun of jumping into the hot springs directly from the boat, emphasizing the tour’s engaging and interactive nature.

Most travelers seem satisfied with the value for money—especially considering the diversity of stops packed into just over five hours. However, some note the extra costs (like entrance fees) and suggest bringing snacks or planning meals separately.

Transportation: The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle for transfers, and the boat itself is designed for comfort with amenities like restrooms.

Timing: Starting at 10:45 am at the Old Port, the schedule is fairly packed, with each stop timed to maximize sightseeing but without feeling overly rushed. Expect about 2 hours at Thirassia and 30 minutes at the hot springs—enough to enjoy without feeling hurried.

Group Size: The tour accommodates up to 70 travelers, making it lively but not overly crowded, especially during the main stops. The reviews suggest guides are clear and helpful, enhancing the group experience.

Price and Value: At $44.30 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the variety of sights and the inclusions. The extra costs, like entrance tickets, are typical in such excursions, but they don’t overshadow the overall affordability.

This caldera cruise is a good pick for cruise passengers wanting to see everything in one go or families looking for a fun, interactive day. It suits travelers who appreciate stunning views, enjoy a bit of physical activity (climbing volcano), and want to experience local island life in Thirassia.

It’s less ideal if you’re seeking a deep dive into Santorini’s history or prefer a more relaxed pace with ample time at each site. Active travelers who don’t mind a busy day will find this tour engaging and satisfying.

The Santorini Caldera with Glass Bottom Boat tour offers a solid, value-for-money way to explore the island’s volcanic landscape and neighboring islands. The combination of volcano exploration, hot springs, and relaxed time in Thirassia makes it a well-rounded experience.

It’s perfect for those who want a family-friendly, engaging day with plenty of photo opportunities and a touch of adventure. The tour’s convenience, combined with the genuine charm of the volcanic scenery and island life, makes it a memorable part of any Santorini itinerary.

If you’re looking for an affordable, fun, and scenic cruise that hits all the major points of interest, this tour deserves a spot on your list. Just remember to bring some extra cash for entrance fees and snacks, and you’re all set for a memorable day on Santorini’s caldera.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, kids love the glass-bottom boat and jumping into the hot springs, making it a family-friendly option.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 5 hours and 30 minutes, including stops for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

Do I need to buy tickets for the volcano? Yes, the volcano entrance costs €5 per person and is paid on-site; it’s not included in the tour price.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or buy food during the free time on Thirassia.

What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, and some euros for extras. A camera or smartphone for photos is a must.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This detailed review hopefully clears up what to expect from the Santorini Caldera with Glass Bottom Boat tour. It’s a lively, scenic, and interactive way to experience Santorini’s volcanic wonders—especially ideal for families and cruise visitors seeking an efficient but memorable adventure.