Santorini Shore Excursions - Princess Cruises
Santorini In A Nutshell
Visit a village perched atop Santorini's caldera. Taste the wines at a popular winery and visit the island's oldest Byzantine church. Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch before climbing Fira's narrow lanes to the cable car.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Oia Village - The small village perches atop cliffs at Santorini's northern terminus. Your guide leads you up the narrow, cobblestone lanes, pointing out the brilliantly whitewashed buildings, shops, cafés and domed churches. There will be some free time to explore on your own.
Local Winery - Enjoy a taste of Santorini with a visit to one of the local wineries. Santorini's rich volcanic soil combined with the rare assyrtiko variety of grape grown here produce a wine unique to this island. Your visit will include a media presentation on the art of wine making.
Fira - Santorini's largest town is a village of whitewashed houses clinging to steep volcanic cliffs. Accessible only by foot, Fira's narrow cobblestone lanes lead uphill past shops, homes and cafés to a cable car, your final destination.
Panagia Episkopi Church - Dating from the 11th century, it is the oldest remaining Byzantine church on the island. It has withstood raids by pirates, earthquakes, volcano eruptions and a fire in 1915. It is believed that the Virgin Mary protected the holy icons from the fire. Unfortunately 26 of these priceless icons were stolen from the church in 1982 and have never been recovered.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
The Mountain of Prophet Elijah - Santorini's highest point towers 2,000-feet above the sea and offers panoramic views of the island.
Kamari - Today, the ancient port of Thera is a large fishing village famed for its dramatic black sand beach, unique in the Greek islands.
LUNCH
A local restaurant is the setting for a lunch including wine.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Transfer from the ship to the shore via tender. Board your motorcoach and drive south through the volcanic landscape to Kamari, passing picturesque small villages and enjoying dramatic views of sea, land and sky. Your tour concludes at Fira. Passengers may return directly to the ship or may opt to remain in town for independent sightseeing and shopping. At Fira, ride the cable car down to the old port (ticket provided) and then board a tender for the return to ship.
SPECIAL NOTES
The tour of Fira and Oia involves walking through narrow cobblestone streets with numerous flat steps, so low-heeled, comfortable shoes are recommended. Passengers with physical limitations should take this into consideration.
The return to the ship will be by using the cable car in Fira Town to reach the port and then a tender. The cable car is reached by a long walk across Fira upper town along narrow cobble-stoned streets with an incline and steps. Low heeled shoes are recommended and passengers with physical limitations are requested to take this into consideration.
Some shops, tavernas and cafés in Fira and Oia close during October and November.
Travel Tip: Oia is pronounced "Eee-ah."
Village Of Oia & Santorini Island
Stroll the narrow lanes of Oia, a village perched on the caldera's rim. Taste wines produced from the rare assyrtiko grape, and take a guided walk to Fira's cliff top cable car station.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Oia Village - The small village perches atop cliffs at Santorini's northern terminus. Your guide leads you up the narrow, cobblestone lanes, pointing out the brilliantly whitewashed buildings, shops, cafés and domed churches. There will be some free time to explore on your own.
Local Winery - Enjoy a taste of Santorini with a visit to one of the local wineries. Santorini's rich volcanic soil combined with the rare assyrtiko variety of grape grown here produce a wine unique to this island. Your visit will include a media presentation on the art of wine making.
Fira - Santorini's largest town is a village of whitewashed houses clinging to steep volcanic cliffs. Accessible only by foot, Fira's narrow cobblestone lanes lead uphill past shops, homes and cafés to a cable car, your final destination.
SHOPPING
During free time in Oia browse through the fine shops, relax in an open-air café, or enjoy dramatic views of the sea.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Transfer from the ship to the shore via tender. Board your motorcoach and drive north to Oia, passing picturesque small villages and enjoying dramatic views of sea, land and sky. Your tour concludes at Fira. Passengers may return directly to the ship or may opt to remain in town for independent sightseeing and shopping. At Fira, ride the cable car down to the old port (ticket provided) and board a tender for the return to ship.
SPECIAL NOTES
The tour of Oia & Fira involves walking through narrow cobblestone streets with numerous flat steps, so low-heeled comfortable shoes are recommended.
The return to the ship will be by using the cable car in Fira Town to reach the port and then a tender. The cable car is reached by a long walk across Fira upper town along narrow cobble-stoned streets with an incline and steps. Low heeled shoes are recommended and passengers with physical limitations are requested to take this into consideration.
Some stores, tavernas and cafés in Fira and Oia close during the months of October and November.
Travel Tip: Oia is pronounced "Eee-ah."
Panoramic Santorini Drive
Take a narrated scenic drive that offers a wealth of photo opportunities, from a viewpoint overlooking the island's caldera to its black sand beach. Climb the island's highest point and explore its largest town on a guided walk.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Fira - Santorini's largest town is a village of whitewashed houses clinging to steep volcanic cliffs. Accessible only by foot, Fira's narrow cobblestone lanes lead uphill past shops, homes and cafés to a cable car, your final destination.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
The Mountain of Prophet Elijah - Santorini's highest point towers 2,000-feet above the sea and offers panoramic views of the island.
Aghios Nektarios - This striking church sports a blue and white façade with stone latticework and an octagonal cupola. There will be a short stop to photograph the distinct exterior of the church.
Kamari - Today the ancient port of Thera is a large fishing village famed for its dramatic black sand beach, unique in the Greek islands.
Caldera Viewpoint - Santorini's three islands form the visible rim of a caldera left by a massive eruption circa 1600 B.C. Enjoy spectacular views of the sea, the islands, and your Princess ship.
REFRESHEMENTS
Stop at a local venue along the way for a drink.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Transfer from the ship to Athinios via tender. Board your motorcoach and drive south across the island to Kamari, passing picturesque small villages and enjoying dramatic views of sea, land and sky. From Kamari, continue on to Fira, where your tour concludes. Passengers may return directly to the ship or may opt to remain in town for independent sightseeing and shopping. At Fira, ride the cable car down to the old port (ticket provided) and board a tender for the return to ship.
SPECIAL NOTES
The tour of Fira involves walking through narrow cobblestone streets with numerous flat steps. The return to the ship will be by using the cable car in Fira Town to reach the port and then a tender. The cable car is reached by a long walk across Fira upper town along narrow cobble-stoned streets with an incline and steps. Low heeled shoes are recommended and passengers with physical limitations are requested to take this into consideration.
Some stores, tavernas and cafés in Fira close during the months of October and November.
Cruise & Hiking Expedition To Santorini Volcano
Cruise across Santorini's caldera and hike to the summit of its volcanic crater. On your return cruise, stop to view hot springs spilling into the caldera.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Nea Kameni Volcano Crater - Strongyli was a round island in the southern Aegean Sea 4,000 years ago; in 1650 B.C. the volcano erupted and left a round cusp of the island, and two smaller isles on the opposite side. It is estimated that waves as high a 200 meters from the explosion destroyed the Minoan Civilization on Crete over 70 miles away. In fact, pieces of Santorini have been found all the way in Scandinavia. It is hard to believe that such tranquil surroundings could have been so destructive. Weather permitting, a local boat will be tied up to a ship to carry you to the volcano. A walk uphill will bring you to the crater. As you get nearer, the smell of sulfur gets stronger as well as the temperature rises. Once at the top, you will be able to view first hand the black lava blocks, domes of magma that "froze in mid-air". The views to the main island of Santorini from the top of the Volcano are truly amazing.
Hot Springs - The boat will stop at the hot springs which result from the volcano. You can view the different color water from the boat. Please note that the boat will stop as close as possible to the springs as they are shallow and you will be able to view this amazing phenomenon from a distance.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
From the ship, the local boat will take you across the Caldera to the Volcano. You will be provided with unforgettable views of one of the most beautiful places on earth.
SPECIAL NOTES
The tour will only operate weather permitting.
The walk to the volcano crater is approximately 40 minutes over uneven ground, loose volcanic rocks and an incline.
It is recommended walking shoes or hiking boots be worn. Also, take a hat, sunscreen and water. There is limited shade on the volcano.
The smell of sulfur and heat can be strong while on the volcano. Passengers with breathing problems should take it into consideration before booking the tour.
Santorini Shore Excursions - Royal Caribbean
Black-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and whitewashed villages that cling to volcanic cliffs make the island of Santorini a wonder to behold. Many visitors come to Santorini to uncover the mysteries of the lost kingdom of Atlantis, while others revel in its relaxed mountaintop atmosphere to enjoy the scenic waters of the Mediterranean.
The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss
Santorini's spectacular caldera is a vestige of what was probably the biggest volcanic eruption in recorded history, believed by some to have caused the disappearance of Atlantis. The island's violent volcanic history is visible everywhere you look - in black-sand beaches, earthquake-damaged dwellings and raw cliffs of lava plunging into the sea.
Other Fun Things to Do
Visit the architectural site of Akrotiri, a once-powerful Minoan kingdom. See the amazing ruins that have been excavated there, buried some thirty feet below the earth's surface after the eruption of the island's volcano. Discover the ancient city's squares and cobblestone streets and peer into some of the houses and shops.
Stop at a Santorini wine producer to enjoy a glass and explore the important role wine has served in the island's growth.
Stroll through the scenic village Oia, a haven for artists and artisans, and explore their shops, enjoy a drink or a traditional dinner while watching the sun sink into the caldera.
Get a Taste of Local Flavor
Popular main dishes include mousakas (eggplant baked with minced meat and béchamel sauce), stuffed tomatoes and freshly grilled seafood. The mainstay of the Greek diet is the ubiquitous horiatiki salata (country salad), consisting of cucumber, tomatoes, onions, feta cheese and olives.
Local Currency
The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Greece. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate. When shopping, remember there is a Value-Added Tax added to most purchases.
Santorini Shore Excursions - Holland America
Hidden Villages of Santorini
Just 15 minutes from Athinios lies Megalochori, the largest village of the Santorini Plain. Known as the village of intellectuals, Megalochori is characterized by hundreds of small white houses, as well as vineyards and beautiful churches. Walking through the village along narrow alleyways, you will encounter a variety of traditional mansions and visit the quaint Church of the Virgin Mary, with its collection of ecclesiastic artifacts. Continue to Eborio Village to visit the ruins of the medieval Fort Kasteli. And your final stop will be the volcanic beach of Perissa, an endless stretch of intriguing black sand. At the heart of summertime entertainment, Perissa is the most popular beach on the island with a wide variety of taverns, restaurants and beach bars. Time will be allowed for swimming and enjoying this famous beach.
Oia Village, Siglas Winery & Nomikos Foundation
The first stop on your tour will be the village of Oia, perhaps the most beautiful village on the island. It was almost completely destroyed in the 1956 earthquake, but has been slowly restored continuing the ancient tradition of dwellings excavated from the cliff face, with the cave-like houses clinging to the slope of volcanic rock. The most picturesque of the two main village streets is paved with marble and lined with tiny shops, cafés and restaurants, all waiting to be explored. If you prefer you can "lose yourself" in the maze of tiny streets over the rock, looking at the strange and interesting houses, superb chapels, and abandoned mansions. The views from the cliff are quite amazing, offering the best photo opportunities on this unique island. Next you will visit the small winery of Sigalas. You will have the opportunity to wander through the vineyard and see the strange Santorini basket-like vines, watch how the wine is produced on the premises and then sample the results yourself! Your final stop is at the Nomikos Foundation. On display are fascinating three-dimensional photographic reproductions, representing the prehistoric wall paintings of Akrotiri. Get a glimpse of what life was like in the 17th century BC! The terrace in front of the building offers great views of Fira, the main town. Your tour ends with a ten-minute walk down to the cable car station, or if you prefer you may stay in town and return to the ship at your leisure.
Panoramic Santorini
Embark your motor coach and head to the tour's first stop at the Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elias) Mountain, offering the best views on the whole island--a perfect photo opportunity. Descending the mountain, you will stop on the way to Oia Village to visit a winery. Here, you will have the opportunity to see how the wine is made from the unique Santorini grapevines. The drive to Oia will definitely acquaint you with the inspiring volcanic nature of the island; the views from various different angles are quite spectacular. This picturesque town features blue-domed churches, old two-story mansions, and narrow cobblestone streets lined with tiny shops selling hand-made ceramics, paintings and semi precious jewelry. This is an ideal location to capture the beauty of this remarkable island.
Profitis Ilias & Oia Village
From the Mountain of Prophet Elias, enjoy the best views of this gorgeous island. You're headed to Oia, and along the way you will learn of the inspiring volcanic nature of the island. Oia is a picturesque town with blue-domed churches, old two-story mansions, narrow cobblestone streets lined with tiny shops selling hand-made ceramics, paintings and semi-precious jewelry. This is an ideal location to capture the beauty of this remarkable island. Returning to Fira, walk with your guide to the cliffside road where you may proceed to the cable car at your own leisure.
Signature Collection - Full Day Private Car
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private car, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters.
The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests.
NOTES:
Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private car reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 2 guests
Signature Collection - Full Day Private Minivan
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private minivan, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters.
The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests.
NOTES:
Private minivans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private minivan reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 8 guests
Signature Collection - Half Day Private Car
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private car, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters.
The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests.
NOTES:
Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private car reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 2 guests
Signature Collection - Half Day Private Minivan
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private minivan, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters.
The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests.
NOTES:
Private minivans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private minivan reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 8 guests
The Essence of Santorini
From Athinios it is a 25-minute drive to the Profitis Ilias mountain, the highest point of Santorini towering 2,000 feet above the sea and offering splendid panoramic views of the island. At the picturesque village of Oia, you will have some free time to wander the narrow cobblestone lanes, encountering whitewashed buildings, cafés, and shops with beautiful arts, crafts and souvenirs. Your next stop is a local winery, where you will learn that the rich volcanic soil of Santorini produces unique wines, some of which you will have the opportunity to taste. You will then head to the Panagia Episkopi Church, the oldest Byzantine church on the island, dating back to the 11th century. Pirates, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and fire have yet to breach its walls. Finally you will drive to Kamari, a coastal village with black sand beach. Here, enjoy a traditional lunch at the quaint village of Pyrgos, before returning to Fira Town, where you are free to spend some time or return to the ship at your leisure.
Santorini Shore Excursions - Seabourn
AKROTIRI AND THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Departing the ship by private local boat, cruise to a landing at the far end of the crater where you board your motorcoach. The winding road up the side of the old volcano offers breathtaking views of the old and new calderas below. Stop at the top to take a picture of the remarkable panorama. On then to the city of Akrotiri, which dates back to before the time a powerful volcanic eruption caused the central part of Santorini to sink into the sea. What remains of this ancient civilization is now an archaeological site and museum where you may wander the streets much as residents did centuries ago. The lava and pumice from the eruption have preserved the houses, shops and pottery. This is an excavation in progress, so as your guide leads you through the site, you are afforded a fascinating insight into the painstaking process of excavation, as well as the civilization itself. Following your visit of Akrotiri, reboard your coach for the drive back to Fira, the capital of the island, with its whitewashed houses clinging precariously to the cliffs. In town, the new Archaeological Museum offers displays from the Akrotiri site, including the recent discovery of the gold Ibix. At the end of the visit, you are given a return ticket for the funicular that descends back down to the harbor, from where you may then return to the vessel at your leisure by ship's tender.
PREHISTORIC MUSEUM & OIA VILLAGE
In prehistoric times, the people who inhabited what is known today as Santorini, called the island Strongyle, meaning "round." These people enjoyed a high standard of living - they built two-story houses, tilled the earth and, recognizing the beauty of color, were skilled artists. A volcanic eruption circa 1,600 BC destroyed all life on the island, and the island itself sank beneath the waves. Excavations at the archaeological site of Akrotiri document the existence of life on Strongyle, legendary Atlantis, although no written records have ever surfaced to support this. Marvelous frescoes were found in some of the houses, which are now on display in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. In Fira town, visit the new Prehistoric Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts. The items on exhibit were excavated at the site of Akrotiri, and the frescoes on display include the recent discovery of the gold Ibix. Following your visit of the museum, proceed to the picturesque village of Oia, and the Naval Museum, where the island's interesting naval history is revealed. Free time is afforded to do some exploration on your own before commencing the return to the ship in Fira.
PROFITIS ILIAS & OIA VILLAGE
In prehistoric times, the people who inhabited what is known today as Santorini, called the island Strongyle (round). Enjoying a high standard of living, the people of Strongyle built two-story houses, tilled the earth and, recognizing the beauty of color, were skilled artists. A volcanic eruption around 1650 BC caused the center of Strongyle to sink, leaving a caldera with high cliffs - one of the world's most dramatic geological sights. Transfer by colorful local kaiki from the ship to Athinios and join the waiting motorcoach. A short journey brings you to Santorini's highest peak, crowned by the Mt. Profitis Ilias Monastery, an ideal photo opportunity to capture the beauty of this island. From here, proceed to the most northern tip of the island to experience the unique village of Oia. Built on a steep slope of the caldera, many of this dramatic little village's dwellings are nestled in niches hewn into the volcanic rock. Still evident in Oia, once the home of wealthy seafarers of the past, are their two-story mansions painted in a spectrum of pastel colors. Free time is afforded to stroll Oia's narrow cobbled streets, and the many tiny shops offering a varied and unusual collection of handmade works of ceramic art, paintings and semiprecious jewelry. Coffee shops perched on the edge of the cliffs afford spectacular views of Fira and the volcano. Your tour concludes in Fira town, where you may stay to wander, or return to the ship at the pier below via the cable car.
SANTORINI PANORAMA
Begin your tour with a transfer from the ship by a colorful local boat to Athinios, where you join the waiting motorcoach. Your first stop is the old Antoniou Winery, a structure that has been salvaged and preserved to show the old way wine was once produced using the island's natural gifts. Carved into the natural volcanic rock are the cave-like vats, which once transported wine by pipes to waiting vessels in the port for exportation. Antique presses have been restored and are classic examples of WWII engineering. Tour the winery to discover the unique aspects of wine-making on this windswept island before enjoying a sample of wines, local cheeses and traditional snacks on the patio. Continuing on to Oia at the northern tip of the island, enjoy some free time exploring this quaint village with its beautiful two-story pastel-colored mansions, early homes of Oia's many wealthy sea captains. Oia's narrow cobbled streets are lined with many tiny shops offering varied and unusual hand-made ceramic art, paintings and jewelry. Perched on the edge of the cliffs are coffee shops affording spectacular views of Fira and the volcano. Your tour concludes in Fira where you may make your way back to the ship at your leisure using the cable car.
SANTORINI VOLCANO HIKING
This exhilarating tour begins with a local caique that meets you at the pier and takes you for a 15-minute boat ride up to Nea Kameni. The boat's sail propels you along the volcanic shores where you view peculiar shape formations formed of black volcanic rock and white pumice. Then disembark the caique for a ½-hour hike up to the crater of this still active volcano. During your hike, traverse an ascending path that provides the opportunity to observe lava fragments and volcanic rock formations. On reaching the crater, free time is afforded to rest and enjoy the view of Santorini island and the amazing cliffs of the caldera. Then descend back down to the caique where you depart the volcanic island and sail towards the thermal springs of Palea Kameni, where you pass by the warm green sulfur waters with temperatures that can reach 98 degrees Fahrenheit. Your caique then returns you back to your ship in port.
Santorini Shore Excursions - Costa
OIA VILLAGE
Leaving the ship by motorboat, you will arrive at the port of Anthinios where you will find guides and buses to take you to Oia Village. Following the coast road to the northern end of the island, you will drive along the "Caldera", which is the typical rocky cliff that completely surrounds Santorini. At Oia, you will go for an inviting stroll along its lanes, overlooked by the typical ochre houses with their characteristic blue dome-shaped roofs. You will enjoy a beautiful view of the islands of Folegandros and Sikinos and of the famous volcano, now extinct. Further on, you will enjoy another breath taking view of the beaches of Ammoundi and Armenians, with the pretty church of St Nikolaus. Then we continue our tour to Thera, the main centre of the island. Here, you will have some free time for a walk or for shopping, before going back to the harbour by cable car.
VOLCANO HIKING
The local caique will take you from ship's side on a boat trip to Nea Kameni. You will sail along the volcanic shores with the peculiar shape formations. The black volcanic rocks and the white pumice offer beautiful views for you to admire. After disembarking the caique, an uphill walk will take you to the crater of the still active volcano. During your walk up the ascending path you will have the opportunity to observe the lava fragments and the volcanic rock formations.Once you have reached the crater you will have time to relax and enjoy the view of Santorini island and the amazing cliff of Caldera. After your descent back to the caique you will sail towards the thermal springs of Palea Kameni. The boat will stop in the dark green sulfur waters. Here you can have the relaxing experience of swimming in the warm waters. From here your caique will take you back to the ship.
SANTORINI, SHADES OF WHITE AND BLUE
Do not miss the opportunity to visit the most picturesque parts of Santorini, where you can admire the most breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in local life and taste the most genuine and authentic flavours of this corner of the Mediterranean. You will take a coach from the little port of Athinios to Profitis Ilias, the highest peak of this splendid island full of colours and contrasts. You will then head to the typical village of Megalochori, with its traditional whitewashed houses in the middle of a network of alleys and bridle paths. After the visit at Megalochori village, in a local tavern, you will have a chance to try the famous wine of Santorini, with its warm and seductive colours, just like the land that produced it. The last stop on your visit will be the beautiful village of Fira, with its blue domes that blur with the sky, where the cordial nature of the locals will welcome you in the shops. This will be a great occasion to buy souvenirs or one of the tasty local gastronomic sp. ecialities.
SANTORINI 4X4
You will disembark by tenders from the ship to the port of Athinios from where you will depart by jeep's for Akrotiri, located on the northern end of the island where you will see a lunar landscape created by last eruption of the volcano. From there you will depart for the beach of Perissa which you will reach after going through the magnificent beach of Vlihada. In Perissa beach there will be a short stop for a typical tasting and refreshment. Next destination will be the mountain of Profitis Elias. The highest mountain of the island (550 m) with an incredible view of the Aegean Sea and a panoramic view of Santorini. Then you will continue down the road down to Kamari beach passing through the village of Exo Gonia. When you arrive at Kamari, you will follow the black beach sand until the beach of Monolithos. Final destination will be the capital of the island, Fira. There you will have free time to stroll through the city and admire the beautiful view of the caldera. Before taking the cable car down to the port of Thira to return by tender to the ship.
Santorini Shore Excursions - Carnival
None.
Santorini Shore Excursions - Celebrity
Exclusive Santorini Tour
After disembarkation, you will board a private tender for a boat tour of the two islets of Palea and Nea Kameni (volcano) before arriving at the port of Athinios to board your coach and enjoy the scenic drive to the traditional village of Oia.
The beautiful village of Oia is perched atop a craggy cliff at the northern most point of the island, offering panoramic views of steep plummeting cliffs and nearby small islands surrounded by the deep blue sea. The charm of this lovely traditional and somewhat removed village lies in its very narrow, twisting cobblestone alleyways and steps, pointing out the brilliant white stone buildings that create a maze of fine shops, cafés, and domed churches. Walking through the village, you can enjoy the panoramic views and admire the Cycladic architecture for which the town is well known. Meet with your guide and visit the naval museum. A neoclassical old mansion restored and converted to a museum, housing the maritime history of Santorini.
Rejoin your coach and continue to the village of Megalohori to visit the Boutari Winery, one of the most elegant wineries on the island. Specially trained personnel will guide you through the production facilities and its underground cellars. After the tour, you are initiated in the art of wine tasting and treated with local mezes (typical Greek Snacks). Complete your visit with a quick stop in the wine boutique where you can purchase rare wines of limited production as well as books and various items about the wine. Drive to Pyrgos Village for a short stop at the panoramic viewpoint to admire the unique formation of this island.
Your tour terminates in Fira Town, the capital of the island. The charm of this cliff-top village lies in its very narrow, twisting cobblestone paths that cater to pedestrians only. After a short walk, you will reach the Archipelagos Restaurant situated at the edge of the caldera for a delightful lunch. You will have free time in Fira Town for independent browsing and shopping. From Fira you will join the cable car (ticket provided) and descend independently to the old port. A local tender will ferry you back to the ship, which will be anchored offshore.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 1.5 miles over varying terrain, inclines and 20 to 30 steps. Participants will be required to walk approximately 0.25 mile in Fira Town on their own to reach the cable car station. Tour order may vary but all listed sights will be covered. Participation on this tour is limited but a minimum is required in order for the tour to operate.
Mesa Gonia Village with Wine Tasting
Tender from Ship to Athinios Port where the coaches will be waiting. Drive from Athinios port to the church of Episkopi Gonia, which is one of the oldest Christian Basilikan dating back to the 12th Century. During the earthquake of 1956 the church dome collapsed and was later rebuilt. It is the only Byzantine church of Santorini and a few wall paintings have been saved. From the Church of Episkopi you will walk to the authentic village of Mesa Gonia, a traditional village with beautiful architecture and many underground homes. This village was the most affected by the earthquake of 1956, virtually all the houses were destroyed forcing the locals to abandoned their homes and descend to the below village of Kamari. Over the years renovation of the old demolished homes have began with people using them as holiday retreats. Next stop will be at the Winery of Canava Roussos, which is situated at the foot of the village. It is the oldest winery on Santorini and there you will see the wine chambers and distilleries of how Santorinian wines are produced getting also the opportunity of tasting various wines. Return to Fira town for free time or return to the ship.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 875 yards over various uneven surfaces with steps and inclines. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Guests must be able to walk 0.25 mile in Fira on their own in order to reach the cable car.
Pyrgos Village with Mezes & Wine
Disembark from the ship and transfer by local tender to Athinios port to join your tour coach. No visit to Santorini would be complete without a journey into the interior with its sleepy villages and terraced fields.
Pyrgos, a small village 8 km south of Fira, was once the island's capital, and is where the remnants of a large Venetian fortress overlooking the village testifies to its former status. Further inland stands the historical monastery of Profitis Ilias (closed to visitors), which was formed in the beginning of the 18th century, is currently home to one solitary monk, and provides commanding views over Santorini Island. After a photo stop in the Profitis Ilias area, you will return to visit the village of Pyrgos that is a traditional village with fine old houses and the remains of a Venetian castle sitting on the hilltop. Join your guide on a walking tour through the narrow, ascending streets that encircle the village. Your walking tour will conclude at the unique circle-shaped tavern where you will enjoy some local specialties and the magnificent views over Santorini Island. Local dishes served will include tomato fritters, fava puree, cheese pies, meatballs, local cheese, tomatoes, olives and unlimited wine.
Your tour terminates at Fira Town, where you are free to enjoy yourself with independent sightseeing, shopping or browsing. When ready to return to the ship, take the cable car (ticket provided) and descend independently to the old port. A local tender will ferry you back to the ship, which will be anchored offshore.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile over varying terrain, steep inclines and 30 to 40 steps. Guests must be able to walk 0.25 mile in Fira Town on their own in order to reach the cable car station.
Village of Oia, Santorini Island & Wine Tasting
After going ashore by local tender boat to the port of Athinios, your coach will climb 800 feet to the top of the caldera. Your guide will point out the still active volcanic islet in Santorini Bay and discuss the geological upheavals, which gave the island its overwhelming and unique form. Driving through the picturesque scenery and small villages from the southern to the northern end of the island of Santorini, you'll travel across rich, volcanic countryside.
The beautiful village of Oia is perched atop a craggy cliff at the northern most point of the island offering panoramic views of steep plummeting cliffs and nearby small islands surrounded by the deep blue sea. The charm of this lovely traditional and somewhat removed village lies in its very narrow, twisting cobblestone alleyways and steps. Walking through the village one can enjoy the panoramic views, admire the Cycladic architecture for which the town is well known, and visit many of the art galleries.
After your visit to Oia, continue to a local winery for the opportunity to taste Santorini mezes (Greek Snack) and a wine tasting while enjoying the magnificent views. You will visit the bodega where the wine is aged and have the chance to purchase some of the locally produced wines. The tour concludes at the hilltop village of Fira, where you'll have the option of returning directly to the ship or remaining in town to shop or explore independently. From Fira, join the cable car (ticket provided) and descend independently to the old port. A local tender will ferry you back to the ship, which will be anchored offshore.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile over uneven surfaces, steep inclines, and 20 to 30 steps. Guests must be able to walk 0.25 mile in Fira on their own in order to reach the cable car.
Volcano Hot Springs Tour Santorini is one of the most spectacular islands in the Mediterranean. It presents the awesome sight of a volcanic crater, partially submerged by the sea. The two islands in the caldera that is now Santorini's harbor, Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni - "the volcano," to the local people are the youngest volcanic lands in Greece. Travel by boat directly from the ship to Erinia Cove, on the volcanic island of Nea Kameni. Step out onto the Daphni lava flow, the oldest lava on the island. The path to the top of the dome is over volcanic sand and lava fragments. Observe large fragments of lava that were ejected in a molten state and cooled very rapidly as they traveled through the air. Upon reaching the summit of the crater at 127 meters, you will have time to relax and enjoy the view of the island of Santorini and the amazing cliff of the caldera.
Following the same route in reverse, return to your boat and sail to the thermal springs of Palea Kameni. The boat will anchor in the deep green sulfur springs and you'll have a chance to swim in the mineral rich, warm waters (max 35°C) of the Hot Springs. On the return boat trip, you will be dropped off at the small boat harbor of Fira where you can use your round trip cable car tickets that are included in this excursion.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile uphill over loose gravel paths on the volcano island. Hats, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes are essential. Due to the nature of the terrain, it is suggested to wear comfortable, "closed-toe" walking shoes on this tour. Swimming in the thermal springs requires open-ocean swimming (depending on anchorage point) and is done at guest's discretion. Guests may be required to swim up to 50 yards to reach the hot spring area since the current and weather conditions are constantly changing. Life jackets are provided on this tour. Participants should be aware that there are certain inherent risks involved with any swimming excursion. If you are planning on swimming, don't forget to wear your swimsuit and take a towel from the ship.
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