Santorini: Private Caldera Boat Tour & Volcano Swim with Lunch

Summary

Santorini caldera by private boat swimming volcanic springs thirasia village views

You’ll slip away from Santorini’s crowds by private boat with a local skipper, swim in volcanic hot springs near Nea Kameni, and taste fresh island food on Thirasia. Enjoy wine on deck as you pass Oia’s famous cliffs—plus towels and snorkeling gear are included so you can just relax into it all.

What’s the experience like?

We met Alex down at the Old Port under Fira—there’s a cable car now but I stubbornly took the steps (my legs are still complaining). The smell of salt and diesel from fishing boats mixed with something sweet from a bakery nearby. Alex was already laughing about how crowded the port gets with cruise ships, but once we pushed off, it felt like Santorini belonged to us again. The cliffs looked even taller from the water, all those white houses stuck on top like frosting.

Our first stop was Nea Kameni. You can feel the volcano before you see it—sulfur in the air, water suddenly warmer around your ankles. Alex explained the eruptions that shaped this whole place; he pointed out black rocks that still steam after rain. I tried to pronounce “Nea Kameni” right—he grinned and told me not to worry, most people get it wrong. We swam where the sea turns rust-orange from minerals. My swimsuit still smells faintly of sulfur (they warned me), but my skin felt weirdly soft after.

Thirasia was quieter than I expected—almost sleepy, just a few fishermen waving as we passed. While we swam in clear water, Alex set up plates of tomato fritters, fava dip, olives—all local stuff he picked up that morning. The wine was cold and tasted almost salty? Maybe that’s just how things are here. Afterward we drifted under Oia’s cliffs; blue domes above us, gulls circling for crumbs. There was this moment where everything went silent except for the splash of oars—I still think about that view sometimes when I’m back home in traffic.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini volcano and island cruise

• View Old Port under Fira
• Stop at Nea Kammeni volcanic park
• Swim at thermal springs
• Visit lava island and beach
• Swim and snorkel at Thirassia
• Enjoy traditional meal on board
• Cruise past Oia village and Ammoudi

Top questions

How long is the Santorini private boat tour?

The cruise lasts about 5 hours from start to finish.

Does the tour include swimming at the volcano hot springs?

Yes, there’s a stop at Nea Kameni for swimming in thermal waters warmed by volcanic activity.

Is lunch provided during the boat trip?

Yes, you’ll have several plates of traditional local cuisine along with white wine and water.

Are towels and snorkeling equipment included?

Towels and use of snorkeling gear are included for all guests.

Where does the tour depart from?

The boat leaves from the Old Port under Fira; you can reach it by steps or cable car.

Can I choose between morning or afternoon departures?

You can request either a morning or afternoon charter when booking.

Are there any special requirements for swimsuits?

A dark or old swimsuit is recommended because sulfur in hot springs may stain lighter colors.

Is this private boat tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The trip is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes private charter with flexible morning or afternoon departure from Fira’s Old Port, towels and snorkeling equipment ready on board, stops for swimming at Nea Kameni’s hot springs and Thirasia island, plus a meal of five traditional local dishes with Santorini white wine and water served after your swim before heading back along Oia’s cliffs.