Santorini Volcano Cruise & Hike: Private Boat, Thermal Springs

Dive from hidden cliffs and swim in Santorini’s secret islet waters.

A private cruise from Ammoudi Port in Santorini combines a volcano hike, thermal spring swim, and a stop at the Agios Nikolaos Islet in one outing. The 10-meter motor boat carries snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and a restroom; you choose between a 3-hour or 4-hour departure (daytime or sunset). The volcano entrance fee is separate and paid in cash on the island.

Step-by-step itinerary

Volcano hike and island swimming

• Hike up the volcano
• Snorkel around volcanic coast
• Enjoy wine on board
• Swim in thermal springs
• Dive at Agios Nikolaos Islet

The Experience

The boat leaves Ammoudi Port and heads straight into the caldera. You can hike up the volcano yourself while the crew stays aboard, or skip the climb and snorkel the volcanic coastline instead—the choice is yours once you're on the water. Either way, the boat carries snorkeling gear and safety equipment, so if you want to explore underwater, it's ready.

After the volcano, you'll anchor at the thermal springs of the small island next to it. The water here is warm and mixed with volcanic mud, a natural spa experience that takes the edge off the hike. Then the boat moves to Agios Nikolaos Islet, a hidden spot tucked next to Ammoudi Port that most visitors never reach because it's only accessible by a short, steep hike or by boat. You get two or three swimming stops depending on which duration you book, and the crew provides bottled water throughout. There's a restroom on board if you need it.

You'll pick your departure time and length when you book—either 3 or 4 hours, either daytime or sunset. The guide speaks English and Greek. Bring your own food and drinks if you want them; the volcano entrance fee (cash only) is separate from the cruise price and paid when you arrive on the island.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment and safety gear.
• bottled water.
• two or three swimming stops depending on duration.
• on-board restroom.
• live guide in English or Greek.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Spiridakos Sailing Cruises

Is this one for you?Book the 4-hour option if you want time for both the volcano hike and a full exploration of the thermal springs and Agios Nikolaos without rushing; the 3-hour cruise works if you're choosing between the hike and the snorkeling rather than doing both.

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Top questions

Can I hike the volcano if I'm not very fit?

The hike is suitable for all physical fitness levels, and it's optional—you can stay on the boat and snorkel instead if you prefer not to climb.

What's included in the cruise price?

Bottled water, snorkeling equipment and safety gear, two or three swimming stops, and use of the restroom on board are included; food and drinks are not, so bring your own if you want them.

Is the boat private or shared with other groups?

The boat is private for your group; the crew remains on board during the volcano hike and guides the stops from the water.

What is the Agios Nikolaos Islet like?

Agios Nikolaos is a small islet next to Ammoudi Port that's normally only reachable by a steep hike or by boat; you'll have time to swim there and can dive from the cliff if you want to.

Do I need to pay extra for the volcano entrance?

Yes, the volcano entrance fee is not included in the cruise price and must be paid in cash when you arrive on the island.

What's the difference between the 3-hour and 4-hour options?

The 4-hour cruise includes one extra swimming stop; both options are available as daytime or sunset departures.