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The Cable Car offers spectacular views of the island and is thrilling for some. If you have a limited time and want to visit a place that combines local cuisine and culture, then visiting Santorini’s wineries might be a great idea. During your visit to wineries, you can taste the flavourful samples of local wines and learn about the island’s history of winemaking and the unique techniques to grow and harvest the grapes.
What port do cruise ships use in Santorini?
Less known, divulged and rarely mentioned onboard most cruise ships, there is also the Editor's Favorite way of exploring Santorini. Obviously, if the cruise traveler encounters too long a line there is always the alternative of walking down the 'donkeys' zig-zag path. The Editors' advice is to get in line at least 1 hour prior to the last tender and enjoy the amenities around the dock/pier, be it for a relaxed refreshment or last-minute souvenir shopping. Many a cruise traveler cannot resist the temptation of this adventure and the thrill has become a typical attraction when visiting Santorini. The cobblestone path for the donkeys is also accessible for all that prefer to walk up but, if you choose to do so, be aware that the paved steps will at times need to be negotiated with riders. I am the creator of an e-book “Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide“, the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports, & YouTube channel @AdventourBegins.
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Another iconic landmark of Fira is St. John the Baptist Cathedral, the only Catholic cathedral in Santorini, known for its colorful exterior, located a stone’s throw from the cable car upper station. Following the COVID crisis, in 2022 Santorini handled a total of 686 cruise ship calls, which number in 2023 increased to 753 (112 in June alone). The many famous beaches are along the eastern coast, each with its own unique characteristics. After being covered by lava from a volcano eruption in the 15th century, it has now been partially excavated.
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Amorgos, Greece
We can arrange accommodation to pick up and drop you off at Old Port of Fira where the cruise ship departs. Tenders shuttle passengers right to the base of Fira; you must ride the funicular (or a donkey) up to the town itself. Private ferry services may run from Fira port to Oia for approximately €20 for a return trip. Oia is renowned for its awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of the Aegean Sea and the caldera, particularly during the mesmerizing sunset—a must-see for all visitors. Cruise ships are usually too big to dock in Santorini so the chances are that you will be using a tender. A lot of cruise visitors though often prioritize Oia for its iconic beauty and its sunsets.
However, the local operators/guides tend to have fewer excursionists in their groups, which in itself can be much nicer. At the Port of Skala, there is also an excellent transfer to the bay of Amoudi that deserves to be highlighted - more about this below. If you need to change money, a Exchange Office in Skala has the best rates in the Eastern Mediterranean - take advantage as you will not get better anywhere else. Next, to the Exchange Office, there is a Tourist Information office with good maps. For those that would like to get on a scooter or a car to drive around the island - be it to the beaches or to secluded hidden gems that shore excursions do not cover - there are excellent offers.
It is a perfect place to unwind, savor delicious seafood, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Santorini away from the crowds. Fira is the bustling capital of Santorini and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, white-washed buildings, and narrow, winding streets. It offers a plethora of activities and attractions, including boutique shopping, traditional Greek tavernas, and stunning views of the caldera.
Do I Need to Book a Tour With the Cruise Line for Santorini?
With its steep cliffs rising up from the sea and providing panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the blue waters of the Aegean, the Caldera offers a breathtaking sight. Visitors can explore the Caldera on foot via a myriad of hiking trails winding their way along the cliffs. Santorini, the whitewashed heaven of the Cyclades Islands, is one of the major tourist destinations on the Aegean Sea. The island is famous for its picturesque settlements and magnificent beaches; with its rich history and natural wonders, Santorini offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to its visitors. Skala Port is a truly unique docking location, offering a more tranquil and picturesque setting compared to other ports on the island.
What to See and Do in Fira, Santorini
While more expensive than buses, taxis will make it far easier to see both Oia and Fira if you want to do both. A tender is a little boat that you get into and then transports you from the cruise ship to the port and in Santorini this is about a 10-minute boat ride and it is usually not charged for. You can then walk around the quaint and beautiful village of Fira and you might find this enough to enjoy Santorini, after enjoying the views and relaxing in the town with a coffee and exploring the shops. You do not need to book a tour as you can easily get the cable car or walk up the hill to the capital Fira, or catch a bus to Oia. The facilities at the port of Santorini include a duty-free shop, gift stalls, and free Wi-Fi. The cable car takes three minutes to reach the center of Fira town where a wider variety of facilities are available.
The Transfer from Skala to Amoudi
Local wineries, fine restaurants, and traditional taverns lead your palatable journey through Santorini. Assyrtiko, a popular white wine produced on the island is for sure a tipple to try. With a fruity taste and a hint of citrus, you will find this wine across the island. Oia is a coastal town on the tip of the island, where you will see true Greek architecture carved into rugged clifftops. A must-see for guests traveling to the Greek island, this picturesque village is the perfect place to capture colorful laneways, world-class food, and local adventures.
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Obviously, exploring these towns is an absolute must as is a visit to the extraordinary archaeological site of Akrotiri, which dates back to 900 BC. Several religious sites, a handful of museums, and a taste of Santo wine should not be missed. If you like to collect beach memories, the black, red, and multicolored sand beaches of Santorini are truly unforgettable. From Amoudi Bay, visitors can also embark on a hike to the famous Santorini sunset spot, known as the Oia Castle. The hike offers stunning views of the Caldera and the neighboring islands along the way. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a dip in the refreshing waters of the bay or even try cliff jumping from the rocky outcrops.
The reason behind this unusual color is the very volcanic activity that created the island itself. It’s important to note that the color causes the sand to absorb heat, so make sure you have a towel to rest on and shoes to wear. Santorini is known for its distinct while buildings and famous blue domes. Be sure to visit the Famous Blue Dome Church while venturing around the beautiful village of Oia. Not only is this a great photo opportunity but its a fabulous place to visit so that you can truly appreciate Greek architecture.
Here’s our guide on everything you need to know about exploring the popular port island of Santorini. For that reason, it is often referred to as the Santorini cruise port, while you can come upon several boat rental agencies around the area. Excursion boats also start from the port to the islands of Nea and Palia Kameni, Thirasia, and Oia. It is connected to the port of Piraeus daily and throughout the year, as well as to the surrounding islands with numerous passenger ferries.
As in most ports in the world, there are car rentals available in Athinios port in Santorini island, where you can rent any pretty much vehicle of your choice -provided you have a driver’s license. The schedule for the bus from Fira to Athinios Port is dependent on ferry schedules. If you haven't booked an excursion onboard, you can still get on a tour with local and independent tour operators right at the Port of Skala. Besides souvenir shopping and a few good places to have a quick bite or lunch, Skala is also the place to find most service and amenities for cruise travelers to Santorini. No strenuous activities are included, all you need to be able to do is board the sailing boat.
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