Nea Kameni and Thirassia day trip from Santorini
This trip takes you below the caldera rim to volcanic ground and the neighboring island of Thirassia. Choose the route by its actual stops rather than the boat's photographs: some sailings focus on swimming or sunset, while others include a volcano landing and time ashore. The departure harbor also matters, especially if you need to descend from Fira.
At a glance
- Getting there
- Excursion boat from Fira's old port, about half a day overall, depending on the route
- Book ahead
- Caldera excursion
- Tours
- Day trips on Viator
How to get to Nea Kameni and Thirassia from Santorini
Excursion boat from Fira's old port, about half a day overall, depending on the route
Choose a departure explicitly listing Nea Kameni and Thirassia. Fira's old port is below the town, so allow time for the descent and any cable car queue. Confirm the return harbor before booking.
Excursion with a road transfer, half a day or longer, including pickup
Book an excursion that confirms a road pickup and its departure harbor. Check whether volcano landings, swimming and Thirassia are included, and distinguish time aboard from the full duration between hotel pickup and return.
What to see in Nea Kameni and Thirassia
Nea Kameni's volcanic paths
Walk the marked route on rough volcanic ground if your boat includes a landing. Closed shoes help on loose surfaces, and water is essential because exposed sections offer little shade.
The hot springs stop
Some excursions include swimming near Palea Kameni. Confirm how passengers enter the water and whether swimming is required to reach the warmer area before deciding to join.
Thirassia's harbor
Use the harbor stop for a waterfront meal or a short look around. Check the boat's boarding point before sitting down, since limited time ashore can disappear quickly.
Manolas village
If the stop is long enough, consider the uphill walk to Manolas. Check the route and allow enough time to descend; remaining by the harbor is sensible in strong heat.
Go on your own, or take a tour?
An organized excursion is the straightforward way to combine a volcano landing with Thirassia. Compare the stop list, landing arrangements and time ashore before booking. Independent travel to Thirassia does not automatically provide access to Nea Kameni, so it serves a different kind of day out.
Tips for the day
- Confirm whether the departure is from Fira's old port or Athinios, since they require different transfers.
- Pack closed shoes for the volcano and separate swimming items if your chosen route includes a water stop.
- Follow the crew's return instructions at each landing and keep track of the boat's name.
Nea Kameni and Thirassia day trip from Santorini
Will I walk on the volcano?
Only if your excursion includes a Nea Kameni landing. Check the itinerary carefully, since some caldera sailings pass the volcanic islands without putting passengers ashore.
Do I need to swim at the hot springs?
That depends on the boat's stopping point and access arrangements. Ask the operator whether reaching the warmer water requires swimming from the boat.
Is there enough time to visit Manolas?
Some Thirassia stops allow an uphill village walk, while others suit lunch by the harbor. Ask for the actual time ashore before planning the climb.