A 5½‑hour loop from Fira that combines a glass-bottom cruise, a short volcano hike, thermal swims at Palaia Kameni and free time on Thirassia. Ideal for travelers who want a compact, active introduction to Santorini’s caldera.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the cable car at Fira's old port and the caldera waits like a scarred, sea-cut amphitheater—black cliffs plunging to cobalt water that dares you to look over the rail. The glass-bottom section of the boat turns the sea into a living map, revealing the reef and unexpected shoals as the hull slides past Oia’s white faces on the skyline.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; must be able to climb short steep volcanic paths and use a ladder to enter the water.
Wildlife
History
Santorini’s caldera formed after massive Minoan-era eruptions; repeated volcanic activity since the 1700s created the current islands of Nea and Palaia Kameni.
Conservation
Operators encourage reef-safe sunscreen and no anchoring on fragile seabeds; avoid leaving sunscreen bottles or plastic in the water to protect marine life.
Reserve your spot on the Santorini Tour of Caldera with Glass bottom Boat today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Prepare for a short volcanic hike
The walk on Nea Kameni to the crater rim is steep but brief—wear sturdy shoes and allow 20–30 minutes roundtrip.
Bring swim shoes
Entry to the hot springs uses a ladder and rocky shorelines; neoprene or reef shoes protect your feet.
Protect against sun and wind
Open-deck cruising exposes you to intense sun and gusts—use reef-safe sunscreen and a light windbreaker.
If you get seasick, medicate early
Take anti-nausea medication 30–60 minutes before departure—glass-bottom viewing doesn’t prevent motion sickness.
Reef or swim shoes
Protects feet on rocky landings, ladder entries and while swimming to the hot springs.
summer
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Heavy sun exposure on deck and during swims makes broad-spectrum, eco-friendly sunscreen a must.
summer
Light windbreaker
Offshore breezes can be cool—pack a thin wind layer for comfort on deck.
spring
Small daypack
To carry water, snacks, camera, and a change of clothes after swimming.