Things to do in Manolas, Thirasia

Set sail from Athinios Port on a traditional wooden boat and explore the natural wonders of Santorini’s volcanic landscape. With live commentary on board, you'll journey through the heart of the caldera and visit iconic spots shaped by volcanic activity. The first stop is Nea Kameni, the island with the still-active volcano. You’ll have the chance to hike to the crater at your own pace, enjoying panoramic views and witnessing the power of nature up close. Please note that this hike is unguided, so extra care should be taken during your walk. Next, the boat will take you to Palea Kameni, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating swim in the natural hot springs, known for their high sulfur content and healing properties. Be aware that the mineral-rich waters may stain light-colored swimwear. The boat will stop in the bay of Thirassia for a second swimming break (weather permitting). Take a dip in the Aegean and soak in the tranquil atmosphere around this traditional island from the water. The cruise continues with a scenic sailing tour of the Caldera, where you'll be able to admire the majestic volcanic cliffs and whitewashed villages perched above the sea. The tour concludes at Athinios Port, with an estimated return time of approximately 15:45. This is a memorable opportunity to witness the unique geological beauty of Santorini, combining adventure, relaxation, and stunning views. If you book the extension option the boat will also take you to a port where a comfortable bus will be waiting to transport you to the mesmerizing village of Oia. Immerse yourself in its unique charm as you enjoy 2-3 hours of free time to wander through the winding streets, soak up the breathtaking views, and witness the magical sunset that has made Oia world-famous. As your time in Oia comes to a close, hop back on the bus for a relaxed journey back to your original destination. Reflect on the incredible memories you’ve made, carrying the beauty of Santorini in your heart. Please meet your bus in Oia at the meeting point 15 minutes after sunset.

Hop aboard the boat in the Santorini Harbor and feel the sea breeze on your face as you embark on your sailing adventure. Have a local guide on board the boat paired with engaging audio commentary, enriching your experience with fascinating insights. Add a touch of fun to your trip by purchasing drinks at the on board bar. Arrive at the first port of call, Nea Kameni, the site of an active volcano. Have the option to take a self-guided hike up to the crater. Pass through lunar-like, volcanic landscapes that have been formed by eruptions over thousands of years. Continues to Palea Kameni which is famous for its therapeutic hot springs. Go for a relaxing dip with the provided foam pool noodles that ensure maximum comfort and relaxation during your water activities. Once back on board, the voyage takes you to the quaint island of Thirassia. Enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace, exploring its idyllic streets and scenic views. Have the option to take a trip to Manolas on a traditional donkey ride (own expense) or by navigating its spiraling staircases. Return to your starting point with a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of Santorini.

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the stunning landscapes of Santorini. Begin your adventure with a scenic sail from the harbor, enjoying live commentary as you approach Nea Kameni, the island’s famous volcanic crater. Here, you can hike to the summit for a close-up view of the active volcano, marveling at the rugged beauty of the terrain. Next, the boat heads to Palea Kameni, where you’ll have the chance to soak in the natural hot springs. The warm, sulfur-rich waters offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, though be mindful of the potential for discoloration of light-colored swimwear. Continue your voyage to the tranquil island of Thirassia, a hidden gem that invites you to explore its charming village. Wander through the narrow streets, or take a donkey ride up the winding steps to the village of Manolas, where traditional Greek life remains untouched by time. For those who opt for the extended tour, a bus will transport you to the captivating village of Oia, known for its breathtaking views and iconic sunsets. Spend 2-3 hours exploring this picturesque town, wandering its quaint streets, and taking in the panoramic vistas. As the sun sets, painting the sky with brilliant hues, you’ll understand why Oia’s sunset is world-famous. The tour concludes with a comfortable bus ride back to your original destination, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Santorini’s natural and cultural beauty.

Marvel at Santorini's natural beauty on a cruise around the island in a traditional wooden boat. Stop to swim, snorkel, and visit the hot springs. Relish a Greek lunch or dinner with local white wine which is included in the price of the cruise. Choose the sunset option to admire Santorini's famous sunset too. Start your tour with a convenient pickup service either from your hotel or from the nearest accessible location. Meet your driver-guide, then get transferred to the port in an air-conditioned van or minivan. Upon arrival at the port in Vlychada, hop aboard the wooden boat and enjoy a welcome drink. Sail close to the Red and White Beach before making your first stop by the Black Mountain for a swim. Put your goggles on and experience the crystal-clear water. Continue past the Venetian Akrotiri Lighthouse, entering the majestic caldera of Santorini. Hear about the island from your guide, and fixate your eyes on the spectacular volcanic area of colourful cliffs. Head toward the hot springs, and let the energy of the volcano fill you up as you swim in the geothermal waters once there. The next stop is Thirassia island, a fishermen’s island ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Restore your energy levels with a menu featuring chicken fillet, traditional Greek dips, beans, stuffed vine leaves, Greek salad, and fruits. End the cruise in the old harbour of Ammoudi, whilst there might be some spare time for a pit stop at Agios Nikolaus before disembarkation too. The sunset option visits the same places but in reverse order, beginning in Ammoudi and ending in Vlychada. On the sunset cruise, enjoy your meal in the hidden coves of the Black Mountain before marveling at Santorini's magical sunset.

Start your adventure with insightful live commentary as you sail away from Athinios. Arrive at Nea Kameni, the site of an active volcano, where you can choose to hike up to the crater. This hike is unguided, so proceed with caution and be mindful of your safety. Continue your journey to Palea Kameni, famous for its therapeutic hot springs. A dip here is highly recommended, though note that the sulfur-rich waters might discolor light fabrics. Once back on board, voyage to the quaint island of Thirassia. Explore at your own pace, discovering its idyllic streets and scenic views. Take a quick trip to Manolas via a traditional donkey ride or navigate its spiraling staircases, which offer an authentic Greek experience. Enhance your day with a trip to Oia, facilitated by a seamless transfer to a comfortable bus waiting at the next port. Spend 2-3 hours wandering through its labyrinthine alleys, appreciating the breathtaking panoramas, and catching a glimpse of the famous sunset that plunges the village into vibrant hues. Convene at the designated meeting point in Oia 15 minutes after sunset to ensure a smooth return. Conclude the evening with a bus ride back to your starting point, enriched with splendid memories and the picturesque beauty of Santorini still lingering in your mind.

Enjoy the spectacular beauty of the Caldera and the beautiful Santorini sunset, while sailing with a luxury catamaran. Select from the Day Cruise or Sunset Cruise options which both offer a unique chance to admire Santorini’s beauty, sailing through the deep blue waters of the island. Start your Day Cruise journey from the old port of Ammoudi and head to Thirassia Island, a fishermen’s island ideal for swimming and admiring the unique view of Manolas village. Explore the unmanned volcanic beaches or sunbathe on the deck. Feel the energy of the volcano while heading to the hot springs. Sail towards the Black Mountain and the big light house south of the Caldera, as you head to the White Beach and the Red Beach for a swim when anchored, a delicious lunch is served onboard with wine and dessert. The Sunset Cruise begins from Vlychada marina with a stop at the Red Beach for a refreshing swim and stops at all the same locations as the Day Cruise.

Embark on a sailing adventure departing from Old Port of Fira in a small group to explore idyllic volcanic islands, geothermal hot springs and the traditional Thirassia Island. Indulge in leisurely moments on each island, sail through Caldera's crystal-clear waters, where ancient cliffs embrace breathtaking views. Explore hidden coves and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of this picturesque volcanic haven. The excursion starts from the picturesque Old Port in Fira (Cruise ship port), in the capital city of Santorini. Start your boat tour with a leisurely cruise along the rugged coastline, offering panoramic views of the whitewashed villages clinging to the cliffs combined with a glass of white or red local wine. Admire the distinctive architecture of Oia, Fira, and other picturesque settlements that seem to defy gravity. Feel the sun on your skin and listen to the soothing sounds of the waves as you navigate toward the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. After a scenic 20-minute sail in the heart of the Caldera, we reach our first destination, the famous Volcano of Santorini in the islet of Nea Kameni. Take some time to walk around and feel the volcanic energy. The dramatic landscape and the dark cliffs sculpted from lava rocks will capture your heart. Make sure to hike to the rim of the crater and admire the unique view. Please note that the hiking in Volcano is done on your own and there is no guide with you, so you must take care of your safety and the ticket cost 5€/per person. Our next stop is the neighboring Palea Kameni island, a popular destination famous for its Hot Springs. Dive into the thermal waters that are full of sulfur, iron and other volcanic ingredients and enjoy their healing properties on your skin and muscles. Please note that the sulfur in the water might leave a stain on light-colored swimwear. Our last destination is the beautiful island of Thirassia that used to be a part of Santorini before the massive eruption in the 16th century BC. In striking contrast to Santorini’s crowded streets, Thirassia has remained surprisingly undeveloped retaining its traditional character. Discover its picturesque beauty and enjoy its tranquility as you wander around the winding alleys with the Cycladic houses. In the main village of Manolas (capital city) you will taste the authentic local gastronomy and wine in one of the traditional taverns. After the hike and swim, relax on the boat as you sail back towards the Old Port of Santorini. Enjoy the sea breeze, the scenic views and immerse yourself in the magic of Santorini's maritime traditions with our traditional boat tour—a seamless blend of history, natural beauty, and the warmth of Greek culture.

Start with pickup from a meeting point in central Thera and head to the port. As you sail away from Athinios, listen to live commentary. The first port of call is Nea Kameni, the site of an active volcano. Here, you can choose to hike up to the crater. Admire views of the surroundings from a unique vantage point. Continue to Palea Kameni, famous for its therapeutic hot springs. A dip here if you wish. Arrive at the island of Thirasia and explore the area at your own pace, discovering the idyllic streets and scenic views (when the port is open). Choose to take an optional trip to Manolas via a traditional donkey ride or by navigating its spiral staircases for an authentic Greek experience. Afterward, return to the original starting point.

Start your cruise from picturesque Ammoudi Bay. Visit Thirassia a fishermen’s island ideal for swimming and admiring the unique view of Manolas village, where time seemed to have stopped. Feel the energy of the volcano while heading to the hot springs and admire the whitewashed cliffs at Aspronissi. Sail passing by White Beach, Mesa Pigadia and Red Beach - Upon Arrangement with the Captain. Discovering the hidden caves, coasts only accessible by boat, passing by the Fira Old Port situated under the cliffs created by mother nature. Enjoy a meal with fresh and grilled Greek delicacies and Santorinian wine, served at the sun deck’s shaded table. Return to Ammoudi Bay full of lifetime memories!

Starting by bus with pickup from your selected meeting point, you will arrive at the port of Athinios and board the King Thiras boat. You will then make a first stop at the volcanic island of Nea Kameni. Walking up the soil path, you will approach the crater of this still-active volcano. You will then continue to the second volcanic island named Palea Kameni, and make a stop approximately 50 meters from the hot springs to dive into the green sulfur waters, or simply relax and enjoy the view. Following the hot springs, you will sail to Thirasia Island, another part of Santorini before the eruption of the volcano. Stay in Thirasia for 2-3 hours, where you will have the chance to go swimming, go purchase lunch, or explore the village of Manolas with its winding steps and traditional houses. Leaving Thirasia island, you will head to the port of Athinios. The tour continues with a bus transfer to Oia village for the sunset. Your tour ends 30 minutes after the sunset, at which point you will gather at the pick up point in Oia where your bus will be waiting to take you back to the starting point.