Introduction

Where do cruise ships dock in Santorini?

First of all Santorini is a tender port; cruise ships anchor in the caldera and use tender boats to bring passengers ashore.

Santorini is serviced by two ports: Athinios Port (for big bus tours) and the Old Port of Fira (independent travelers). Due to the limited size of both ports, cruise ships cannot dock directly at either location. As a result, tender boats are operating simultaneously at both ports.

Typically, cruise itineraries in Santorini involve dropping passengers off at Athinios Port, particularly those who have pre-booked shore excursions through the cruise line. Athinios Port is the only port in Santorini accessible by car, allowing passengers to board 50-seater buses for their organized excursions. The concierge on board arranges the tenders and buses for these bookings.

For passengers who have not arranged excursions through the cruise line and chose independent exploration, they have to individually sign up for tendering onboard.  They will be assigned to a group number or disembarkation number, depending on their cruise ship, and these tenders  will transport them to the Old Port of Fira,  where they can explore the town or make their own other arrangements for activities. The majority of the group tours and the private tours start from the top where guides meet their guests, or drivers pick up guests for their activities from meeting points around the cable car.

How long does it take to get off the cruise ship?

Typically, the cruise line will kindly ask you to gather at a designated area about 1 hour before your tender boarding time. When the time comes, you'll board the tender, which will take around 10-20 minutes to reach one of the ports. Once you arrive at the port, the time it takes to come to the top can vary, ranging from 5 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size of your ship and how busy it is that day. You can check how busy your day using our port guide here.

Coming up from the Old Port:

cable car, stairs and water taxis

First of all it is important to understand that the Old Port is situated at the base of a steep cliff beneath Fira. So there are two ways of coming up, either riding the cable car, or taking the stairs up.

Santorini Cable Car: timings, tickets and lines

The most convenient and popular method to reach Fira is by taking a cable car, which covers the distance in just three minutes. The cable car fare is 10€ each way, you can pay by cash or card.

Most people are anxious about the cable car line and how long it will be as soon as they step foot on the port. The cable car runs every 5-7 minutes, so the line is moving; however, it depends, of course, on how many people are already at the port. It's worth mentioning that the long lines have been alleviated with the new regulations that took effect on 1/6/2024. These regulations allow only 500 people to be at the pier simultaneously. As a result, the tender boat service pauses its operation until the pier is clear, which might mean a longer wait on the boat, but less waiting on the pier.

How to Avoid the Cable Car?

Now that we've got a good grasp of the basics of disembarkation in Santorini, let's take a closer look at the various alternative options you might come across on different sites and forums. These alternatives are especially relevant on days when there are more than two cruise ships visiting Santorini. If there are fewer ships in port, lines rarely build up and there is very little congestion.



1. Stairway: Climbing the 600-steps stairway will take about 40 minutes. The main challenge, besides keeping your stamina, is avoiding the donkeys that use the path.
2. Donkeys: While donkeys can be hired to take you up the hill, we strongly advise against it. It’s not safe, and we oppose any form of animal exploitation.
3. Water Bus: At the old port of Fira, you can catch the so-called water bus to Ammoudi Bay in Oia. Tickets can be bought on the spot and include a return trip to Fira. The ticket is usually around 30€ per person.
4. Water Taxi: these taxis from port is similar transportation to the water bus but on private basis, without including a return trip. Prices start from 100€ per person.
5. Cable Car Detour Tours: These tours also start from the Old Port, where tour includes another tender ride to the New Port of Athinios and then a bus to the popular spots, bus back to New Port and tender back to Old Port to take the tender back to ship. Prices varies depending the option, group or private.

If you’re wondering whether you really need to bypass the cable car, we’ve tested all the alternatives. Our guide “Skipping Santorini Cable Car – really worth it?” explains when the cable car is actually the smartest choice and when a water taxi or other option might make sense.

DIY Santorini from the cruise port – ways to get around

You have decided not to participate in an activity with your cruise line, signed up for a tender, and found yourself at the old port of Fira. So, what's next?

Upon reaching the top, a world of delightful activities awaits you. In Fira town, you can immerse yourself in exploring the capital, indulge in shopping, savor dining experiences, admire stunning sea views, and relish local delicacies. If your heart is set on exploring the island beyond Fira Town, here are some thoughtful suggestions for you:

1. Booking a private tour offers flexibility and comfort, whisking you to must-see spots within a few hours. While this option can be a bit pricey and requires advance booking due to high demand, it's worth considering for a personalized experience. Your guide is also responsible on taking you back in time to catch your cruise ship.
2. Taxis provide a convenient choice, especially if you have a specific destination in mind. They offer fast and direct rides without the hassle. Just be aware that availability is low during peak hours or high-demand periods.
3. Uber is another handy option for island travel. With just a click, you can order your ride and know your fare in advance. However, like taxis, availability can be limited during busy times, and you might miss out on local insights.
   
4. Buses are a budget-friendly way to travel while enjoying the island's scenic routes. They cover major tourist spots efficiently. However, buses can get crowded during peak seasons and may run less frequently during off-peak times, requiring some patience and planning.
   
5. Renting a car might give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, allowing you to create your own itinerary. However do keep in mind that parking can be challenging in popular areas, and the narrow streets of Santorini require careful driving, in some cases could also be dangerous. Also, insurance policies might not fully cover damages.
6. ATVs promise a fun and exciting way to get around, but they are often involved in accidents, possibly due to their design for off-road adventures and maintenance issues.
7. Private transfers provide a smooth and comfortable experience, perfect for those who prioritize ease. With door-to-door service, your journey can be stress-free and enjoyable. While this is generally the most expensive option, especially if you want to visit several places, it ensures a comfortable ride, though the driver may not offer guided insights.

Not sure which option fits your day? In our Santorini shore excursion guide you’ll see the pros and cons of ship tours, group tours, DIY and private tours side by side.

An efficient itinerary could optimize your time while exploring the breathtaking island of Santorini during a cruise ship stopover. Here are our suggestions on the must-see places, avoiding the bustling crowds, and discovering hidden gems that Santorini has to offer during your visit.

For full sample itineraries matched to different ship times, have a look at One day in Santorini from cruise ship. Below is a quick overview of the places most cruise passengers love.

Top 5 Must-See attractions in Santorini

These are the top five attractions that passengers should not miss when disembarking from a cruise ship in Santorini, lovingly curated from feedback shared by previous travelers:

1. The enchanting village of Oia, where the iconic blue domes create a heartwarming scene against the serene backdrop of the Aegean Sea, invites you to wander its narrow, winding streets and white-washed houses
2. Quaint streets of Fira, where charming shops and cozy cafes await, offer breathtaking views that will fill your heart with wonder. Take your time to enjoy the local crafts and delicious treats that add to the town's unique charm and allure.
3. Head to the distinctive Black Sandy Beach for lunch. Enjoy fresh seafood with the unique texture of volcanic sand beneath your toes and the soothing sound of waves, making every bite delightful. 
4. Immerse yourself in history at the Akrotiri archaeological site, where ancient ruins share stories from 3,600 years past.
5. End your day at Santo Wines with a celebratory toast. Savor exquisite wine while admiring amazing sea views overlooking the volcano or watching the sunset over the caldera.

Hidden Gems: Off the beaten path spots in Santorini

Check our recommended lesser-known but equally stunning locations in Santorini that are often overlooked or not easily accessed by travelers. There could be secluded beaches, charming villages, local markets and historical sites, but these are not included most of the times in big group tours as the buses cannot access these.

1. Three Bells of Fira, gracefully overlooking the volcano and caldera. This charming church, named for its distinctive bell tower, is a Catholic sanctuary dedicated to the Dormition, back to the 18th century.
2. Megalochori Village, a captivating blend of history and modernity, where traditional cave houses coexist harmoniously with contemporary design elements. Explore a 17th-century cave house and immerse yourself in its rich heritage and enchanting atmosphere.
3. Pyrgos Village, a quaint fortress settlement that beautifully embodies Cycladic tradition. Delight in the harmonious contrast of neoclassical mansions and charming white houses, all accented by the iconic blue-domed churches.
4. Red Beach - distinguished by its towering red rock cliffs and mesmerizing blue-green crystal waters. While the beach is officially closed to the public, there are still vantage points where you can capture these stunning colors from above.
5. Monastery of Profetes Elias, the summit of the island. The winding road leading you there unfolds an awe-inspiring panorama of the island stretched out beneath you –  a sight to behold!

Going back to your cruise ship

This is the trickiest part of your trip to Santorini. The reason for this is that both you and everyone else who disembarked individually will be using the cable car to get back to the port and then to the tender for the ship. Additionally, those who booked a shore excursion through the cruise ship might be doing the same. As 70% of the excursions end back in Fira, this means that 70% of your fellow passengers will be returning the same way you are.

Unfortunately, there's not much that can be done to avoid this situation. The silver lining is that the cable car line is inside the shopping area, giving you a chance to browse for souvenirs while you wait. If the time has passed for your last tender call and you're still in line at the cable car, the boat staff will come up to check on you. If there are passengers from another boat whose ship leaves later, you will eventually be given priority. 

So, despite what the concierge of your ship might have said, booking a shore excursion either with the cruise ship or individually won't guarantee you won't miss the boat if you don't show up. This is actually an urban legend. So do not worry, we haven't heard of anyone being left behind before, at least on our tour

Extra Tips

Other practical tips while you are in Greece include:

1. Stay hydrated! Some days in Greece can be really hot, so remember to carry a hat and apply sunscreen.
2. Wear comfortable shoes! The streets in Santorini are cobblestone, and there are many uneven surfaces.
3. Bring your beach bag. Most of our itineraries include beach time, giving you the perfect opportunity to dive into the crystal-clear waters of Santorini.