Santorini for Cruise Ships: Avoid Cable Car Lines and Crowds!

5.0
(21 reviews)

4 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Designed for cruise passengers, this tour lets you explore Santorini without wasting time in long lines. Instead of waiting in the heat for the cable car, step onto our boat from your cruise ship’s tender and enjoy a scenic ride across the Aegean Sea with stunning views of the Caldera. Upon arrival, an air-conditioned bus will take you on a journey across the island.

Your first stop is Finikia, where you can admire the blue-domed church and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Next, visit Oia, Santorini’s most famous village, known for its whitewashed houses, boutique shops, and breathtaking caldera views. Then, if time permits, head to Prophet Ilias, the highest point on the island.

You’ll also visit Perivolos Black Beach, where you can relax by the water or enjoy a drink on the beach. At the end of your tour, skip the cable car lines once again as our boat takes you back to your cruise ship’s tender for a smooth and stress-free return.

What's Included

Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned minibus
Transfers by our Private Boat to bypass the Cable Car
Full refund if your ship cannot dock
Free time for fast meal & souvenir shopping (duration is subject to traffic and ship docking times)
Professional local English-speaking tour guide
Guaranteed return to ship on time
Port pickup and dropoff
One complimentary bottle of water per person
Gratuities are welcome if you enjoy your tour. We recommend 10% for guides, and 5% for bus drivers
Food and drinks

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Pick-up is at the port where the cruise ship's tender will drop you off. Look for our staff holding 'Vexperio' signs, and do not take the cable car. The boat transfer leaves at the scheduled time—if you are late, the boat cannot wait. After the tour, we will bring you back to the port by boat.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    Skip the long cable car lines and make the most of your time in Santorini with our hassle-free tour, designed specifically for cruise passengers. Instead of waiting in the heat, step off your ship’s tender and onto our private boat for a direct transfer. Take in stunning views of the Aegean Sea and Santorini’s famous Caldera along the way. This efficient and scenic route allows you to start exploring the island immediately, saving you time and helping you avoid the crowds.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Upon arrival at our designated pick-up spot, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. Your first stop is Finikia, a serene neighborhood known for its iconic blue dome. This is your chance to take in Santorini’s beauty away from the crowds at the port.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Next, you’ll head to Oia, the most famous village in Santorini. Walk through its charming streets filled with small shops, cozy cafés, and traditional white houses with blue-domed churches. Oia is known for its stunning views of the caldera, where cliffs drop into the deep blue sea, creating one of the most photographed spots in the world. Take your time exploring, shopping for local goods, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery. Whether you're admiring the unique buildings, snapping the perfect photo, or soaking in the relaxed atmosphere, your visit to Oia will be a highlight of your Santorini trip.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 4

    If time permits, you’ll visit Prophet Ilias, the highest point in Santorini. From here, you can enjoy amazing views of the entire island, from the coastline to the caldera. At the top, you'll explore the historic Prophet Ilias Monastery, a quiet and peaceful place that has stood for centuries. This relaxing stop lets you take in the scenery and experience Santorini from a different angle. Whether you’re interested in history, taking photos, or just enjoying the view, this visit will be a special part of your Santorini trip.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Visit the traditional village of Megalochori, where you can experience Santorini’s history and culture. This charming village feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and beautiful bell towers. Megalochori is known for its well-preserved buildings and peaceful atmosphere, offering a quiet escape from the busy tourist areas. As you walk through its scenic alleys, you’ll see classic Cycladic homes, hidden courtyards, and historic churches that showcase Santorini’s rich heritage. For those interested in local culture, you’ll also have the chance to learn about Santorini’s unique winemaking traditions. The island’s vineyards use a special growing method suited to the volcanic soil and dry climate.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    We’ll visit Santorini’s famous Black Beach, known for its volcanic sand. Here, you’ll have free time to relax, enjoy the view, or even take a swim—so don’t forget your swimsuit if you’d like to go in the water.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 7

    At the end of your Santorini adventure, you’ll board our private boat again for a smooth, hassle-free ride back to the port. No long waits in crowded cable car lines—just a comfortable trip with beautiful views of the Aegean Sea. As you cruise along the coast, enjoy the scenery one last time and reflect on the amazing places you’ve explored. This relaxing ride is the perfect way to end your time on the island before rejoining your cruise ship’s tender.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • The tour start time will be adjusted to your ship’s docking schedule to minimize waiting and accommodate possible disembarkation delays. You’ll receive the final meeting time in the Meeting Instructions about one week before the tour.
Supplied by Vexperio

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Port Transfers
Walking Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Shore Excursions
Excellent Quality
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 21 21 reviews
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