Cruise ships do not dock at a pier in Santorini; they anchor offshore in the caldera and passengers go ashore by tender boat, most commonly to the Old Port of Fira (Skala). For some ship-organized excursions, passengers may tender directly to Athinios Port, but the primary and standard disembarkation point is Skala.
Related travel guides: How Far Is Santorini From Cruise Port and Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Amsterdam.
Skala Port (Old Port of Fira)
Skala Port is the primary tender landing point for cruise ships visiting Santorini. Located below the town of Fira, this port sits at the bottom of the caldera cliffs.
Upon arrival at Skala Port, visitors will find buses and taxis waiting to transport them to their destinations. The port also has car rental agencies.
From the Old Port of Fira (Skala), the island's capital, Fira, is directly above via cable car or steps. The cable car operates regularly and offers views of the caldera during the ascent.
There is also a winding path that leads from the Old Port of Fira (Skala) to Fira, known as the "Donkey Trail." This route of 588 steps is steep. Another alternative is to hire a donkey or mule to ride up the trail.
From Fira, visitors can explore streets lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The town offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and access to Oia, Imerovigli, and the archaeological site of Akrotiri.
Skala Port is directly below Fira; reaching Oia requires first ascending to Fira and then taking additional transport. From Skala Port, visitors can ascend to Fira and then travel to the village of Oia, known for its blue-domed churches, narrow cobblestone streets, and sunset views. The village's streets are lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Skala Port provides access to Fira. Regular bus services and taxis are available, enabling visitors to explore the capital and its attractions, such as the Archaeological Museum of Thera and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera.
The Old Port of Fira (Skala) provides the primary tender landing for cruise ships, ensuring access to the island's main attractions and serving as a gateway to further exploration.
Port of Athinios
The Port of Athinios is the main ferry port of Santorini but is not the primary gateway for cruise ships. Located on the southwestern coast of the island, it offers facilities and services for travelers arriving by ferry.
Cruise ships do not dock at Athinios; passengers disembark via tender at Skala (Old Port of Fira) unless on a specific ship-organized excursion. Upon disembarking at the Old Port of Fira (Skala), visitors will find buses and taxis waiting to transport them to their destinations.
The Port of Athinios offers ferry connections to other Greek islands, making it a hub for travelers continuing their journey in the Cyclades or beyond.
Old Port (Fira)
The Old Port of Fira, located at the bottom of the caldera cliffs, is a historic tender landing point for cruise ships visiting Santorini.
When arriving at the Old Port, cruise passengers have several options to ascend to the town of Fira, which is perched on the cliff top. One is to take the cable car, which provides views of the caldera during the ascent. The cable car operates regularly and offers a convenient means of transportation.
Visitors can also choose to climb the 588 steps known as the "Donkey Path" or hire a donkey to carry them up. This path offers a traditional mode of transportation that has been used for centuries.
Fira is the capital of Santorini and is known for its white-washed buildings and narrow, winding streets. It offers boutique shopping, traditional Greek tavernas, and views of the caldera.
In addition to exploring Fira, the Old Port provides access to other parts of the island. Regular bus services connect Fira to destinations such as Oia, Kamari, and Perissa beach.
The Old Port is also home to boat tours and excursions that allow visitors to explore the island from a different perspective. Many of these tours offer the opportunity to visit the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, where you can swim in the hot springs and witness the geological formations.
The Old Port in Fira is a historical tender landing location that provides access to the capital and other parts of Santorini. It offers views and a gateway to further exploration on the island.
Amoudi Bay
Amoudi Bay is located below the village of Oia in Santorini. While it is not a designated port for cruise ships, it offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers.
To reach Amoudi Bay, passengers from cruise ships can take a short walk or a taxi from the center of Oia. As you descend the winding pathway, you will see views of the bay and the turquoise waters.
Amoudi Bay is known for its fishing village atmosphere and traditional tavernas. Upon arrival, visitors can enjoy a seafood meal at one of the tavernas perched on the waterfront, while taking in the surroundings.
You can take a dip in the waters of the bay or try cliff jumping from the rocky outcrops. The adventurous can also take a boat tour from Amoudi Bay to explore the nearby sea caves and secluded beaches, providing a perspective of the island's coastline.
From Amoudi Bay, visitors can also embark on a hike to the Santorini sunset spot, known as the Oia Castle. The hike offers views of the Caldera and the neighboring islands along the way.
While Amoudi Bay is not a designated port for cruise ships, it is a place to unwind, savor seafood, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Santorini away from the crowds.
