SAILING AROUND SANTORINI
For those who love sailing, Greece is the ideal choice as it provides the appropriate means, natural resources and provisions to the Aegean Sea. The provided facilities and marinas are manufactured by National Tourism Organisation (GNTO), local authorities and private initiatives. Additionally, Santorini offers good facilities and its port is one of the 51 Greek ports and it has customs, health authorities, immigration office and exchange control office. The places that are recommended to visit around the island are:
Burnt Islets:
Next to Santorini are the so-called Burnt Isles, known as “Nea Kameni” or “Ifestio” (Volcano) and “Thermes Piges” (Hot Springs) or “Palaiaa Kameni", which was formed between 1707 and 1950 after successive volcanic eruptions.
The Volcano, which is also called King George’s I crater, is approximately 100 meters and is still active with its steam reaching the 80-85 ℃. The crater is about 30 minutes walk from the volcano, the earth is hot in some places and the smell of sulfur is strong sometimes.
Near Palaia Kameni a small bay has been created, where you can swim in muddy, murky waters derived from volcanic sources, reaching almost 45 ℃ and they are said to have healing qualities.
Thirasia island:
Thirasia is located at the western part of Santorini, about 20 minutes away from the port by boat or yacht. Opposite to Oia is its port and main village, Manolas with 300 residents. Near the first signs of ancient settlers have been found. Located near the picturesque Potamos, there is a remote beach that you can visit and the monastery of the “Kimisis of Theotokou" which has a wooden, carved sign that was made in Russia and was donated to the church in 1872. Furthermore, another village worth-visiting is Agrilia.
• Recommended excursions:
- Akrotiri bus tour: the trip begins with a stop at the monastery of Prophet Elias which is at the highest point of the island. Enjoy swimming at Akrotiri and Perissa, while at the end of the route you are going to visit one of the local wineries and try some traditional wines there.
- Daily excursions from the old port to the Volcano, Hot springs, Thirasia and Oia.
- Full-day excursion to the Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirasia: This cruise includes a visit to the Volcano, swimming in the Hot Springs and lunch on Thirassia.
- One-day cruise to the nearby islands; it includes stops at Folegandros, Anafi, Ios, Sikinos (upon request).
- Watching the sunset cruise aboard: Arriving at the port of Athinios, you aboard and sail along the magnificent Caldera. You will have the opportunity to admire the amazing Volcano, Hot Springs and Ammoudi little bay.
- Tour to Oia & traditional villages: Visits to Prophet Elias, Pyrgos village and the oldest church on the island, Panagia Episkopi. Final stop is Oia with its amazing view and stunning sunset.
