Day cruise from Crete to Santorini: a mythical experience

Santorini, known since ancient times as Thira, is one of the most famous islands in the world. The white-blue houses of the two main towns of Fira and Oia nestle on the slopes of the steep coast above an undersea volcanic crater and offer a breathtaking view. Fantastic beaches of black, red and white lava stones await you there.

The ferry connection between Crete and Santorini is mainly served by high-speed ferries, which take about 2 hours to travel. In the summer months there are at least 2 ferry crossings per day from Crete to Santorini. In winter there is usually 1 weekly ferry crossing. The distance between the port of Heraklion and the port of Santorini (Athinios) is 63 nautical miles (about 120 km).

Santorini is definitely worth a day trip from Crete. Take the first ferry from Heraklion at 08:00 and reach Santorini at 10:00. You will then have about 6 hours to explore the beautiful island. From 16:00 to 17:00, take the corresponding ferry back to Heraklion and return to Crete before 19:00.

In the summer months, the Crete-Santorin route and back is operated by various ferry companies: e.g. Minoan Lines oder Seajets.