Skip Cable Car®: the only official Santorini tour for cruisers
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Skip the long lines and crowded cable car with the only original small-group Santorini tour built exclusively for cruise passengers. Your expert local guide will meet you for a direct boat transfer, whisking you away in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus to explore the island's most iconic highlights. From the charm of Oia and Fira to the unique Black Beach, this tour is timed precisely to your ship's schedule, giving you more time to explore and less time waiting.
Available options
Private with Shared Boat Rides
Skip the cable car!: Private guided tour and shared boat transfers from the Old Port to the Athinios Port and back - bypass the cable car!<br/>Private tour&shared boat rides: The boat transfers are shared with other guests. The private tour starts at Athinios Port where you meet your guide & driver.
Ticket for Shared Tour
Shared Tour: This is a ticket for a shared tour.<br/>Pick-up by Boat: Upon arrival by your ship’s tender to the Santorini harbor, we will pick you up by our boat, skipping the cable car. <br/>Return by Boat: At the end of the tour, we will return you to your tender pick-up point by boat, once again avoiding cable car lines.<br/>Included in tour price: This option already includes the private boat transfer in the price. There are no additional costs with this option.<br/>Book an early tender!: Please book an early tender directly with your cruise ship's staff to ensure timely arrival.
Shared Boat/Transfer Only
No guided tour included: This option does not include a tour or a guide, only boat transfers.<br/>Only transfer to Athinios Port: Please note this option does not include a guided tour and only a shared transfer from the Old to the Athinios Port by boat.<br/>Drop off location: Please note your drop-off location is at the Athinios port where you will need to take a taxi to transfer to Fira Town.
What's included
Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned minibus
Professional local English-speaking tour guide (if option selected)
Full refund if your ship cannot dock
Port pick-up and drop off
Guaranteed return to ship on time
Transfers by boat to bypass the Cable Car
One complimentary bottle of water per person
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The ONLY Original Skip Cable Car: Small-Group Santorini Tour is designed specifically for cruise ship passengers like you. This top-rated, time-saving tour lets you skip the long, hot wait for the cable car and dive straight into exploring Santorini. As soon as you step off your cruise ship’s tender, a boat picks you up and takes you directly ashore—bypassing the crowds completely. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and Caldera during your transfer, making even the journey part of the experience.
2
After the boat reaches your designated pick-up spot, an air-conditioned bus takes over. Your first destination is the serene neighborhood of Finikia, home to the famous blue dome. Here, you begin immersing yourself in the island's beauty, far from the crowded port.
3
Stop 3
If time permits, you will go to Prophet Ilias and visit the revered old monastery that stands as a beacon of tranquility amidst spectacular panoramic vistas. This enchanting retreat offers an oasis of calm and spiritual peace, promising to stir wonder in every visitor.
4
The adventure continues as you venture into the vibrant heart of Oia. Its bustling market streets, quintessential white structures, and the mesmerizing beauty of the caldera form a captivating tableau, ensuring your time there is truly unforgettable.
5
Experience the timeless charm of Santorini in Megalochori, a village where tradition comes alive for you to explore. This quaint destination is a living museum, showcasing traditional architecture that reflects Santorini's rich heritage and culture. Unveil the secrets of Santorini's winemaking tradition as you discover the unique grape cultivation methods found only in this region.
6
Stop 6
You'll visit the famous Black Beach, where you'll have some free time to relax and explore at your own pace. If you're in the mood for a swim, be sure to bring your swimsuit. It's the perfect spot to soak up the sun or enjoy the unique volcanic shoreline.
7
You'll return to the port by boat, so there's no need to worry about the long cable car lines at all. Sit back and enjoy the perfect ending to your day in Santorini as you're brought directly back to your cruise ship's tender.
What's not included
Food and Beverages
Gratuities (Recommend 10% for guides, and 5% for bus drivers)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
17 reviews
5★
14
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
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 coordinated with your ship’s docking schedule to minimize waiting and accommodate any possible disembarkation delays. You will receive the final meeting time in your Meeting Instructions email approximately one week before your tour.
In the event of exceptionally rough sea conditions preventing boat transfers, we reserve the right to operate the regular tour route instead. In such cases, a refund of €10 per person will be provided for each cable car ride required in place of the boat transfer.
Meeting point
Pick-up is at the the port where cruise ship's tenders will drop you off. Find our staff holding a sign 'Vexperio', and don't go into the cable car. The boat transfer leaves exactly at the scheduled time. If you are late, the boat can't wait. After the tour, we'll bring you back to the port by boat.
Important notes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR TOUR OF SANTORINI - PLEASE READ
Welcome to Santorini!
At Vexperio, we have years of experience organizing shore excursions for cruise ship passengers visiting our beautiful island and we’re here to help you make the most of your time in Santorini.
IMPORTANT: Reconfirming Your Tour: Final instructions will be sent a few days before the tour. Please check your email to confirm the starting time, or contact us via WhatsApp at +49 176 636 40755 or email at info@vexperio.com with any questions.
Our company offers tours for cruise ship passengers in many ports along your route. Contact us to create a custom discounted tour package tailored to your cruise itinerary, including stops like Mykonos, Heraklion, Corfu, and Athens. Explore some of our popular options here:
Mykonos: https://www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d0-63772P125
Heraklion: https://www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d0-63772P208
Corfu: https://www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d0-63772P124
Athens: https://www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d0-63772P215
Essential Details for Your Santorini Trip
*** Starting Location: Your pick-up location is at the bottom of the port in Santorini, where your cruise ship’s tenders will drop you off. Do NOT enter the cable car! We will meet you there and take you on a boat transfer around the island to where our bus is parked.
*** How to Find Us: Look for your guide holding a “VEXPERIO” sign. The boat departs exactly at the scheduled time. Take an early tender from your ship, as we cannot wait for late arrivals.
*** Ending Location: After the tour, we’ll return you to your cruise ship’s tender by boat for a smooth return.
*** Contact Information: For delays or issues on the day of the tour, call +30 695 197 3943 or +30 228 630 4858 (available on WhatsApp).
Please view the promotional video for your tour here: https://youtu.be/pIGYjBEwtQg?si=4RHryYVZg5_9p6Os
We look forward to welcoming you to Santorini!
About Santorini
Santorini is a breathtaking island in the Cyclades known for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and dramatic cliffs. This volcanic island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious experiences, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in Greece.
Top Attractions
Oia
A picturesque village known for its whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and stunning sunsets. Oia is a must-visit for its charm and breathtaking views.
Historical/Scenic
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Fira
The capital of Santorini, Fira offers a mix of history, shopping, and stunning views of the caldera. It's a vibrant town with a rich cultural heritage.
Historical/Shopping
Half-day
Free to explore
Akrotiri
A well-preserved ancient settlement that offers a glimpse into the Minoan civilization. The site is often referred to as the 'Minoan Pompeii'.
Historical/Archaeological
1-2 hours
€12
Red Beach
A unique beach known for its striking red cliffs and volcanic sand. The beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Beach/Nature
Half-day
Free
Santorini Caldera Boat Tour
A boat tour around the caldera offers stunning views of the volcanic landscape and the opportunity to swim in hot springs.
Adventure/Tour
4-5 hours
€40-€80
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fava
A creamy dip made from yellow split peas, often served with olive oil and onions.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, Vegan
Tomato Keftedes
Fried tomato fritters made with Santorini's famous cherry tomatoes.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Grilled Octopus
Tender octopus grilled to perfection, often served with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.
Main Course
Contains seafood
White Eggplant
A local delicacy made from the island's unique white eggplants, often grilled or fried.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Scuba diving
Boat tours
ATV rentals
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest time with the best weather for beach activities and sightseeing. The island is vibrant with festivals and events.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French, Italian
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET - Eastern European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Santorini is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance
Getting there
By air
- Santorini National Airport • 6 km from Fira
By bus
Fira Bus Station, Athinios Port
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable and reliable, but schedules can be infrequent in off-peak seasons.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxibeat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fira
Oia
Pyrgos
Kamari
Imerovigli
Day trips
Nea Kameni
12 km from Fira • Half-day
A volcanic island in the heart of the caldera, offering a unique hiking experience and the chance to see active volcanic craters.
Thirassia
15 km from Fira • Full-day
A small, traditional island offering a glimpse into authentic Greek island life. Known for its charming villages and scenic views.
Anafi
20 km from Fira • Full-day
A small, tranquil island known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for a peaceful day trip.
Festivals
Santorini International Music Festival • July
Santorini Wine Festival • August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit Oia for the best sunset views, but arrive early to secure a good spot
- Explore the island's lesser-known villages for an authentic experience
- Try local wines, especially Assyrtiko, at one of the island's many wineries
- Rent a car or ATV to explore the island at your own pace
- Visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site to learn about the island's ancient history
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
