Small-Group Skip Cable Car Santorini Tour for First-Time Cruisers
Active
5h
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
Avoid the long lines, crowded donkeys, and cable car confusion. Begin your Santorini experience with a convenient boat transfer directly from your cruise port — no waiting, no stairs, just a smooth start to the day. Enjoy a relaxed small-group tour to highlights like Oia, the black sand beach, and the charming village of Megalochori. Created especially for cruise passengers, this tour guarantees an on-time return and a comfortable pace, even during busy season.
Travel by air-conditioned minibus with a knowledgeable local guide who brings Santorini’s history and beauty to life. Take in panoramic views, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy free time at each stop. The itinerary is carefully planned around cruise schedules, with a seamless boat transfer back to port. A smart, stress-free way to see Santorini in one day.
Available options
Ticket for Skip Cable Car Tour
SKIP CABLE CAR TOUR!: For select cruise ships only: on the busiest docking dates in Santorini we offer a special tour, skipping the cable car <br/>Shared Tour: This is a ticket for a shared tour. It allows to skip the cable car which on some dates can take many hours.<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 cable car. <br/>Return by Boat: Get back to your cruise ship after a perfect day in Santorini without worrying about the cable car line at all!<br/>Included in tour price: This option already includes the boat transfers 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.
Shared ShorEx
Meeting Point for Tour: Upon debarkation from the tender, please take the cable car to the top. The tour commences at the exit in Fira Town.
Private with Shared Boat Rides
Skip the cable car!: Private guided tour and shared boat transfers from your tender drop-off point 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.
What's included
Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned minibus
Small group limited to 18 participants
Full refund if your ship cannot dock
Guaranteed return to ship on time
Professional local English-speaking tour guide
Port pickup and drop-off
Transfers by boat to bypass the Cable Car
1 complimentary bottle of water per person
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Our Skip Cable Car 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
Set off on a half-day adventure to explore Santorini’s top attractions. Admire the stunning vistas of the Aegean Sea and the Caldera from the serene and scenic area of Firostefani, home to the iconic blue-domed church.
3
Next, immerse yourself in the charm of Oia, the most renowned destination on the island. Stroll through its vibrant local market and capture stunning photos that are sure to leave your friends amazed.
4
Afterward, head to Megalochori, where you can marvel at its unique traditional architecture, offering a charm unlike anything else on the island.
You’ll also get a glimpse of the unique grape-growing techniques that produce Santorini’s exceptional wines.
5
Stop 5
But thats not all! At the end, we’ll visit the famous black sand beach, where you’ll have some free time to relax. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit if you’d like to take a swim.
Before the tour concludes, consider enjoying a delicious meal at a local restaurant (at your own expense) and picking up some souvenirs to remember your Santorini experience.
6
You'll return to the port by boat, avoiding the long cable car lines entirely. Sit back and enjoy the perfect ending to your day in Santorini as you're brought directly back to your cruise ship's tender.
Read more about - SKIP CABLE CAR® The Original Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - https://www.viator.com/tours/Santorini/Santorini-Shore-Excursion-with-Boat-Transfer-Skip-Cable-Car/d959-63772P164?mcid=56757
What's not included
Gratuities (Recommend 10% for guides, and 5% for bus drivers)
Food and Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
After disembarking from the tender, please wait at the tender drop-off point and do not enter the cable car. Look for our team holding ‘VEXPERIO’ signs. If you are late, please contact us.
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.
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.
*** 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.
*** Contact Information: For delays or issues on the day of the tour, call +1 315 284 5835 or +49 176 636 40755 (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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
