Easy Island Drive

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Transfer from ship to shore via tender and board your motorcoach to begin your scenic driving tour through beautiful Santorini. Your knowledgeable guide will point out local sights en route to the dramatic vantage point of Mt. Prophet Elijah, where the panoramic views from the top seem to go on forever. The highest point on the island, 2,000 feet above sea level, Mt. Prophet Elijah is located between the villages of Pyrgo and Kamari and shares its peak with a monastery of the same name. Built in 1712, the "Profitis Ilias" has played a long and important role in Santorini's history. Today, it contains a collection of artifacts and religions icons from the Greek Orthodox religion.

Continue to another majestic viewpoint, the awesome Santorini caldera, formed 3,500 years ago after a monumental volcanic explosion in the Aegean Sea. Experience unparalleled vistas from this geological wonder, and be dazzled by views of the beautiful turquoise sea and your gleaming Princess ship!

A stop for refreshments fortifies you for the rest of your tour as you drive to the striking Agios Nektarios Church for a photo stop of its distinctive exterior. You'll note the blue and white façade with stone latticework and an octagonal cupola.

A short drive to the cosmopolitan resort area of Kamari Village introduces you to the famed black sand beaches of Santorini. You'll have a brief opportunity to put your toes in the sand (careful, it can be hot!) and to capture this stunning phenomenon in photographs.

Your last stop on the tour is Fira, the capital of Santorini, known for its striking mix of Cycladic and Venetian architecture. You will have the choice to remain with the tour and return to port in the motorcoach or to spend independent time in Fira and return to the tender via aerial cable car. Please take into consideration that Fira does require extensive walking, although the charm of the town makes the exertion worthwhile.

For tours that offer more in-depth exploration with actual visits to one or more sites, see the other options in this port.

Special Notes:

This tour ends at Athinios Port where you will be tendered back to the ship. Before returning to Athinios at the end of the tour, passengers have the option of remaining in Fira and returning to the harbor via cable car. Passengers who take the option of remaining in Fira must take into consideration that to reach the cable car, they must travel a considerable distance uphill over narrow cobblestone streets and steps. Passengers should also expect lines at the cable car; the wait can be in excess of 60 minutes if multiple ships are in port.

Some stores, tavernas and cafés in Fira close during the month of November.