Recommendation: Start with a dawn kayak along a volcanic-black coastline; follow with a wine-tasting at a hillside winery to maximise a single day.
Accessibility matters; the coastal path is accessible for most visitors; three routes feed into a single loop; tastings at multiple venues run times that fit available schedules; typical pricing ranges from €15 до €25 per tasting; one pass available for multiple stops; bring water, hat, sun cream; three photos captured along the way anchor memories; money-saving tip: book ahead to avoid taxi rides.
sunrise view from the Profitis vantage point is a hidden highlight; a brief, accessible A walk of around twenty minutes climbs a gentle incline to a panorama of natural blues; from profitis you can compare the coastline with the distant sarandë line; this three- stage stop pairings with your winery plan for a balanced day.
Wineries along the route offer tastings that showcase local varietals; a three-sample sequence is common; expect red, white, rosé; volcanic soil yields mineral notes; three photos on the terrace capture the vineyard's hidden charm; schedule a morning slot to beat the heat; times are posted online available as you reserve.
To maximise value, plan a compact loop that includes the coastal path, a stop at the profitis viewpoint, wineries tastings, tastings at two venues, plus a final harbour vista; this entire Itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking a natural escape; if you must cut costs, share tastings with a partner; to save money, pre-book a combined pass covering multiple venues; return to the sea road by late afternoon when the light softens.
Practical Guide to Ormos Ammoudiou and Santorini Island Tours from Rethymno Harbour
Book a guided, early-departure cruise with a small group; maximise the entire caldera experience; return by sunset.
Choose a programme that includes a stop at Nea Kameni volcanic island; panoramic views of crater activity; a swim in natural waters; snorkelling gear provided.
Practical packing: swimming costume; hat; sun cream; towel; light jacket; waterproof bag.
Your crew delivers safety briefings before each stop; multilingual support; English, Russian, Greek commonly available.
heritage, monastery experiences on the Santorini segment, which explains local history.
shown in the brochure: the entire itinerary, including two main stops, a visit to Therasia for a more tranquil village atmosphere.
Option choices: private charter; shared seating; spare places on some departures.
Departure times vary; typical window around 07:30–08:30; duration entire day; return to port by late afternoon.
Pay attention to weather and sea conditions; choose a stable platform; confirmation of included services: guided commentary, panoramic photo stops, snorkelling, resting place on deck.
For tripiti seekers, there is a different tripiti option with a shorter duration; your itinerary remains flexible and focused on your wishes.
How to Get to Ormos Ammoudiou from Rethymno Harbour (public transport, taxi, or tour shuttle)
Travellers seeking a flexible option will pick among three routes: public transport, taxi, or shuttle service. From the port quay, the main bus line toward the city centre stops near Megalochori for a possible detour. First departure around 07:30; roughly hourly during peak season. The ride to the coastal edge near the bay lasts about 35 minutes; traffic may extend it. A short walk along the water's edge finishes the route. A nearby monastery marks santo icons; a cultural touch for visitors who seek religious heritage. Photos from the trip capture beautiful, awesome views of waters, quay life, ship activity. This start delivers a well-marked option for travellers wanting a Crete taste, beauty, winery vibes. Their впечатления stem from the scenery; locals offer life at the quay; the port crew provides a lived reality. Begins at the port; travellers choose the route that suits. athinios port in santorini offers a similar route for comparison. crete landscapes host animals along rural pockets; this route keeps you close to the coast while branching to Megalochori’s winery vibe. youll encounter crete’s animals; the coastal atmosphere creates впечатления for visitors.
Taxi option: At the ship pier taxi rank, a driver can deliver you directly to the waterfront area. Typical duration 25–40 minutes; fare around 40–60 EUR depending on traffic, luggage. This path offers privacy, comfort; flexibility to stop at a winery in Megalochori if you wish. The journey supports a smooth transition for visitors who travel light; you’ll have time to take photos along the coast. The crew aboard the ship knows the best photo spots; экипаж provides quick tips. You’ll capture rewarding shots with a camera.
Shuttle option: Some hotels arrange a shared shuttle; private transfer provides a guided option. Timings align with ship schedules; typical duration 35–60 minutes; cost £25–£60 for shared, £60–£120 for private. This option offers flexible timing, a smooth transition from port to shore. For a cultural palate, Megalochori wineries await a detour; a guided stop can be added. If you prefer more exploration, a short e-bike ride along the coast leads to a monastery; photos, camera in hand, become lasting impressions. crete landscapes occasionally appear along the route, adding to the beauty.
| Option | Typical duration | Approx. cost | Примітки |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public transport | 35–50 min | £3–£7 | Quay bus to Megalochori; short final leg by foot or taxi |
| Taxi | 25–40 min | £40–£60 | Direct ride; private detours to winery possible |
| Shuttle (shared/private) | 35–60 mins | £25–60 (shared); £60–120 (private) | Flexible timing; guided option; detours to winery |
Santorini Island Guided Tour: Typical Itinerary from the Port of Rethymno
Opt for the option with a direct pick-up from the ormós quay and a ship heading straight to athinios; you'll save hours and maximise time for Santorini’s iconic sights, guided by ilias, who coordinates departures and ensures the entire day runs smoothly.
The voyage begins at departure time listed on your voucher, sailing from the port of Rethymno across the north Aegean toward the volcanic rim. Arrival at Athinios marks the official start of the island leg, after which a short bus transfer climbs toward Fira for a first panoramic pause overlooking caldera walls and the highest cliffs that define the skyline.
Next, you'll continue to Megalochori for a world-class wine tasting that pairs local varieties with light bites. The excellent tasting room sits amongst narrow lanes and whitewashed courtyards, offering a glimpse of village life as guests discuss the terroir and the stories of regional producers – ideal for enthusiasts seeking a deeper vibe than generic tasting rooms.
From there, the route rolls towards the archaeology site at Akrotiri, where the black lava ash preserved ancient streets, walls, and hearths. The sites tell stories of a sophisticated Aegean settlement, and the bilingual guide highlights how tectonic forces shaped the layout of the ancient neighbourhood and its port, perfect for curious travellers seeking context beyond ruins.
Midday stops include ammoudi, where we stopped for a seafood lunch by the water. Here you’ll try fish prepared in simple, fresh styles, complemented by a selection of local wines as you watch fishing boats drift by and the harbour hums with island chatter. This moment balances texture of flavours with the picturesque backdrop and adds a tangible link to everyday island life.
Before dusk you visit a seaside church and a cliffside viewpoint to capture the north-facing panorama that makes Santorini so iconic. The departure window then returns you to Athinios for the ship, completing an entire loop that blends scenery, culture, and food into a cohesive, world-class experience–an excellent choice for guests seeking concise, memorable impressions rather than a generic day trip. If you want more depth, Ilias can tailor a longer stop at Ammoudi’s quay and a second visit to Megalochori’s cellars for another flight of wines.
What to Bring, What’s Included, and How to Pack for the Day
Pack a compact daypack with a lightweight towel, sunglasses, a filled water bottle. Light, breathable clothing is ideal for sun; include a hat, sunscreen, plus a lightweight layer for cooler moments. These items set a solid base for an island itinerary where the day begins with a relaxed mood.
Provided on the day: bottled water, light snacks, towels, life vests if needed, a shore map; a briefing in several languages by the команда. The ship carries a full safety kit; alcoholic beverages are not included; spots near shore may offer tastings under local terms.
How to pack for the day: a compact layer for weather shifts; a swimming costume for swim moments; a towel; sun cream; sunglasses; a water bottle; a small power bank; a waterproof pouch for valuables; a lightweight rain shell; a map or offline guidance. Possible stops include a church, a monastery, vineyards. If a stop with an e-bike is planned, choose comfortable shoes; resting periods occur at designated spots; meeting details are provided by the team at the outset; about the schedule, weather updates, language support, crew will guide you.
Tour Duration, Departure Times and Best Visiting Windows
Starting at 08:30, a private half-day trip yields calm seas; time to swim, photos on Crete coastline; return before lunch.
These options suit visitors with kids of several years; a practical rhythm keeps the pace comfortable; pockets of time allow for tasting, a cooking demo and a profiteroles stop.
The essence of these itineraries is balance between water time, land time, and tastings.
- Half-day: ~4 hours; departures 08:30, 09:00; ideal for visitors seeking a concise taste of coastlines; sheltered swim spot; lunch served вкусной seafood; entire experience fits a tight schedule.
- Full-day: 7–9 hours; starting 08:00; includes stops at wineries, Profitis stop, cooking demonstration; ample time for photos, stories, attractions along crete coast; return 16:00–17:00; private option available for luxurious comfort.
- Sunset cruise: 3–4 hours; departures 17:00–18:00; golden hour lighting; time for a final swim near Crete; photos capture the moment; return after dusk.
Departure times to plan around: Morning window 08:00–09:30; midday 12:00–13:30; late afternoon 16:00–18:00; private charters adjust to a preferred slot; starting times align with optimal light for photos; for winery tastings, combine with lunch.
Ideal visiting windows (seasonal guidance): Shoulder seasons May, June, September, October deliver pleasant temperatures; calmer seas; these periods reduce crowds; water temperatures remain comfortable for a swim; in peak summer, launching early minimises heat; profitis stop alongside coastal spots offers panoramic photos; access is practical for most visitors with minor mobility differences.
profitis remains a landmark; a brief stop near profitis offers a lookout.
Decisions depend on where you want to spend more time; the Crete coast offers multiple spots for shore time and views.
Private options are accessible for small groups; this flexibility helps families with mobility constraints.
A sunset cruise offers a perfect balance of deck time; water time; photography.
Visitors come away with photos, memories, вкусной meals.
Booking Tips: Pricing, Discounts, and Cancellation Policies

Recommendation: Book at least 30 days ahead to lock in early-bird discounts of 10–20%; secure preferred spots. This simple move often saves money; it also increases chances of morning departures on popular routes.
Pricing varies by duration; inclusions drive the difference. Typical half-day voyage with swimming; photos; a light snack; price range £35–£57 per person. Full-day itinerary with lunch or tastings; £96–£149 per person. Private groups (up to 4 guests) £184–£316; larger parties priced higher per person but often lower per head for the same vessel.
Ioakeim notes that three main factors influence price: duration, inclusions, group size. Bundles with two or more activities deliver 15–25% off; early-bird rates plus bundle savings maximise value.
Cancellation terms: free up to 48 hours before departure; 50% refund 24–48 hours before; within 24 hours no refund; some providers have travel credit or reschedule options.
Payment terms: typical 20–30% deposit at booking; balance due 7–14 days before; some operators require full payment at booking; check if credit card fees apply.
Inclusions: check what is included: bottled water; snacks; port fees; taxes vary. Some itineraries include swimming gear; winery tastings may be included; if winery visits are included, inspect tasting fees (€5–€15) per person; wineries may require reservations. This plan also takes travel life into account; have some flexibility for changes.
Morning departures suit travellers chasing sunrise; Holding a space is possible via a tentative hold (usually 24–48 hours). If plans may change, choose flexible terms or a 12-month credit option where available; check policy before placing a hold.
Travellers who completed three journeys shared their impressions: Impressions can be enhanced when routes include free time at scenic bay points; photos capture the sunrise; bottled water included; resting spots along the route improve comfort. Ioakeim knows three routes showcasing volcanic coastline; prehistoric ruins; cultural scenes, he shared.
Overview: volcanic coastlines; prehistoric sites; cultural trails deliver three different vibes; morning departures raise chances of calm seas; three recommended routes include winery visits; a scenic overlook; a swimming stop.
Tours in Ormos Ammoudiou Greece – Best Things to Do and Excursions">