1/2 d Village of Oia & Santorini Island (4 hrs)

After disembarking from your ship, a short tender boat ride will bring you to the port where you'll need to independently take the cable car (ticket included) up the mountain to meet your private transportation and escort, where your private vehicle will climb to the top of the caldera. Your escort will point out the still active volcanic islet in Santorini Bay and discuss the geological upheavals, which gave the island its overwhelming and unique form. Driving through the picturesque scenery and small villages from the southern to the northern end of the island of Santorini, you'll travel across rich, volcanic countryside. The beautiful village of Oia is perched atop a craggy cliff at the northern most point of the island offering panoramic views of steep plummeting cliffs and nearby small islands surrounded by the deep blue sea. Walking through the village one can enjoy the panoramic views, admire the Cycladic architecture for which the town is well known, and visit many of the art galleries. After your visit to Oia, you'll continue to a local winery for the opportunity to taste Santorini mezes (Greek Snack) and a wine tasting while enjoying the magnificent views. The tour concludes at the hilltop village of Fira, walk uphill to Mitropolis church at the beginning of the pedestrian zone where you'll have the option of returning directly to the ship or remaining in town to shop or explore independently. From Fira, you will join the cable car (ticket provided) and descend independently to the old port. A local tender will ferry you back to the ship, which will be anchored offshore.
Note: some cruise lines cover the costs of tender boats for guests, while others collect on the spot.