When you approach it by yacht and see white houses rising directly from dark volcanic slopes, you understand – this island is meant to be seen from the water. During the day it is sharp and contrasting. In the evening – soft, calm and truly beautiful.
Where to Moor
- Vlychada Marina – Located in the southern part of the island. The only fully equipped marina with water, electricity and basic services. During high season (July–September), the marina is often full. Availability should be checked in advance and berths reserved whenever possible. Arriving without prior confirmation does not always work. This is the most reliable option for overnight stays and provisioning.
- Anchoring in the caldera – Depths here are significant and the seabed is complex. Careful spot selection and weather monitoring are essential. In calm conditions, this is one of the most atmospheric anchorages in the Aegean Sea: in the evening, the lights of Fira and Oia reflect on the water, creating a truly special setting.
- Thirassia Island – A quieter alternative opposite Oia. Less bustle, more simplicity and authentic island life. In summer, always consider the meltemi. Strong northern winds can increase suddenly and affect anchoring comfort.
What to See
- Oia (Ia) – the famous sunset. Yes, it is touristy. But it is beautiful. It is best to arrive early or stay after the crowds begin to leave.
- Fira – the center of island life and the best panoramic views of the caldera.
- Imerovigli – calmer and more spacious, a good choice for a relaxed walk.
- Skaros Rock – a bit of movement and powerful views.
- Nea Kameni – an active volcano with a dramatic landscape.
- Palea Kameni – hot springs accessible by boat.
- Kokkini Paralia (Red Beach) – striking red cliffs, especially impressive from the sea.
- White Beach – small and secluded, accessible only by water.
- Akrotiri – an ancient city buried under volcanic ash.
- Akrotiri Lighthouse – one of the best sunset spots on the island.
Beaches – where to swim and anchoring conditions
The most comfortable beaches for swimming are located on the eastern side of the island. However, this part faces the open Aegean Sea, and wind conditions play a key role.
- Perissa and Perivolos – A long beach with black sand, easy water access and clear sea.
Anchoring: In calm weather, daytime anchoring is possible. With strong northern meltemi, surf develops. Overnight stays are recommended only in stable, light wind conditions. - Kamari – Pebbled beach with developed infrastructure.
Anchoring: Suitable for short daytime stops in calm weather. Becomes uncomfortable in northeast winds. - Agios Georgios – A lively resort area popular for windsurfing, water skiing and other sports. A busy promenade with tavernas and bars.
Anchoring: Comfortable in light winds, but exposed in sustained meltemi conditions. - Red Beach – Visually impressive, but swimming is currently restricted due to the risk of rockfalls and occasional landslides.
Anchoring: Suitable only for short stops. Depth increases quickly and parts of the seabed are rocky. Not recommended for overnight stays.
Santorini Wine
Volcanic soil gives the wines their characteristic minerality. The main grape variety is Assyrtiko: dry, fresh and slightly saline.
If you would like a tasting, visit:
- Hatzidakis Winery – intimate atmosphere and expressive wines.
- Venetsanos Winery – caldera views and beautiful sunsets.
- Santo Wines – panoramic terraces and a wide selection.
Where to Eat and Spend the Evening
- Metaxi Mas – home-style cuisine and local products.
- Selene – modern Greek gastronomy.
- To Psaraki (Vlychada) – fresh seafood, conveniently located near the marina.
- Captain Dimitris (Akrotiri) – simple and honest taverna.
Coffee and Cocktails
- PK Cocktail Bar (Fira) – caldera views and evening light.
- Tango Bar – a more energetic atmosphere.
- Sunset Ammoudi – drinks by the water.
- Venetsanos Winery – an aperitif with a panoramic view.
What to Bring Back
- a bottle of Assyrtiko
- volcanic-toned ceramics
- local capers
- sea salt
Best Photo Spots
- Oia at sunset
- Imerovigli in the morning
- Skaros Rock
- Red Beach
- Caldera view from the deck
Important
The information in this article is provided for informational and recommendation purposes.
Opening hours, seasonality, navigation conditions and accessibility of locations may change.
Sailing To Go does not guarantee the current operating status of venues, marina availability, anchorage conditions or weather situations.
Before planning your visit or mooring, we recommend independently checking current details and forecasts.
The Sailing To Go Atmosphere
Santorini is about scale. About morning silence in the caldera and evening light on white houses. An island that is especially beautiful when seen from the water.
With care and love for the sea – Your Sailing To Go
Santorini in Sailing To Go Routes
Santorini is rarely chosen as a single destination – more often it becomes a strong and distinctive highlight within a Cyclades itinerary. Sailors come here for the caldera, anchorages with volcano views and the sense of scale.
That is why it is included in our curated two-week routes.
14-day Cyclades Routes including Santorini:
