Santorini
Greece

The island of Santorini in Greece is a significant hotspot for cruise ship tourism, with over 450 cruise ships docking here each year. The stunning natural beauty, unique architecture, and fascinating history of the island make it a compelling destination for cruise passengers from around the world.

Activities for cruise ship passengers in Santorini are plentiful. They can explore the ancient city of Akrotiri, an important archaeological site, soak in the stunning views of the caldera from the village of Oia, or visit the island's world-renowned wineries. The vibrant town of Fira, with its myriad of shops, cafes and restaurants, is also a popular stop for cruise ship tourists.

History

The port of Santorini, also known as Athinios port, is located on the west coast of the island, in the caldera. Athinios port is the main commercial and passenger port of the island. Historically, Santorini did not have a natural safe harbor, so the current port was constructed in the 1960s to accommodate the increasing number of visitors to the island.

Before the construction of Athinios port, Fira Skala, a small port beneath the capital Fira, served as the main port. It was used primarily by fishermen and for the export of the island’s famous produce like tomatoes and fava beans. Amoudi port in Oia was also used for similar purposes. However, after the 1956 earthquake, it was decided to build a new, larger port to meet the growing demands of tourism and trade.