Destinations - Mediterranean - Santorini

Arriving at spectacular Santorini by sea is an unforgettable experience. The most southerly of the Cyclades, the island is a remnant of a volcanic crater that has been engulfed by the sea. The rim of the caldera emerges in a ring, open to the northwest and southwest and enclosing a basin up to 1,300 feet deep. In the center are two smaller islands, peaks of a later volcano.

A highly developed civilization flourished on Santorini in the first half of the second millennium B.C. Evidence of this advanced society can be seen at the Akrotiri archaeological site. The golden age ended with the eruption of the volcano around 1510 B.C. The catastrophe turned the center of the island into a collapsed gigantic crater. Some historians speculate that this same eruption may also have caused the end of the Minoan civilization on Crete.

Firб (also Thera or Thira), the island’s capital, is perched on a 900-foot-high cliff overlooking the harbor and volcanic crater. Ships enter the huge central basin which is almost totally enclosed by sheer rock walls. From the tiny landing place at Skala harbor, Firб can be reached via funicular, by foot via a winding, 587-stepped path or on mule-back. The small town’s charms are its white-washed houses, winding lanes, picturesque squares and blue-domed churches. With the development of the tourist trade, endless new shops have been established. At the northern end is the Archaeological Museum with interesting displays ranging from the Cycladic and Minoan periods to the Hellenistic and Roman times.

At the island’s northern tip lies Oia, boasting an equally spectacular location, but less affected by tourists. Until World War II, the little town of immaculate white-washed houses was the island’s economic and commercial center. Today, Oia remains fairly unspoiled. Along its twisting lanes nestle arts and crafts shops, cozy restaurants and art galleries.

Other attractions on popular Santorini include black volcanic pebble beaches, which offer swimming in clear water. Several wineries offer tours including tasting the product that is high on the island’s export list.

Be sure to visit Akrotiri, the ruined Minoan city, brought to light by acclaimed archaeologist, Dr. Spyridon Marinatos.

View all the cruises that call at Santorini, Mediterranean cruise destination

Companies: Silversea Cruises, Cunard Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Seadream, P & O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Swan Hellenic, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Fred.Olsen Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Ocean Village, Royal Caribbean International, Star Clippers, Voyages of Discovery, Windstar Cruises,

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