PORTS OF CALL

Venice, Italy

Bari, Italy

Katakolon, Greece

Santorini, Greece

Mykonos, Greece

Rhodes, Greece

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Santorini, Greece

Santorini Greece in the Cyclades, Aegean, has one of the most spectacular landscapes in Greece and in the world. The traditional villages of the island, built on tall cliffs, offer breathtaking views over the submerged volcano. Santorini is essentially what remains of an enormous volcanic explosion some 3500 years ago, destroying the earliest settlements on what was formerly a single island, and leading to the creation of the current geological caldera, the largest caldera on earth. By boat, jeep, bus or on foot, enjoy these amazing views from the beaches to the top of the volcanos, the cliffs of Caldera and nearby islands. Stroll through the villages of whitewashed houses and blue domed roofs.
Average Temperature in September is mid 70’s for highes and mid 60’s for lows

Below is a short overview of Santorini, Greece.  For more detailed information click on the link below which includes history of Santorini, maps and photos of some of the best places to visit? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santorini

General Information

The Cyclades islands of Greece, are composed of 39 islands of which 24 are inhabited. Santorini is one of the most spectacular jewels of these islands in the Aegean Sea. After the volcanic eruption in approximately 1500BC, the centre of Santorini sank, and the many earthquakes that followed destroyed a big part of the rest of the island forming the two islands of Aspronissi and Terrasia. Archaeological investigations have shown that the 69 kilometers of coastline of Santorini was probably inhabited in prehistoric times, Starting in 1967, ongoing excavations near the pink sand beach at Akrotiri have revealed the ruins of ancient Thera (Santorini), the centre of population on the island before it was destroyed by the volcanic eruption. Among the extensive remains are ceramics, stone and bronze tools, ornaments and small artworks. A series of frescoes suggest a highly-developed community and some researchers believe it is the site of the mythical lost city of Atlantis.  Santorini is a magnificent mixture of dramatic cliffside whitewashed villages that cling to volcanic cliffs, glorious black sand beaches with crystal-clear waters and ancient treasures.  Many visitors come to Santorini to uncover the mysteries of the lost kingdom of Atlantis, while others revel in its relaxed mountaintop atmosphere to enjoy the scenic waters of the Mediterranean.

Places to Visit

The Village of Oia is one of the prettiest spots on the island.  It is a network of narrow marble-paved alleys, lined with yellow and blue domed houses, and extraordinary views out to sea. Stroll through the scenic village, a haven for artists and artisans, and explore boutiques, restaurants and cafes.  Enjoy a glass of local wine that this island is famous for.  Other villages to explore are Pyrgos, Fira, Firostefani, Amourdi, Megalochori and Kamari. 

Santorini's spectacular caldera is a mark of what was probably the biggest volcanic eruption in recorded history, believed by some to have caused the disappearance of Atlantis. The island's violent volcanic history is visible everywhere you look - in black-sand beaches, earthquake-damaged dwellings and raw cliffs of lava plunging into the sea.  

The architectural site of Akrotiri, slated to be the once-powerful Minoan kingdom. See the amazing ruins that have been excavated there, buried some thirty feet below the earth's surface after the eruption of the island's volcano. Discover the ancient city's squares and cobblestone streets and peer into some of the houses and shops. Stop at a Santorini wine producer to enjoy a glass and explore the important role wine has served in the island's growth.

Food and Fun

Popular main dishes include mousakas (eggplant baked with minced meat and béchamel sauce), stuffed tomatoes and freshly grilled seafood. The mainstay of the Greek diet is the Famous Greek salad, consisting of cucumber, tomatoes, onions, feta cheese and olives.

Local Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Greece. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate. When shopping, remember there is a Value-Added Tax added to most purchases.  

Costa offers group excursions. For those interested click on the link below and enter Eastern Mediterranean as destination, Greece as country and then Mykonos as port of call.

Excursions Finder