The islets of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni sit in the middle of Santorini's flooded caldera — the youngest, most recently active parts of the same volcanic system that shaped the island. A boat trip out to them is one of the most popular half-day activities, and gives you a completely different view of Santorini, looking back at the caldera cliffs from the water.
What a typical tour includes
Most boats depart from the old port below Fira, or from Vlychada marina near Megalochori, and combine a short hike across Nea Kameni's still-warm volcanic crater with a swim stop near Palea Kameni's hot springs, where volcanic minerals tint the water a rusty orange close to shore. Many tours continue on to Thirasia, the quiet islet across the caldera, for lunch.
What to bring
Sturdy shoes for the crater walk (the terrain is loose volcanic rock), a swimsuit for the hot springs, and more sun protection than you think you need — there's little shade on the boat or the islet.
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