Santorini, Greece — cruise port guide

  Santorini is a remnant of a volcanic crater that has been engulfed by the sea.   A highly developed civilization flourished on Santorini in the first half of the second millennium B.C. 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.  Firá (also Thera or Thira), the island’s capital, is perched on a 900-foot-high cliff overlooking the harbor and volcanic crater. From the tiny landing place at Skala harbor, Firá can be reached via funicular, by foot via a winding, 587-stepped path (not recommended), or on mule-back. The small town’s charms are its white-washed houses, winding lanes, picturesque squares, and blue-domed churches. There are many shops.    At the island’s northern tip lies unspoiled Oia.  Along its twisting lanes nestle arts and crafts shops, cozy restaurants, and art galleries.     If you are into ruins, visit Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan city, or the Archaeological Museum at the northern end of town. Pier InformationThe ship is scheduled to anchor. Guests will be taken ashore via the ship’s tenders to Skala harbor; from there a funicular runs up to Firá. Taxis are found along Firá’s main street or in the central square.