Guide to Santorini

Known as the 'Black Pearl of the Aegean', Santorini is a popular island within the Cyclades Islands archipelago. Steeped in geological history, the island was shaped by a catastrophic volcanic eruption around 1600 BC, when the center of the island collapsed inward and was gradually filled by the sea, forming the crescent-shaped rim of cliffs seen today.

These lava cliffs, known as the Caldera, rise around 300m above the cobalt waters of the Aegean Sea on three sides of the island. The volcanic nature of Santorini has also produced naturally multi-colored beaches, including the black pebbled Kamari, the black-sand cove of Perissa in the southeast, and White Beach, a secluded cove on the southern coast accessible only by boat. The southeastern corner of the island is well suited for trying out water toys from on board your Santorini yacht charter, and also has a strong selection of bars and restaurants for evenings ashore.

Santorini's white buildings, which tumble down the cliffsides, are best seen approaching from the sea, from the deck of a superyacht charter. A visit to the main village of Fira offers traditional Greek tavernas and a lively piazza, along with bars and clubs that look out over the Caldera. To the south, the archaeological site of Akrotiri offers a glimpse into the Bronze Age settlement buried by the same eruption that shaped the island.

The northern village of Oia is known for its sunsets, drawing visitors to its cliffside paths each evening, and has retained much of its traditional character despite its popularity.

If you want to experience Santorini for yourself, start planning your next Greek yacht charter and contact a yacht charter broker today.