From Crete to Santorini – A Day Trip with SeaJets and Iconic Views
After our time in Rethymno, it was time to continue the birthday adventure with a day trip to Santorini, one of Greece’s most iconic islands. We booked a ferry with SeaJets, which turned out to be a smooth and well-organized experience (with a few things to keep in mind).
The Ferry from Rethymno – What to Expect
Our ferry was scheduled to depart around 7:30 AM from the port of Rethymno, and we arrived about an hour before departure, as recommended. The number of passengers can be overwhelming, so getting there early really helps.
Before boarding, we stopped at the SeaJets check-in window, where the staff gave us instructions on which bus to take upon arrival in Santorini and which one would return us to our hotel in Rethymno after the trip. This part was especially important with hundreds of passengers and many similar-looking buses waiting in the Santorini port, things could easily get chaotic if you’re not prepared.
Once on board, we discovered a few nice surprises: a free coffee with your ticket, a fully stocked bar with breakfast and lunch options, and Wi-Fi available for purchase. There’s no mobile signal during the 2.5-hour crossing, but it’s a good chance to disconnect and enjoy the views.
If you’re not staying in Rethymno, SeaJets also departs from Heraklion and travels not only to Santorini, but also to other Cycladic islands like Milos, Paros, Mykonos, and Naxos.
Arrival in Santorini – First Stop: Oia
After around 2.5 hours, we arrived at the port of Santorini, where our designated bus was already waiting. The drive to Oia took about 35 minutes, winding along cliffside roads with views that got more surreal with every turn.
Oia is everything you’ve seen in postcards – the famous whitewashed houses, blue domed churches, stunning villas with infinity pools, and those narrow cobbled paths lined with small shops and cafes. It’s the kind of place where every corner is a photo opportunity, and yes, it gets crowded, but it’s worth every step.
Fun fact: Santorini is known for its pistachios, so don’t leave without trying something pistachio-based (ice cream, pastries, you name it!).
Next: Fira – Capital of Santorini
From Oia, we hopped back on the bus and headed to Fira, the capital of the island. It was much livelier and more commercial than Oia, with plenty of souvenir shops, cute alleys, restaurants with a view, and endless options for snacks and treats.
First things first – we needed to cool down, and what better way than with an açaí bowl? We stopped at Stolen Fruit, a small smoothie bar perfect for a refreshing break.
After recharging, we continued to explore Fira, letting ourselves get lost among the little streets and hidden corners. For lunch, we stumbled upon a restaurant with a caldera view (sadly, I didn’t catch the nam, we just found it while wandering). We happened to be there right when donkeys were climbing the steps with visitors on their backs, one of those truly “only in Santorini” moments.
Back to Crete – Final Thoughts
After a full day of exploring, we made our way back to the bus and then the ferry for the return trip to Rethymno. Tired but happy, we watched the island fade into the distance as the sun began to dip behind the cliffs.
While Santorini is definitely touristy, it’s also undeniably stunning. For a day trip, especially when staying in Rethymno, it was well worth the early wake-up call.
Want more from this trip? Click here to read about our time in Crete!
