May 22, 2024
Today we are docked outside the small town of Fira (population of 1517)on the Island of Santorini.
The island of Santorini was reshaped by one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in history in 1620 BC which gave the island its unique crescent shape. It is known for its multi-colored lava cliffs that loom above sparkling turquoise water. The homes are built in the cascading hill above the cliffs and the is only two ways to get to the city of Fira, the zigzag stairs by either walking or riding a donkey or the cable car. Because there were four cruise ships in town today (so population grew to over 10,000) I opted to go on a catamaran cruise rather than to go in town first thing, hoping by afternoon I could do a walk about after others had gone back to their ship. Plus I love sailing and snorkeling!!
As we cruised out of the bay the town of Fira with it white washed homes accented with the iconic blue domes was the vision of what I had seen in all the travel ads.
Shortly we arrived at the thermal springs of Palea Kameni, where we swam. Trust me that thermal springs in Greece are not warm…..the water was so cold that few lasted more than 10 minutes.
Under cloudy sky and a few sprinkles we headed to Thirasia, an island that once formed part of Santorini until the volcanic eruption, and the private island of Aspronis.
Cruising above the underwater craters, we headed to Red Beach Surrounded by breathtaking views of the soaring lava cliffs and unique red sands, We swam in the very cold crystalline waters and snorkeled but there were few fish. Back on board the sky’s opened up, thankfully we were already wet and headed to White Beach.
White beach is where people do cliff diving from the platform by a tiny church built into the mountain. A few of us dared each other and ended up jumping off the platform!!!
Jumping from the platform into really cold water is scary yet invigorating. Then we headed back for a BBQ lunch is served on deck. As we lunch I started chatting with the lady next to me and discover that she was an opera singer from Australia!! We had a great time discussing favorite operas and she even broke into song a few times. A very special encounter!! Thank to for my friend Betty who has taught me how to start conversations with strangers!!!
I was sad when we pulled up anchor and headed back to Fira. The sun was out and there was a gentle breeze so sailing through the volcanic cliffs was so peaceful.
Back in Fira Old port, I took the cable car up to Fira to check out the town and most importantly the views. Although I had to spend almost 2 hours in line in the hot afternoon sun to take the cable car back to the port it was worth it for the views overlooking the bay and to see the blue domed building up close.
Yes, this was a “Best Day Ever….so far!!”
