Nea Kameni

Yachtsmen seeking an extraordinary adventure in the Aegean Sea should not miss Nea Kameni, the uninhabited volcanic island located in the renowned Santorini archipelago. Nea Kameni and the neighboring islet, Palea Kameni, have formed over the past 2,000 years through repeated volcanic eruptions, and both are made entirely of black lava with dormant craters at their centers. Today, the nearly barren islands and crescent-shaped caldera are visited daily by hundreds of tourists throughout the summer.

For a chance to walk on solid black lava above the billowing steam of the main crater, a boat trip to Nea Kameni is a must-do. The crater can easily be reached with a 20-minute walk through the otherworldly scenery. The island also offers unforgettable views of the villages of Fira and Oia, perched above the cliffs of Santorini. Finally, no trip to the island is complete without a dip in the volcanic hot springs. Read on to learn more about these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Safety Information

In the distant past, the Minoan civilization was largely destroyed by a catastrophic eruption of the Santorini Volcano during the Bronze Age. Yet, the volcano has turned into a famous travel destination in Greece that attracts travelers from all around the world. So just how safe is an excursion to the center of the Santorini Volcano?

Visitors to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni need not worry about their safety. Major eruptions over the past 300 years took place in 1707–1712, 1866–1870, 1925–1928, and 1939–1941, and the last small eruption happened in 1950. The area is closely monitored by scientists from the Institute for the Study and Monitoring of the Santorini Volcano (ISMOSAV) using a network of instruments that measure seismic activity, ground movements, temperature, and the chemistry of hot springs. They have declared that it is in a dormant period and is relatively safe. With sturdy, comfortable shoes and sun protection, visitors have nothing to fear.

Hiking the Crater

For those with a taste for adventure and a love for geology, hiking the volcanic crater of Nea Kameni is an absolute must. The trail head starts immediately next to the jetty on the north side of the island, where boats can moor for 90 minutes. The trail features otherworldly landscapes, providing unparalleled views of the caldera and the surrounding islands. As explorers ascend, the vibrant colors of volcanic ash and lava rock create a striking contrast against the azure waters of the Aegean. In the summer, guests can also spot unearthly red grassy succulents.

Nea Kameni has a diameter of 2 kilometers and an area of 3.4 km2, so the hike is moderately challenging, requiring a basic level of fitness. The terrain can be rocky and uneven, so it is recommended to wear sturdy footwear. Those who can make the trek to the top of the 130-meter-high volcanic crater will be rewarded with an up-close and personal encounter with volcanic vents, where steam and sulfur gasses escape from the depths of the earth, creating a truly mesmerizing spectacle.

As visitors reach the summit, they'll be greeted with breathtaking panoramic views and the chance to complete a circuit of the beautiful crater. Guests are advised to take their time to soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings and marvel at the power and beauty of nature.

Visiting the Hot Springs

A visit to Nea Kameni is incomplete without experiencing the renowned hot springs on the east side of the island. These thermal waters, created by volcanic activity, offer numerous health benefits and are a must-try for yachtsmen seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. It's best to go earlier in the day, as it can get quite crowded with visiting tours.

Boats can moor right in the cove, and visitors can jump right in. The temperature of the hot springs generally ranges between 86 and 95°F (30 and 35°C), providing a blissful and warm bathing experience. As for the terrain, the hot springs are nestled in a naturally formed cove, with rocky areas leading to the thermal pockets, so sturdy sea shoes are recommended to those who wish to go ashore. The waves at the hot springs are generally calm, allowing for a tranquil soak in the mineral-rich waters.