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Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. I didn’t actually visit the island, but want to share my experience seeing it from a ferry.
Ferry Stop in Santorini
In all honesty, you couldn’t pay me to go to Santorini during the summer (ok – maybe I’m exaggerating – pay me and I’ll pack my bags). I have no desire to fight the ridiculous crowds that invade at that time. But when my ferry between Naxos and Crete made a stop at Santorini, I actually got excited and went up to the deck to check out the scenery.
As we started pulling into the crater, I immediately saw the capital of Fira perched high on the cliffs. Below it were what appeared to be three massive cruise ships.
As we got closer to the port, I realized there were actually four. FOUR cruise ships at a small Greek island. This scene reminded me why I wasn’t getting off the ferry.
Stopping at the Port
When we reached the port, the ferry blew its horn and the gates opened. Tourists started rushing off the ferry and cars and trucks drove onto the island. The same scene occurred in the opposite fashion, but not nearly as many people got on the ferry continuing to Crete as got off in Santorini.
The tourists piled onto buses waiting to take them to other parts of the island while the cars and trucks started to take their position on the road. Looking up, I saw the incredible queue of vehicles patiently waiting to make their way up the cliff along the switchback road. Again, it was a scene I’m glad I was enjoying from a different position.
Leaving Santorini
As I stood on the ferry looking back at Santorini with others who were continuing on to Crete, I couldn’t help thinking to myself that one day I’ll have a chance to visit. It definitely won’t be during a crazy high season, but a quieter time when I wouldn’t have to deal with (so many of) the selfie-snapping masses and wannabe Instagram celebrities.
