Santorini Staircase Closure Disrupts Cruise Operations

The famous Karavolades Stairs in Santorini are temporarily closed. Here’s what cruise travelers need to know before their visit.

Santorini’s Famous Staircase Is Closed

The Karavolades Stairs connect Santorini’s old port to the hilltop town of Fira. This well-known pathway has 558 steps and is a classic part of the Santorini cruise experience. Local media reports that the stairs are currently blocked due to a collapsed wall from a nearby private building. The Mayor of Fira ordered the closure, and no reopening date has been announced.

How Cruise Passengers Normally Arrive in Santorini

Most cruise ships anchor offshore at Santorini’s old port. Passengers are then ferried to the pier by small tender boats. From there, they traditionally either climb the Karavolades Stairs or ride the cable car up to Fira. Fira sits about 820 feet above sea level and is the island’s largest town.

What Changes for Cruise Passengers Now

Because the staircase is closed, tender boats will now bring cruise passengers to Santorini’s newer Athinios port instead. From Athinios, passengers can board tour buses to continue their shore excursions. This change affects anyone with pre-booked excursions that would have started at the old port.

Temporary Rules at the New Port

Earlier this year, local authorities limited the number of cruise passengers allowed to use Athinios port to just 30 percent per day. Those limits were put in place for safety and emergency access reasons. However, those restrictions are now being lifted because of the staircase closure. The change will stay in effect until the Karavolades Stairs reopen.

Big Ships Are Still Coming to Santorini

The closure hasn’t stopped cruise lines from keeping Santorini on their itineraries. More than 25 cruise ships are scheduled to visit the island in August alone. Major cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian, P&O, and Celebrity all have ships heading there. Travelers booked on these sailings should expect to use the Athinios port for their shore time.

What You Should Do Before Your Visit

If you have a Santorini port day coming up, check in with your cruise line for any updated arrival instructions. Shore excursion logistics may look a little different than what you planned. The cable car from the old port to Fira still appears to be operating, but confirm this closer to your sail date. Staying informed will help you make the most of your time on this beautiful Greek island.