SANTORINI

• GRJTR
• Latitude: 36.4021
• Longitude: 25.43
• East Mediterranean
• Port in Greece

Location: Santorini South Aegean Greece

Santorini, a stunning island in the Aegean Sea, is part of Greece's Cyclades islands and is renowned for its breathtaking views, unique landscapes, and vibrant culture. The marine port on the island is crucial for both tourism and local transport, given the island's status as a top travel destination.

Santorini Marine Port: Athinios Port

Description:

Athinios Port, also known simply as Santorini Port, is the main port of Santorini, located approximately 10 kilometers south of Fira, the island’s capital. Set within the dramatic caldera cliffs, Athinios Port is the primary hub for incoming and outgoing ferry traffic, which includes both passenger ferries and cargo vessels.

Specifications:

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: 36.3932° N latitude, 25.4615° E longitude
   • Situated in the center-west part of the island.

2. Facilities:

   • Passenger Terminals: Facilities for boarding and disembarking from ferry services.
   • Cargo Handling: Areas designated for the transport and storage of goods.
   • Shuttle Services: Buses and taxis are readily available to take passengers to key points around the island, particularly Fira.
   • Parking: Limited parking facilities for vehicles.

3. Navigation and Access:

   • Depth: The port has sufficient depth to accommodate large ferries and cruise ships, though the specifics can vary.
   • Berthing: Multiple berths available for ferries and smaller cargo vessels.
   • Anchorage: Large cruise ships often anchor offshore due to port limitations, with passengers ferried to the port via tender boats.

4. Services:

   • Passenger Amenities: Restaurants, cafes, small shops, and restrooms available at or near the port.
   • Customs and Security: Standard customs, immigration, and security checks for international ferry services.
   • Logistics and Freight: Facilities for handling cargo and supplies for the island.

5. Transportation Links:

   • Road Access: Well-connected by road to other parts of the island.
   • Public Transport: Regular buses operated by KTEL linking the port with Fira and other major locations.
   • Taxis: Numerous taxis available for personalized transport services.
   • Car Rentals: Rental services available for tourists wishing to explore the island on their own.

6. Traffic and Capacity:

   • The port is highly active, especially during the tourist season from April to October.
   • Can handle a significant amount of passenger traffic daily, often busy with tourists arriving by ferry services from mainland Greece and other islands.
   • Vessels such as high-speed catamarans, standard ferries, cargo ships, and occasionally larger cruise ships (via tendering).

7. Associated Ports:

   • Old Port of Fira: Used primarily for tender boats and smaller vessels, often serving cruise ship passengers due to its proximity to Fira.

Additional Notes:

Given the popularity of Santorini, Athinios Port plays a critical role in managing the influx of tourists and goods. Efforts are continually made to improve the infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of visitors each year while preserving the island's natural beauty and charm. The port's unique location adds to its logistical complexity but also provides a picturesque introduction to the island, with cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea.