Why choose a cruise in Greece and the Greek islands?
Cultural and historical diversity in Greece and its islands
Choosing to cruise the Greek islands invites you to explore a mosaic of cultures and histories dating back thousands of years. Each island has its own distinct heritage, from ancient Greek archaeological sites to Byzantine and Venetian influences, offering a true journey through time. This diversity is also evident in local traditions, architecture and festivals, offering a deep immersion in each island's unique cultural heritage.
Ideal climate and scenery
Greece and its islands enjoy a Mediterranean climate, guaranteeing sunny days and pleasant temperatures for most of the year. This ideal climate and breathtaking scenery make the islands an ideal cruising destination. From crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches to picturesque clifftop villages and the volcanic lands of Santorini, the varied landscapes of the Greek islands are awe-inspiring.
Which cruise to choose in the Greek islands?
Opting for a sea cruise in the Greek islands allows you to discover a fascinating range of cultures and natural landscapes.
In the Aegean Sea, the Cyclades are distinguished by must-see ports of call such as Santorini, with its caldera and mythical sunsets, and Mykonos, renowned for its festive atmosphere and emblematic windmills.
Rhodes, the jewel of the Dodecanese, boasts a rich historical heritage with its UNESCO-listed medieval city. The island of Kos, with its Asklepion, a sanctuary dedicated to the god of medicine Asclepius, offers a captivating glimpse into the history of ancient Greece.
Crete, Greece's largest island, combines culture, gastronomy, beaches and mountains.
In the Ionian Islands in the Adriatic Sea, Corfu captivates visitors with its Venetian-influenced town and varied landscapes. Kefalonia and Zakynthos are home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Popular ports of call for a cruise in Greece and the Greek islands?
Cruises in Athens and mainland Greece
Cruises to mainland Greece offer an exploration of Athens, marked by its major historical sites. The Athens Acropolis, culminating in the Parthenon, is the most famous site in ancient Greece. Nearby, the gardens of the Temple of Olympian Zeus offer a haven of peace in the heart of the city. Other sites such as the Ancient Agora, the Theatre of Dionysus and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens enrich the itinerary, revealing artifacts and buildings that bear witness to millennia of history.
Greek cruises to the Greek islands in the Ionian Sea often include a stopover in Katákolo, in the Peloponnese. This port serves as a departure point for excursions to Olympia, an archaeological site famous for having been the center of the Olympic Games in antiquity.
Cruises in the Cyclades: Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos and Paros
In the Cyclades, the island of Santorini boasts a spectacular caldera, whitewashed mansions and unforgettable sunsets. The archaeological site of Akrotiri, nicknamed the Pompeii of Greece, is a must-see on a Santorini cruise. For lovers of lively nightlife, a cruise to Mykonos offers an idyllic setting with its picture-postcard beaches, especially Platys Gialos, and vibrant nightlife. Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago, boasts a rich historical heritage, including the Temple of Apollo. Naxos is also very popular with hikers. Climbing Mount Zeus, the island's highest peak, offers spectacular panoramic views. Paros is famous for its idyllic beaches, especially Kolymbithres, and picturesque villages such as Naoussa.
Cruises in the Dodecanese islands: Rhodes, Kos and Patmos
A cruise to Rhodes, nicknamed the Island of the Knights, invites you to discover its rich medieval past and its old town, one of the best preserved in Europe. Kos offers magnificent beaches and remarkable historic sites, such as the Asclepion. On the island of Patmos, the Grotto of the Apocalypse and the monastery where St. John is said to have written the Apocalypse are must-see UNESCO sites.
Cruises to Crete, Greece's largest island
Crete, Greece's largest island, boasts a rich historical heritage, epitomized by the majestic Palace of Knossos, a jewel of Minoan civilization. The island is famous for its turquoise beaches, such as Elafonissi and Falassarna. Its mountains, dotted with charming villages, are home to tavernas serving the famous Cretan cuisine. A cruise to Crete offers a unique immersion in the island's history, nature and culture.
Cruise in the Ionian Islands: Corfu, Kefalonia and Zakynthos
Corfu (Kerkyra) reflects a blend of Venetian, French and British influences. Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not to be missed. A cruise to Corfu offers breathtaking scenery, including Porto Timoni, a spectacular double beach. Kefalonia (Kefallonia) and Zakynthos (Zakynthos) are renowned for their magnificent beaches. Kefallonia is famous for Myrtos, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, while Zakynthos is famous for Navágio, an emblematic beach with a shipwreck and imposing cliffs.
What are the departure ports for a cruise in Greece and the Greek islands?
Most cruises to the Greek islands depart from the port of Athens, Piraeus, ideal for discovering the rich heritage of the Greek capital. Don't miss: the Acropolis, a must-see landmark, the picturesque Plaka district, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the ancient Agora. The Italian port of Rome, Civitavecchia, is also one of the preferred departure ports for these cruises. Some itineraries to the Greek islands and Eastern Mediterranean cruises also depart from the port of Heraklion, Crete.
Must-see experiences on a cruise in Greece and the Greek islands
Gastronomy and local specialities
Discover the unique flavors of the Greek islands through their local specialties. From tastings of local cheeses, olives and wines to traditional meals in quaint tavernas, each island offers a distinct palette of flavors. Be sure to try moussaka, souvlaki and fresh seafood.
Excursions and cultural visits
Excursions to the Greek islands and mainland Greece are an opportunity to discover their rich historical and cultural heritage. You'll discover fascinating archaeological sites and picturesque villages. Local guides enrich these visits with captivating accounts of the history, myths and traditions of each island.
Ancient archaeological sites such as the Acropolis of Lindos on Rhodes and the Palace of Knossos on Crete are remarkable witnesses to past civilizations.
In mainland Greece, Athens is famous for its major historical sites such as the Acropolis and Parthenon, the gardens of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the ancient Agora, the Theatre of Dionysus, and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, offering a fascinating insight into the cultural heritage of ancient Greece. In the Peloponnese, the site of Olympia, birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, captivates with its stadium and temples dedicated to Zeus and Hera.
Traditional villages, such as Oia on Santorini or Chora on Mykonos in the Cyclades archipelago, embody the timeless charm of the Greek islands, with their cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and bright blue doors. These villages keep Greek traditions and lifestyles alive, offering visitors an authentic, immersive experience.
Onboard activities and entertainment
Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises are distinguished by their friendly atmosphere, offering a wide range of activities and entertainment for the whole family. Attractions include large pool decks with different pools, whirlpools, water parks, Formula 1 simulators, karaoke sessions, mini-golf courses, bowling alleys, Broadway-inspired shows and concerts.
Celebrity Cruises ships are ideal for couples and families with teenagers. Edge Class ships are equipped with the Magic Carpet, an iconic elevator platform offering spectacular sea views, which can double as an open-air restaurant, a bar with live music or a boutique, depending on its position on the ship.
Celestyal Cruises, the cruise line specializing in Greece, offers an exciting variety of onboard activities, including craft workshops, dance lessons to traditional Greek rhythms such as Sirtaki, cooking demonstrations by talented chefs and language lessons to further immerse you in Greek culture.
How to prepare your cruise in the Greek islands?
What to pack for a Greek Islands cruise
For a cruise in the Greek islands, pack light clothes for sunny days and elegant outfits for evenings. Don't forget your beach essentials: swimsuits, sunglasses, hats and sun protection. Choose comfortable shoes for shore excursions. You'll also want to pack some covering clothing for cool evenings at sea and windy days. Make sure you take all your travel documents with you.
Good to know for an eco-friendly cruise in the Greek islands
Today's cruise lines are actively involved in reducing their impact on the environment. To select a sustainable cruise, opt for the latest eco-responsible ships, with advanced initiatives and technologies designed to minimize their ecological impact. These include sophisticated wastewater treatment systems, on-board waste management, the limitation or elimination of single-use plastics and the use of innovative technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as scrubbers or liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion.
FAQ about Greek island cruises
When is the best time to cruise the Greek islands?
From May to October, the climate in the Greek islands and mainland Greece is ideal, with warm weather and continuous sunshine. May, June, September and October are especially pleasant months, as they allow you to avoid the tourist crowds of the summer season (July-August) and still enjoy a mild climate. The winter months are colder, and access to some islands may be limited, but they offer a quieter, more authentic experience.
How much does a cruise to the Greek islands cost?
For companies such as MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean or Celestyal Cruises, mini-cruises to the Greek islands are available at rates from $100 to $200 per person. The average cost of a one-week cruise in a standard cabin (inside cabin) is around $300 to $500 per person in low season.
Celebrity Cruises' top-of-the-range cruises to the Greek islands start at $1,000 and $1,500. Regent Seven Seas Cruises' all-inclusive luxury cruises to the Greek islands range from $6,000 to $8,000 per person. These itineraries guarantee an unforgettable cruising experience aboard veritable floating palaces, with butler suites, exceptional service and most excursions included.
How to find cheap cruises in Greece and the Greek islands
To find low-cost cruises in the Greek islands, it's advisable to compare the offers of the different companies, choose inside cabins, book during the low season and watch out for last-minute promotional offers. Also consider all-inclusive packages to reduce additional costs on board.
At cruceros.es, you can pay for your cruise in instalments, with an instant response to your request.
How to choose a cruise line for the Greek islands?
The lines offer a wide selection of family-friendly cruises to the Greek islands and mainland Greece, with MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises and Royal Caribbean offering a variety of activities for all ages. From kids' and teens' clubs to relaxation areas for adults, these cruises ensure fun and relaxation for the whole family.
Celebrity Cruises' upscale cruises are ideal for families with large children and couples, offering culinary workshops and wine tasting sessions. For luxury cruising in the Greek islands, Regent Seven Seas offers exceptional all-inclusive itineraries, in sumptuous suites with butler service, gourmet cuisine, drinks and excursions included.
An expert in Greek island cruises, Celestyal Cruises, with over 30 years' experience, offers immersive voyages to discover the history, culture and gastronomy of the Greek islands.
What's included in the price of a Greek Islands cruise?
For a cruise to the Greek islands with MSC Croisières, Royal Caribbean, Costa Croisières, Celestyal Cruises or Celebrity Cruises, the fare includes the cabin, full board (meals served in the main restaurants), as well as a wide range of entertainment and activities on board. Specialty restaurants, as well as various beverage and Wi-Fi packages, are available at an additional cost. Regent Seven Seas Cruises luxury cruises are all-inclusive, including most drinks and excursions.
Which boats for a Greek Islands cruise?
Come aboard the Celestyal Journey or the Celestyal Discovery to explore the jewels of the Greek islands and mainland Greece. On these ships of the Celestyal company, specialists in Greek cruises, you'll enjoy a large pool deck, a Sozo spa for relaxation, the delights of the Greek Deli and Grillseekers, not to mention the Fig and Honey bar for refreshing juices and ice creams.