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Greece Cruises

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Cruise the Greek Islands in style on a small ship cruise with Adventure Life and discover ancient civilizations, sunny islands, multi-colored beaches, and welcoming locals. Most cruises depart from Athens where you'll visit the Parthenon & Acropolis, then set sail for the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea, including Santorini, Mykonos, Patmos, Corfu, Delos, Paros, & Piraeus, home to many of Europe's best beaches. Explore Crete, the largest, southernmost Greek Isles, and ancient Hydra in the Saronic Islands. Cruise on the luxury sailboats or more economical small ships through the Greek Islands. Combine your Greek cruise with neighboring Croatia or Italy, and explore magnificent Venice or Rome. Contact our Greek small ship cruise specialists for a free custom trip quote. 
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10 Best Greece Cruises for 2022-2023

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Greece Luxury

6 Best Luxury Cruises of the Greek Islands for 2022-2023

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Aegean Reflections$538511Dec 9, 2022Your 11-day Aegean cruise aboard the luxurious Emerald Azzurra takes you from Athens to the Greek island of Ermoupolis and then the coastal port of …
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From sublime Istanbul to Venice the Serenissima$589010Aug 17, 2022Give in to the temptation of an exceptional cruise between the Bosphorus and the stunning Istanbul, and Venice and the shores of the Adriatic Sea. …
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Aegean Gems$601512Nov 28, 2022Discover the Aegean Sea's treasures on a 12-day adventure onboard the Emerald Azzurra that begins and ends in Greece. Sail to Istanbul and its Old …
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From the French Riviera to the Turkish Riviera$528011Oct 24, 2023This 11-day cruise aboard Le Jacques-Cartier combines stunning scenery and cultural discoveries between the French Riviera and the Turkish Riviera. …
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Bari to Civitavecchia$54009 Discover the beauty of the southern Mediterranean on a nine-day cruise exploration that takes you from Bari to Civitavecchia, aboard Silver …
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From Sublime Istanbul to Venice the Serenissima$488010Aug 4, 2023Sail the Mediterranean between Turkey, Greece, Montenegro, Croatia, and Italy onboard Le Lyrial for ten days. Be charmed by an extraordinary cruise …
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Adventure Life's Favorite Greek Islands & Destinations
Mythology, art, architecture, and beautiful seaside landscapes are highlights of this enchanting Mediterranean country. As you cruise through the tranquil blue waters, you will swim at some of Europe's best beaches and visit extraordinary citadels, monuments, and metropolitan ruins of the Ancient Greek civilization. Here's the highlight list of Adventure Life's favorite Greek destinations:

Favorite Greek Islands
  • SantoriniAn island formed from the remaining edge of a volcanic crater, the spectacular beaches, views and sunsets of Santorini make it the quintessential Greek Island.
  • Mykonos: A picturesque Cycladic island and famed beach party town with seaside restaurants, a maze of narrow streets and whitewashed houses & churches overlooked by a row of 16th-century windmills, 
  • Delosis the mythological birthplace of Apollo & Artemis (the Twin Gods), this city is home to fascinating archaeological ruins.
  • Corfu:  is the greenest of the Greek Isles and often visited during international cruises to Italy and the Balkans.
  • Tenos: Come see Greece's holiest shrine – Panagia Evangelistria – among terraced hillsides & marble quarries.
  • Rhodes: Breathtaking archaeological ruins, palaces and beach resorts of great historic importance.
  • Crete: From Rethymnon explore the ancient city of Knossos (where the minotaur was born) near Heraklion, before departing to the up-and-coming travel destination of nearby Kythira.
Favorite Cities:
  • Athens: As one of the most important cities of Ancient Greece, it's home to some of the most interesting archaeological sites in the Western world. 
  • NafplionSpend a day in the charming port town that was allegedly founded by Poseidon's son millennia ago and is now home to quaint shops, cafes, and museums.
Cruise Greece & Beyond

Several cruises will take you between Italy, the Balkans, and even Turkey:

Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast - Explore Athens, Olympia, Ithaca, then nortward to Albania, Montenegro and Croatia, where you'll visit legendary Dubrovnik on the Adriatic Sea.

Southern Cyclades & Turkey - Discover Rhodes, Hydra, Athens, Santorini and the Turkish port of Bodrum.

Italy, Greek Isles, Turkey & Athens -   Depart from Rome, explore Crete, Santorini & the Cyclades, the seaside resort of Kusadasi on the western coast of Turkey and finish in Athens on Le Lyrial luxury cruise liner.


 
Flights to Greece and the Greek Islands

Athens
is the starting and finishing point of most cruises of Greece and home of the country's largest airport. Passengers flying from North America will likely have connections through Paris, Frankfurt, London or Amsterdam, though there are several direct flights from New York. 

Athens is also the hub for flying to the 25 Greek islands that have domestic airports. These airports are served by Olympia Airlines and Aegean Airlines. 

Eight Greek Islands have international airports that are served European airlines such as British Airways, Air France, and EasyJet during the summertime. 

We encourage you to enjoy a cruise of the Greek isles and save time afterward to fly to one of the islands that you weren't able to visit on your cruise, or maybe return to your favorite spot!

Best Greece Small Ship Cruise Lines for 2022-2023

  • Ponant - has voyages that include transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class Smithsonian experts, and a shore excursion in each port of call that immerses guests in the sights and sounds of their destination. Journey to the very heart of the Mediterranean on a cruise to Greece and the Cyclades on the Le Bellot
  • Silversea Cruises - lets you discover the spellbinding beauty of Greece on an all-inclusive luxury cruise aboard the 254 guest Silver Cloud. Stroll through labyrinthine streets gaze at iconic windmills and beaches with turquoise waters.
  • Lindblad Expeditions - visits some places largely unknown to all but residents and discerning travelers. Discover the romance and exhilaration of a tall ship sailing the Mediterranean aboard the legendary Sea Cloud. Guests will have ample opportunities to stand on deck and watch the orchestrated frenzy of crew members going high aloft in the riggings to handset 30 sails.
  • Star Clippers Americas - immerse travelers in the thrill of a true tall ship by delivering innovative itineraries and distinctive ports throughout the Mediterranean. The 379 feet long Star Clipper carries 166 guests in pampered comfort, over 36,000 square feet of sails. 
  • Variety Cruises - is a privately owned yacht cruise line based in Athens, Greece. Embark on the 72 guest Variety Voyager to explore the stunning Greek Islands of Athens, the Acropolis, Cyclades, Kea, Santorini, Mykonos, Delos, Crete, Kythira, Peloponnese, Nafplion, and Hydra. 
  • Emerald Waterways - has a fleet of Star-Ships that cater from just 84 to a maximum of 186 guests, letting you meet like-minded travelers in a more intimate group. So much is included in the price of your holiday so you can have complete peace of mind while you travel. The attentive onboard crew, expert cruise directors, and knowledgeable onshore guides help to make your Greek island holiday truly memorable.
  • Sea Cloud Cruises - has always preserved the true value of windjammers, where the beat of the wind and waves determines the rhythm and direction of life on board. Sea Cloud II perfectly combines spaciousness for up to 94 passengers with the lifestyle of a private yacht.
  • CroisiEurope - has been a French independent family business for 45 years. Venturing on a cruise on the Mediterranean coast aboard MV La Belle de L'Adriatique is always an excellent way to escape the dreariness of winter or to enjoy the summer fully.


 
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Greek Cruise Video - Athens & Cyclades

Greece Travel FAQs

Why should I choose a Mediterranean cruise?
A Greek cruise will take you to some of the top destinations around the Mediterranean at the value of an all-inclusive journey that offers lodging, meals, and daily tours and excursions. Enjoy the comfort of one of the nicest ships that we feature as you voyage around the Mediterranean. Cruises are quickly becoming the most popular way to visit Europe, compared to the land-based tours which require you to either stay in one region the entire time or pack and unpack your suitcase every time you get to a new city. 

What should I look for on a Greek cruise ship?
The elegant yachts that sail the Greek Mediterranean combine style and luxury. You will enjoy the intimate atmosphere of a small yacht, typically with occupancy for between 50-200 passengers. Comfortable and spacious cabins, a sun deck, and a dining area and bar are all standard on these vessels.

Are there five-star cruise ships that explore Greece?
While may of the small ships that explore the Greek Isles are technically not five stars due to their smaller size and fewer onboard amenities, you will find that the overall experience may be a five star journey. With all-inclusive itineraries guided by local experts and a comfortable or even luxurious boat that will serve as your home for the duration of the trip, you won't be disappointed with your cruise of Greece and the Mediterranean.

Should I get a room with a balcony?
Contrary to popular belief, having a balcony on your Greek cruise isn't that important and could even be an unnecessary expense. Rooms with balconies can cost hundreds of dollars more and sometimes they even cut into the cabin space. Since the boats that explore the Mediterranean are pretty small, it's easy enough to just go to the sun deck and enjoy the sunny weather and fresh air from there. A great alternative to a balcony is a room with a full panoramic window or a floor to ceiling window. 

What is dining like?
No other country more perfectly captures traditional Mediterranean cuisine better than Greece. The local flavors will melt in your mouth in a savory blend that characterizes this region, as prepared by talented local chefs.

Do Greek cruises ever visit destinations that aren't on the coast?
Definitely! Greece is full of amazing attractions, many of which are the highlights of the islands and coastal cities. However, there are a number of attractions that you will arrive to by bus as well after your ship has docked in the closest port.

Will my vessel have WiFi?
It's possible, but not all vessels offer WiFi. Even on the vessels that do have WiFi, it's possible that your cruise route will take you out of range of a signal, meaning that you could be without WiFi for several days at a time.

What kind of power outlets are there? Will I need a converter?
You will need a plug adapter for the outlets – you will either find three flat prongs in the British style or two round prongs in the European style. And although the power is 220v, in contrast to the 110v North American power, typically most appliances and devices are made to handle both.

How can I save money on a river cruise?
Save money on a river cruise by visiting the Greece Deals page or by letting our travel experts know where you want to go. We'll let you know when we have new promotions available. We recommend that you don't save money by choosing a lesser cabin, since you will also probably be choosing one with less comfort or space.

Are cruises in Greece a good family vacation?
Greece is an engaging vacation for the whole family and a great way to get your kids interested in history and European culture. Active options are the best for younger kids. Check out our family travel article for more information.

Do Americans and Canadians need a passport and visa to travel to Greece?
All citizens of North America traveling to Europe need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months. In recent years, it has not been necessary to apply for a visa before traveling to Europe if you plan to stay less than three months, however, this situation may change in the future. See current European visa requirements.

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