Greek Islands cruise tours are one of the most enjoyable and comfortable ways to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. With their crystal-clear waters, whitewashed villages, historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, traditional cuisine and unique island atmosphere, the Greek Islands attract travelers from all over the world. A Greek Islands cruise allows you to experience several destinations during a single vacation. Depending on the itinerary, you can admire the spectacular views of Santorini, explore the lively streets of Mykonos, discover the medieval heritage of Rhodes, experience the history of Crete, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Patmos and explore the ancient treasures of Athens. Cruise itineraries vary depending on the cruise line, ship and travel date. Popular destinations can include Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete, Corfu, Patmos, Kos, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Samos, Milos, Naxos, Paros and Syros, as well as important mainland ports such as Athens/Piraeus, Lavrion, Katakolon and Argostoli. What Is a Greek Islands Cruise? A Greek Islands cruise is a cruise vacation that allows travelers to visit several Greek islands and coastal destinations during one journey. One of the main advantages of a cruise is that you can travel between destinations while keeping the same cabin throughout the trip. While the ship travels overnight, you can relax onboard and wake up the following morning in a new Greek destination. This makes Greek Islands cruises an excellent choice for travelers who want to visit multiple islands without having to arrange separate hotels, ferries and transportation between destinations. Which Greek Islands Can You Visit on a Cruise? The Greek Islands are spread across a large area, so not every island can be included in a single cruise itinerary. Cruise lines create different routes featuring selected islands and ports. Popular Greek Islands cruise destinations include: Santorini Mykonos Rhodes Crete Corfu Patmos Kos Zakynthos Kefalonia Samos Milos Naxos Paros Syros Ios Leros Karpathos Depending on the itinerary, cruise ships may also visit Athens/Piraeus, Lavrion, Katakolon, Heraklion and Argostoli. The exact destinations depend on the cruise line, ship, departure port, travel date and selected itinerary. Santorini Cruise Tours Santorini is one of the most popular destinations on Greek Islands cruise itineraries. Famous for its volcanic landscape, dramatic cliffs, whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches overlooking the Aegean Sea, Santorini offers some of the most iconic views in Greece. The village of Oia is particularly famous for its spectacular sunsets, traditional architecture and panoramic views. Cruise passengers can explore the island during their port visit, join organized shore excursions or discover the local villages, viewpoints and archaeological sites independently. Santorini is also known for its volcanic history and the archaeological site of Akrotiri, making it an appealing destination for travelers interested in both natural beauty and ancient history. Mykonos Cruise Tours Mykonos is one of the most popular and vibrant destinations on a Greek Islands cruise. The island is famous for its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, traditional windmills, beautiful beaches, restaurants and lively atmosphere. One of the best-known areas is Little Venice, where waterfront buildings and colorful streets create one of the most recognizable views of Mykonos. Visitors can spend their port day exploring the historic town, enjoying the beaches, discovering local restaurants or experiencing the island's cosmopolitan atmosphere. Rhodes Cruise Tours Rhodes is an excellent destination for travelers who want to combine history, culture and a Mediterranean island experience. The island is home to the famous Medieval City of Rhodes, surrounded by impressive historic walls and filled with stone streets, historic buildings and atmospheric squares. The Old Town is one of the highlights of the island and offers visitors an opportunity to explore centuries of history in a compact and walkable area. Beyond its historic center, Rhodes also offers beautiful beaches, traditional villages and scenic coastal landscapes. Crete Cruise Tours Crete, the largest Greek island, offers a combination of ancient history, culture, gastronomy and natural beauty. Cruise ships may visit Heraklion and, depending on the itinerary, other ports in Crete. From Heraklion, visitors can explore the famous Palace of Knossos, one of the most important archaeological sites associated with the Minoan civilization. The island also offers historic towns, local markets, traditional cuisine and beautiful coastal scenery. For travelers interested in Greek history and culture, Crete can be one of the most rewarding stops on a Greek Islands cruise. Corfu Cruise Tours Located in the Ionian Sea, Corfu offers a different atmosphere from the islands of the Aegean. The island is known for its lush landscapes, turquoise waters, historic architecture and strong Venetian influences. The UNESCO-listed Old Town of Corfu, historic fortresses and scenic coastline are among the highlights that cruise passengers can explore during a port visit. Corfu is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a combination of history, nature and Mediterranean scenery. Patmos Cruise Tours For travelers looking for a quieter and more peaceful island experience, Patmos is a fascinating destination. The island is known for its traditional architecture, narrow streets, peaceful atmosphere and important religious heritage. Patmos offers a different experience from the lively atmosphere of Mykonos or the spectacular scenery of Santorini, making it a valuable addition to a varied Greek Islands cruise itinerary. Athens Cruise Tours Athens is an important destination on many Greek cruise itineraries. Cruise ships generally use Piraeus Port as the gateway to Athens. From the port, passengers can travel into the city and visit some of Greece's most important historical landmarks. The Acropolis and Parthenon, ancient city center and museums make Athens an ideal destination for travelers who want to combine a Greek Islands cruise with an introduction to the country's ancient history. Some cruise itineraries also begin or end in Athens, making the city a convenient starting or finishing point for a Greek cruise holiday. Greek Islands Cruises from Turkey For travelers departing from Turkey, Kusadasi and Cesme can be important departure or calling ports for Greek Islands cruise itineraries. Depending on the cruise program, routes from Turkey may include destinations such as Patmos, Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Kos, Samos or Athens. Shorter itineraries may focus on selected Greek Islands, while longer cruises can combine the Greek Islands with other destinations in the Mediterranean. When choosing a cruise from Turkey, it is important to compare the departure port, itinerary, number of islands visited and the time spent at each destination. How Long Is a Greek Islands Cruise? The duration of a Greek Islands cruise depends on the selected itinerary. Short cruises may last approximately 3 or 4 nights, while many standard Greek Islands and Mediterranean cruise itineraries last 7 nights, 10 nights or longer. Longer itineraries may combine the Greek Islands with destinations in Italy, Croatia, Montenegro and other parts of the Mediterranean. When comparing cruises, it is useful to consider not only the number of nights but also how many destinations are included and how much time the ship spends in each port. When Is the Best Time for a Greek Islands Cruise? The main Greek Islands cruise season runs from late spring through summer and into early autumn. May, June, July, August and September are among the most popular months for Greek Islands cruises. Summer offers warm weather, long days and excellent conditions for exploring the islands, enjoying beaches and experiencing outdoor attractions. Travelers looking for a somewhat quieter experience may also consider the beginning or end of the cruise season. Cruise schedules can change each year, so it is always recommended to check the latest sailing dates and itineraries when planning your trip. How Much Does a Greek Islands Cruise Cost? Greek Islands cruise prices vary depending on the cruise line, ship, travel date, itinerary, cruise duration and cabin category. Inside cabins are generally among the more affordable options, while ocean-view, balcony and suite cabins are available at different price levels. The total cost can also depend on whether items such as port taxes, meals, beverage packages, Wi-Fi, shore excursions and specialty dining are included in the fare. For this reason, it is important to compare the total cruise cost and included services, rather than looking only at the advertised starting price. What Is Included in a Greek Islands Cruise? The services included in a cruise package vary depending on the cruise line and selected fare. Cruise fares generally include accommodation in the selected cabin, meals in the main dining venues and access to many of the ship's public areas and entertainment facilities. Additional services such as beverage packages, Wi-Fi, specialty restaurants, spa treatments, shore excursions and certain personal expenses may be charged separately. Before booking, travelers should review the package details carefully to understand what is included and what may require an additional payment. Which Cabin Should You Choose for a Greek Islands Cruise? The right cruise cabin depends on your budget and travel preferences. Inside cabins are a practical choice for travelers looking for a lower fare and who expect to spend most of their time exploring the ship and destinations. Ocean-view cabins allow you to enjoy views of the Aegean Sea and the Greek coastline from your cabin. Balcony cabins offer a private outdoor space and can be particularly enjoyable during scenic sailing days between the Greek Islands. For travelers looking for more space and additional amenities, cruise ships also offer a variety of suite categories. What Can You Do on a Greek Islands Cruise? A Greek Islands cruise is much more than visiting different ports. The cruise ship itself is an important part of the holiday experience. Depending on the ship, passengers may enjoy restaurants, swimming pools, entertainment shows, bars, fitness facilities, sports activities and a variety of onboard events. During port visits, travelers can explore historic towns, archaeological sites, beaches, local markets and restaurants or join organized shore excursions. For example, you can explore Oia in Santorini, Little Venice in Mykonos, the Medieval City of Rhodes, Knossos in Crete and the Acropolis in Athens during selected cruise itineraries. Who Are Greek Islands Cruises Suitable For? Greek Islands cruises can be an excellent choice for a wide range of travelers, including: Travelers who want to visit several Greek Islands in one trip Couples and honeymooners Families and groups of friends History and archaeology enthusiasts Travelers interested in Greek culture and cuisine Beach and sea lovers First-time cruise passengers Travelers who want to combine sightseeing, relaxation and entertainment Travelers looking for a comfortable Mediterranean holiday What Should You Consider When Choosing a Greek Islands Cruise? When choosing a Greek Islands cruise, it is important to look beyond the price. First, check which islands and ports are included in the itinerary. A cruise focused on Santorini and Mykonos will offer a different experience from a route featuring Rhodes, Kos, Patmos and Crete. You should also compare the ship, cabin category, cruise duration, port stay times, dining options and services included in the fare. If you are traveling from Turkey, also consider the departure port, transportation to the cruise terminal, departure time and any hotel or transfer arrangements you may need before the cruise. Greek Islands Cruise Itineraries Greek Islands cruise itineraries offer a wide variety of experiences across the Aegean and Mediterranean. Some itineraries focus primarily on the Cyclades, featuring destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos. Others combine the Cyclades with Rhodes, Crete, Patmos, Kos or other Greek destinations. Longer Mediterranean itineraries may combine the Greek Islands with ports in Italy, Croatia, Montenegro and other Mediterranean countries. This variety makes it possible to choose a cruise according to your preferred destinations, travel duration and holiday style. Discover Greece with a Greek Islands Cruise Greek Islands cruise tours offer one of the most comfortable and memorable ways to explore the Aegean and Mediterranean. From the whitewashed villages and volcanic landscapes of Santorini to the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Mykonos, the medieval heritage of Rhodes, the ancient history of Crete, the peaceful character of Patmos and the historic treasures of Athens, each destination offers a different experience. For travelers departing from Turkey, selected cruise programs also provide convenient access to the Greek Islands from ports such as Kusadasi and Cesme. Whether you are planning a short Greek Islands cruise or a longer Mediterranean journey, comparing the latest itineraries, departure ports, cruise ships and cabin options will help you find the right trip for your travel plans. Explore the latest Greek Islands cruise tours, compare different itineraries and cruise options, and start planning your unforgettable journey through the Greek Islands.
Show MoreSure, there are pros and cons to all types of travel, but cruising has become a popular option for a number of reasons: With so much included in the price - like meals, onboard performances and more - cruising offers tons of bang for your buck. A variety of onboard and onshore activities make cruising fun for everyone from spa-lovers to adventure-seekers to sun worshipers. Traveling from port to port is a snap, no need to worry about directions or unpacking. You'll wake up in an amazing new place, refreshed and ready to explore.
Safety and security are the highest priorities for cruise companies.All cruise ships are designed and operated in compliance with the strict requirements of the International Maritime Organization, the local authorities that mandates global standards for the safety and operation of cruise ships through adoption of treaties, regulations and resolutions, codified in the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. Safety-related regulations and requirements are rigorous – and ships often go substantially above and beyond what is required, for example carrying backup mechanical, navigational and safety provisions. Ships crews undertake extensive training, certification, drills and scenarios for emergency situations, including the evacuation of a ship. All cruise ships have lifeboats, life rafts and life preservers for every person on board as well as additional capacity.
Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities and a great many provide dry-cleaning services. There is, however, an additional charge for professional laundry and dry-cleaning services.
There are no basic differences between the ships.Each ship offers a unique variety of activities, amenities and dining options.
No - in fact, due to the special operating environment that regulates the maritime sector, many products (alcohol, tobacco, etc.) can be sold duty free, just like in airports, so you can enjoy a discount of up to 40% off usual retail prices on land.
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Every passenger must make sure he has the identity document, valid for travel, required for the selected cruise. Otherwise the passenger will not be allowed to embark ship. In this case, a refund for the cruise ticket will not be authorised.
If you're worried that you'll be bored on a cruise ship, banish that idea right away. Cruise ships schedule so many activities that a day at sea can be almost as much fun (and as exhausting) as a full day of sightseeing. From cooking classes to rock-climbing, trivia contests to line-dancing, wine-tasting to Wii-playing, there's truly something for everyone. Want to lie in the sun or take a dip in the pool? No problem. Want to spend time shopping for souvenirs, indulging in a massage or gambling in the casino? You can do it. Want to boogie board, drive a racecar, ice skate or learn trapeze?Regardless of your activity levels and preferences, you can't help but find a way to keep yourself entertained on a cruise ship. Here's our breakdown of the types of programs and amenities you're likely to find to keep you busy and happy during your time onboard. How do you find out what's going on each day? A daily newsletter is delivered to your cabin each evening. One will also be waiting for you when you arrive. In it, you'll find the schedule for the next day's activities and entertainment offerings, as well as opening hours for the spa, restaurants, onboard shops and bars. You'll even find listings for movies on your in-cabin TV, information on scheduled ports of call, debarkation and embarkation information, and sunrise and sunset times. Children registered with the onboard kids' club (see below) will often receive their own daily schedules of age-appropriate activities, as well.
Cruising is a chance to indulge in fine food, delicious dinners and tasty, all-inclusive menus in onboard elegant restaurants serving international cuisine.If you have special dietary requirements chefs onboard can accommodate it/them with pleasure .During the meals tea,coffee and tab water are free of charge and some of the cruises offer free soft drinks.You can call room service 24 Hours but some cruise companies ask additional charge for certain times (after midnight).
We group onboard accommodations into four categories: Interior , Oceanview , Balcony , Suite/Deluxe All of the staterooms accommodations are designed to be comfortable places you can kick back and relax in after a day of adventure. All staterooms and suites vary by ship, but every room offers a television, telephone, private bath, shower, vanity and a hair-dryer. And depending on your stateroom/suite category, you're accommodations many include other amenities such as bathrobes, sitting areas, even a whirlpool tub!
Staterooms and suites vary by ship, but every room offers a television, telephone, private bath, shower, dressing table and a hair dryer. And, like a fine hotel, all staterooms provide soap, shampoo and conditioner.
For most of the cruise companies English is the main language onboard but some of the cruise companies use Spanish,German and French.
Generally, you will be allowed to board two or three hours before the ship sails. Keep in mind that you must be on the ship at least one hour before departure, and the gangway will be pulled thirty minutes before sailing.Upon completion of check-in, you will receive a guest identification card. This card will serve as your identification on-board. It will also serve as your identification for security procedures when embarking and disembarking the ship and when making purchases on board.As you walk up the gangway, a member of the cruise staff will welcome you aboard. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin shortly after it arrives at the ship. You carry nothing but your hand luggage. Once you are on board you are free to explore the ship. Refreshments are available during embarkation and most cruise lines offer a nice buffet lunch (depending on the departure time).
First and foremost, dress for comfort. Daily life aboard ship and in ports of call is laid-back and casual. You are encouraged to wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable: sportswear, shorts, slacks, sundresses and so on. Warmer temperatures call for clothing made of lightweight, breathable fabrics. For cooler temperatures we suggest casual clothes that can be layered easily. On some days you may need a raincoat and waterproof hat or umbrella. Gloves are a good idea as well. Footwear should include comfortable walking shoes for visits ashore and sandals or rubber-soled shoes for strolling on deck. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. There are three types of "evenings" on board - casual, smart casual and formal. On casual nights, sport shirts and slacks are suggested for men; sundresses or pants for women. On smart casual nights, dresses and pantsuits for women; jackets and ties for men. For formal nights, women should wear cocktail dresses; men should wear suits and ties or tuxedos (optional). But don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip. If you do want to dress to the nines, many ships offer tuxedo rental services. Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions. Generally, three and four-night cruises consist of one formal night and two or three casual nights. Seven-night cruises include two formal nights, one smart casual night and four casual nights. Ten, 11 and 12-night cruises consist of two formal nights, three smart casual; all other nights are casual. 14 & 15 night cruises usually have three formal nights, four semi-formal nights and the remainder are casual. Again, these are guidelines and your evenings attire is left up to your discretion. In addition, most cruise lines offer alternative casual dining for anyone who may prefer not to dine in the main restaurant.
All cruise lines offer extensive shore excursion programs designed to enhance your cruise experience. Shore excursions will help you make the most of your time in port and provide you with the best transportation and guide services available. For certain destinations, such as Europe, tours can be pre-requested by completing the form found in the shore excursion brochure sent to you 4-6 weeks prior to departure. On other cruises you can book your tours through the shore excursion office once you are on-board.
Virtually every cruise ship (except for some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) has a fully-equipped medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency.Your prescription medication should be kept close at hand in your purse or carry-on bag rather than in your checked luggage. Be sure to bring a sufficient supply of medication and transport it in the original container. It is also a good idea to carry a written list of your medications in case they are lost. The list should include the name of the drug, dosage, and times taken.
Most cruise lines have set up a “cashless” system designed to make your life on board as simple as possible. You simply sign a receipt for each of your on-board purchases and then settle your shipboard account at the end of the cruise. Cash, VISA, American Express, MasterCard, Discover, and personal or traveler's checks are accepted as payment on most cruise lines.
Depending upon when the cruise is canceled, a cancellation charge may apply. We highly recommend Travel Insurance to protect yourself from penalties assessed for canceling due to medical reasons for yourself or family members. Note: No refunds will be made if you do not show up for your cruise or if you interrupt or cancel your vacation once it has begun.
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. A general rule of thumb is to plan for about € /$ 2.50 to €/$ 3.00 per person per day each for your room steward and dining room waiter, and about half that amount for your busboy. (A few cruise lines include tipping in the price and will so inform you.) Gratuities are customarily given on the last evening of your cruise. On many cruise lines it is now possible to prepay the above gratuities. Other personnel such as bar waiters, bellboys and deck stewards may be tipped as service is rendered. On most cruise lines a 15% gratuity is automatically added to your on board account for beverage purchases which you may adjust according to services rendered.
Each guest is permitted to carry a reasonable amount of personal property (including luggage) aboard the vessel; however, for your comfort and convenience, it is recommended that you limit the number of pieces you take. Keep in mind that airlines may charge for excess or oversize luggage. Charges incurred for excess or oversize baggage are the sole responsibility of the passenger. Each airline has a different limit on the amount of luggage they allow. Check with your air carrier for specific restrictions, such as allowance of Kgs (pounds) and any additional charges.
Women who are at the most 28 weeks pregnant at the end of the cruise may travel on our ships, submitting a medical certificate confirming her fitness to travel at the time of booking.
For the comfort and enjoyment for guests, most of the ships are designated as non-smoking; however, the cruise companies aware of that some of the guests smoke. Therefore, to provide an onboard environment that also satisfies smokers, there are designated certain public and private areas of the ship as "smoking areas."