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Best companies for a Greek Islands cruise
Turquoise waters, sweeping bays, and fresh seafood await you in the Mediterranean.
Scattered throughout the picture-perfect Mediterranean waters are 200 inhabited Greek islands, aching to be discovered. From the diverse island of Crete — perfect for culture-seekers and party-goers alike — to the lesser-known, authentic islands of Lemnos and Hydra, there is a little something for everyone hidden in this little piece of paradise.
Best cruises to the Greek isles
Best for families: Costa
Boasting a range of family-friendly activities onboard, including a Peppa Pig Club for the little ones or a disco-themed dinner for teenagers, Costa Cruises makes entertaining the whole family a breeze. While the kids are busy, parents can enjoy some chillout time by the pool.
As well as incorporating plenty of sunbathing hours into their itineraries, MSC Cruises offers up lots of shore excursions, brimming with opportunities to learn about the country’s ancient heritage and mythological history.
Stylish suites — designed by Kelly Hoppen herself — provide the ultimate comfort for cruisers and are kind to the eye too. For the ultimate indulgence, opt for one of the two-story villa suites available on select cruises. They come complete with a private butler and spacious sun deck.
Best for off-the-beaten-track destinations: Windstar
Boasting a fleet of smaller ships, and holding no more than 300 passengers at a time, Windstar takes its cruisers on adventures around the country’s lesser-traveled destinations. Delve deeper into the wonders of the Greek isles, to the smaller ports of Nafplio and Patmos where no midsize or large ships can venture.
Since its inception in 1988, Seabourn Cruises has consistently received praise for it all-inclusive luxury cruise packages boasting five-star service and gourmet dining experiences. Cruisers willing to fork out the money for one of these lavish resort-style cruises will be treated to spacious suites, private balconies and unlimited beverage packages.
From last-minute bargains to reduced group prices, Princess Cruises' discounts vary wildly and will have you sailing away for less.
Room service included
No free alcohol
Food included
No price matching
Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners, Discover Card, JCB
Price ($-$$$):
Best for adventurers: Intrepid Sailing Tours
If you’re looking for a holiday with a difference, consider a sailing tour around the Greek islands, and learn a new skill while you’re at it. With smaller living quarters and basic facilities, this is one for the adventurous travelers happy to embrace their sea legs for a few weeks.
Cruises around the Greek islands vary hugely. From large cruise liners visiting the most talked-about destinations to smaller sailings that visit lesser-known ports. However, we make sure there’s a little something for everyone in the cruises that we consider to be the best.
We’ve used our own experience, along with online reviews, up-to-date travel websites and blogs to choose the best Greek cruises available suited to your needs. Cruises with a well-rounded itinerary, efficient dining options, wholesome entertainment, great hospitality and value for money are top of the list.
When is the best time to cruise to the Greek islands?
April to November is the best time to cruise the Greek Islands. There’s very little rain during this time and the weather is warm, and bars and restaurants are aplenty — perfect for dining outdoors.
With Europe’s school holidays falling in the months of June, July, and August, these are by far the busiest times on the islands. Crete, in particular, enjoys a booming nightlight life and huge crowds during these months.
The shoulder season of April and May, September and October still offer up warm temperatures, with the odd few days of stormy weather. Prices are usually lower during this time and crowds fewer, which can limit the range of cruises available.
What are the must-do cruise excursions in the Greek islands?
Whether you’re interested in seeing the best of Greek beaches or learning more about the country’s ancient history, you’ll find plenty of shore excursions to suit you in this diverse archipelago.
Santorini, Cyclades Islands. Santorini is about more than its whitewashed buildings and vibrant blue domes. The island is also home to ancient city ruins and volcanic hot springs that are well worth making the effort to see.
Delos, Cyclades Islands. Only a stone’s throw away from the popular island of Mykonos, Delos is home to the Sanctuary of Apollo, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.
Skiathos, Sporades Islands. Enjoy the sweeping bay of Koukounaries, before sampling freshly-caught, grilled octopus for lunch and a cheeky ouzo to lighten the mood.
Kefalonia, Ionian Islands. Take a smaller boat ride through Melissani Lake to discover the stunning rock formations of the Drogarati Caves, only discovered 300 years ago.
Bottom Line
Cruising through the Greek archipelago is a wonderful way to really experience the country and all of its unique quirks. Before booking, check out these deals that’ll help you explore the country for less.
Frequently Asked Questions
In October, places such as Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu still enjoy comfortable average temperatures of 68°F and calm sea conditions for cruising.
There are thousands of Greek islands that have not yet been touched by tourism. Less developed island destinations are usually found on smaller cruise liners’ itineraries and can include Koufonisia, Hydra and Elafonisos.
The Aegean Sea is prone to the odd sea storm or two, but generally, it’s plain sailing through these calm waters. For almost guaranteed easy sailing, cruise during the summer months and avoid the winter when winds tend to pick up.
Lily Jones is a travel writer at Finder. She also writes for other titles and manages her own blog, A Lil Guide. Lily graduated with a degree in Russian and Management studies from University College London in 2016. Having discovered her passion for travelling at a young age, she has lived in many cities around the world including St Petersburg, Melbourne and London. Other than travel, Lily has an innate passion for all things food.
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